Effort to support independent Black journalism By AFRO Staff The AFRO-American Newspapers (AFRO News), the nation’s longest-running Black-owned family newspaper, has launched a new community fundraising effort titled “133 Years. 133 Days. 133K Strong” to strengthen and expand its work as an independent voice for Black communities locally and nationwide. The initiative invites readers, partners, […]
Category: Afro
AFRO News honors ‘Unsung Heroes’ Department of Public Works in Baltimore
The AFRO celebrated their 3rd annual “Unsung Heroes” luncheon on Oct. 23, celebrating people from the Department of Public Works that have done so much for the Baltimore community.
The AFRO Named Among the Nation’s Top Black News Outlets on Two Feedspot Lists
The AFRO-American Newspapers, the nation’s oldest continuously published Black-owned newspaper still owned by its founding family, has been named to Feedspot’s list of the “45 Best Black News Websites of 2025.” The recognition honors The AFRO’s legacy of trusted journalism and its continued innovation in digital media, storytelling, and community engagement.
AFRO Publisher Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper draws crowd at Enoch Pratt Free Library with latest book, ‘Prayer and Pen’
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.
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 […]
Partnership between photographer Devin Allen and the AFRO highlights Black family and community
Andrea StevensAFRO Staff Writerastevens@afro.com A new collaboration between renowned photographer Devin Allen and the AFRO aims to reshape narratives about Baltimore by using art, storytelling and social media to highlight often overlooked voices in the Black community. The partnership is part of a pilot program between the historic newspaper and the Information Integrity Lab, designed […]
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.
AFRO D.C. High Tea set to celebrate sisterhood, style and HBCU legacies
The AFRO will host their D.C. High Tea on Sept. 6 at Shiloh Baptist Church, located at 1500 9th Street NW in the nation’s capital.
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.
AFRO High Tea returns to Baltimore
By AFRO Staff Nearly one thousand people attended the AFRO’s 2025 High Tea in Baltimore at Martin’s West on Saturday, April 26. In their fanciest tea attire, men and women of all walks of life joined with local leaders, legislators and members of the AFRO team to fellowship and network. “It was fabulous,” said Kara […]
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.
Enoch Pratt Free Library honors AFRO Executive Director Lenora Howze and others at annual luncheon
The Enoch Pratt Free Library hosted its second annual “Women in Workforce Luncheon” on March 19, celebrating seven influential women for their community contributions and professional achievements. The event featured empowering sessions on workplace well-being and personal growth, alongside honoring leaders like AFRO Executive Director Lenora Howze.

