By Andrea StevensAFRO Staff Writerastevens@afro.com Juneteenth is a commemorative day that brings together African Americans across the country. It’s a story that keeps the Black community grounded and reminds many of the progress made. As the holiday approaches, historians emphasize that Juneteenth’s legacy runs deeper—and is more complex—than a single day of celebration. Dr. Akwasi […]
Author Archives: Andrea Stevens
Posted inArts & Culture
AFRAM 2025 to feature Patti LaBelle, Juvenile and Saweetie
Patti LaBelle and Juvenile will headline this year’s AFRAM festival on June 21-22 at Druid Hill Park. The free event will also feature Saweetie, Teedra Moses, Amerie, and Vedo, celebrating Black culture with music, food, and vendors. AFRAM attracts over 100,000 attendees annually.
Posted inDMV News
Upcoming Juneteenth events in the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area
Celebrate freedom, culture and community at Juneteenth events happening across Baltimore, Prince George’s County and Washington, D.C. From family-friendly festivals and historical reenactments to live music, art showcases and educational panels, this year’s celebrations honor the legacy of emancipation while spotlighting Black excellence. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant parade, local vendors, or space for reflection, there’s something for everyone to engage, uplift and remember.
Posted inBaltimore News
Celebrating hoops and history: Baltimore’s Milan Brown is just getting started
Milan Brown, a standout senior from Mercy High School in Baltimore, closed her high school basketball career with a storybook ending — hitting exactly 2,000 career points on her final free throws. Off the court, she’s authored two books, started a nonprofit and received 33 Division I offers, including from Harvard. Now headed to Wake Forest, she continues to balance elite athletics, academics, and community impact with drive and humility.
Posted inARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Sowebo festival celebrates 42 years of art music and community
By Andrea Stevens AFRO Staff Writer astevens@afro.com Baltimore welcomed the Sowebo Arts and Music Festival in the historic Hollins Market neighborhood on May 25. Local vendors had the opportunity to showcase their fashion, food and art at the event, now in its 42nd year. Artists and attendees gathered during the Memorial Day weekend to enjoy […]
Posted inStop Killing Us
After George Floyd’s death, teachers lead push for inclusive curriculum
Since the death of George Floyd, many educators have taken it upon themselves to introduce lessons on racial equity, justice and emotional resilience—especially in underserved communities. Despite little change in the official curriculum, teachers say students are asking hard questions, and they’re answering with compassion, honesty and culturally relevant content.
Posted inCivil Rights
More than a narrative: Black men speak on media, community and change
Two Black men—military veteran Matthew Stuart and young professional Koby Greene—reflect on the realities of being Black in America, sharing how racial perception, media stereotypes and emotional pressure shape their lives. Through honest conversation, they reveal the power of mentorship, community and mindset in building a stronger future.
Posted inBaltimore News
Transforming market downturns into opportunities for retirement
In the wake of market volatility, Engage Wealth CEO Byron Deese urges near-retirees and young professionals to reassess their retirement strategies. From 401(k) reallocation to Roth IRA options, real estate and diversified investments, Deese highlights practical steps to protect and grow retirement savings during uncertain times.
Posted inMental Health
No more suffering in silence: Black men demand space to heal
As suicide rates among Black men continue to rise, mental health advocates are urging a shift from silence to support—calling for culturally competent care, honest dialogue and systemic reform to save lives and restore hope.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Veteran public servant Sheila Bunn continues her bid for Ward 8 council
Sheila Bunn, a lifelong Ward 8 resident with more than 30 years of public service experience, has launched her campaign for the Ward 8 D.C. Council seat. With a background that includes work for Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton and former Mayor Vincent C. Gray, Bunn brings a track record of legislative and community advocacy to the race, focusing on public safety, food access and equitable development.
Posted inBaltimore Community
Baltimore City scholars receive full scholarships to McDaniel College
Earning a full-ride scholarship is more than a student achievement — it reflects the dedication of families who nurtured and guided them. For Baltimore City seniors Skye Hammond and Zoe Saunders, awarded full-tuition scholarships to McDaniel College, success came through hard work, family support and strong academic focus.
Posted inBlack History
Rereading the News: Afro Charities honors legacy of Dr. Lillie May Carroll Jackson
Afro Charities, in partnership with the Lillie May Carroll Jackson Civil Rights Museum, is honoring the legacy of civil rights leader Dr. Lillie May Carroll Jackson this month. The spring edition of the “ReReading the News” series focused on Jackson’s historical activism, the role of Black motherhood, civic leadership and archival storytelling.