George L. Russell Jr., a trailblazing jurist and civic leader who became the first African American to hold several key legal positions in Maryland, has died at the age of 96. As the founding chairman of the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, he played a pivotal role in securing its funding and establishing it as a beacon of Black history and excellence.
Category: LOCAL
Testimonies at Maryland Lynching Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s final hearing call for reparations, healing and accountability
The Maryland Lynching Truth and Reconciliation Commission (MLTRC) held its final public hearing to examine the enduring legacy of racial terror lynchings, with testimonies advocating for reparations and police accountability. Experts, advocates, and community members emphasized the need for radical reparations and a shift in how law enforcement engages with Black communities, urging both acknowledgment and concrete action to repair historical harms.
Empowering teens: A guide to budgeting and saving for the future
Tammira Lucas, an assistant professor of business at Coppin State University, believes that teaching high school students about money management is essential for their long-term success. She outlined a year-by-year financial plan for teens, encouraging them to start saving early, set clear financial goals and eventually explore investment opportunities as they approach adulthood.
AFRO High Tea returns to Baltimore
The AFRO’s High Tea returns April 26 at Martin’s West, honoring historic organizations and celebrating community legacy. With nearly 1,000 guests expected, the event features live entertainment, local vendors and support.
Money matters: How to be smart about saving
Certified financial planner Nicolas Abrams advises savers to be strategic by aligning their savings with specific goals rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach. This week, he emphasizes the importance of choosing the right accounts—whether for retirement, homeownership or education—to ensure their money is working efficiently.
Baltimore leaders discuss justice and reform 10 years after Freddie Gray’s death
Ten years after Freddie Gray’s death, the University of Maryland Carey School of Law and the Campaign for Justice, Safety and Jobs held a powerful reflection on Baltimore’s progress and ongoing challenges. Attorney William Murphy and community leaders discussed the fight for justice and the continued push for police reform under the federal consent decree.
Funeral arrangements announced for Armstead B.C. Jones, director of Baltimore City Elections
By AFRO Staff Funeral arrangements have now been announced for longtime Baltimore City Board of Elections Director Armstead Bernard Crawley Jones Sr. A viewing will take place on April 11 from 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Saint Paul Baptist Church of Baltimore City, located at 3101 The Alameda. A celebration of life will […]
Gov. Moore holds first bill signing of 2025 with focuses on workforce growth
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) held his first bill signing of 2025 on April 8, hours after the close of the 90-day general assembly session. Over 800 bills were passed this legislative session.
‘Postpartum shower’ will celebrate Baltimore mothers April 16
By AFRO Staff Black mothers will be feted April 16 at a postpartum shower hosted by DMC Promise Foundation. Under the banner, “Crowned in Resilience, Blooming in Beauty: Celebrating Black Mothers & The Village!” the organization aims to create a welcoming space for mothers in the Baltimore area to gather, connect, network and access valuable […]
Maryland General Assembly legislators work to finalize bills on last day of session
By Tashi McQueenAFRO Staff Writertmcqueen@afro.com Maryland legislators worked throughout the day to pass as many bills as they could before session ended at midnight on April 7. The legislative session was an eventful one with drastic federal actions looming over Maryland and balancing the budget remaining the topic of discussion throughout the 2025 session. Around […]
Baltimore man says ATF raided home without cause
By DaQuan LawrenceAFRO International WriterDLawrence@afro.com A Baltimore family is still seeking answers after having their home raided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in the early morning hours of Nov. 21, 2024. Months after the incident, Mark “Choppa” Manley, who maintains that the raid was carried out without probable or reasonable […]
Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott unveils $4.6 billion budget plan to tackle $85 million deficit
By Megan SaylesAFRO Staff Writermsayles@afro.com Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott released his $4.6 billion preliminary budget for fiscal year 2026 on April 2 with a plan to eliminate an $85 million deficit. The shortfall has been brought on by the city’s expenditures outpacing its revenue, much like the state of Maryland. Some of the factors […]

