By RAUL GARCIA JR | Lansing News Wire
LANSING – Basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson returned to his hometown recently to host the 2nd annual Earvin Johnson Sr. Community Car Show, a celebration dedicated to his late father and designed to bring the community together.
The event has quickly become one of Lansing’s signature gatherings, drawing nearly 220 classic and custom cars. More than just a showcase of chrome and horsepower, Johnson said the car show serves as a space for fellowship, free of politics and division.
“It’s about honoring my dad, giving back, and making sure our community feels united,” Johnson said on Facebook. “We want people to come here, have a good time, and know this is about trust, respect, and support.”
This year’s car show also supported a good cause, with proceeds benefiting three law enforcement organizations: MI C.O.P.S., Santa’s First Responders, and the Lansing First Responders Foundation. Johnson stressed the importance of building relationships with law enforcement, saying, “It’s all about trust, and you have to build trust with [law enforcement]. It’s so funny — you always frown until you need one, you know. Then you’re saying, ‘Thank you for keeping us safe.’”
Among those helping highlight the event was Mandale Dade, who partnered with Empire Motors to showcase some of the standout vehicles.
“I had a nice time at the 2nd annual Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson car show,” Dade said on Facebook. “It was a pleasure to work with Empire Motors to promote and showcase a couple of their coolest cars. I’m positive the ‘Black Mamba Hellcat,’ a.k.a. the Kobe car, was one of the most talked about vehicles in the show.”
Dade noted the event’s atmosphere of unity, adding that it brought together community members, local police agencies, dignitaries, and Lansing legends. He even crossed paths with another Spartan great.
“I was able to chat with Mr. Tom Izzo,” Dade said. “One thing about these guys coming to Lansing and doing community events like this is that they don’t have to, and it really means a lot to the community when they do.”
Community leaders such as Kenny Craig, a senior pastor and former police officer, praised the event for showing support to those who risk their lives to keep the city safe.
For Johnson, the car show was another way to keep his father’s legacy alive while strengthening bonds across Lansing.