Advocates from across Maryland rallied in Annapolis, Md. urging lawmakers to advance the Fair Chance Housing Act and Clean Slate Act. Supporters say the bills would help reduce barriers to housing and employment for people returning from incarceration.
Author Archives: Tashi McQueen AFRO Staff Writer
Maryland Governor Wes Moore delivers 2026 State of the StateÂ
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) delivered his fourth State of the State address, highlighting economic growth, education, public safety, and innovation. As he nears the end of his first term, his legislative actions face close scrutiny.
Mayors discuss impact of data centers in their cities
As data centers expand alongside the growth of artificial intelligence, mayors across the U.S. are weighing economic benefits against environmental and infrastructure concerns. Local leaders say clear standards are key as communities push back.
Baltimore County bill would expand Inspector General oversight of BCPS
Baltimore County legislators are considering a bill to give the Office of the Inspector General authority to oversee public schools. Supporters say it would increase transparency, accountability and trust in the school system.
Maryland House passes redistricting plan, while Senate vote looks bleak
While the House passed a redistricting plan to reshape Maryland’s congressional districts, Senate President Bill Ferguson signaled the effort is stalled. He argued the “window has closed” as the Senate prioritizes economic and affordability issues.
Hundreds protest ICE raids, condition of local federal building used to hold immigrants
By Tashi McQueenAFRO Staff Writer On Jan. 30 protestors gathered in downtown Baltimore, Minneapolis and cities nationwide to oppose the violent immigration raids and recent deaths at the hands of agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), U.S. Border Patrol and other federal agencies. In Baltimore, the march and rally came as legislators and […]
Prince George’s County sees notable reductions in teacher vacancies as D.C. Council addresses teacher retention
Prince George’s County, Md., has reduced teacher vacancies by 52 percent, the largest in the state, helping to improve consistency for students and school culture. Recruitment for the next school year is already underway.
Credit: Photo courtesy of Prince George’s County Executive’s Office
MD Public Defender’s Office unveils 2026 legislative priorities
Maryland’s Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) unveiled its 2026 legislative agenda at a Jan. 21 rally in Annapolis, Md., urging reforms to youth charging laws, traffic stops and indigent defense funding. Leaders cited racial disparities and systemic failures harming families and children statewide.
How cities are handling immigration in the current climate
As federal immigration enforcement intensifies, mayors across the country say their cities are facing legal threats, funding risks and growing fear and unrest among immigrant communities. Local leaders are weighing how to protect residents while navigating pressure from the federal government and safeguarding essential resources.
Mayors gather in DC to discuss crime and policing
More than 250 mayors gathered in Washington, D.C., for the U.S. Conference of Mayors’ 94th Winter Meeting to discuss public safety, housing, and crime reduction strategies. Leaders highlighted the strain on police officers and emphasized investing in communities, youth programs, and stable housing to lower violent crime.
NCBW, 100 Black Men host 2026 Legislative Day
The National Coalition of 100 Black Women and 100 Black Men hosted their 2026 Legislative Day, bringing lawmakers and community members together to discuss maternal health and economic equity in Maryland.
Maryland legislators advance redistricting plan after tense hearing
Maryland legislators advanced a partisan congressional redistricting bill Jan. 27, sending it to the floor amid support from Maryland Gov. Wes Moore. Senate backing remains uncertain and Republicans are criticizing the process.

