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.
Author Archives: Tashi McQueen AFRO Staff Writer
Posted inPolitics
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.
Posted inNational News
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.
Posted inDMV News
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.
Posted inMaryland Government
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.
Posted inMaryland News
Maryland faith leaders press Ferguson to back congressional redistricting
Faith leaders across Maryland are urging Senate President Bill Ferguson to prioritize mid-cycle redistricting legislation ahead of a House hearing. The appeal comes as lawmakers consider a proposed congressional map that critics say could eliminate the state’s lone Republican seat and backfire on Democrats.
Posted inMaryland News
Maryland targets data-driven grocery price hikes
Maryland lawmakers unveiled a proposal to ban individualized grocery pricing driven by consumer surveillance and data. Advocates say the plan could ease food insecurity for Maryland consumers.
Posted inMaryland Government
Gov. Wes Moore announces his proposed fiscal year 2027 budget
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) unveiled his $70.8 billion fiscal year (FY) 2027 budget on Jan. 21, focusing on protecting residents, lowering costs and boosting economic competitiveness. The plan balances priorities with no new taxes and $900 million in cost-saving measures.
Posted inBooks
Enoch Pratt to highlight work of Angela Flournoy at 38th Annual Booklover’s Breakfast
Enoch Pratt Free Library will host its sold-out 38th Annual Booklovers’ Breakfast featuring award-winning novelist Angela Flournoy on Feb. 7 at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront.
Posted inBaltimore News
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Morgan State University choir honor MLK Day with community concert
The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a powerful community concert at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. Featuring the Morgan State University Choir, the program celebrated the civil rights leader and his legacy through music by Black composers.
Posted inUncategorized
Business leaders visit Annapolis for Chamber of Commerce Advocacy Day
Members of Maryland’s business community gathered in Annapolis to mark Martin Luther King Jr. Day while urging lawmakers to consider how legislative decisions affect local businesses. Chamber of Commerce leaders and state officials emphasized advocacy, collaboration and participation during the 2026 session.
Posted inBUSINESS
AFRO spotlight on Black excellence: How Kaci Patterson advances Dr. King’s legacy through equity-driven change
Communities nationwide continue to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy through service, faith and advocacy. Today’s leaders and organizations are expanding his vision through action, equity and community-building.
