Andrew C. Freeman, former vice president of real estate development at East Baltimore Development Inc., has filed a federal lawsuit and EEOC complaint alleging racial discrimination against Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott and city leadership. The lawsuit comes as legal experts and labor advocates debate growing federal scrutiny of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and the rise of “reverse discrimination” claims.
Author Archives: Victoria Mejicanos
Posted inBUSINESS
Home-based businesses offer flexibility and opportunity for entrepreneurs
As more Americans launch businesses from home, entrepreneurs are finding both flexibility and new challenges. Business owners say success depends on discipline, structure and the ability to build trust with customers.
Posted inBUSINESS
How ownership helped a Black-owned U Street businesses survive gentrification
As Washington, D.C.’s historically Black U Street corridor continues to gentrify, longtime Black-owned businesses like Lee’s Flower and Card Shop and Ben’s Chili Bowl say ownership and adaptability have been key to their survival. While both families acknowledge the economic growth brought to the area, they also reflect on the displacement of longtime Black residents and the changing identity of the once predominantly Black community known as “Black Broadway.”
Posted inBlack History
United Baptist Missionary Convention marks 100 years of faith, fellowship and community service
The United Baptist Missionary Convention of Maryland celebrated its 100th anniversary while reflecting on a century of supporting Black Baptist churches through ministry, mentorship and community outreach. Convention leaders and members highlighted the organization’s continued focus on developing young leaders, serving vulnerable communities and providing support systems beyond the church walls.
Posted inBaltimore Community
A different kind of motherhood: Foster moms reflect on care and commitment
Jacqueline Holloman and Dr. Marionette Butts say their decision to become foster moms was rooted in care and commitment. This Mother’s Day, the AFRO salutes the women who open their hearts and their homes to provide stable, supportive environments for children in need.
Posted inBaltimore News
Baltimore County to take over Randallstown, Dundalk swim centers as Y exits
Baltimore County will assume operations of the Randallstown and Dundalk swim centers on Aug. 31 after the Y in Central Maryland ends its 15-year partnership, citing facility limitations. Community members worry the transition could include a temporary closure and disrupt access to vital swim programs that support safety, health and connection, particularly for Black youth.
Posted inObituaries - Baltimore
Ellen Louise Dolvey Howard, Baltimore educator and TRIO leader, dies at 97
Ellen Louise Dolvey Howard, a Baltimore educator and national TRIO leader, died at 97 after a decades-long career helping low-income and first-generation students access higher education and trade programs.
Posted inAfro Briefs
A new reality: Retirement while supporting young adult children or parents
Rising costs of living and cultural expectations have increased the number of retirees still supporting young adult children, with 50 percent of parents now supporting a child older than 18.
Posted inBaltimore News
Many retirees rely on Social Security—but confusion and delays can cost them
Many Black retirees rely on Social Security as a primary source of income, but experts say confusion about when to claim benefits and missing documentation can lead to reduced payments or delays.
Posted inD.C. Community
Ben’s Chili Bowl Seeks community input for new mural as renovations wrap
As Ben’s Chili Bowl prepares to install a new mural following renovations, community members are being invited to help decide which figures will be featured. Retired Army Master Sgt. Elizabeth Ann Helm-Fraizer is advocating for the inclusion of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, highlighting the unit’s historic contributions and ties to Washington, D.C.
Posted inMoney
From shame to strategy: Understanding and healing financial trauma
By Victoria MejicanosAFRO Staff Writervmejicanos@afro.com Maxed out credit cards, overdraft fees, car repossessions and a 385 credit score once defined Steven M. Hughes’ financial reality. Years later, working as a financial therapist, he now recognizes what he was experiencing wasn’t just poor money management, it was financial trauma. Although financial trauma does not have a […]
Posted inMoney
Small debts, big consequences: The financial burden many overlook
By Victoria MejicanosAFRO Staff Writervmejicanos@afro.com For many Black Americans, the racial wealth gap has always been apparent. Race and zipcode have been proven to skew everything from credit scores to home values in Black neighborhoods. What can be underestimated are the impacts of smaller, unpaid fines. Municipal fines such as tickets and toll fees or […]
