Celebrate freedom, culture and community at Juneteenth events happening across Baltimore, Prince George’s County and Washington, D.C. From family-friendly festivals and historical reenactments to live music, art showcases and educational panels, this year’s celebrations honor the legacy of emancipation while spotlighting Black excellence. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant parade, local vendors, or space for reflection, there’s something for everyone to engage, uplift and remember.
Category: Maryland News
Posted inClimate Change
Chesapeake Bay health grade dips after hottest year on record and extreme rainfall patterns
The Chesapeake Bay’s health declined from a C-plus to a C in the latest annual report, with scientists attributing the drop to extreme weather patterns during the hottest year on record. Despite the setback, long-term trends show improvement in key areas like dissolved oxygen, aquatic grasses, and nutrient levels, though challenges from climate change and declining water clarity remain.
Posted inMaryland News
Gov. Moore announces Schiraldi’s departure from DJS and new acting secretary
Gov. Wes Moore has replaced Vincent Schiraldi as Maryland’s juvenile services chief and appointed Betsy Fox Tolentino as acting secretary to lead the troubled agency through a critical period of reform.
Posted inNational News
Kilmar Abrego Garcia is back in the US, charged with human smuggling as attorneys vow ongoing fight
Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland construction worker mistakenly deported to El Salvador despite a court order protecting him, has been returned to the U.S. and now faces federal charges related to an alleged human smuggling operation. While the White House administration paints him as a violent MS-13 affiliate, his lawyers and family insist the charges are baseless and politically motivated.
Posted inHBCU
AFRO to spotlight Maryland HBCUs at annual Juneteenth breakfast
Ahead of Juneteenth, the AFRO will honor Maryland HBCUs at its annual Juneteenth Breakfast on June 18. Bowie State University, Coppin State University, Morgan State University, University of Maryland Eastern Shore and the University of Baltimore will be recognized at the event for their vital role in advancing education and the state’s economy.
Posted inBaltimore News
Coppin State University announces new provost and vice president of academic affairs
Dr. Chanta M. Haywood has been appointed as Coppin State University’s new provost and vice president of Academic Affairs, bringing extensive higher education leadership experience and a strong commitment to academic excellence and student success.
Posted inPrince George's County News
Alsobrooks delivers encouraging, but tough message to Class of 2025
U.S. Senator Angela Alsobrooks delivered a candid and motivational speech at Bowie State University’s commencement, urging graduates to embrace discomfort and challenge as they step into their professional lives. She emphasized the importance of resilience and assured them that their presence would make a significant impact in every room they enter.
Posted inBaltimore News
Thousands turn out for Artscape’s Memorial Day makeover
By Alexis TaylorAFRO Managing Editor Artscape returned to Baltimore at a different time of year and in a new location over the 2025 Memorial Day weekend. Thousands packed the downtown Baltimore area to hear the likes of LeToya Luckett, Tweet, Fantasia, Robin Thicke and more on May 24 and 25. The dates for the country’s […]
Posted inMaryland News
Sister of Tyrone West speaks out after audit finds 36 misclassified deaths in Maryland
A statewide audit revealed that dozens of deaths involving police restraint—including Tyrone West’s—were wrongly classified as accidental, natural, or undetermined instead of homicide. West’s family, who has long sought justice, now has their claims validated by the report exposing this critical misclassification.
Posted inBaltimore News
Transforming market downturns into opportunities for retirement
In the wake of market volatility, Engage Wealth CEO Byron Deese urges near-retirees and young professionals to reassess their retirement strategies. From 401(k) reallocation to Roth IRA options, real estate and diversified investments, Deese highlights practical steps to protect and grow retirement savings during uncertain times.
Posted inReligion
Faith leaders stand with governor on veto of bill to create Maryland reparation commission
Rev. Jerome Stephens and a group of prominent faith leaders support Gov. Wes Moore’s veto of a proposed reparations commission, urging a shift from further study to immediate action on racial equity. They highlight the administration’s tangible progress in closing racial gaps and call for continued investment in housing, education and economic opportunity for Black Marylanders.
Posted inMaryland News
Tisha Edwards takes on new role as CEO of Maryland Bankers Association
Tisha Edwards, a longtime public servant and equity advocate, recently became president and CEO of the Maryland Bankers Association. She aims to strengthen community banking ties and elevate women of color in leadership.
