D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) kicks off the 46th annual Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program, alongside District youths on June 23. The program will connect around 13,000 young people with paid summer jobs, mentorship and career exploration opportunities.
Author Archives: Tashi McQueen AFRO Staff Writer
Posted inMaryland News
Orchard Ridge becomes Maryland’s first UPLIFT community
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) announces Northeast Baltimore’s Orchard Ridge as the first UPLIFT community on June 13. The UPLIFT program was designed to boost homeownership and property values through equitable housing development, addressing wealth gaps caused by inequitable appraisals and systemic disinvestment.
Posted inBlack History
A look at the legacy of gospel: From hymns to hip-hop
Gospel music, a powerful thread in Black culture, continues to shape Black identity and inspire generations. As Black Music Month begins, it’s clear gospel’s influence on faith and music endures.
Posted inPrince George's County News
PG Council adopts $5.8B budget, prioritizing health and re-entry programs
The Prince George’s County Council has adopted a $5.8 billion budget for fiscal year 2026, focusing on core services, education, safety and infrastructure amid financial challenges. It includes funding for the Black Maternal Health Fund and various community programs.
Posted inBlack History
Bailey and Martell: Honoring the legends who shaped country music’s past, present and futureÂ
DeFord Bailey is known as a pioneer who helped shape country music, even though he and other Black artists were often sidelined. Their contributions challenge the idea that country music was ever a homogeneous space.
Posted inEducation
Meet Dr. Tanya Johnson, the woman redefining student support services
Dr. Tanya Johnson, 46, a Morgan State University alumna and longtime higher education professional, is making waves with her research on humanization practices to create more empathetic and inclusive student support services.
Posted inEducation
Keeping history alive: Tips for parents and teachers amid political pushbacks
Amid growing efforts to restrict Black history education, parents and teachers must preserve and share the true stories with Black youth.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
House passes several ‘anti-D.C. Home Rule’ bills
The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed three bills aiming to override D.C.’s local laws, reigniting debates over Home Rule and statehood. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.-At-Large) condemned the measures as undemocratic and harmful.
Posted inBaltimore Government
Baltimore City Council approves $4.6B FY26 budget in 13-2 vote
The Baltimore City Council approved a $4.6 billion fiscal year 2026 budget on June 16, highlighting new investments in immigrant support, traffic safety and waste reduction.
Posted inCOMMUNITY
Healing through history: The power of Juneteenth
Experts say Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, provides a powerful opportunity for Black Americans to acknowledge generational trauma and celebrate survival and resilience.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
FY26 budget oversight underway as D.C. Council weighs program cuts
This budget season, the D.C. Council is evaluating Mayor Muriel Bowser’s proposed $2.6 billion budget that cuts funding for essential city programs and shifts Medicaid recipients to a basic health plan.
Posted inBaltimore News
Baltimore marks Gun Violence Awareness Month with lock distribution
Baltimore City Mayor Brandon M. Scott and community partners gathered June 9 at Mondawmin Mall to distribute free gun locks and raise awareness during Gun Violence Awareness Month, recommitting to their efforts to prevent gun violence.