Since the fall of Roe v. Wade, at least 210 women have faced prosecution for pregnancy outcomes—many involving substance use allegations or miscarriage. Advocates warn the trend is worsening maternal health and civil rights.
Author Archives: Tashi McQueen AFRO Staff Writer
Retirement tips for the self-employed
With more Americans turning to self-employment for greater fulfillment, experts emphasize the importance of starting retirement savings early—even amid unpredictable income. From opening a Roth IRA (Individual Retirement Arrangement) to eventually establishing an SEP (Simplified Employee Pension plan), building a flexible, consistent approach is key.
AFRO seeks reader input on AI use in journalism
By Tashi McQueen AFRO Staff Writer tmcqueen@afro.com The AFRO is conducting an online survey in collaboration with the Local Media Association and the Local Media Foundation’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Community Journalism Lab and Trusting News. The goal is to gather readers’ input on how AI should be used in journalism. The survey will be open […]
Dr. Barbara Ross-Lee: A healthcare trailblazer with a legendary legacy
Dr. Barbara Ross-Lee, 82, is a pioneering leader in osteopathic medicine. She broke barriers as the first African-American woman to lead a U.S. medical school. She encourages others to define themselves and aspire for excellence despite the challenges they may face in pursuit of their career.
A look at how Gloria Nelson continues to advocate for Turner Station
Gloria Nelson is dedicated to preserving Turner Station’s legacy while advocating for its future. Once a thriving Black community, the neighborhood faces challenges, but Nelson leads efforts to revitalize it. Through partnerships and advocacy, she works to improve sustainability, housing and economic opportunities, ensuring Turner Station endures for generations.
Turmoil grips Baltimore City NAACP
Amid ongoing tensions within the NAACP, the Baltimore City branch of the NAACP released a statement criticizing the national board’s handling of its administrative oversight and the internal investigations of the branch’s top leaders. The branch claims the national office has been largely inactive in helping restore full operations, instead stifling its efforts.
Youth activism: The crucial role of family support
Young changemakers are leading movements for climate action, gun violence prevention and equal representation—supported by families who help them heal, organize and sustain their activism.
An overlooked crisis: Women with disabilities and maternal health inequity
Black mothers with disabilities face unique challenges during pregnancy, including medical dismissal and higher costs. Advocates call for systemic change to ensure equitable, compassionate care for all mothers navigating these barriers.
D.C. men grapple with incarceration, opioids and housing instability
Black men in D.C. face disproportionate rates of incarceration, homelessness and opioid-related deaths. City leaders are working to reverse these trends through health initiatives, community partnerships and policy reforms.
Black disability advocates who helped shape civil rights
Black history and disability rights history are more connected than many realize, thanks to leaders like Brad Lomax and Lois Curtis. Their advocacy forged pathways for justice where race and disability intersect.
Raising sons with care: Black fathers lead by example and build community
By Tashi McQueen AFRO Staff Writer tmcqueen@afro.com With the odds often stacked against Black boys, it’s crucial to shine a light on how Black fathers and community leaders are guiding them forward. Even before their sons have learned to speak, many Black fathers are thinking about how to protect them from a world that won’t […]
Guardians of history: The enduring task of Black museums in America
As efforts to rewrite history persist, Black museums play a critical role in preserving and teaching the true stories of African-descendants—their experiences, the obstacles they’ve overcome and those that remain.

