Otis L. Eldridge Jr., a recent graduate of Morgan State University’s Urban Educational Leadership doctoral program, shares advice and encouragement for fellow Black men pursuing doctoral degrees—urging them to embrace opportunity, persevere through challenges and recognize the power of their voice and research. (Photo: Meta (Instagram)/ education_everyday)
Author Archives: Special to the AFRO
Posted inCommentary
Youth are ready to lead- let’s listen
By Kanika Cousine The time has come for young people to take their rightful seat at the table. As the founder of Journey of A Dreamer INC., I’ve seen firsthand the incredible leadership, passion and vision that youth bring to their communities. But far too often, their voices go unheard and their contributions are overlooked. […]
Posted inUncategorized
5 years after George Floyd’s murder: How the media narrative has changed around the killing and the protests that followed
Five years after George Floyd’s murder, media coverage has shifted from initially emphasizing protest violence to more nuanced, legitimizing narratives that better reflect the depth, demands, and significance of the movement against police brutality.
Posted inOPINION
Op-ed: Why charging for land records could make housing less stable
A new Maryland State Archives policy to charge for online access to land records threatens housing stability for vulnerable families—especially older Black homeowners with tangled titles—by creating costly barriers to proving property ownership, despite Governor Moore’s stated commitment to affordable and accessible housing.
Posted inNational News
African American women on quarters thanks to former Congresswoman Barbara Lee
The American Women Quarters Program, launched by the U.S. Mint in 2022, honors diverse women—including four African-American trailblazers—whose contributions to American history span civil rights, aviation, literature and law.
Posted inBaltimore News
Student research at Mount Auburn Cemetery reveals local buried history
By Gabrielle Dean, PhDSpecial to the AFRO Who is buried in Mount Auburn Cemetery? The historic Black cemetery in Westport, Baltimore, which is owned and operated by the Sharp Street Memorial United Methodist Church, was founded in 1872. That’s a lot of local history. “Looking at cemetery records, death certificates and tombstone data, we’ve documented […]
Posted inBaltimore News
Patrons experience last Preakness prior to Pimlico renovation
Thousands gathered in Baltimore for the historic 150th Preakness Stakes, marking the final race at Pimlico Race Course before major renovations begin. While attendees enjoyed the race and cultural festivities, some expressed frustration with event organization despite the excitement and tradition surrounding the event.
Posted inReligion
Faith leaders stand with governor on veto of bill to create Maryland reparation commission
Rev. Jerome Stephens and a group of prominent faith leaders support Gov. Wes Moore’s veto of a proposed reparations commission, urging a shift from further study to immediate action on racial equity. They highlight the administration’s tangible progress in closing racial gaps and call for continued investment in housing, education and economic opportunity for Black Marylanders.
Posted inMental Health
Ten facts about mental health
Mental illness affects one in four American adults each year, yet more than half of those in need go without treatment due to stigma, misinformation or lack of access. With rising rates intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, understanding the facts, recognizing symptoms early and connecting to available resources are critical steps toward healing and support.
Posted inBaltimore News
“To Baltimore With Love”: Call for artists – $500 honorarium for selected creators
“To Baltimore With Love,” a new exhibition curated by Baltimore Unity Hall and The Mary Ann Connelly Fund in Support of Artists, invites local creators to celebrate the city’s spirit through art. Submissions are open until June 9, 2025, with selected artists receiving a $500 honorarium.
Posted inOPINION
Supporting dental students can lead to improved health and stronger communities
Dr. Roosevelt Allen, DDS, MAGD, ABGD, is chief dental officer at United Concordia Dental. He leads the company’s oral and overall health efforts and oversees its professional affairs, dental directors and clinical and dental policy. This week, he calls for increased support for dental students.
Posted inCommentary
Commentary: Why collaboration is key to advancing civil rights in all jurisdictions
Baltimore County’s Human Relations Commission continues its efforts as it leads with resolve amid structural changes and vacancies. Shown here, Cleveland Horton (left) the executive director Maryland Commission on Civil Rights and David Skinner the program manager of Human Relations Commission.
