By Ashleigh FieldsSpecial to the AFRO The Washington Informer has long captured the stories of the residents, leaders and communities that infuse vibrant culture into the District of Columbia. For six decades the paper has been a voice for people in D.C. and beyond. In honor of the Informer’s anniversary, the publication, which serves one […]
Category: Media
Writing through trauma: How one man is using his story to inspire change
After a decade of reflection and research, former inmate Kevin Shird has completed his memoir, a powerful exploration of trauma, redemption and the need for better mental health support. Through his personal story of overcoming incarceration, PTSD and a past filled with violence, Shird advocates for a shift in the Black community’s approach to mental health. His book highlights the importance of seeking help, particularly for those who have been incarcerated, and calls for better mental health resources. As a mentor and educator, Kevin hopes to inspire others to embrace change and seek support in their own journeys toward healing.
Women join newsrooms in growing numbers, but few rise to leadership
While women are making strides in U.S. newsrooms, they still remain underrepresented in leadership roles, with only 24 percent of top editors being women, despite women making up 40 percent of journalists.
Driving media’s bottom line: Rhonda Pringle’s journey in business development
Rhonda Pringle, former director of diverse business initiatives for the American City Business Journals, has built a career in media sales and advertising, and is now encouraging more Black women to explore the business side of the industry.
Honoring Black women in media and the impact of mentorship
Black women journalists, such as Kristin Gray, Rev. Dorothy Boulware, Krishana Davis, Micha Green, Liz Courquet-Lesaulnier, and Toni Draper, have been instrumental in shaping the Black Press and continue to inspire and lead conversations shaping the nation.
‘Never afraid, never intimidated’: April Ryan speaks on being longest-serving Black woman in the White House correspondent
April Ryan, the longest-serving Black woman in the White House press corps, has decided to focus on working for the Black Press of America, citing a shift towards conservatism and a lack of opportunities for Black women in the media industry.
Sisters of the pen: A look at the women who broke barriers
Carole Simpson, Dorothy Pearl Butler Gilliam, Belva Davis, and Melba Tolliver are all trailblazers in the journalism industry, breaking barriers and making history as the first Black woman to hold a certain position or title.
The Jiles: What’s the secret to love longevity– even in the golden years?
Jodie and Sonny Jiles, a power couple in Black Houston, have been married for decades and have learned to balance love, commitment, resilience, and unity while prioritizing work, family, and faith, and they share their advice on how to keep Black love growing.
Letters, love and legacy: The AFRO’s historic column comes to life again
Afro Charities hosted a mixer and networking session centered around their “Re-Reading the News” series, inspired by the AFRO Archives’ “Lonesome Hearts” column, where attendees exchanged letters and formed connections.
Shaping the narrative: Ava Thompson Greenwell’s fight for diversity in newsroom leadership
Ava Thompson Greenwell, a veteran journalist and video broadcast journalism professor at Northwestern University, has written a book called “Ladies Leading: The Black Women Who Control Television News” to highlight the need for more Black women in executive positions in the media industry to ensure fair and balanced reporting.
Howard esports partners with Wizards District Gaming to compete in NBA 2K Basketball Tournament
The Howard University Esports Association participated in the NBA 2K’s Nothing But Internet esports tournament, representing Wizards District Gaming, and had the opportunity to showcase their skills and represent their school in a unique and innovative way.
Lester Holt to step down as anchor of NBC’s flagship ‘Nightly News’ after a decade
NBC’s veteran anchor Lester Holt is stepping down from his position as anchor of “Nightly News” and will expand his work on “Dateline” as a full-time role, with no firm date or successor yet named.

