Associated Black Charities will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a gala on June 14 at The Hall at Live! Casino, honoring four women who have shaped the organization’s mission and legacy. Amid political attacks on equity efforts, ABC’s 2025 Gala affirms its steadfast commitment to racial justice, economic empowerment, and transformative Black leadership in Maryland.
Category: COMMUNITY
Afro Charities team closer to meeting funding goal after ‘Wildest Dreams’ fundraiser
By Michelle RichardsonSpecial to the AFRO On Saturday, June 7, Afro Charities held its second annual Wildest Dreams Spring fundraiser at Cinghiale Restaurant in Harbor East. Guests enjoyed a live DJ, passed hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction of various art pieces from local artists such as Tom Miller, SHAN Wallace, Quinn Bryant and Charles […]
Black community divided on response to ‘dramatic escalation’ in LA, amid ICE raid protests
As the number of troops sent to quell immigration protests in Los Angeles increases, members of the Black community are divided on whether they should take to the streets and join the movement or focus on self-care and peace in their own homes.
Harbor East diesel spill sparks concern as impact to wildlife examined
Baltimore officials have confirmed that a diesel spill in Harbor East released 5,000 gallons of fuel—more than double the original estimate. Cleanup efforts are underway to contain the spill near the South Central Avenue Bridge, with officials closely monitoring potential impacts on local wildlife and the environment.
Council addresses staffing, overtime and potential federal funding challenges in FY26 budget discussions
As the Baltimore City Council gets closer to passing the fiscal year 2026 budget, they’re wrestling with issues like escalating overtime costs, staffing gaps and uncertain federal funding. The hearings revealed a focus on keeping children engaged and neighborhoods safe through strategic investments.
Black feminist movement mobilizes in response to national threats
Over 500 Black feminists will gather in New Orleans from June 5–7 for “Get Free,” the largest U.S. Black feminist convening led by Black Feminist Future and headlined by Angela Y. Davis, to address systemic injustices and build collective power through activism, training and community.
Baltimore leaders and community members address juvenile crime at annual town hall
By Tashi McQueenAFRO Staff Writer Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates (D) held his second annual Solutions Pact Town Hall on May 20 in Northeast Baltimore. “Juvenile crime remains one of the most pressing issues in our city,” said Bates during the event at Huber Memorial Church. “People say juvenile crime is down, but for […]
Thousands turn out for Artscape’s Memorial Day makeover
By Alexis TaylorAFRO Managing Editor Artscape returned to Baltimore at a different time of year and in a new location over the 2025 Memorial Day weekend. Thousands packed the downtown Baltimore area to hear the likes of LeToya Luckett, Tweet, Fantasia, Robin Thicke and more on May 24 and 25. The dates for the country’s […]
Clean Corps transforms Baltimore neighborhoods hit by blight
Clean Corps is revitalizing Baltimore’s blighted neighborhoods with thousands of community clean-ups and employing over 150 people. Inspired by the AFRO Clean Block program, it empowers residents to lead local beautification projects.
Baltimore’s creative pulse takes center stage at inaugural Scout Art Fair
The inaugural Scout Art Fair, part of Baltimore’s revitalized Artscape and curated by Derrick Adams and Teri Henderson, showcases over 40 local artists in a landmark cultural moment that affirms the city’s arrival as a major force in the contemporary art world.
Patrons experience last Preakness prior to Pimlico renovation
Thousands gathered in Baltimore for the historic 150th Preakness Stakes, marking the final race at Pimlico Race Course before major renovations begin. While attendees enjoyed the race and cultural festivities, some expressed frustration with event organization despite the excitement and tradition surrounding the event.
Faith leaders stand with governor on veto of bill to create Maryland reparation commission
Rev. Jerome Stephens and a group of prominent faith leaders support Gov. Wes Moore’s veto of a proposed reparations commission, urging a shift from further study to immediate action on racial equity. They highlight the administration’s tangible progress in closing racial gaps and call for continued investment in housing, education and economic opportunity for Black Marylanders.

