By DaQuan LawrenceSpecial to the AFROdlawrence@afro.com According to a recent report issued by the Office of the District of Columbia Auditor (ODCA), the nation’s capital is overdue for a new jail. The extensive report, titled “Urgent Need for New D.C. Jail,” outlines deteriorating conditions at the current jail facility. Authors of the report say the […]
Category: NEWS
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.
Supporting moms: The vital role families play before, during and after birth
Pregnancy is not a solo journey—it’s one that families can profoundly impact by offering emotional, structural and hands-on support. From helping navigate healthcare systems to simply showing up with a warm meal and open ears, loved ones play a vital role in a mother’s health before, during and after birth.
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.
AFRAM 2025 offers star studded line up and fun for the whole family
The AFRAM Festival, a celebration of African-American culture, returned to Baltimore on June 21-22, featuring international artists such as Amerie, Patti LaBelle, Juvenile and Teedra Moses, and offering fun, food, and more for the whole family.
Baltimore’s A Taste of Summer to offer community and culinary adventure
Baltimore’s “A Taste of Summer” Long Table Dinner Series, founded by Nailah Queen and James Dickey, uses food, fashion and fellowship to celebrate community, culture and local entrepreneurship. With a vibrant outdoor dining experience and spotlight on Black and minority-owned culinary talent, the event transforms a shared meal into a powerful symbol of connection and creativity.
A beer pioneer, South Africa’s first Black female brewery owner trains a new generation
Apiwe Nxusani-Mawela, South Africa’s first Black female craft brewery owner, is training a new generation of brewers—most of them young Black women—at her Brewsters Academy in Johannesburg. With a focus on science, tradition, and inclusivity, she aims to diversify the male-dominated beer industry while reviving African brewing heritage.
Facing pressure from Black voters, Democrats detail fight against 47th president’s agenda
With the 47th president back in office and rolling out sweeping policy changes, U.S. senators address Black voters who are demanding to know how Democrats are pushing back. In response, U.S. Senate Democrats point to legal challenges, grassroots engagement, and judicial appointments as evidence they are actively fighting on multiple fronts.
‘Trailblazer:’ Carol Moseley Braun reflects on legacy, loss and leadership during Enoch Pratt event
Former U.S. Sen. Carol Moseley Braun reflected on her historic career, personal struggles, and lasting legacy during a June 30 conversation at Baltimore’s Enoch Pratt Free Library, where she discussed her new memoir “Trailblazer.” Sharing lessons on resilience, faith, and public service, Moseley Braun offered an unfiltered look at the triumphs and pain behind her groundbreaking journey as the first Black woman in the U.S. Senate.
Deltas on the Fairway: Celebrating the legacy of Helen Webb Harris
Helen Webb Harris, a pioneering educator and founder of the nation’s first African American women’s golf club, will be recognized at the Deltas on the Fairway National Golf Tournament on July 8 at the University of Maryland Golf Course.
Innovation in fraud: How scammers are targeting Americans in new and evolving ways
Money scams are becoming more sophisticated, with fraudsters targeting more consumers with cryptocurrency investment scams, fake online relationships and deceptive remote job postings. In 2024, Americans lost over $12.5 billion to fraud, with investment scams accounting for $5.7 billion of those losses.
Supporters honor Marilyn Mosby at Baltimore dinner
Supporters gathered in Baltimore on June 27 to honor Marilyn Mosby with a celebratory dinner recognizing her resilience through recent legal battles. The event, filled with heartfelt speeches and performances, underscored continued community support for Mosby, especially for her actions during the Freddie Gray case and her ongoing fight for justice.

