"We Almost Lost Detroit" is a song by Gil Scott-Heron, released in 1977. The song reflects on the near-disaster at the Detroit Edison power plant in Monroe, Michigan. It was written in response to the incident at the plant in 1966, where a partial nuclear meltdown occurred, resulting in a potential catastrophe. The lyrics describe how the power plant stands out on a highway like a creature from another time, attracting curiosity from people, especially children. However, nobody considers the safety of the people living in its vicinity. The song suggests that the focus on money and neglecting safety measures is a recurring theme that puts people's lives at risk. The song also references Karen Silkwood, an American chemical technician and labor union activist who became a prominent whistleblower in the nuclear power industry. Her mysterious death in 1974 inspired concerns about nuclear safety and corporate negligence. "We Almost Lost Detroit" highlights the potential consequences of overlooking safety measures and the priority given to financial interests over human lives. It serves as a warning about the dangers and risks associated with nuclear power and the need for proper safety protocols. Overall, the song raises awareness about the potential disasters that could occur due to negligence and urges society to prioritize human safety over monetary gain.
