By Stacy M. Brown A sprawling coalition of activists transformed July 4 into a day of protest and civic action, as demonstrators in all 50 states rallied against President Donald Trump’s second-term agenda. Billed as “Free America Weekend,” the effort was the latest in a string of large-scale demonstrations, following June’s “No Kings Day” protests […]
Category: National News
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Ousted Librarian of Congress tapped by Mellon Foundation
Carla Hayden, the former Librarian of Congress ousted under the 47TH presidential administration, has been named a senior fellow at the Mellon Foundation, where she will advise on advancing public knowledge through libraries and archives. Her appointment marks a return to cultural leadership amid growing national debates over censorship, federal funding cuts, and access to information.
Posted inMental Health
At the intersection of mental health and drug abuse
Black Americans are disproportionately affected by mental health issues and substance abuse, with untreated mental health struggles leading to substance use and the stigma surrounding mental health care making it difficult to seek help.
Posted inMental Health
How Bipolar disorder impacts families and what support can look like
Bipolar disorder can deeply affect family dynamics, especially in Black households where stigma and lack of culturally competent care can intensify the challenges. Experts stress the importance of early recognition, open communication and supportive environments to promote healing for both individuals and their loved ones.
Posted inNational News
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs not guilty of sex trafficking and racketeering, convicted of prostitution offense
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs was convicted of two prostitution-related offenses but acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering charges, and could still face up to 10 years in prison.
Posted inENVIRONMENT
NAACP, environmental group notify Elon Musk’s xAI company of intent to sue over facility pollution
The NAACP and environmental advocates plan to sue xAI over pollution from its Memphis data center, citing concerns about air quality and the impact on the predominantly Black communities surrounding the facility.
Posted inAfro Briefs
Florida’s Raiford Prison bans AFRO edition from inmates; warden cites threat to security and rehabilitation initiatives
Florida’s Raiford Prison banned the AFRO’s special edition on George Floyd and racial justice, claiming it posed a security risk and threatened rehabilitation efforts. Critics argue the ban reflects a broader pattern of censorship that suppresses inmates’ access to reform-focused content and silences marginalized voices behind bars.
Posted inU.S. Government
GOP Bill Is a Win for Some—But a Crisis for Black People
Senate Republicans passed a spending bill that would provide tax breaks to the wealthy while cutting Medicaid, food assistance, and other social programs, endangering the health and well-being of Black Americans and other vulnerable communities.
Posted inWord In Black
Chronically absent: Why Black kids are still missing from classrooms
Chronic absenteeism in public schools has surged post-pandemic, with nearly 40% of Black students missing 10% or more of the school year—far above the national average. Experts cite systemic barriers like housing insecurity, school disinvestment, and political attacks on education, calling for community-driven solutions that reengage students and support families.
Posted inAfro Briefs
This school banned cellphones six years ago. Teachers — and many kids — couldn’t be happier.
San Mateo High School banned cellphones in 2019 using magnetically locked Yondr pouches, aiming to curb distractions, cyberbullying, and mental health issues tied to excessive phone use. Six years later, teachers and many students report improved focus, stronger peer relationships, and a more connected school culture—making San Mateo a national model as more schools adopt similar bans.
Posted inBaltimore News
State of the People wraps three-day national tour in Baltimore
The State of the People National Assembly concluded its three-day gathering in Baltimore, bringing together Black leaders, activists, and organizations to build a national agenda rooted in empowerment, community healing, and political action. Key discussions—such as the “Black Women Leading Change” panel—centered on the importance of rest and wellness as vital tools of resistance, especially for Black women bearing the weight of communal responsibility and systemic stress.
Posted inNational News
Jury set to deliberate Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ fate
The prosecution in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ trial rested its case on June 25 after six weeks of intense testimony, including allegations of abuse, coercion, and sexual misconduct from multiple women, most notably singer Cassie Ventura. With the defense resting and a motion filed for acquittal on key charges, the jury is expected to begin deliberations following closing arguments on June 26.
