Black Americans express deep concern over a recent executive order to overhaul the National Museum of African American History and Culture, fearing it threatens the truthful preservation and inclusive representation of Black history in America.
Author Archives: D. Kevin McNeir
Special to the NNPA from The Miami Times
Posted inMaryland News
Tony Woods, Maryland Veterans and Military Families secretary, to step down and join tech startup
Anthony “Tony” Woods, a veteran of the U.S. Army who served overseas during Operation Iraqi Freedom, will step down as the secretary of the Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families on May 11. He has been in the position since January 2023.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
DC artist Reggie Gillumo creates art that the visually impaired can ‘see’
Reggie Gillumo, a D.C.-based visual artist and sculptor, has spent nearly 30 years perfecting his signature style—vibrant, touchable artworks designed to be experienced by both sighted and visually impaired audiences. Celebrated for his innovative technique and community impact, Gillumo recently opened his own gallery and continues to inspire through mentorship and his deeply personal, inclusive art.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Parade, celebrated entertainers and fireworks cap off DC Emancipation Day 2025
Thousands gathered at Freedom Plaza on April 13 to celebrate DC Emancipation Day with a vibrant parade, live entertainment and fireworks, marking the 20th anniversary of its official designation as a public holiday. The event honored the abolition of slavery in D.C. in 1862 and served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for racial equality, community unity, and D.C. statehood.
Posted inBaltimore Government
Baltimore City Mayor Brandon Scott, BCYF announce expansion of youth programming ahead of budget reveal
On March 27 Mayor Brandon M. Scott and the Baltimore Children and Youth Fund (BCYF) will announce funding increases for youth initiatives, including summer jobs, youth engagement strategies and sports programs in Charm City.
Posted inHealth
U.S. Surgeon General declares parental stress a public health issue as Black parents continue to face challenges
Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy’s report, “Parents Under Pressure,” highlights parental stress as a public health issue, emphasizing the unique challenges Black parents face while raising their children into adulthood. Through personal stories, parents share their struggles, resilience, and the ongoing stress of protecting and guiding their sons.
Posted inBlack History
George E. Johnson speaks on his journey from ‘Afro Sheen’ to ‘Soul Train’ and more
George E. Johnson, founder of Johnson Products Co. and creator of Afro Sheen, revolutionized Black hair care and became the first African American to have a company listed on the American Stock Exchange. In his memoir “Afro Sheen,” he details his journey from humble beginnings to business success, crediting his mentor S.B. Fuller, his faith in God, and the guiding principle of the Golden Rule.
Posted inBaltimore News
‘Never afraid, never intimidated’: April Ryan speaks on being longest-serving Black woman in the White House correspondent
April Ryan, the longest-serving Black woman in the White House press corps, has decided to focus on working for the Black Press of America, citing a shift towards conservatism and a lack of opportunities for Black women in the media industry.
Posted inMedia
Shaping the narrative: Ava Thompson Greenwell’s fight for diversity in newsroom leadership
Ava Thompson Greenwell, a veteran journalist and video broadcast journalism professor at Northwestern University, has written a book called “Ladies Leading: The Black Women Who Control Television News” to highlight the need for more Black women in executive positions in the media industry to ensure fair and balanced reporting.
Posted inUncategorized
NEA president voices concern for U.S. workers after president fires three officials on National Labor Relations Board
Gwynne Wilcox, the first Black woman to serve on the National Labor Relations Board, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration for her illegal removal, which has left the agency unable to protect the rights of tens of millions of private sector workers.
Posted inCivil Rights
A. Philip Randolph: The organizer of Black labor who left a blueprint for leaders of the future
A. Philip Randolph, the first president of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters and Maids, played a significant role in the civil rights movement and labor movement, and is being celebrated as a pioneer for the Black middle class and the fight against discrimination.
Posted inPrince George's County News
Panelists explore intersection of ‘Music and Black Labor’
A panel discussion in Prince George’s County, moderated by Patrick D. McCoy, explored the unjust labor practices faced by African American musicians and vocalists in the music industry, highlighting the need for continued support and recognition of Black labor.