Living in Detroit comes with its fair share of challenges. After all, the Motor City certainly isn’t without its difficulties and past struggles, but these less-than-perfect times have molded Detroiters into some of the toughest people on earth. If you need proof that there’s a special sense of strength throughout our community, here are nine reasons why people from Detroit are undeniably tough.

1. Detroit winters are no joke.
Flickr/Mike Boening Photography
It might sound silly, but it takes a certain sense of strength to weather the realities of wintertime here in the Motor City. After all, most of us have made our way through blizzards and subzero temperatures simply to get to work or spend time with loved ones, and we’ve grown accustomed to the harshness of winter. You could drop a Detroiter into an arctic blast and they would surely thrive.
2. We often find ourselves in defense mode.
Flickr/VasenkaPhotography
If there’s a joke about Detroit, we’ve surely heard it. Those of us who call the Motor City home are used to defending our city, whether we’re doing so among friends from other regions or online in response to uneducated statements about where we’re from. Our skin has thickened as we’ve learned that some people see our beloved hometown as nothing more than a punchline.
3. We’re used to losing.
Flickr/Brook Ward
Yes, we’re used to losing… in football, that is. There’s nothing easy about being a Detroit Lions fan, but that doesn’t stop us from supporting our favorite team. Despite years and years of disappointment, we remain loyal to the boys in blue. One of these days, we might even make a Super Bowl appearance!
4. Our city has had its ups and downs.
Flickr/Jason Mrachina
We’re happier during good times because we all remember the pain of more difficult times. If you’ve spent an extended period of time in Detroit, you surely understand just how quickly things can change in a relatively short period of time, and this comprehension of our own vulnerability has forced us to grow stronger.

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5. We know what it’s like to be misunderstood.
Flickr/William John Gauthier
We’ve seen misrepresentations of our city throughout the media, from poorly researched publications to less-than-realistic cinematic endeavors. In fact, many have boiled Detroit down to its most negative aspects without accounting for the complicated realities of life in the Motor City. Because of this, we’re tougher in the face of criticism - and more open to the experiences of other people.
6. We find strength in music.
Flickr/Felipe Lozano
Motown music has long been at the heart of Detroit, and there’s nothing more empowering than putting on our favorite tunes and dancing the day away. After all, it’s impossible to deny the power of a fantastic song, and Motown musicians have given Detroiters a real gift with their creativity and artistry.
7. We keep ourselves well-fed.
Flickr/Phototrain Photography
We love to bolster our own strength and toughness by digging into delicious food, and there’s no shortage of options throughout the Motor City. No matter which sort of cuisine you prefer, you’ll undoubtedly find it here in Detroit. From sizzling fajitas in Mexicantown to coney dogs with all the fixings, there’s something deliciously rejuvenating about dining in Detroit.
8. We’ve got Vernors on our side.
Flickr/Mike Fritcher
When we’re not feeling our best, we Detroiters know that Vernors heals all sorts of ailments. After all, it’s hard to remain tough without staying physically well, and this beloved ginger ale brand is our secret weapon. Non-Detroiters simply don’t comprehend the power of Vernors to settle an upset stomach.
9. We know the power of unity.
Flickr/Brook Ward
Above all, Detroiters are undeniably tough because we understand the importance of sticking together and supporting each other. There’s a sense of community here in the Motor City that’s difficult to uncover elsewhere, and this feeling of togetherness only enhances our individual strengths. Detroiters are tough because we lean on each other when things aren’t easy.

We want to hear from you, Detroiters: what are some other things that make people from the Motor City ultra-tough? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below. Want to recommend an awesome place in Detroit to be featured in a future article? Fill out our nomination form by clicking here!

Feeling that Detroit pride? Read about nine things people from Detroit are stubborn about.

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