By Tashi McQueenAFRO Staff Writertmcqueen@afro.com The Baltimore City Council held its fiscal year (FY) 2026 Taxpayers’ Night on May 15. Taxpayer’s Night is an annual opportunity for the community to voice their thoughts and concerns about Mayor Brandon M. Scott’s (D) proposed budget before the council decides whether to accept the mayor’s budget as is […]
Author Archives: Tashi McQueen AFRO Staff Writer
Posted inBaltimore Government
State’s attorney Ivan Bates to host town hall on youth crime
Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates (left) and Councilman Mark Conway (D-District 04) (right) will join city agencies and residents for the May 20 solutions pact town hall at Huber Memorial Church. The event will address juvenile crime, offer youth resources and connect families with summer programs and city services.
Posted inHealth
Postpartum tips for moms: Balancing mental and physical wellness
The AFRO recently spoke with experts and mothers who emphasized the critical need for culturally informed, compassionate postpartum care to support Black moms. With higher maternal mortality rates among Black women and frequent dismissal of their health concerns, experts stress the importance of preparing early, building a strong support network, and advocating for personalized care.
Posted inHealth
Nursing students talk purpose, pain and pushing through challenges
By Tashi McQueenAFRO Staff Writertmcqueen@afro.com Two Coppin State University nursing students recently shared their inspiring stories about why they are pursuing a career in nursing and how they find the motivation to persevere. “I always knew I wanted to go into the medical field,” said Mawata Keita, a sophomore at Coppin. “I didn’t know if […]
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Bowser announces $570k in grants to support small businesses in D.C.
Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) and the D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development announced a $570,000 investment to support 60 small businesses through the 2025 Robust Retail Grant Program. Grants up to $10,000 will cover key operational expenses.
Posted inU.S. Government
Immigration authorities arrest nearly 200 in D.C. raids
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested 189 immigrants who entered the U.S. illegally and issued 187 compliance notices to D.C.-area businesses during a four-day operation from May 6-9.
Posted inBaltimore Government
Mayor Scott and fellow Democratic mayors address first 100 days of new presidential administration
Democratic mayors criticized the 47th president’s first 100 days in office, highlighting how sudden budget cuts and mass firings have strained local governments.
Posted inHBCU
Morgan State breaks ground on $337M science center
Maryland officials broke ground on Morgan State University’s $337 million Science Research Center on May 14, the largest state investment in the school’s history. The facility will boost innovation, research and HBCU excellence.
Posted inAfro Newspaper
AFRO wins over 20 awards in Maryland, Delaware, D.C. Press Association contest
The AFRO earned top honors at the 2024 Maryland, Delaware and District of Columbia Press Association Awards, taking home over 20 awards across multiple categories and reinforcing its 133-year tradition of journalistic excellence. Amid growing political challenges for the press, these wins underscore the essential role of Black media in uplifting community voices and safeguarding the truth.
Posted inMental Health
Money woes and mental health: The unspoken struggles of financial stress
Money-related stress weighs heavily on many Black Americans, often manifesting as emotional and mental exhaustion and strained relationships. Experts say historical inequities, ongoing financial disparities and cultural pressures make the burden especially intense and deeply personal.
Posted inTechnology
How artificial intelligence could close gaps in mental health care for women and girls
Artificial intelligence (AI) could help close persistent gaps in mental health care for Black women and girls by improving access, affordability and cultural relevance. Experts say when designed with intention, AI tools can offer early intervention, personalized support and relief for overburdened care systems.
Posted inMaryland News
Moore approves major school funding legislation at third bill signing of 2025
Governor Wes Moore signed the Excellence in Maryland Public Schools Act to improve education and tackle the state’s teacher shortage through updated funding and support. Although there were proposed budget cuts, lawmakers restored money for community schools, which mainly serve low-income and Black students across Maryland.