Exploring what unites us and divides us as people and as a region.
The goal of Crossing the Lines is to tell stories that show the diversity of people and perspectives that make up Metro Detroit by collaborating directly with residents of the cities and neighborhoods that we’re examining.
This community-first journalism aims to engage with listeners by finding them where they live and work, by talking to them about their concerns in their community and listening — really listening — to what they have to say.
Communities visited since the series began in 2011 include Canton, Center Line, Southfield, Windsor and several Detroit neighborhoods. WDET is examining Highland Park and Northville in 2026.
Take a look at areas we’ve covered previously:
Highland Park 2026

Crossing the Lines: Highland Park pastor says he serves in an ‘enclave of love’
Detroit-born Highland Park resident Pastor Leon Morehead shares what he loves about Highland Park’s community and how he sees the area improving.

The Metro: Highland Park’s library has been dark for years. Residents haven’t given up
Once home to 53,000 people, the birthplace of the Model T moving assembly line now has fewer than 9,000 residents. WDET reporters have been spending time with the people who stayed for the series “Crossing the Lines.”

Crossing the Lines: A conversation with Highland Park’s mayor
Mayor Glenda McDonald talks about how she came to Highland Park as a child, why she stays, and what she’s trying to do to improve the city.
Former Crossing the Lines

Muslims Observe Ramadan During a Second Year of the Pandemic

Multigenerational Homes Face Unique Challenges — and Experience Some Benefits — During Pandemic

Domestic Violence During the Pandemic: Staying Home Meant Dealing With a Different Threat

English Language Learner Program Helps Canton Residents Connect From Around the World

Canton Merchants Fear Fixing Roads Could Drive Business Away

Young Radio Broadcasters Keep Plymouth-Canton Students Connected Through COVID-19

Canton’s Small Business Community Weathers COVID-19 Pandemic on Creativity and Local Support

A Year Into the Pandemic, Some People Are Fatigued, Less Polite and Confused About Vaccines

Spring Cleaning in the COVID-19 Era Means Picking Up Lots of PPE

Macomb County is Diversifying, But Minorities Don’t See Electoral Gains

The Metro Detroit Charter School with a Restaurant and Bakery

Macomb County, In Spotlight for 2020 Election, Just Wants to Talk Local Issues
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