To reduce drunk driving during one of the deadliest holidays for traffic fatalities, the Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP) will offer free Lyft rides on July 4 from 4 p.m. to 4 a.m. on July 5 across the D.C. metro area. The SoberRideⓇ initiative, which covers up to $15 of a Lyft fare, aims to prevent impaired driving and save lives during Independence Day celebrations.
Category: COMMUNITY
Charm City glows with Pride
Baltimore celebrated 50 years of LGBTQIA+ Pride with its 2025 “50 Shades of Pride” festival, featuring a week of vibrant events and a heartfelt parade that highlighted Black joy, love, and advocacy. From multigenerational families to strong allyship, the celebration reflected both the progress made and the urgent need for continued support and representation.
Baltimore City Council president demands action after multiple police-involved deaths
Baltimore City Council President Zeke Cohen has called for a hearing to examine the city’s mental health crisis response systems after recent deaths involving law enforcement.
Against the odds: Foster youth finds success through support and strength
Graduating from high school and college is a major feat for many fostered youth who are facing instability and limited support. Their journeys reveal systemic challenges and the critical role of consistent, caring adults.
Cherry Hill Festival returns July 4 to unite Baltimoreans in shared celebration
The Cherry Hill Arts and Music Waterfront Festival returns to Baltimore on July 4 at Middle Branch Park, featuring live performances, family-friendly activities, and a custom drone show. The event, now in its ninth year, will partner with the city’s Inner Harbor festivities to offer an all-day celebration of art, culture and community.
Faith organizations rally behind migrants amid nationwide ICE crackdowns
By Ali HalloumAFRO Interns Amid ongoing immigration crackdowns by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, faith leaders of every denomination are calling for action. On June 8, the 47th president federalized the California National Guard to quell protests against ICE raids, over the objection of Governor Gavin Newsom. The agency has detained individuals outside of […]
Governor Moore declares State of Preparedness to enhance government coordination amid extreme heat forecast
Governor Wes Moore signed a State of Preparedness to protect Marylanders from a potentially hazardous heat wave, urging them to stay vigilant, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable family members and friends to ensure their safety.
Shoppers grapple with supporting retailers as they scale back equity, diversity and inclusion efforts
By Megan SaylesAFRO Staff Writermsayles@afro.com As Juneteenth approaches, Black consumers are increasingly split on whether to support major retailers like Walmart and Target— companies that have faced growing scrutiny for scaling back their diversity, inclusion and equity efforts. Amid calls for store boycotts from leaders such as Rev. Dr. Jamal Bryant, of Georgia’s New Birth […]
State of the People tour set to stop in Baltimore on Juneteenth
By Elijah QuallsAFRO Intern The State of the People National Assembly is coming to Baltimore to provide the framework for Black policy advocacy, impactful intergenerational leadership, and community empowerment. This National Assembly on June 19 will be the final stop of their State of the People POWER Tour. It is no coincidence that this tour […]
Healing through history: The power of Juneteenth
Experts say Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, provides a powerful opportunity for Black Americans to acknowledge generational trauma and celebrate survival and resilience.
Upcoming Juneteenth events in the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area
Celebrate freedom, culture and community at Juneteenth events happening across Baltimore, Prince George’s County and Washington, D.C. From family-friendly festivals and historical reenactments to live music, art showcases and educational panels, this year’s celebrations honor the legacy of emancipation while spotlighting Black excellence. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant parade, local vendors, or space for reflection, there’s something for everyone to engage, uplift and remember.
100 Fathers, Inc. unites D.C. community to build stronger Black families
100 Fathers, Inc. hosted a conference at Howard University to promote health and wellness, eliminate violence, and develop values and character development, with a focus on empowering Black men and their families to become leaders in their communities.

