Maryland Department of Juvenile Services Secretary Betsy Fox Tolentino says the state must overhaul systems that have long failed young men and boys. She outlines efforts to rebuild trust, strengthen reentry support, expand mentorship, and align with Gov. Wes Moore’s Young Men and Boys Initiative to create real opportunities for youth and reduce cycles of neglect and incarceration.
Category: COMMUNITY
Posted inDMV News
Historic African-American family celebrates 100th reunion
The Quander family, one of the oldest documented African-American families, celebrated its 100th reunion Aug. 7–10. The gathering honored their rich legacy, including the contributions of family historian Judge Rohulamin Quander, who attended just days before his passing.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
D.C. Public Schools honors lives taken on 24th anniversary of 9/11 terror attacks
D.C. Public Schools (DCPS) honored the six students and teachers who were killed in the 9/11 attacks 24 years ago, remembering their bravery and dedication to education.
Posted inCOMMUNITY
In Newark, the healing power of food and community
At Newark’s New Jersey Performing Arts Center, the “Nourishing Communities, Confronting Food Insecurity Together” program blended cooking, conversation, and community resources to address racial inequities in food access. Local chefs, health leaders, and nonprofits highlighted how food can be a tool for healing, connection, and systemic change.
Posted inCOMMUNITY
Mississippi memories: After the storm
By Alexis TaylorAFRO Managing Editor Recently, the AFRO profiled 32-year-old Chancellor Mason, a Hurricane Katrina survivor from Gulfport, Miss. This week, we explore what life was like for the Mason family in the aftermath of the storm. As August turned to September in 2005, Chancellor Mason, his older brother, mother and father did what most […]
Posted inMaryland News
Gov. Wes Moore signs executive order to expand affordable housing
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) signed an executive order on Sept. 3 to expand affordable housing in Maryland. The move comes amid reports showing many residents, especially Black and Latino households, struggling to afford rent and lacking financial safety nets.
Posted inCOMMUNITY
Mississippi memories: A survivor recalls the day Hurricane Katrina came ashore
Chancellor Mason, now 32, recalls surviving Hurricane Katrina as a 12-year-old boy in Gulfport, Miss., an experience that continues to shape his life today, as he and his family sought shelter at a local school and witnessed the devastation of the storm.
Posted inCOMMUNITY
Healing generations: How Black fathers are changing the narrative
For decades, the absent Black father narrative dominated headlines and policy debates. But new research and real-life stories are revealing a different reality—one where Black fathers are increasingly present, intentional and impactful in their children’s lives.
Posted inCOMMUNITY
Gathering for joy and healing: The power of Black family reunions
Black family reunions are powerful intergenerational spaces for reconnecting, learning, and healing. Passed down through generations, these gatherings preserve history and joy despite centuries of separation and systemic oppression.
Posted inBaltimore Events
ABC’s The Cookout returns: Celebrating Black culture, community and equity in Baltimore
Associated Black Charities (ABC) announced the return of its signature event, The Cookout, on Sept. 13, 2025, at The Village of Cross Keys in Baltimore. Presented by SECU, the free, family-friendly celebration will feature a march and rally, children’s activities, game tournaments, live entertainment, food trucks, and a showcase of Black-owned businesses.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Community split as D.C. residents debate federal takeover, with opposition outweighing support
Since the president took control of D.C.’s police force and deployed nearly 2,000 armed National Guard troops on Aug. 11, residents remain deeply divided. A Washington Post/George Mason poll shows nearly 80 percent oppose the move, with many calling it government overreach and questioning the justification given falling crime rates. Others, however, support the action, citing concerns about youth violence and safety on city streets and public transit.
Posted inMaryland News
Civil rights leaders at Maryland gala urge unity, investment in young voices
The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights hosted its 2025 Annual Civil Rights Gala on Aug. 23 at Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland, featuring a panel discussion on unity, policy and the future of leadership. Panelists Jeff Johnson, Tamika D. Mallory and Maryland Del. Malcolm P. Ruff, D-District 41, urged attendees to stay committed to the civil rights movement and invest in young leadership.