On Juneteenth, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore announced the $400 million Just Communities initiative to combat the racial wealth gap by prioritizing investment in historically underserved neighborhoods impacted by redlining, mass incarceration and economic exclusion. He also issued nearly 7,000 additional cannabis possession pardons, underscoring his administration’s commitment to addressing historical injustices and promoting economic equity across the state.
Category: !Front Page
Posted inNational News
White House’s unilateral bombing of Iran nuclear sites draws rising criticism
The U.S. military, working alongside Israeli forces, carried out coordinated airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities in what the White House called a decisive blow to Tehran’s enrichment program. The operation marks a dramatic escalation in the conflict, drawing sharp criticism from lawmakers over the lack of congressional approval and the risk of broader war.
Posted inBaltimore Government
Baltimore City Council approves $4.6B FY26 budget in 13-2 vote
The Baltimore City Council approved a $4.6 billion fiscal year 2026 budget on June 16, highlighting new investments in immigrant support, traffic safety and waste reduction.
Posted inNational News
Ten years later: Charleston remembers slain parishioners as push for gun reform gains urgency
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFRO Ten years ago, on June 17, 2015, a group of worshipers entered Mother Emanuel AME Church for a Bible study, in Charleston, South Carolina. Though they stepped into the oldest AME church in the South to strengthen their walk with God, they were joined by one visitor who […]
Posted inBaltimore News
Associated Black Charities honors past leaders at 40th anniversary gala
Associated Black Charities (ABC) is celebrating its 40th year of service in 2025. On June 14 the organization held its annual anniversary gala, celebrating decades of impact, leadership and progress in advancing racial and economic equity.
Posted inBaltimore News
State of the People tour set to stop in Baltimore on Juneteenth
By Elijah QuallsAFRO Intern The State of the People National Assembly is coming to Baltimore to provide the framework for Black policy advocacy, impactful intergenerational leadership, and community empowerment. This National Assembly on June 19 will be the final stop of their State of the People POWER Tour. It is no coincidence that this tour […]
Posted inEducation
National Teachers Hall of Fame to induct Valerie Camile Jones Ford, award-winning math teacher and Spelman grad
Valerie Camille Jones Ford, an award-winning mathematics teacher at Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, will be inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame class of 2025 for her dedication to her students and her innovative approach to teaching mathematics.
Posted inArts & Culture
AFRAM 2025 to feature Patti LaBelle, Juvenile and Saweetie
Patti LaBelle and Juvenile will headline this year’s AFRAM festival on June 21-22 at Druid Hill Park. The free event will also feature Saweetie, Teedra Moses, Amerie, and Vedo, celebrating Black culture with music, food, and vendors. AFRAM attracts over 100,000 attendees annually.
Posted inBUSINESS
Beyond the recording studio: Musicians turned business moguls
For generations, Black musicians have shaped American culture while battling an industry that often denied them fair compensation. Today, many are reclaiming power by turning their art into platforms for business ownership and generational wealth.
Posted inARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Awards bring star power as Doechii, Jamie Foxx, Mariah Carey shine in 25th anniversary show
The 25th BET Awards celebrated Black excellence and social impact with standout moments from Doechii, Jamie Foxx and Mariah Carey, blending emotional speeches with powerful performances. The night featured heartfelt tributes, sharp comedy from Kevin Hart, and Kendrick Lamar’s win for album of the year, while honoring icons like Snoop Dogg and Kirk Franklin.
Posted inAFRO CHARITIES
Afro Charities team closer to meeting funding goal after ‘Wildest Dreams’ fundraiser
By Michelle RichardsonSpecial to the AFRO On Saturday, June 7, Afro Charities held its second annual Wildest Dreams Spring fundraiser at Cinghiale Restaurant in Harbor East. Guests enjoyed a live DJ, passed hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction of various art pieces from local artists such as Tom Miller, SHAN Wallace, Quinn Bryant and Charles […]
Posted inARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Sly Stone, leader of funk revolutionaries Sly and the Family Stone, dies at 82
Sly Stone, the legendary musician and showman who transformed popular music with hits like “Everyday People” and “Stand!”, died at the age of 82 after a battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other ailments.