The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 54th Annual Legislative Conference returns to Washington, D.C. on Sept. 24, bringing together policymakers, thought leaders and activists to tackle pressing issues facing Black communities. With sessions on health, education, economic empowerment and social justice, as well as signature events, like the National Town Hall and Phoenix Awards, the conference spotlights strategies for advancing equity and celebrates Black leadership.
Category: Politics
Reality check: How Black ministers took on Charlie Kirk’s killing
Charlie Kirk, 31, an avowed Christian, White nationalist, and White House insider, had a history of bigoted, racist remarks. Since his assassination, conservatives have compared him to Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., but Black ministers pushed back on that comparison in sermons the Sunday after the murder.
It’s hard to admit it, but I was wrong about democracy
AFRO Publisher and CEO, Dr. Frances Murphy Draper, speaks on how democracy’s promise of protecting every voice has fallen short in her latest reflection and call to action. This week, she urges unity among the Black Press, the Black Church and the community to defend free speech and fight for a democracy that truly values every voice.
Norton to challenge multiple bills aimed at giving Congress greater control over D.C.
Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, who has represented D.C. residents in the U.S. House of Representatives since 1991, says she plans to raise opposition to four anti-D.C. home rule bills.
Democrats intensify push for full release of Epstein files
Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s trafficking ring joined Democratic lawmakers in urging the Justice Department to make public all remaining case records, saying full disclosure is essential for justice. Their push has ignited fierce debate on Capitol Hill, where Republicans warn against broad releases while bipartisan efforts seek to compel transparency.
Jawando’s campaign for Montgomery County executive picks up steam and new endorsements
Montgomery County Council Vice President Will Jawando’s bid for county executive is gaining momentum with endorsements from Progressive Maryland, the Working Families Party, and several local leaders. He joins a five-person Democratic field to replace outgoing Executive Marc Erlich, with no Republican candidates yet filed ahead of the February 2026 deadline.
Congressional Black Caucus members condemn Republican redistricting as threat to Black representation
Congressional Black Caucus members slammed recent Republican redistricting plans as an attack on Black voters’ power. Lawmakers vowed to challenge the new maps in court and mobilize public opposition to protect their districts.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore officially launches 2026 re-election campaign
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) officially launches his 2026 re-election campaign Sept. 9, emphasizing his work in increased job growth, reduced crime, education investment and bipartisan leadership across Maryland.
Redistricting, the Black Press and the Black vote
Dr. John E. Warren is publisher of San Diego Voice and Viewpoint Newspaper and chair of the board for the National Newspapers Publishers Association. This week he speaks to the power of voting.
Maryland must reckon with its juvenile justice past to protect today’s youth
By Marc Schindler I started my legal career in the mid-1990s as a Baltimore public defender representing children in juvenile court. In the late 1990s I joined a civil rights law firm addressing juvenile justice policies statewide and across the nation. These experiences taught me two things: The Maryland detention facility where many of my […]
D.C. residents ‘make good trouble’ in push back against federal takeover of nation’s capital
D.C. residents are continuing to speak out against the 47th U.S. president’s decision to bring National Guard troops to the streets of D.C.
Moore and Scott push back against 47th president’s criticism, tout historic crime decreases
Gov. Wes Moore and Mayor Brandon Scott pushed back against White House criticism by pointing to major crime reductions—Maryland homicides are down 20 percent since Moore’s inauguration, while Baltimore is seeing its lowest homicide rate in 50 years. Both leaders credit data-driven strategies, law enforcement and community partnerships for the historic progress.

