By Latita FaulkSpecial to the AFRO The 19th Annual “Blacks in Wax” production took place on March 7 at the Thearc Theatre in Washington D.C., providing a transformative experience for the scholars of Southeast Tennis and Learning Center. The program is more than just a performance- it’s an educational, creative and cultural journey that pushes […]
Category: ENTERTAINMENT
Posted inBooks
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.
Posted inArts & Culture
2025 Baltimore MET Gala examines the evolution of Charm City’s style
By AFRO Staff The stars of Charm City’s arts and culture scene will shine brightly during the 2025 Baltimore MET Gala, one of the region’s premier events, which returns Sept. 13 to The HALL – LIVE! Casino & Hotel Maryland. This year’s theme, “TIMELESS — The Evolution of Style: PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE,” which was unveiled […]
Posted inARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Will Smith channels his post-slap introspection into music on ‘Based on a True Story’
Will Smith channeled the adversity of recent years into a return to music, using self-reflection to fuel his first album in two decades, “Based on a True Story.” The Oscar and Grammy winner, embracing faith and personal growth, is also set to embark on his first-ever headline tour while preparing for upcoming film projects.
Posted inARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Reintroducing a gem who has returned to Baltimore
Ken-Matt Martin, a renowned director and producer, has returned to Baltimore as the producing director of Baltimore Center Stage, bringing his vast experience and visionary leadership to the city’s thriving theater scene. His influence is already strengthening the institution’s programming and outreach, positioning it as a national model for artistic excellence and cultural engagement.
Posted inBaltimore News
Morgan State University unveils new Henrietta Lacks statue for National Blacks in Wax Museum
By Alexis TaylorAFRO Managing Editor Henrietta Lacks, the woman whose immortal cells have circled the globe, contributing to medical breakthroughs, research and vaccines, was honored at Morgan State University (MSU) with a wax figure on March 15. Lacks, born in August 1920, is the Black woman responsible for giving the world the first cells capable […]
Posted inENTERTAINMENT
Roberta Flack laid to rest in celebration of life featuring Stevie Wonder, Lauryn Hill
A March 10 public memorial service celebrated the life and legacy of the Grammy-winning singer and pianist Roberta Flack.
Posted inENTERTAINMENT
Michelle Obama and her brother to launch a podcast with weekly guests
By Mark Kennedy AP Entertainment Writer NEW YORK (AP) — Michelle Obama and her brother, Craig Robinson, will host a new weekly podcast series starting this month featuring a special guest pulled from the world of entertainment, sports, health and business. “IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson” will address “everyday questions shaping our lives, relationships […]
Posted inWashington D.C. News
The National Hip-Hop Museum opening up three medical dispensaries in D.C.
By Mekhi AbbottSpecial to the AFROmabbott@afro.com The National Hip-Hop Museum is tapping into the cannabis industry, opening three new dispensary locations in Washington, D.C., with an eye toward fundraising. The Orbit Shop, the Lifted Shop and the Lifted Lounge do not serve solely as cannabis venues. Each store has a unique customer experience, including unique […]
Posted inNational News
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.
Posted inBUSINESS
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.
Posted inBaltimore News
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.