D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) has launched the District’s new Fast Beauty Initiative at Yeleen Beauty Makerspace, which aims to ease licensing requirements and help local entrepreneurs grow in the $60 billion beauty industry.
Category: LIFE & STYLE
B.E. Spirits Awards Gala to celebrate Black excellence at Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay
By The B.E. Spirits Awards On Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025, leaders, entrepreneurs and visionaries from across the nation will gather for the B.E. Spirits Awards Black Tie Gala, an unforgettable evening of elegance, culture and empowerment at the prestigious Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort and Spa in Cambridge, Md. The B.E. Spirits Awards is […]
Sunni Gilliam closes Teavolve after 20 years of success
Kendra BryantSpecial to the AFRO Teavolve Cafe, a Harbor East Black-owned restaurant known for tea, closed on Sept. 19 after 20 years in business. Over the past two decades the establishment has made a name for itself as much more than just a trendy spot to enjoy a hot beverage and connect with friends. Founder […]
Black-owned floral businesses blossom with creativity and community care
Fleurs d’Ave in Baltimore and Postal Petals in Los Angeles use flowers to spark creativity, encourage self-care and build community, blending floral design with events and wellness activities.
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historic Park: A powerful destination for your travel list
The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historic Park in Church Creek, Maryland is a popular destination for visitors from around the world to pay homage to Tubman’s legacy and learn about her life and work, with the site hosting national events, exhibits, and activities throughout the year.
‘Black Diary 1887’ expands to D.C. with GPS walking tours
Black Diary 1887 is a revolutionary, GPS-enabled mobile app that connects users with overlooked narratives from the African Diaspora through interactive maps and audio storytelling, and is now available in 30 US cities, including Washington, D.C.
From 9-to-5 to business owner: Two women share their path to entrepreneurship
After years of working traditional jobs, Tiffany Veney and Leslie Frelow took a leap of faith to launch their own businesses. Now, they’re carving out space in industries where Black women are often underrepresented—construction and wine.
Historic African-American family celebrates 100th reunion
The Quander family, one of the oldest documented African-American families, celebrated its 100th reunion Aug. 7–10. The gathering honored their rich legacy, including the contributions of family historian Judge Rohulamin Quander, who attended just days before his passing.
Love, loss and the toll of caregiving
Keith Brown shares the emotional and financial challenges of caring for his mother with Alzheimer’s, emphasizing the importance of family support and the strength found in vulnerability.
Maryland Cycling Classic sparks dialogue on Black health and inclusion
The Maryland Cycling Classic returned to Baltimore, hosting inaugural men’s and women’s races for teams across the country. The event sparked conversations amongst African American spectators on health benefits and the lack of representation within the sport.
Old Arthur’s Barbecue Products: Family recipes born in bondage, perfected in freedom
Old Arthur’s Barbecue Products carries forward recipes first crafted in the 1800s by Arthur “Old Arthur” Watts, a formerly enslaved pit master whose flavors have endured for generations. Today, his descendants preserve that legacy through their business while also supporting children’s literacy initiatives in his honor.
The modern family: Redefining love, parenthood and connection
The modern American family is being redefined by love, flexibility and resilience. From same-sex couples raising children to blended families formed through previous relationships, these households reflect evolving social values and a broader understanding of what it means to be a family today.

