As Target faces an intensifying national boycott over its rollback of diversity commitments, CEO Brian Cornell received a $20.4 million pay package in 2024, up 6.3 percent from the previous year. Activists accuse the company of sidelining local organizers and betraying its $2 billion equal opportunity pledge, while its stock price continues to decline amid growing public backlash.
Category: BUSINESS
Local residents receive skills training for workforce participation and economic mobility
Digital skills are now essential for nearly every job, yet many Marylanders—particularly those in underserved communities—still lack access to the training and tools they need. As federal funding hangs in the balance, local organizations are stepping up to bridge the digital divide and empower residents with the skills to thrive in today’s workforce.
E3 Business Group hosts resource fair to aid workers hit by federal cuts
Anthony Butler, founder of E3 Business Group, hosted Fed Day 2025 in Waldorf, Md., offering resources to federal workers impacted by the ongoing cuts under the 47th presidential administration. The event provided support ranging from resume assistance to financial advice, with a focus on helping workers navigate the uncertainty surrounding their jobs and retirement benefits.
Greater Baltimore Black Chamber of Commerce builds momentum with procurement-focused event during Preakness 150
Minority business enterprises (MBEs) in Maryland miss out on billions of dollars in contracts because of* systemic barriers. The Greater Baltimore Black Chamber of Commerce is bringing together MBEs, corporate procurement leaders, prime contractors, policymakers, and economic development stakeholders on May 15 to discuss ways to address disparities in contracting and reshape the procurement process in Baltimore and the state.
‘Legends, Leaders, Legacy’: Monumental City Bar Association to celebrate 90th anniversary
The Monumental City Bar Association is celebrating 90 years of championing Black attorneys and African-American communities in Baltimore. Its milestone gala on May 2 will honor past pioneers, present leaders and the next generation shaping the future.
Breaking down the TikTok trend of ‘loud budgeting’
By Laura Onyeneho Social media is best known as a place where flaunting your latest purchase or sharing your vacation snaps is the norm. A new trend has emerged on TikTok that encourages the opposite: being loud about not spending. “Loud budgeting,” a money-saving technique, is all about putting your financial goals first and being […]
Commentary: Cuts to Minority Business Development Agency leaves 3 staff
A recent executive order aimed at reducing government functions has significantly cut staffing and funding for key federal programs like the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) and the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund, despite their proven success in fostering minority-owned businesses and revitalizing underserved communities. Critics, including bipartisan senators and Rep. Maxine Waters, argue these cuts undermine economic equity and squander public-private models that yield substantial returns and job creation.
DC artist Reggie Gillumo creates art that the visually impaired can ‘see’
Reggie Gillumo, a D.C.-based visual artist and sculptor, has spent nearly 30 years perfecting his signature style—vibrant, touchable artworks designed to be experienced by both sighted and visually impaired audiences. Celebrated for his innovative technique and community impact, Gillumo recently opened his own gallery and continues to inspire through mentorship and his deeply personal, inclusive art.
Target national selective buying campaign continues
The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) has intensified its national selective buying campaign against Target Corp., citing the company’s failure to uphold its commitments to equal opportunity initiatives, and its ongoing neglect of Black-owned media. The NNPA calls for widespread support in demanding corporate accountability, economic justice and meaningful investment in Black communities.
From debt to success: Lamar Laing’s journey
Lamar Laing, CEO and founder of Copiafy, turned his struggles with debt and poor credit into a mission to empower Black Americans with financial literacy and resources. Through Copiafy, an online platform, he provides tools for setting financial goals and tracking bills and credit report disputes.
The dos and don’ts of credit repair from the ‘Credit Queen’
Ronda Brunson, the “Credit Queen,” advises people to take a comprehensive approach to credit repair, emphasizing the importance of facing their financial reality and addressing emotional spending behaviors. She highlights the significance of timely payments, avoiding disputes on credit reports and using credit responsibly, while also recommending credit monitoring services to protect against identity theft and keep track of financial progress.
World Autism Month sparks call for broader inclusion and acceptance
As World Autism Month calls for greater awareness and acceptance, advocates and creatives alike are pushing for more inclusive narratives. In Baltimore, Donte Lewis uses music and media to build community, while Taya Dunn Johnson challenges biases that delay diagnoses and deny dignity to individuals with autism.

