Detroit Named UNESCO "City of Design," First in U.S.

For the first time ever, U.S. cities were given the UNESCO "City of Design" designation. According to a recent press release, Detroit was among the first cities in the U.S. to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), composed of 116 cities that possess a strong legacy in one of seven fields: Gastronomy, Literature, Design, Film, Music, Media Arts, and Crafts & Folk Art. By being recognized for its design legacy, Detroit will be able to collaborate and develop partnerships, promote creativity, and strengthen participation in cultural life with members of the network. A total of 47 cities from 33 countries joined the UCCN this past Monday, including Austin, Texas and Tucson, Arizona. The "City of Design" designation was part of a five-year strategy by DC3, which is an initiative launched by the Business Leaders of Michigan and College for Creative Studies and composed of 29 civic, educational, and industry advisors. To celebrate the designation, D3 is planning a yearlong celebration of design for 2016. Details on this celebration won't be released until next month.

· 47 cities join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network [UNESCO]