Originate from the city or spend a good part of your formative years in Detroit or one of its many suburbs. In Michigan, suburbs count as being "from Detroit." Face it, even the Pistons play in Auburn Hills.
Familiarize yourself with both French and Native American pronunciation. Learn to say Gratiot, Mackinac, and Escanaba properly to gain acceptance from Michiganders.
Make a habit of wearing Detroit-friendly shirts and caps like Tim Allen does after "Tool Time." Lions, Tigers, Pistons, and Red Wings apparel is vital to your transition to becoming a supporter of "The Motor City." Flaunt your love for Tim's character on "Home Improvement."
Research and then listen to Detroit music, which is of itself a great reason to love Detroit. It's the home of "Motown." Tim Allen doesn't listen to the Supremes during his show, you can rest assured he knows exactly when and where Detroit native Bob Seger got his start.
Research the part of Tim's legacy when he spent much of his time either getting arrested or incarcerated in a few of Michigan's fine penal facilities. Tim Allen's forte in his younger years includes issues with substance abuse. Know where he spent his youth to appreciate and love his hometown.
Perform a successful stand-up routine at Detroit's famous "Comedy Castle" like Tim Allen. Go on to have a successful career and create millions of fans for the city of Detroit.