By Patricia McDougallSpecial to the AFRO On May 2 the 19th annual Around the World Embassy Tour was held in Washington, D.C., with over 69 Embassies welcoming over 50,000 people. The University District of Columbia (UDC), a historically Black institution, hosted several of the embassies. The Embassy Tour is one of the biggest events in […]
Category: DMV News
Posted inDMV News
Ben’s Chili Bowl reopens after lengthy renovation
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFRO Whether you are a go-go aficionado, a radio icon, a Hollywood superstar, or just someone from the D.C. area longing for a half smoke, Ben’s Chili Bowl is once again the place to go. The long-awaited grand reopening of the flagship location of Ben’s Chili Bowl took place […]
Posted inBaltimore News
Not all missing children cases look the same–and each one brings unique challenges
Each May serves as a time to recognize Missing and Unidentified Persons Month. This week, AFRO News presents the first of several articles focused on the cases of missing Black people in the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area and beyond. Missing children cases can take many forms, from runaways and nonfamily abductions to critically missing children who are lost or injured. Family abductions, in which a child is taken by a parent or relative, can be especially complex and dangerous, as shown by the case of Ailea Brown, missing for nearly seven years.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
District to freeze Child Care Subsidy Program for new enrollees on May 12
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFRO In early March, parents and childcare advocates met on the steps of the John A. Wilson Building, which serves as the seat of the District of Columbia housing, hoping to convince the mayor and city council to reconsider their decision to implement a freeze on the DC Child […]
Posted inObituaries - Washington D.C.
An announcement of the passing of the Rev. Dr. Marie Murphy Phillips Braxton
The Rev. Dr. Marie Phillips Braxton, a devoted educator, faith leader and longtime AFRO shareholder and Board member, has passed away after a lengthy illness.
Posted inD.C. Community
Ben’s Chili Bowl Seeks community input for new mural as renovations wrap
As Ben’s Chili Bowl prepares to install a new mural following renovations, community members are being invited to help decide which figures will be featured. Retired Army Master Sgt. Elizabeth Ann Helm-Fraizer is advocating for the inclusion of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, highlighting the unit’s historic contributions and ties to Washington, D.C.
Posted inPrince George's County News
Laurel prepares for 151st Preakness Stakes and influx of visitors
The 151st running of the Preakness Stakes will be held in Laurel, Md., this year, bringing thousands of visitors to the city. Local officials say the temporary relocation, while the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore undergoes renovations, is expected to boost small businesses and generate economic activity across Prince George’s County.
Posted inDistrict of Columbia Government
Securing statehood dominates 2026 Emancipation Day conversation in D.C.
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to The AFRO Washingtonians of all ages, some even in strollers and wheelchairs, filled city sidewalks and streets, enjoyed a liberty-themed luncheon as guests of the mayor, and frolicked on the fields at RFK Campus, April 16 – 19, for a four-day celebration that marked 2026 DC Emancipation Day. Event planners […]
Posted inDistrict of Columbia Government
DC voters fill the seats at ‘Ask a D.C. Candidate Mayoral Forum’
Hundreds of Washington, D.C., residents filled the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library for a mayoral forum where six candidates addressed key issues like housing, child care, public safety and the city’s budget. The largely civil event highlighted differing approaches to economic growth and governance while encouraging voters to prepare for the upcoming primary and new ranked-choice voting system.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Dr. Faith Gibson Hubbard appointed interim president and CEO of Greater Washington Urban League
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to The AFRO The Board of Directors of the Greater Washington Urban League (GWUL) recently appointed Dr. Faith Gibson Hubbard as interim president and CEO. Hubbard replaces George Lambert, who retired earlier this year after 10 years of stellar service to the organization. Under Lambert’s tenure, GWUL expanded education and empowerment […]
Posted inBUSINESS
Navigating life’s big changes: Expert advice on finances, divorce and disasters
Life-changing events—from divorce to a serious illness to natural disasters—can upend not only daily routines but financial stability. Certified financial planner Zaneilia Harris shares strategies to help households prepare, protect and recover when the unexpected happens.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
The Apollo Theater and The Howard Theatre co-present ‘Best of The Apollo’ in Washington, D.C., with special performance by legendary hip-hop duo Clipse
Apollo Theater and Howard Theatre will co-present “Best of The Apollo” on April 26 in Washington, D.C., featuring performances by hip-hop duo Clipse and rising artists, while celebrating the legacy of “Amateur Night” and supporting the Howard Theatre Foundation.