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.”
Author Archives: D. Kevin McNeir
Special to the NNPA from The Miami Times
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.
Posted inUncategorized
Depression, exhaustion and fear: The hidden burdens of dementia caregiving
Millions of Americans caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s face deep emotional, financial and physical strain while struggling to find support. This National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, experts and caregivers stress prioritizing self-care and seeking resources early to avoid isolation and burnout.
Posted inAfro Briefs
Florida’s Raiford Prison bans AFRO edition from inmates; warden cites threat to security and rehabilitation initiatives
Florida’s Raiford Prison banned the AFRO’s special edition on George Floyd and racial justice, claiming it posed a security risk and threatened rehabilitation efforts. Critics argue the ban reflects a broader pattern of censorship that suppresses inmates’ access to reform-focused content and silences marginalized voices behind bars.
Posted inMaryland News
Governor Moore unveils $400M initiative to reduce racial wealth gap on Juneteenth
On Juneteenth, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore announced the $400 million Just Communities initiative to combat the racial wealth gap by prioritizing investment in historically underserved neighborhoods impacted by redlining, mass incarceration and economic exclusion. He also issued nearly 7,000 additional cannabis possession pardons, underscoring his administration’s commitment to addressing historical injustices and promoting economic equity across the state.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Reactions mixed after D.C. Council votes to pause tipped worker minimum wage
Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and the City Council have paused a scheduled minimum wage increase for tipped workers under Initiative 82, citing concerns about economic strain on local businesses and the city’s reliance on federal funding. While business advocates argue the law accelerates restaurant closures, many tipped workers and supporters believe the voter-approved measure is essential for fair compensation and should be upheld.
