By Chrissy M. Thornton There is a quiet calculus many Black people perform before we even walk into a store. We soften our tone. We monitor our posture. We keep receipts visible. We are mindful of where our hands are, how long we linger, whether we look “confused” or “confrontational.” This constant awareness is exhausting. […]
Author Archives: Chrissy Thornton
Posted inOPINION
Opinion: ‘You will see me’: A Black woman CEO’s declaration
By Chrissy M. Thornton I have spent my career learning how to lead with vision, discipline, empathy and results. I believe I have earned my seat – through education, experience, sacrifice and outcomes. Yet still, as a Black woman CEO, I am routinely reminded that credentials do not inoculate you from dismissal; that power, in […]
Posted inCommentary
The power of giving: Proof that generosity can’t be confined
An incarcerated man at North Branch Correctional Institution in Maryland began making monthly donations to Associated Black Charities (ABC), inspiring two others to join him. Their small but consistent gifts highlight that generosity transcends privilege and circumstance, reminding us that philanthropy belongs to anyone with a heart to give and that even behind bars, humanity and hope endure.
Posted inOpinion
Coming full circle: How the Arc Baltimore defined who I became
Chrissy M. Thornton serves as president and CEO of Associated Black Charities. This week, she speaks on how her journey in public service started at The Arc Baltimore, which still today supports the community.
Posted inOpinion
Baltimore, do you hear Carrollton Ridge crying?
Chrissy M. Thornton serves as president and CEO of Associated Black Charities, and this week she spotlights Carrollton Ridge, a historically Black neighborhood in Southwest Baltimore that is calling out for attention as it battles decades of systemic neglect, rising violence, crumbling housing and political disregard. A recent “Community Convos” session hosted by ABC highlighted both the community’s urgent needs and the resilience of its residents and grassroots organizations, while also exposing a glaring absence of politicians and of concrete city plans to restore the neighborhood rather than demolish it.
Posted inBaltimore Community
Is there room to lead in Black Baltimore? Absolutely.
Chrissy M. Thornton serves as president and CEO of Associated Black Charities. This week, she calls out the division and competition among individuals and organizations that advocate for Black Baltimore, saying such disunity undermines the mission.
Posted inCommentary
Commentary: Affordable housing won’t save Baltimore—but economic justice might
Chrissy M. Thornton serves as president and CEO of Associated Black Charities. This week, she critiques the choice of former President Biden to not pardon Marilyn Mosby.