As D.C. Public Schools students return to class on Aug. 25, Chancellor Lewis D. Ferebee outlines new initiatives to boost academic success, address chronic absenteeism, and modernize school facilities. In an interview with the AFRO, Ferebee highlighted gains since the pandemic, strategies to strengthen attendance, and DCPS’s approach to AI in classrooms, while reaffirming Mayor Muriel Bowser’s $180 million commitment to school modernization.
Author Archives: D. Kevin McNeir
Special to the NNPA from The Miami Times
Posted inBaltimore News
Black families push past barriers to save lives through swimming and water safety
Barriers like cost, access, and generational fear continue to prevent many Black youth from learning how to swim, contributing to a disproportionately high rate of drowning deaths. Through programs like Baltimore’s 4M Swim Club, families are working to change the narrative—embracing water safety, building confidence, and developing a new generation of Black swimmers and lifeguards.
Posted inArts & Culture
Baltimore continues salute to August Wilson as ‘The Piano Lesson’ debuts Aug. 31
Ten Baltimore theater companies have united for a three-year August Wilson Celebration, presenting his entire American Century Cycle to highlight Black history and culture through live theater. The next play, “The Piano Lesson,” opens Aug. 31 at Everyman Theatre, inviting audiences to engage deeply with Wilson’s legacy and storytelling.
Posted inDMV News
Black men’s spiritual healing circle negates impact of toxic masculinity
Members of CREWS (Communities Respecting Everyone’s Will
To Survive) work with small community-based organizations in the Greater Washington Area to help Black men and youth overcome the debilitating impacts of crime and self-hatred.
Posted inBlack History
Business mogul Reginald F. Lewis remembered by mantra, ‘Keep going, no matter what’
Reginald F. Lewis, the first Black billionaire in the U.S., is being honored for his groundbreaking achievements in business and his deep commitment to family and community. A new exhibit and public events at the museum bearing his name celebrate his legacy of resilience, vision and determination to “keep going, no matter what.”
Posted inBaltimore County Government
Community advocates push for fairness as Baltimore County redistricting plan heads toward council vote
Baltimore County’s Redistricting Commission has released its recommendations for redrawing council districts following the county’s expansion from seven to nine seats. While the commission proposes two majority-Black and two other minority districts, local leaders and activists—including the NAACP and the Westside Coalition—continue to push for more equitable representation, expressing concern that communities like Woodlawn remain fragmented and underrepresented.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Rare Essence, D.C.’s legendary go-go band, proves they still have the magic touch
Go-go elite Rare Essence, continues to draw audiences to its live performances of Washington, D.C.’s homegrown sound delivered in the band’s signature style.
Credit: AFRO Photo/ J. Pamela Stills
Posted inPrince George's County News
In Prince George’s County, Sheriff Carr leads with service, not sirens
During a recent segment of “Behind the Badge with Sheriff Carr,” a new podcast that airs in the Greater Washington Area, host Taylor Thomas, left; Prince George’s County Sheriff John D.B. Carr; Franklyn Malone, CEO and founder of 100 Black Fathers; and Lamont Bunyon, president of 100 Black Men of Prince George’s County discuss a range of issues related to youth and family, including how to keep children engaged and out of trouble, preparing youth for employment and identifying resources to reduce the effects of mental illness and domestic violence within families.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
National Urban League report concludes Black America is in ‘state of emergency’
The National Urban League held its annual conference this year (July 14-19) in Cleveland, Ohio, attracting thousands committed to securing justice for all in America.
Posted inTV and Film
Beloved ‘Cosby Show’ star Malcolm-Jamal Warner dies tragically at 54
Fans across the globe took to social media to mourn the tragic death of actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who reportedly drowned while vacationing with family in Costa Rica. Best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on “The Cosby Show,” Warner was widely celebrated for helping redefine the portrayal of Black middle-class life on television.
Posted inBlack History
National Park Service hosts 150th birthday fete for Mary McLeod Bethune
A small but enthusiastic group of supporters attended the 150th birthday celebration for civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune, featuring a keynote address, music, a spoken word presentation, and a wreath laying ceremony led by NPS officials.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Trayon White defies the odds, regains Ward 8 D.C. Council seat
Trayon White reclaimed his Ward 8 D.C. Council seat in a narrow victory during the July 15 special election, overcoming a crowded field, limited funding, and ongoing federal scrutiny. Despite losing, rival Sheila Bunn and others in the community emphasized unity moving forward, urging collaboration to address urgent issues like public safety, mental health, and economic equity.