By Latita FaulkSpecial to the AFRO The 19th Annual “Blacks in Wax” production took place on March 7 at the Thearc Theatre in Washington D.C., providing a transformative experience for the scholars of Southeast Tennis and Learning Center. The program is more than just a performance- it’s an educational, creative and cultural journey that pushes […]
Category: NEWS
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Ask A D.C. Native: Should I raise kids in D.C.?
D.C. is a diverse city with cultures from all over the world and opportunities galore. This week, Christina Sturdivant Sani speaks on raising children in the nation’s capital.
Posted inNational News
Congressman Greg Meeks wants answers on the text message war plan
New York Congressman Greg Meeks is demanding a congressional hearing to investigate a reported national security breach in which Trump administration officials allegedly used the encrypted messaging app Signal to discuss military plans, inadvertently including journalist Jeffrey Goldberg in the chat. Meeks has sent a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, pressing for answers on whether classified or sensitive information was shared and what steps are being taken to prevent future breaches.
Posted inNational News
Congressman Kweisi Mfume introduces legislation to commemorate African American World War II hero Doris Miller
On National Medal of Honor Day, Congressman Kweisi Mfume introduced two bills to honor African American World War II hero Doris “Dorie” Miller, who bravely manned an anti-aircraft gun during the Pearl Harbor attack despite having no formal training. The legislation seeks to posthumously award Miller both the Medal of Honor and the Congressional Gold Medal, recognizing his long-overdue heroism and service to a country that had yet to grant him full rights at the time of his valor.
Posted inNational News
Could Gen. Lloyd Austin III have survived leaking war plans?
A major national security breach has come under scrutiny after The Atlantic’s editor-in-chief was accidentally added to a Signal group chat where Trump administration officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Vice President JD Vance, discussed a pending military strike. While lawmakers from both parties have expressed concern, critics argue that the response would be far harsher if the officials involved weren’t White and connected to Trump.
Posted inBaltimore News
Coppin State University to celebrate women’s history month with leadership forum
Coppin State University will celebrate Women’s History Month with a special forum on March 28, highlighting the achievements and contributions of women throughout history. The event will feature keynote speakers, interactive workshops, and panel discussions on leadership, professional development, and women’s health. Organized by students and faculty, the forum aims to empower attendees with knowledge and confidence as they navigate their careers and personal growth.
Posted inBaltimore News
Downtown Partnership of Baltimore releases annual ‘State of Downtown’ report
By Megan SaylesAFRO Staff Writermsayles@afro.com The Downtown Partnership of Baltimore (DPOB) unveiled its 2024 State of Downtown report on March 20. The annual analysis provides updates on key indicators of the health of Baltimore’s Central Business District, including data on employment, tourism, employment, vacancies and public safety According to DPOB’s president, Shelonda Stokes, downtown is […]
Posted inWashington D.C. News
To be young, gifted and…healthy: The new face of colon cancer survivors
Colon cancer remains a serious health threat, especially in the Black community where diagnosis and death rates are higher. Through early detection, advocacy and support, survivors are turning fear into strength and living meaningful, empowered lives.
Posted inNational Sports
Women’s tennis players now eligible for paid maternity leave
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) announced a new maternity leave program, sponsored by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, offering 12 months of paid leave for pregnant players and two months for those becoming parents via surrogacy, adoption, or partner pregnancy. The program, retroactive to January 1, also provides fertility treatment grants.
Posted inBooks
Writing through trauma: How one man is using his story to inspire change
After a decade of reflection and research, former inmate Kevin Shird has completed his memoir, a powerful exploration of trauma, redemption and the need for better mental health support. Through his personal story of overcoming incarceration, PTSD and a past filled with violence, Shird advocates for a shift in the Black community’s approach to mental health. His book highlights the importance of seeking help, particularly for those who have been incarcerated, and calls for better mental health resources. As a mentor and educator, Kevin hopes to inspire others to embrace change and seek support in their own journeys toward healing.
Posted inArts & Culture
2025 Baltimore MET Gala examines the evolution of Charm City’s style
By AFRO Staff The stars of Charm City’s arts and culture scene will shine brightly during the 2025 Baltimore MET Gala, one of the region’s premier events, which returns Sept. 13 to The HALL – LIVE! Casino & Hotel Maryland. This year’s theme, “TIMELESS — The Evolution of Style: PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE,” which was unveiled […]
Posted inHealth
U.S. Surgeon General declares parental stress a public health issue as Black parents continue to face challenges
Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy’s report, “Parents Under Pressure,” highlights parental stress as a public health issue, emphasizing the unique challenges Black parents face while raising their children into adulthood. Through personal stories, parents share their struggles, resilience, and the ongoing stress of protecting and guiding their sons.