By Tashi McQueenAFRO Staff Writertmcqueen@afro.com The 151st Preakness Stakes, held at Laurel Park during its temporary relocation, drew hundreds to different attractions across Maryland May 15-16. Napoleon Solo, who entered at 10-1 odds, won the Preakness Stakes on May 16. My Miss Mo captured the Black Eyed-Susan on May 15. The middle jewel of the […]
Author Archives: Tashi McQueen AFRO Staff Writer
Posted inBaltimore Community
Baltimore officials launch youth engagement strategy for summer season
Baltimore’s 2026 summer youth engagement plan expands job opportunities, late-night recreation and safe spaces as officials respond to concerns over viral “teen takeover” gatherings and efforts to keep young people engaged and connected.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
D.C. Council passes legislation to combat teen takeovers
The D.C. Council approved a modified juvenile curfew bill aimed at addressing social media-driven “teen takeovers.” The measure expands enforcement tools, while supporters cite safety concerns and critics warn of overpolicing and deeper, unmet youth needs.
Posted inMaryland Government
Gov. Moore enacts energy and artist protection laws
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) signed more than 200 bills into law, including measures aimed at lowering utility costs and limiting the use of artists’ lyrics in court, drawing praise from supporters and criticism from Republican lawmakers over energy policy.
Posted inReligion
Meet Bishop Harry L. Seawright, the new leader of AME’s Second Episcopal District
Bishop Harry L. Seawright, 70, now leads the AME’s Second Episcopal District, drawing on a lifetime of ministry shaped by his upbringing in rural South Carolina. Read about his journey to the episcopacy on AFRO.com.
Posted in!Front Page Maryland New
Advocates, state leaders call on PJM to lower energy bills
By Tashi McQueenAFRO Staff Writertmcqueen@afro.com Regional state leaders and climate advocates gathered May 11 outside the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront during the PJM Interconnection annual meeting to call for lower electricity costs and faster clean energy approvals. The meeting, which runs through May 13, brings stakeholders together to review the regional power grid and plan future […]
Posted inDistrict of Columbia Government
D.C. Council extends federal transparency laws
Washington, D.C. transparency laws governing the Metropolitan Police Department’s interactions with federal officers have been extended through November, amid ongoing federal immigration enforcement activity and debate over accountability, oversight and public trust in policing throughout the District.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
D.C. schools bring voter registration to students ahead of elections
Schools and community organizations in Washington, D.C. are bringing voter registration and civic education directly to students as the District prepares for upcoming elections and ranked choice voting.
Posted inBaltimore News
Tax payment plan to prevent property loss debuts in Baltimore
Baltimore City has opened enrollment for its first residential property tax payment plan, offering homeowners a way to catch up on past-due taxes through manageable monthly payments designed to reduce tax sales and prevent home loss.
Posted inBaltimore News
Not all missing children cases look the same–and each one brings unique challenges
By Tashi McQueenAFRO Staff Writertmcqueen@afro.com Each May serves as a time to recognize Missing and Unidentified Persons Month. This week, AFRO News presents the first of several articles focusing on the cases of Black missing persons in the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area and beyond. Any child who goes missing likely faces a dangerous situation, […]
Posted inBaltimore Government
Conway leads MONSE oversight hearing after IG report findings
Baltimore City Councilman Mark Conway (D-District 4) led an April 28 oversight hearing on MONSE after an Inspector General report raised concerns. Ongoing litigation limited discussion of alleged fraud as officials examined accountability, transparency and oversight gaps.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
D.C. budget hearings advance amid budget cut concerns
The D.C. Council is reviewing Mayor Bowser’s $1.1B deficit budget, with hearings through May 12 and a first vote expected June 9. Advocates raise concerns on proposed cuts to child care subsidies and the Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund.
