Visit Detroit Teams Up with Michael Reyes (Reyespoetry) to Spotlight Detroit’s Global Impact and Underground Arts Scene

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Visit Detroit Teams Up with Michael Reyes (Reyespoetry) to Spotlight Detroit’s Global Impact and Underground Arts Scene

Detroit, April 16, 2025 – Visit Detroit proudly announces a groundbreaking partnership with Michael Reyes, known as Reyespoetry, an internationally recognized poet, community visionary, and creative force in Detroit’s underground scene. As Visit Detroit’s Global Underground Ambassador, Reyes brings decades of experience creating from the intersection of artistic expression, community empowerment, and cultivating various cultural experiences.

This collaboration is a reflection of Visit Detroit’s bold new brand, that amplifies their rally cry,, “When We Move, You Move,” and marks a dynamic shift toward a new style of grassroots-driven storytelling. Through Reyes’ voice and vision, this partnership puts a spotlight on the layered, global influence of Detroit’s (underground) culture: from music and art to activism and community empowerment.

As Detroit’s Global Underground Ambassador, Reyes will fuse his deep roots in spoken word, hip-hop, and creating spaces for cultural expression with the city’s artistic heartbeat, offering a locals true perspective on what makes Detroit a global cultural force. From hidden speakeasies and grassroots festivals to community-driven movements and street-level art, Reyes will spotlight the cultural corridors that make Detroit unlike anywhere else. His work will bridge local creativity with global audiences, connecting the Motor City’s influence to stages in Mexico, Paris, and the UK.

“By teaming up with Reyes and designating him as Detroit’s Global Underground Ambassador, we are showcasing that Detroit is layered and our impact runs deep—from the underground arts scene that feeds our city year-round to our global impact in multiple countries,” says Samantha Scott, Marketing Manager at Visit Detroit. “This partnership isn’t just about promoting the city, it’s about celebrating the artists and creatives that create the culture Detroit is known for on an international level. It’s about celebrating the people who are doing the work and breathing life into this city every day.”

“As Visit Detroit’s Global Underground Ambassador, my mission is to connect the world to Detroit’s creative culture, both the familiar spots and the hidden gems tucked into our neighborhoods,” says Reyes. “From community pockets to underground art spaces and some well-known spots, I’ll be digging deep into the soul of the city to show everyone why Detroit is a global force to be reckoned with.. And listen, wherever I go, you’re always invited to come along and see how I bring Detroit to any country or city near you.”

Launching in April 2025, the ambassadorship will unfold through in-person activations, international collaborations, visual storytelling, and of course, poetry. Reyes will be the insider’s guide to Detroit’s nightlife, cannabis culture,poetry scene, and the distinct cultures and energy of neighborhoods like Southwest Detroit and more. He will also create content steeped in exciting moments from multiple international stages where Detroit creatives are making waves.

This initiative follows Visit Detroit’s game-changing collaborations with other Detroit-based creatives, including Amber M. Lewis as Detroit’s CEO (Chief Energy Officer) and DJ Killa $quid as Detroit’s Ambassador of Sound and Swag. Together, they form a growing cohort of Detroit Ambassadors sharing the stories that shape the city.

About Visit Detroit

Visit Detroit is the official destination marketing organization for the city of Detroit and Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties, dedicated to promoting Detroit as a world-class destination for leisure and business travelers. With a focus on showcasing Detroit’s energy, history, and diverse attractions, Visit Detroit aims to drive tourism, economic growth, and community pride.

About Michael Reyes (Reyespoetry) and We Are Culture Creators (WACC)

Michael Reyes (professionally known as Reyespoetry) is a dynamic poet, performer, cultural curator, and community organizer. Fusing spoken word, hip-hop, and critical thought, Reyes has performed in over 2,000 venues worldwide and created transformative educational experiences rooted in justice and cultural identity. His work has been featured on HBO, CNN, PBS, NPR, and Democracy Now, and he has shared stages with figures such as John Legend, Dr. Cornel West, Dolores Huerta, Oliver Stone, and (the old) Kanye.

Reyes is the co-founder and Lead Creative Director of We Are Culture Creators (WACC), a Detroit-based nonprofit committed to youth development, cultural equity, and community-centered artistry. Under his leadership, WACC has produced over 125 music and arts events annually—from DIY gatherings to large-scale productions in commercial venues—and has raised over $2 million to support youth and emerging artists. In 2021, the organization received a $500,000 grant from The Lewis Prize for Music, honoring its impact on youth music education and community development.