As 2026 begins, Washington, D.C. residents face new laws, including Medicaid eligibility changes, an extended youth curfew, inflation‑linked minimum wage increases and automatic expungements for certain misdemeanor cases, with some exceptions for violent offenses.
Author Archives: Tashi McQueen AFRO Staff Writer
Posted inDistrict of Columbia Government
D.C. delegate seat draws crowded field ahead of 2026 midterms
The crowded 2026 race for Washington, D.C.’s nonvoting House delegate seat in U.S. Congress reflects growing concerns over federal interference and the city’s future. Multiple candidates say the moment demands new leadership to protect local autonomy and representation.
Posted inNational News
Remembering Black leaders and icons who died in 2025
As 2025 ends, the AFRO honors the Black leaders, artists, and trailblazers who passed away this year. Their legacies shaped culture, politics and society, leaving a lasting impact on communities worldwide.
Posted inCOMMUNITY
Ways to celebrate Kwanzaa
As Kwanzaa begins on Dec. 26, longtime observers are helping guide people interested in celebrating the holiday but unsure how to begin. Rooted in seven principles known as the Nguzo Saba, Kwanzaa offers families a time to reflect, reconnect and honor Black culture.
Posted inMedia
Urban One celebrates 45 years of media innovation and community impact
Urban One marked its 45th anniversary in 2025, celebrating its evolution from a single radio station founded by Cathy Hughes into one of the nation’s largest African-American media companies. Hughes reflected on the company’s legacy, innovation and continued expansion.
Posted inMental Health
Ways to manage grief, stress during the holidays
During the holiday season, many Americans face grief and stress, intensified by financial pressures and social expectations. Mental health experts emphasize self-care, community support and coping strategies to navigate the season’s emotional challenges.
Posted inBaltimore News
Gun violence summit highlights improvements to public safety, accountability in firearm industry
The Center for American Progress held its 11th National Gun Violence Prevention Summit in Washington, D.C., bringing together advocates, policymakers and survivors. Attendees explored strategies, shared stories, and built networks to reduce gun violence nationwide.
Posted inHealth
Healthy moms, healthy babies: A look at preventing gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes affects five to nine percent of U.S. pregnancies, with Black women facing higher long-term diabetes risk. With lifestyle changes, monitoring, and medical guidance, the condition can be managed to support a healthy pregnancy and baby
Posted inHealth
Can Type 2 diabetes be reversed?
By Tashi McQueenAFRO Staff Writertmcqueen@afro.com Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic, life-altering condition affecting more than 35 million Americans. The disease occurs when a person’s cells do not respond to insulin properly, causing high blood sugar levels. Excess glucose in the blood can harm the body, potentially damaging the kidneys, heart and eyes. […]
Posted inEducation
Community members fight to keep Baltimore Collegiate School for Boys open
Baltimore Collegiate faces possible closure in 2026 as the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners prepares to vote on its charter renewal. Supporters argue the all-boys school boosts academic success and disrupts the school-to-prison pipeline for Baltimore’s Black boys.
Posted inBaltimore Community
Allendale rec center reopens after nearly three years of closure
Baltimore’s Allendale community celebrated the reopening of the Mary E. Rodman Rec Center after nearly three years of closure. The $1.8 million renovation brings new fitness, a playground and community spaces for local youth and families.
Posted inHealth
A survivor’s message to women: ‘Don’t wait, get screened for breast cancer’
Breast cancer survival improves with early detection and consistent screenings. Valarie Traynham, a survivor, stresses the importance of being vigilant about symptoms and speaking up to ensure proper care.
