By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFROkmcneir@afro.com Juanita “Busy Bee” Britton, founder of Washington, D.C.-based BZB International, will mark her 35th anniversary as host of a holiday tradition, dubbed “the largest African American Department store on the East Coast,” beginning Black Friday, Nov. 28. Busy Bee, a nickname she earned during her childhood and to […]
Category: D.C. Events
Youth bands set to compete during Go-Go Awareness Week in D.C.
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFROkmcneir@afro.com Go-Go Awareness Week kicked off Nov. 17 with a press conference held at the Go-Go Museum & Café in Southeast Washington, D.C. And while legends, including Rare Essence, E.U., Trouble Funk and “the godfather of go-go,” Chuck Brown, were essential in the evolution of the regional music style into […]
Speak Sell Shine spotlights 2025 top speakers, mentors and rising voices
By Speakers Magazine The spotlight was bright, the applause thunderous and the excellence undeniable on Oct. 7 as Speakers Magazine and Speak Sell Shine hosted the 2025 Top Speakers Awards at the legendary Howard Theatre. Founded by Speakers Magazine publisher and publicity strategist Pam Perry, the annual event recognizes professional speakers who inform, inspire and […]
‘One of One’: Howard’s 101st homecoming promises joy, tradition and big names on the ‘Yard’
By Victoria MejicanosAFRO Staff Writervmejicanos@afro.com Howard University will be celebrating its 101st homecoming this year, under the theme “One of One” from Oct. 19-26, to celebrate its community. The university’s tradition started in 1924, making it one of the earliest HBCUs to establish a homecoming, a point of pride for the university. Princess Gamble, the […]
Kamala Harris draws sold-out D.C. crowds on book tour, urges Democrats to stay in the fight
Former Vice President Kamala Harris drew sold-out crowds at Washington, D.C.’s Warner Theatre on Oct. 9 to discuss her new book, “107 Days,” reflecting on her 2024 presidential campaign and America’s political challenges. In candid remarks, she urged Democrats to stay engaged and united as the fight for democracy continues.
‘Black America’s Attorney General’ donates $50K to Black Press during NNPA Awards Reception
Attorney Benjamin Crump surprised attendees at the 2025 NNPA National Leadership Awards Reception with a $50,000 donation to the National Newspaper Publishers Association, praising the Black Press as the “clarion call” for Black America. The event, a highlight of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference, also honored leaders including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Rep. Yvette Clarke, and union president Claude Cummings Jr.
Upcoming Breast Cancer Awareness Month events in the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and communities across Maryland, Washington D.C. and Virginia are coming together to honor survivors, promote early detection and offer resources. From awareness walks and rallies to health discussions and free screenings, these free events provide opportunities to support the cause and get involved.
D.C.’s ‘March On! Festival returns with focus on health of Black community
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFRO kmcneir@afro.com D.C.’s annual Civil Rights Legacy Project, rebranded in 2024 as “March On!,” kicked off their film festival on Monday, Sept. 15 in the nation’s capital. For six days, film screenings will take place alongside an emerging and student filmmaker competition, various award ceremonies, performances of the arts, […]
Young leaders of GWUL’s Thursday Network honor service and step into future of Black advocacy
The Thursday Network, a GWUL auxiliary group, will honor local volunteers at their 10th Annual Spirit of Service Awards ceremony, while also increasing personal development for younger members and preparing them to move up the ranks.
Black men’s spiritual healing circle negates impact of toxic masculinity
Members of CREWS (Communities Respecting Everyone’s Will
To Survive) work with small community-based organizations in the Greater Washington Area to help Black men and youth overcome the debilitating impacts of crime and self-hatred.
UniverSoul Circus brings culture, creativity and high-flying thrills to the D.C. area
The UniverSoul Circus, currently performing at National Harbor until Aug. 10 before heading to Baltimore, offers a high-energy, multicultural experience filled with breathtaking acts and audience participation. More than just entertainment, the show celebrates Black culture and creativity, honoring its legacy and impact on generations of families.
Rare Essence, D.C.’s legendary go-go band, proves they still have the magic touch
Go-go elite Rare Essence, continues to draw audiences to its live performances of Washington, D.C.’s homegrown sound delivered in the band’s signature style.
Credit: AFRO Photo/ J. Pamela Stills

