The National Urban League held its annual conference this year (July 14-19) in Cleveland, Ohio, attracting thousands committed to securing justice for all in America.
Category: NEWS
‘Black Diary 1887’ expands to D.C. with GPS walking tours
By Yolanda Young and Thomas Bowen Black Diary 1887, the revolutionary, GPS-enabled mobile app reimagining cultural tourism through a Black lens, is officially launching its Washington, D.C. edition. Originally launched in Paris, with nearly 1,000 entries featuring people, places and events, Black Diary 1887 is now available in 30 U.S. cities, with the D.C. edition […]
Charlene Hyman, Baltimore fashion icon, remembered for global impact and creative legacy
Charlene Hyman, pioneering Baltimore fashion designer and founder of Hyman and Hyman Fashion Designers, died on June 20 at age 68. Celebrated for her glamorous couture, international acclaim and mentorship within the fashion community, Hyman left an enduring legacy of creativity, compassion, and trailblazing artistry that touched both runways and hearts.
National Zero HIV Stigma Day: Fighting stigma, saving lives
Zero HIV Stigma Day, observed on July 21, aims to raise awareness, encourage testing, and dismantle the harmful stigma surrounding HIV—especially in disproportionately affected Black communities. Advocates stress that ending stigma is key to saving lives and ensuring that all people can access care without fear, shame, or judgment.
Rebuilding trust in Baltimore starts with owning past wrongs
At a West Baltimore exhibit on July 11, residents, city leaders and grassroots organizers gathered to confront decades of broken trust between police and communities, culminating in a powerful panel calling for urgent action, accountability and shared power.
Common yet unspoken: Uterine fibroids and their toll on Black women’s health
Lawmakers and advocates gathered on Capitol Hill to support the U-FIGHT Act, a legislative package aimed at advancing research, access to care, and early detection for uterine fibroids—a condition that disproportionately affects Black women. Supporters emphasized the urgent need for public awareness, better treatment options, and investment in women’s reproductive health to ensure no woman suffers in silence.
Community acts fast as drug crisis grips Baltimore
A mass overdose involving 27 people in Baltimore’s Penn-North area has sparked urgent community and city-wide response, highlighting both the depth of the drug crisis and the effectiveness of rapid interventions like Naloxone distribution. City leaders, including Sen. Antonio Hayes, emphasized the need for long-term investment and wraparound services to address the systemic neglect that has long plagued the area.
Firefighters feel unsupported as Baltimore plans to downgrade four medical units
Baltimore City firefighters express concern over the city’s decision to downgrade four Advanced Life Support (ALS) medical units to Basic Life Support (BLS), mentioning increased strain on already overworked paramedics and EMTs.
Sen. Blunt Rochester pushes for action on Black women’s pay gap
Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester has introduced a Senate resolution recognizing Black Women’s Equal Pay Day to call attention to the stark wage gap that leaves Black women earning just 66 cents for every dollar a White man makes. Citing systemic racism and sexism, the resolution aims to drive intersectional policy reforms that address long-standing economic inequities.
Iconic DC staple Ben’s Chili Bowl to close temporarily for renovations
Ben’s Chili Bowl is temporarily closing its historic U Street location in Washington, D.C., for the first time in over 60 years to undergo essential repairs and renovations. During construction, the beloved eatery will continue serving customers from a nearby pop-up location starting July 17.
Walter P. Carter Institute launches civic leadership program to empower Baltimore’s future changemakers
The Walter P. Carter Institute of Leadership and Service has launched its first major initiative, the Community Leadership and Empowerment Program (CLEP), a free 10-week course designed to cultivate Baltimore’s next generation of grassroots leaders. Rooted in the legacy of civil rights icon Walter P. Carter, the program equips participants with tools in civic engagement, advocacy and public service to help them lead meaningful change in their communities
Trayon White defies the odds, regains Ward 8 D.C. Council seat
Trayon White reclaimed his Ward 8 D.C. Council seat in a narrow victory during the July 15 special election, overcoming a crowded field, limited funding, and ongoing federal scrutiny. Despite losing, rival Sheila Bunn and others in the community emphasized unity moving forward, urging collaboration to address urgent issues like public safety, mental health, and economic equity.

