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.
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GBC and UpSurge outline vision, strategic priorities following merger
Following its merger with the Greater Baltimore Committee (GBC), UpSurge is focusing on data-driven strategies to support high-growth startups and strengthen the region’s innovation economy. The organizations aim to balance targeted investment with community-building efforts to create a more dynamic and resilient startup ecosystem.
Greater Baltimore Urban League placed on immediate probation
The Greater Baltimore Urban League (GBUL) is officially on probation according to an Aug. 15 letter sent from the National Urban League. The communication, recently obtained by the AFRO, details 11 alleged violations by the GBUL Board of Directors.
Black attorneys respond to president’s executive order calling for elimination of cashless bail
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFROkmcneir@afro.com On Monday, August 25, the 47th president of the United States signed two executive orders to end cashless bail – a decision which he asserted will protect Americans. In the two executive orders, one focusing on the District of Columbia, where the president has declared a “crime emergency,” […]
Baltimore Mayor Scott welcomes students back to school for 2025-2026 school year
Baltimore City Mayor Brandon M. Scott (D) and Baltimore City Public Schools CEO Dr. Sonja Brookins Santelises welcomed students back to school on Aug. 25, visiting them in their classrooms and recognizing good attendance.
Attorney General Brown sues to stop federal cuts that threaten state energy programs
By Maryland Office of the Attorney General Attorney General Anthony G. Brown today joined 17 other states in suing to block the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) from imposing a new funding cap that cuts support for vital state-run clean energy and energy efficiency programs. The new DOE policy would limit funding for critical administrative […]
Pilot of ‘3 Blind Mice’ shines spotlight on Baltimore while exploring Black identity
Inspired by the spirit of 90s classics, “3 Blind Mice” follows a young Black woman’s search for identity and belonging after transferring to a historically Black college in Baltimore. The pilot, filmed entirely in the city, weaves themes of culture, community and self-discovery while showcasing Baltimore as a character in its own right.
Target CEO to step down amid company struggles
Boycott leader doubts leadership change will address DEI concerns By Anne D’InnocenzioAP Business Writer NEW YORK (AP) — Target named an insider as its next chief executive officer Aug. 20, a decision that comes as the discount retailer tries to reverse a persistent sales malaise and to revive its reputation as the place to go […]
Pimlico demolition underway, redevelopment to boost Park Heights
By Tashi McQueenAFRO Staff Writertmcqueen@afro.com Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) and first lady Dawn Moore attended a demolition ceremony for the old Pimlico Race Course that hosts the iconic Preakness Stakes annually in West Baltimore on Aug. 21. Demolition is expected to conclude by the end of the year, with construction for the new race […]
From craft to calling: How Nate Couser turns Black stories into wearable art
Artist and entrepreneur Nate Couser, founder of VashtiBlue Jewelry and The Artist Exchange, uses fashion, jewelry, and teaching to honor and preserve Black culture through creative expression. Through deeply personal and spiritual artwork, Couser creates wearable pieces that tell stories and celebrate individuality, while advocating for the proper teaching and representation of Black art history.
Baltimore shipping channel reopened after explosion on cargo ship near site of 2024 bridge collapse
A coal-laden cargo ship departing Baltimore’s harbor exploded near the site of the 2024 Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, prompting a temporary closure of the shipping channel on Aug. 19. No injuries were reported, and the channel has since reopened as investigators work to determine the cause of the blast.
John Wall, five-time All-Star, retires after 11 NBA seasons
John Wall, a five-time All-Star point guard, has announced his retirement from the NBA after 11 seasons.

