The Md. Washington Minority Companies Association hosted its 12th Annual Black History Heroes Awards dinner, celebrating influencers and trailblazers who have positively impacted their communities, with Bishop Frank Madison Reid III serving as keynote speaker.
Author Archives: AFRO Staff
Upcoming Black History Month events in Maryland, D.C. and Virginia
Maryland, Virginia, and D.C. are celebrating Black History Month with various events, including parades, gallery walks, and exhibitions showcasing the works of Black artists and cultural leaders.
Maryland Public Television celebrates Black History Month 2025 with special programming
Maryland Public Television and MPT2 are celebrating Black History Month by featuring a lineup of programs exploring African-American history, including The Great Migration, great Black mathematicians, and personal stories of success, including Josie Johnson.
From the AFRO Archives: A look at the work of A. Philip Randolph
Asa Philip Randolph, the first great Black union leader in America, founded the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters and led the organization to secure better wages and working conditions for Black workers, including increasing the pay of Pullman Company porters from $14 to $22.50 per month.
Rev. Dr. Tim Tooten Sr. , renowned journalist, professor and pastor, dies
Rev. Dr. Tim Tooten, a veteran of 35 years in broadcasting and community service, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of education and community activism.
Alsobrooks: White House ‘buyout’ of federal workers could hurt millions of seniors who rely on Social Security
President Trump’s federal buyout program, which offered full pay and benefits until 2025, has drawn criticism from lawmakers and unions due to its potential impact on seniors and the federal workforce.
Young leaders continue Dr. Martin Luther King’s legacy locally and abroad
Three young leaders, Shaquayah McKenzie, Jadayah S. Muhammad and Rashad D. Staton, are continuing the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by advocating for social justice, equity and opportunities for marginalized communities, and are working to address systemic issues such as poverty, systemic racism and inequality.
Walking in a Winter wonderland: Baltimoreans dig out of the snow after first storm of the year
Maryland Governor Wes Moore declared a State of Emergency on January 5 due to a winter storm that caused snowfall, road closures, and school and office closures, with the National Weather Service recording 6.6 inches of snow in Baltimore.
AFRO Publisher Dr. Frances ‘Toni’ Draper highlights work of Dr. Carl J. Murphy in new book, ‘Prayer and Pen’
Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, publisher and CEO of the AFRO-American Newspapers, has released a new book honoring her grandfather, Dr. Carl J. Murphy, and his contributions to the AFRO, including his prayers and legacy as a publisher.
Ravens take AFC North Championship title in victory against Cleveland Browns
The Baltimore Ravens defeated the Cleveland Browns 35-10 in a one o’clock game at M&T Bank Stadium, with highlights including Odafe Oweh’s sack of Bailey Zappe, Nate Wiggins’ interception and touchdown run, and Derrick Henry’s rushing yards.
Baltimore rings in New Year with Inner Harbor fireworks
Baltimore celebrated the New Year with fireworks, a concert from The Jonathan Gilmore Experience, and extended hours at the Inner Harbor Ice Rink, with Mayor Brandon M. Scott and his wife, Hana, in attendance.
Homelessness hits unprecedented high in 2024
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development reported a record 18% increase in homelessness in 2024, driven by a lack of affordable housing, a surge in migration, and natural disasters, with Blacks accounting for 32% of all people experiencing homelessness.

