The Trump administration’s dismantling of the National Decertification Index, a database tracking police officers with misconduct records, has sparked criticism from lawmakers and civil rights advocates who argue it weakens accountability and public safety. Created under the Obama administration in response to high-profile cases of police brutality, the database aimed to prevent officers with a history of misconduct from being rehired, but its removal raises concerns about transparency and justice in law enforcement.
Category: News
Black athletes thrive at D.C.’s first U.S. Figure Skating club
District Impact Skating Club, the city’s first and only U.S. Figure Skating club, was created by Harris and Gueory to provide a home for Black and Brown skaters in an inclusive, affordable, and Black-led environment, while also expanding opportunities for skaters to compete and advance their skills.
Divine Nine and community leaders rally behind Baltimore bookstore owner after racist messages
Urban Reads bookstore owner Tia Hamilton is facing racial attacks due to her magazine exposing prison corruption and wrongful convictions, prompting calls for Maryland officials to intervene and support the store.
Lessons from the lockdown: Five years later, business owners reflect on the COVID-19 pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, entrepreneurs were forced to adapt and some were able to expand their businesses, while others lost their livelihoods, with the key takeaways being to stay focused on what you can control and be proactive in diversifying your business.
Letters, love and legacy: The AFRO’s historic column comes to life again
Afro Charities hosted a mixer and networking session centered around their “Re-Reading the News” series, inspired by the AFRO Archives’ “Lonesome Hearts” column, where attendees exchanged letters and formed connections.
Black general fired for daring to fix military school’s racism
Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins, the superintendent of Virginia Military Institute, has been dismissed by the VMI board after four years of pushing for culture change and increasing state funding, despite his accomplishments.
One case of measles confirmed in Maryland resident with recent international travel
A positive case of measles has been reported in a Howard County resident who recently traveled internationally, prompting health officials to identify people who may have been exposed and to monitor themselves for symptoms for 21 days after the potential exposure.
Best ways to advocate for your heart health
Heart disease is a leading cause of death among Black Americans, but it can be prevented by taking charge of one’s health, interviewing doctors, building a support network, educating oneself, and knowing one’s numbers.
The Black women who built the AFRO: A legacy of truth and trailblazing journalism
The AFRO-American Newspapers has a rich history of journalistic excellence, thanks to the contributions of many Black women, including Frances L. Murphy II, Elizabeth “Bettye” Murphy Moss, Ida Murphy Peters, Vashti Murphy Matthews, Carlita Murphy Jones, Elizabeth Murphy Oliver, and many others.
Meet Ebony McMorris, the White House correspondent not afraid to tell the truth
Ebony McMorris, a White House correspondent for American Urban Radio Network, emphasizes the importance of the Black Press in reporting the truth and holding those in power accountable, especially in times of oppression and fear.
Providence of Maryland welcomes Dr. Tanya Millner to Board of Directors
Providence of Maryland has appointed Tanya Millner, Ed.D., to its Board of Directors, bringing her leadership skills and commitment to inclusive environments to the organization.
Members of the Congressional Black Caucus condemn U.S. president’s address in joint session of Congress as ‘misleading’ and ‘divisive’
President Trump’s 2025 address before a joint session of Congress was criticized by Democratic lawmakers as a misleading, hyper-partisan speech that ignored the struggles of everyday Americans and failed to offer concrete solutions to lower costs for working families.

