It was a great drive and dream of the Malayalees in Detroit and neighboring suburbs to have an association whose main objective is that of preserving and maintaining the culture and heritage of Kerala amongst Detroit Malayalees. This craving led to the inception of Detroit Malayalee Association (DMA) about 30 years ago. Every year, DMA conducts numerous programs and activities for our community’s well-being and its progress. We try to preserve the Malayalee tradition and culture through the activities and events we conduct.
The Association provides opportunities and encourages its members to participate. It also provides a forum for the Malayalees residing in Detroit and neighboring areas to meet and exchange views and also to foster their friendship, goodwill, moral, social, educational, literary, artistic and cultural heritage.
Detroit Malayalee Association was formed in 1980 by a few far-seeing individuals who met frequently. The first members to name a few were Andrews Achambi, C.J. Mathew, Babykutty, Jacob Palakkuzha and John P. Ninan. Their main objective was to establish a body which would encourage and promote the rich Malayalee traditions and values in America. They wanted the young generation to trace their roots back to Kerala. DMA started their cultural endeavor by screening black and white Malayalam movies in a hall on Woodward Avenue. DMA has made tremendous contribution in developing the social, cultural and political awareness of our community. On September 25th 2005, DMA celebrated its 25th Anniversary as a true success story. Members have come and Members have gone. Despite the changes, one constant remains – the co-operation that keeps DMA alive and well.
