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This Black History Month, Perkins for the People honors a living chapter of Detroit Black history with Judge Joseph Norvell Baltimore, retired former Chief Judge of Detroit’s 36th District Court.

Judge Baltimore takes us from the Virginia farm where he started working at seven years old to the courtrooms of Detroit, sharing the discipline, faith, and determination it took to build a life in the law when the odds weren’t designed in his favor. He reflects on what it meant to be a Black lawyer in a predominantly white legal system, how those experiences shaped him on the bench, and why respect, compassion, and dignity have to be part of justice.

This isn’t just a career story. It’s a reminder that Black history isn’t something we only read about, it’s something we carry, build, and pass forward.

Judge Baltimore shares:

• Growing up working on a Virginia farm at age seven
• Choosing education when it wasn’t encouraged
• Navigating law school and the legal world as a Black man
• The transition from attorney to judge
• Why compassion and respect belong in every courtroom

Black history isn’t only behind us, it’s living, breathing, and still being written. This episode is proof.

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In this episode of Perkins for the People, Attorney Todd Perkins sits down with Inkster Mayor Byron Nolen for a real, unfiltered conversation about leadership, justice, and the fight for community power. Mayor Nolen shares his journey from attorney to public servant, explaining what pushed him to step up when his community needed a voice.

Together, they unpack the real issues—skyrocketing water bills, the emotional weight of losing public schools, and the daily struggle of serving a city with dignity and transparency. They also dive into hard truths around national and international politics, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and how these global events impact local communities.

This episode isn’t about political theater—it’s about purpose. Mayor Nolen speaks candidly about his congressional run in Michigan’s 12th district and the importance of leading with compassion, not ambition. If you’ve ever wondered what it means to lead with integrity in today’s world, this conversation is a must-listen.

Please contact a trusted attorney if you have any questions:

www.perkinslawgroup.net

Follow Attorney Todd Perkins on social media:

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Youtube / @toddperkinsforthepeoplepodcast

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Mayor Byron Nolen
05:41 – The Impact of Community Engagement
08:59 – Education and Community Identity
11:51 – Water Management Challenges
14:41 – Political Aspirations and Community Needs
19:02 – The Importance of Representation in Politics
22:12 – Due Process and Rights of Individuals
25:33 – The Role of Wealth in Politics
28:44 – The Complexity of Global Conflicts
30:34 – The Numbness to Global Suffering
32:01 – The Challenge of Peace in Conflict Zones
33:21 – Local Politics and National Implications
34:47 – The Role of Public Service
36:06 – The Future of Political Representation
38:33 – Campaign Communication and Engagement
40:57 – Legal Career vs. Public Service
42:08 – Reflections on the Shaw-More Incident
43:41 – University of Michigan’s Handling of Controversy
48:53 – Political Landscape and District Dynamics
51:15 – Independent Candidates and Political Strategy

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In this urgent episode of Perkins for the People, Todd Perkins delivers powerful legal guidance in response to rising fears in our communities—from ICE raids to surprise visits from law enforcement.

He answers real questions from his producer, Connie Smith about the follow: What are your rights if someone knocks on your door? What should you tell your kids? How do we protect each other legally and constitutionally?

This episode is a critical listen for anyone trying to stay safe, stay smart, and stay free in Detroit and beyond.

Protecting yourself from I.C.E.

If You Open the Door, Get Caught Outside, or They Say They Have a Judicial Warrant:

• Ask if they are immigration agents and what they are there for.
• Ask to see their badge or ID through a window or peephole.
• Remember the agent’s name—you may need it later.
• Ask to see a Judicial Warrant (not just any warrant).
• Have them place it on a window or slip it under the door—do not open the door.

Check the Warrant for These:

• Signed by a judge.
• Has your address listed.
• Describes the person or items they want to seize.
• Dated within the last 14 days.

If it doesn’t meet those requirements, you do NOT have to let them in. Say:
“I do not consent to your entry.”

Whether they enter or not:

• You have the right to remain silent.
• You don’t have to say anything—even if they have a warrant.
• Do not lie or give false documents.
• Anything you say can be used against you—silence is protection.

Please contact a trusted attorney if you have any questions:

www.perkinslawgroup.net

Follow Attorney Todd Perkins on social media:

FB / toddrussellperkins_

IG / toddrussellperkins

FB / perkinsforthepeople

Youtube / @toddperkinsforthepeoplepodcast