Changes to USPS operations mean a mailpiece’s postmark may not reflect the day it’s collected, raising concerns for time-sensitive documents like ballots, tax returns and bills. Community leaders warn that Black, elderly and other underserved households could face penalties or missed deadlines if mail is delayed.
Category: Afro Briefs
Posted inCongressional Black Caucus (CBC)
Congressional Black Caucus Foundation kicks off 50th anniversary year
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation has launched a yearlong celebration of its 50th anniversary under the theme “Rooted. Ready. Rising,” highlighting five decades of work advancing equity, leadership development and policy solutions for Black communities. The milestone will feature signature events, service initiatives in 50 cities, mini legislative conferences, and recognition of the AVOICE digital archive, all culminating in the Annual Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., in September.
Posted inINTERNATIONAL
Islamic militants kill at least 162 people in attacks on 2 villages in Nigeria, lawmaker says
Armed extremists killed at least 162 people in coordinated attacks on the villages of Woro and Nuku in western Nigeria, according to a local lawmaker, with rights groups saying the toll may be higher. The massacre underscores Nigeria’s escalating security crisis, as multiple militant groups linked to the Islamic State and Boko Haram continue deadly assaults across the country.
Posted inAfro Briefs
The Obama Foundation opens applications for the 2026-2028 Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public Service
The Obama Foundation has opened applications for the 2026–2028 Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public Service, a program that supports 100 college students with financial aid, travel experiences, and leadership training. Backed by Airbnb co-founder Brian Chesky, the scholarship offers up to $50,000 in tuition assistance, a funded summer work-travel “Voyage,” and long-term mentorship to help recipients pursue careers in public service.
Posted inNational News
Former Sierra Club Foundation director sues over alleged internal racism
By James Pollard and Matt BrownThe Associated Press NEW YORK (AP) — It seemed like a high-profile opportunity to lead an influential environmental group’s ambitious new push for green energy financing. And so, in May 2023, Pedro da Silva joined the Sierra Club Foundation, the charitable arm for the nonprofit started by naturalist John Muir. […]
Posted inNAACP
NAACP condemns racist social media post shared by president
The 47th president of the United States shared a video on social media depicting former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama as monkeys, which was met with widespread criticism from both Republicans and Democrats.
Posted inHBCU
Pepsi National Battle of the Bands presents ‘The Best of the Battles’ in honor of Black History Month
The Pepsi National Battle of the Bands airs “The Best of the Battles” from Jan. 31 to March 1 in honor of Black History Month, highlighting 15 years of performances by more than 30 HBCU marching bands. The film revisits iconic moments from showcases across the country, including the 2026 event in The Palm Beaches, and celebrates the cultural impact and legacy of HBCU band tradition.
Posted inWord In Black
Can Twitch star Kai Cenat inspire Black kids to start reading?
By Alvin BuyinzaWord in Black For the past few years, Kai Cenat has been one of the biggest names on the internet, a Twitch streamer who has evolved from playing video games online into creating outlandish comedy that often goes viral. With more than 20 million followers, Cenat, 24, has rubbed shoulders with fellow internet […]
Posted inWord In Black
Racial healing starts with honest conversations
Honest conversations about race help young people affirm their identity and process racism without internalizing harm. Families, educators, and mental health experts say early, open dialogue builds resilience and supports long-term racial healing.
Posted inNational News
Judge blocks 47th president’s administration from ending protections for Haitians
By Luis Andres HenaoThe Associated Press SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (AP) — A federal judge on Feb. 2 blocked the Trump administration from ending temporary protections that have allowed roughly 350,000 Haitians to live and work in the U.S. U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes in Washington granted a request to pause the termination of temporary protected status […]
Posted inAfro Briefs
Ending tax refunds by check speeds payments, but what about people without bank accounts?
By Beverly MoranThe Conversation More than 6 million Americans receive paper tax refund checks annually. Often, those refunds go to purchase groceries or pay the bills. But this year, those taxpayers may be surprised to learn that the paper check they’re waiting for no longer exists. That’s because of executive order 14247, which President Donald […]
Posted inAfro Briefs
U.S. home heating fires peak during winter months
Home heating fires surge during the winter months, with nearly half occurring between December and February, according to the National Fire Protection Association. NFPA data shows space heaters and heating stoves account for almost half of these fires and the majority of deaths and injuries, prompting renewed safety reminders as colder weather keeps families indoors and increases electricity use, cooking activity and reliance on heating equipment.