By Ashleigh FieldsSpecial to the AFRO The Washington Informer has long captured the stories of the residents, leaders and communities that infuse vibrant culture into the District of Columbia. For six decades the paper has been a voice for people in D.C. and beyond. In honor of the Informer’s anniversary, the publication, which serves one […]
Author Archives: Special to the AFRO
Posted inAfro Briefs
Women firefighters with reproductive cancers are now eligible for federal help
Women firefighters diagnosed with reproductive cancers are now eligible for federal compensation, addressing a long-standing gap in coverage. This policy change acknowledges their occupational risks and ensures they receive the support they deserve.
Posted inWomen's Rights
How trailblazing Congresswomen Lauren Underwood and Shontel Brown lead a new era on Capitol Hill
U.S. Rep Shontel Brown (D) (left) serves in Congress on behalf of District 11 in Ohio, while Rep. Lauren Underwood (D) works to better the lives of the people living in Illinois’ District 14. This week, the two discussed why they ran for Congress and what pieces of legislation they plan to put forward. (Photo credit/Lauren Underwood: AP Photo/Paul Beaty; and Photo credit/Shontel Brown: Photo courtesy of House of Representatives)
Posted inCommentary
Addressing the healthcare gap for working women
By Candrese Jones Cervical Cancer is one of the most treatable cancers if detected early. No one should die from this disease, however, an estimated 4,360 women in the United States died from cervical cancer in 2024. In Mississippi, Black women are almost one and a half times more likely to die of the disease […]
Posted inCoronavirus
COVID-19 and the classroom: A look at how schools have recovered in the past five years
By Gene A. LambeySpecial to the AFRO On Friday, March 13, 2020 teachers and members of the school community had their last normal day in the workforce. As fear of a deadly virus spread, infection rates traveled faster. In recognition of the fifth anniversary of the start of the coronavirus pandemic, the AFRO reached out […]
Posted inOpinion
A letter to the editor: Cherishing history and legacy
I enjoy AFRO for many, many reasons; mainly because I grew up with the AFRO-American Newspaper, which was sold in my grandparents newsstand in Georgetown, S.C. At age 79, I’m blessed to see history continue! Steve MyersCivil Rights Trail ToursMontgomery, Ala.
Posted inCommentary
DEI isn’t just an acronym — and saving it is our moral obligation
By Reverend Adam Russell-Taylor President Trump and much of the Grand Old Party’s (GOP) growing fixation on diversity, equity and inclusion programs — often referred to as “DEI” — has become a flashpoint in the nation’s politics that threatens to derail the essential project of becoming a more just and inclusive multiracial democracy. On his […]
Posted inWashington D.C. News
19th annual ‘Blacks in Wax’ production brings history to life in Washington, D.C.
By Latita FaulkSpecial to the AFRO The 19th Annual “Blacks in Wax” production took place on March 7 at the Thearc Theatre in Washington D.C., providing a transformative experience for the scholars of Southeast Tennis and Learning Center. The program is more than just a performance- it’s an educational, creative and cultural journey that pushes […]
Posted inTransportation
Major U.S. bridges at high risk of collisions with ships
Preliminary findings of an urgent assessment of the nation’s bridge vulnerability following the 2024 Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore have revealed that major bridges across the United States are highly likely to be hit by ships, with some bridges expecting a major ship collision once every 20 to 50 years.
Posted inBUSINESS
Stalled Progress for Women on Maryland’s Corporate Boards, Executive Alliance Reports
Baltimore, MD — Maryland’s progress toward gender equity in corporate boardrooms has slowed significantly, according to the newly released 2025 Executive Alliance Census Report on Women Board Directors in Maryland. The report highlights that women hold only 28% of board seats in publicly traded companies headquartered in the state — well behind the national S&P […]
Posted inARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Reintroducing a gem who has returned to Baltimore
Ken-Matt Martin, a renowned director and producer, has returned to Baltimore as the producing director of Baltimore Center Stage, bringing his vast experience and visionary leadership to the city’s thriving theater scene. His influence is already strengthening the institution’s programming and outreach, positioning it as a national model for artistic excellence and cultural engagement.
Posted inPrince George's County News
Prince George’s County gears up for blockbuster season with future-forward connectivity
By Alexander Austin Prince George’s County is poised for an exciting season of major events, showcasing the critical role that cutting-edge connectivity plays in driving economic growth and enhancing visitor experiences. From record-breaking concerts to iconic sporting matchups, the region’s ability to seamlessly connect tens of thousands of attendees helps sustain its position as a […]
