The Smithsonian owns 17 museums within the Washington D.C area, in addition to the National Zoo. Since Oct. 12, all 21 of the Smithsonian museums nationwide and the zoo have been closed. Shown here, would-be visitors, as they learn that the doors to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History are closed due to the shutdown.
Category: DMV News
‘One of One’: Howard’s 101st homecoming promises joy, tradition and big names on the ‘Yard’
By Victoria MejicanosAFRO Staff Writervmejicanos@afro.com Howard University will be celebrating its 101st homecoming this year, under the theme “One of One” from Oct. 19-26, to celebrate its community. The university’s tradition started in 1924, making it one of the earliest HBCUs to establish a homecoming, a point of pride for the university. Princess Gamble, the […]
Thousands unite in Baltimore as Morgan State claims homecoming glory
By AFRO Staff Tens of thousands descended upon Morgan State University to attend the annual homecoming parade and football game on Oct. 11. The homecoming activities took place both on and off campus without incident, as a sea of orange and blue washed across the Northeast Baltimore campus. Young and old alike came together in […]
Morgan State homecoming unites generations through celebration, remembrance and school pride
Morgan State University’s 2025 homecoming united thousands of students and alumni for a week of celebration, reflection, and community pride centered around the historic HBCU’s enduring legacy. From lively concerts and parades to moments of remembrance, the festivities showcased the deep bonds and shared spirit that continue to define the Morgan experience.
Kamala Harris draws sold-out D.C. crowds on book tour, urges Democrats to stay in the fight
Former Vice President Kamala Harris drew sold-out crowds at Washington, D.C.’s Warner Theatre on Oct. 9 to discuss her new book, “107 Days,” reflecting on her 2024 presidential campaign and America’s political challenges. In candid remarks, she urged Democrats to stay engaged and united as the fight for democracy continues.
Bringing diversity to the mat: Maryland studio owners work to make yoga more inclusive
Dana Smith and Kendra Blackett-Dibinga, two Maryland yoga instructors and studio owners, are working to make the practice more inclusive. Both women opened their studios to create welcoming spaces where people of all backgrounds—especially Black communities—can see themselves represented in yoga.
Prince George’s County Council passes emergency support legislation for furloughed federal workers
Council Chair Edward P. Burroughs III (D- Prince George’s County- 08) and Councilwoman Wala Blegay (D-Prince George’s County-06) are working hard on behalf of Prince George’s County residents currently experiencing the sting of yet another federal shutdown.
‘Black America’s Attorney General’ donates $50K to Black Press during NNPA Awards Reception
Attorney Benjamin Crump surprised attendees at the 2025 NNPA National Leadership Awards Reception with a $50,000 donation to the National Newspaper Publishers Association, praising the Black Press as the “clarion call” for Black America. The event, a highlight of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference, also honored leaders including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Rep. Yvette Clarke, and union president Claude Cummings Jr.
Black legislators lead bipartisan effort to expand women’s health research
Senator Angela Alsobrooks (left) and U.S. Representatives Shontel Brown (center) and Ayanna Pressley (right) are working with celebrities and advocates to push forward with the U-FIGHT Act, which seeks to expand research, screening and treatment for uterine fibroids and other women’s health conditions that have long been underfunded and stigmatized.
United Way of Central Maryland to celebrate centennial anniversary with benefit concert
United Way of Central Maryland, led by Franklyn Baker, is marking its 100th anniversary with a star-studded benefit concert on Oct. 11 at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, featuring Common, CeCe Peniston, and Elyscia Jefferson. The celebration not only honors a century of impact but also calls on the community to continue supporting the organization’s mission to build stronger, healthier, and more equitable neighborhoods across Greater Baltimore.
How the Howard University School of Business equips students for entrepreneurial success
Howard University’s School of Business is redefining entrepreneurship education by combining a rigorous academic foundation with hands-on experience, mentorship, and cutting-edge tools like AI. With support from initiatives like the PNC National Center for Entrepreneurship, Howard is preparing students to lead with purpose and innovation in a rapidly evolving business world.
Harbor Bank of Maryland opens new branch in Silver Spring
The Harbor Bank of Maryland has opened a new branch in Silver Spring, marking its seventh location and a strategic expansion into the Montgomery County market. The community-focused bank celebrated the soft opening with a visit from Afrofuturist icon George Clinton, whose artwork is now on permanent display inside the branch.

