Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper presented her book “Prayer and Pen” at the Enoch Pratt Free Library, which is a collection of her grandfather Carl J. Murphy’s prayers, paired with period photographs and archival headlines, to provide a devotional and historical record of the AFRO-American Newspapers’ legacy.
Category: Afro Newspaper
Posted inAfro Newspaper
From the classroom to the newsroom: Meet the AFRO Interns of Summer 2025
By AFRO Staff This week, the AFRO would like to take the opportunity to highlight the interns who worked hard in the AFRO Editorial Department this summer. These young people are the future of not only the Black Press, but the news media field at large. From health and education to crime and politics, the […]
Posted inBaltimore News
Three key tips for newspapers to thrive for the next 100 years
AFRO leaders share three key tips for Black newspapers to thrive: balancing legacy, innovation, and engagement with younger generations amid industry challenges.
Posted inAfro Newspaper
Mobile mural unveiled at future AFRO headquarters site, celebrating Black legacy, art and community
A vibrant new mural celebrating Black legacy and community was unveiled outside Jubilee Arts in West Baltimore, created through a collaboration between Creative Nomads and Afro Charities. Featuring historic AFRO imagery, interactive AR elements, and community-driven design, the mural now surrounds the future site of the AFRO’s new headquarters at Upton Mansion.
Posted inAfro Newspaper
133 Years—and we’re still telling the truth
The AFRO-American Newspapers, a 133-year-old Black-owned and family-owned business, continues to thrive under the leadership of Publisher and CEO Frances Murphy Draper, blending its historic legacy with modern innovation while fighting for truth and equity in the face of current crises.
Posted inAfro Newspaper
AFRO wins over 20 awards in Maryland, Delaware, D.C. Press Association contest
The AFRO earned top honors at the 2024 Maryland, Delaware and District of Columbia Press Association Awards, taking home over 20 awards across multiple categories and reinforcing its 133-year tradition of journalistic excellence. Amid growing political challenges for the press, these wins underscore the essential role of Black media in uplifting community voices and safeguarding the truth.
Posted inAfro Newspaper
Titans of Media: A conversation on the AFRO’s impact through storytelling
At the “Titans of Media” panel at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, leaders of the AFRO News and Afro Charities discussed their ongoing efforts to elevate Black voices, preserve historical narratives and innovate within the media landscape. The conversation highlighted the AFRO’s role as both a chronicler of history and a driving force for future generations, ensuring that Black stories remain visible and influential.
Posted inAfro
AFRO News among 50 honored for advancing women in leadership
Executive Alliance honored 50 Maryland organizations, including AFRO News, for advancing women in leadership despite federal diversity setbacks.
Posted inBlack History
Black Press celebrates 198 years of advocacy
Journalists will gather at the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C., on March 16 to celebrate the 198-year legacy of the Black Press and the 60th anniversary of The Washington Informer. Publisher Denise Rolark emphasized the newspaper’s historical significance, its commitment to truth, and its digital expansion as a path forward to ensure Black voices remain represented in the evolving media landscape.
Posted inCivil Rights
Black Press Day 2025 highlights need for innovation and resilience in media
At the NNPA Fund’s 2025 Black Press Day event, NNPA President and CEO Benjamin Chavis reaffirmed the Black Press’s role in advocating for justice and equality. He emphasized adapting to digital platforms while preserving print’s impact and urged stronger collaboration between the Black Press and the Black church. Quoting Freedom’s Journal, he reflected on progress and ongoing challenges, stressing that Black media must continue to be the trusted voice of Black America.
Posted inAFRO CHARITIES
Afro Charities team breaks ground on permanent home for the AFRO Archives
The Upton Mansion, which will house the AFRO Archives, was officially broken ground on Feb. 28, with Baltimore City Mayor Brandon M. Scott, Maryland Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman, and AFRO Publisher and CEO, Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, among others, in attendance.
Posted inAFRO Black History: Preserving Our Legacy
Afro Charities set to break ground on new home for AFRO Archives at historic Upton Mansion
Afro Charities is set to break ground on its $16-million redevelopment of the historic Upton Mansion in West Baltimore, which will serve as the headquarters for the AFRO and feature offices for Afro Charities, including a gallery space, recording studio, and green roof.