Reentering society after incarceration is more than a physical return — it’s an emotional and mental journey. For many, including Trina Seldon, Tonya Hayes and Dewand Sutton, the trauma of prison and lack of support afterward make reintegration challenging. Their stories highlight the urgent need for reentry services that address mental health and help returning citizens truly heal.
Author Archives: Andrea Stevens
Posted inMental Health
Mental Health Awareness Month: Elevating teen voices and the parents who listen
Teen mental health advocate Peyton Griffin and her mother Brittany Williams are sharing their journey with mental health. The two emphasize the importance of early support, therapy and compassionate listening. Their story highlights how open dialogue and emotional awareness can change lives.
Posted inHealth
Adaptability and advocacy: The vital role of mobile nurses
Travel and strike nurses play a critical role in maintaining patient care during staffing shortages and labor disputes. With adaptability, compassion, and cultural competence, they step into unfamiliar environments to deliver expert care. Beyond the misconceptions about pay, these nurses are driven by a calling to serve, support safe staffing, and advocate for patient trust and quality outcomes.
Posted inWord In Black
Baltimore officials confront absenteeism as Department of Education is dismantled
Dr. Taiisha Swinton Buck, deputy chief academic officer of Baltimore City Schools, emphasizes the importance of instructional materials, student attendance and community partnerships in student success. She highlights how teacher resources impact graduation rates and academic achievement while reaffirming her commitment to equity despite political challenges.
Posted inHealth
From birth plans to better outcomes: Meet the nurses who empower expecting mothers
During National Nurses Week, we spotlight Black labor and delivery nurses who advocate for patients and work to address racial disparities in maternal healthcare. Nurses like Kiera Wisen and Ashley Harris are dedicated to ensuring that Black women receive respectful, informed, and culturally competent care, empowering them with the knowledge and autonomy to make decisions about their births.
Posted inBaltimore News
TSU Terry’s ‘Roll Call’ brings Baltimore club music to Fortnite’s global stage
Baltimore native and choreographer TSU Terry has brought his hometown’s signature sound to the global stage with his track “Roll Call” featured in Fortnite, a video game with over 650 million players. The milestone not only celebrates Terry’s musical journey, but also highlights Baltimore club music and Black cultural expression for a new generation of players around the world.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Ward 8 celebrates opening of state-of-the-art medical center
Families east of the Anacostia River have access to a full-service hospital. Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center, which opened April 15, fulfills a decade-long promise to bring equitable healthcare to Southeast D.C., offering modern care while rebuilding trust in a long-overlooked community.
Posted inBaltimore Community
Baltimore residents reflect on death of Freddie Gray
Ten years after Freddie Gray’s death, Baltimore still bears the scars. A fatal ride in a Baltimore police van sparked national outrage and a reckoning with systemic injustice. Today, residents reflect on the pain that lingers, the justice that never came, and the urgent need for lasting change.
Posted inMoney
Saving, spending and surviving: Real talk on financial literacy
As financial literacy takes center stage this month, individuals are finding creative ways to budget, save and manage rising costs. From cutting back on dining out to using cash-only spending methods, everyday people share how they navigate their finances. While some prioritize emergency savings, others focus on investments or stretching their dollars with strategic shopping. Their stories highlight the realities of financial planning and resilience in today’s economy.
Posted inMaryland News
House of Ruth Maryland: Supporting financial independence after interpersonal violence
Financial independence is crucial for domestic abuse survivors. Savings, job readiness and legal resources help them achieve stability. This week, Shanna Norwood (left) , director of crisis response at the House of Ruth Maryland, and Lauren Corbin, a criminal defense attorney in Maryland, discuss how to financially prepare to leave an abusive relationship.
Posted inBaltimore News
AFRO High Tea returns to Baltimore
The AFRO’s High Tea returns April 26 at Martin’s West, honoring historic organizations and celebrating community legacy. With nearly 1,000 guests expected, the event features live entertainment, local vendors and support.
Posted in!Front Page
‘Who’s Who in Black’ highlights best of Baltimore
The AFRO and Real Times Media hosted “Who’s Who in Black Baltimore” on April 9 at the Marriott Waterfront, honoring Black leaders and featuring a Lifetime Achievement Award for Dr. Thelma T. Daley. The evening included networking, awards and a commemorative coffee table book.