Businessman Joel Haashiim announces mayoral candidacy, vows to serve all of Detroit
Detroit Metro Times
By Steve Neavling
Joel Haashiim devoted decades behind the scenes trying to uplift Detroit.
Now that he’s retired, the 73-year-old former businessman is ready for the public spotlight.
Haashiim is running for mayor of Detroit in 2025, and his focus is on residents who have been left behind as areas like downtown and Midtown have rebounded.
With 18 grandchildren living in the city, Haashiim has a personal stake in the city’s future.
While some areas of Detroit are getting fancy new lofts, restaurants, and entertainment venues, most neighborhoods are struggling with poverty, high crime, unreliable public transportation, failing schools, a lack of jobs, and a population drain.
“Somebody has to stand up and do the right thing for the people of Detroit,” Haashiim tells Metro Times during a 90-minute interview at a coffee shop in Detroit. “I don’t think we have enough people in office who are courageous enough to stand up for the people. I think they have decided to represent the corporations and the rich. And obviously they have lost empathy for their communities.”
Posted on 01 Feb 2024, 14:14 - Category: In The News