The Baltimore Culinary Exchange (BCX) grant program creates support for existing and new restaurants as well as food entrepreneurs in Baltimore city.
Category: NEWS
‘Margaritagate,’ propaganda and the erosion of justice: Why the Abrego García case is a national alarm bell
The orchestrated photo op between Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., and wrongfully deported Maryland resident Kilmar Abrego García, dubbed “Margaritagate,” exemplifies the government’s use of propaganda to mask state misconduct and deportation abuses. This case highlights a broader erosion of democratic principles—where truth-tellers are punished, due process is subverted, and marginalized communities face systemic injustice.
Memorial service for former media personality Anthony McCarthy slated for April 27
The Rev. Anthony McCarthy, a prominent voice in Baltimore media and politics for over 30 years, will be honored at a memorial service on April 27 at Northwood Appold United Methodist Church. McCarthy, who died March 16 at age 57 after battling kidney disease, was also a devoted community servant and ordained minister.
Millions mourn Pope Francis
Pope Francis, the first pope from South America, was known for his humble and non-traditional gestures, and his passing has prompted reflection on his powerful legacy and the unfinished hopes of Black Catholics seeking recognition for African-American sainthood.
Ward 8 celebrates opening of state-of-the-art medical center
Families east of the Anacostia River have access to a full-service hospital. Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center, which opened April 15, fulfills a decade-long promise to bring equitable healthcare to Southeast D.C., offering modern care while rebuilding trust in a long-overlooked community.
State of Downtown Forum tackles challenges and opportunities for D.C.’s future
At the State of Downtown Forum, D.C. leaders highlighted the looming loss of economic activity as federal workforce reductions threaten to remove 40,000 employed residents from the city. Mayor Muriel Bowser emphasized the importance of retaining these workers and attracting new jobs to ensure the District’s economic stability, especially in light of a budget shortfall caused by federal government interference.
Prince Hall Masons award scholarships to Maryland HBCUs at bicentennial celebration
The Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Maryland, founded on Feb. 2, 1825, will celebrate its 200th anniversary on April 26 with a public event honoring the late Elijah Cummings and awarding scholarships. The bicentennial celebration highlights the Lodge’s ongoing commitment to education, service and advocacy in the African-American community.
Harvard sues 47th president’s administration to stop the freeze of more than $2 billion in grants
Harvard University has filed a federal lawsuit challenging the White House’s freeze on over $2.2 billion in research grants, calling the move unconstitutional and politically motivated retaliation for the university’s refusal to curb campus activism. The lawsuit argues that the government’s demands—including changes to leadership, admissions, and student clubs—threaten academic freedom and violate civil rights protections.
Celebrating Second Chances Month: How one Baltimore org uplifts returning citizens
April marks Second Chances Month, and in Baltimore, the NCIA Vocational Training Center is transforming lives by helping returning citizens build brighter futures.
At the threshold: Why the D.C. Bar election matters for the future of legal integrity in America
The 2025 election for President-Elect of the D.C. Bar Association, though under the radar, could significantly influence the ethical direction of the legal profession during a time of heightened political pressure. As concerns about impartiality and the politicization of justice grow, the leadership of the Bar stands as a critical safeguard for legal independence and public trust.
From debt to success: Lamar Laing’s journey
Lamar Laing, CEO and founder of Copiafy, turned his struggles with debt and poor credit into a mission to empower Black Americans with financial literacy and resources. Through Copiafy, an online platform, he provides tools for setting financial goals and tracking bills and credit report disputes.
Wreath laying ceremony honors Freddie Gray 10 years after brutal death
By Alexis TaylorAFRO Managing Editor Local officials, residents, family members and friends came together April 19 to honor the life of Freddie Gray exactly 10 years to the date of his 2015 death. With Gray’s eyes piercing through a mural in the background, Baltimore City Mayor Brandon M. Scott and family attorney William “Billy” Murphy” […]

