By Dr. Deborah BaileyAFRO Contributing Editordbailey@afro.com Leaders at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across the nation have declared an initiative to invest in the future of research and discovery. Fifteen of America’s HBCUs high-capacity research institutions have announced the Association of HBCU Research Institutions. The umbrella organization has a mission to expand world-class research, […]
Category: Prince George’s County News
Posted inBaltimore News
Not all missing children cases look the same–and each one brings unique challenges
Each May serves as a time to recognize Missing and Unidentified Persons Month. This week, AFRO News presents the first of several articles focused on the cases of missing Black people in the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area and beyond. Missing children cases can take many forms, from runaways and nonfamily abductions to critically missing children who are lost or injured. Family abductions, in which a child is taken by a parent or relative, can be especially complex and dangerous, as shown by the case of Ailea Brown, missing for nearly seven years.
Posted inMoney
What they wish they knew about money: Older adults pass on financial advice
For many older adults, financial wisdom didn’t come from classrooms or dinner table conversations but from years of experience, mistakes and hard-won lessons. Now, Washington residents Verlincia Roach, 62, and Carol Fillmore, 79, are sharing what they wish they had known about saving, spending and building financial stability in hopes younger generations can avoid the same missteps.
Posted inObituaries - Washington D.C.
An announcement of the passing of the Rev. Dr. Marie Murphy Phillips Braxton
The Rev. Dr. Marie Phillips Braxton, a devoted educator, faith leader and longtime AFRO shareholder and Board member, has passed away after a lengthy illness.
Posted inPrince George's County News
Prince George’s County opens second reentry hub in Laurel
Prince George’s County has opened its second reentry hub in Laurel, expanding services for returning citizens transitioning back into the community. The hub connects formerly incarcerated residents to health care, employment and education resources aimed at reducing recidivism and supporting long-term stability.
Posted inPrince George's County News
Laurel prepares for 151st Preakness Stakes and influx of visitors
The 151st running of the Preakness Stakes will be held in Laurel, Md., this year, bringing thousands of visitors to the city. Local officials say the temporary relocation, while the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore undergoes renovations, is expected to boost small businesses and generate economic activity across Prince George’s County.
Posted inElections 2026
Low turnout, high impact: Why local elections matter more than many think
Low turnout in local elections limits representation, even as decisions by school boards and central committees directly shape daily life, from education policy to political leadership. Experts and community members say increasing awareness and participation is critical to ensuring communities have a voice in decisions that affect them.
Posted inMaryland News
First Lady Dawn Moore hosts third annual ‘A Woman’s Work’ brunch
Maryland First Lady Dawn Moore and the Foundation of the Preservation of Government House hosted the third annual “A Woman’s Work” Women’s Economic Empowerment Brunch on April 18 at the Government House. Attendees included co-founder of Black Entertainment Network (BET) Sheila Johnson, Wanda Durant and Angel Webb Reese.
Posted inMaryland News
Maryland lawmakers race clock as major bills clear final hurdles
By Tashi McQueenAFRO Staff Writertmcqueen@afro.com As the 2026 Maryland General Assembly session came to a close, lawmakers rushed to pass dozens of bills before the midnight deadline on April 13. Bills that failed to pass before the deadline must be reintroduced next session and go through the legislative process again to be reconsidered. The 90-day […]
Posted inMaryland Government
Comptroller Brooke Lierman announces upcoming departure of Chief of Staff Rianna Matthews-Brown
By Office of the Maryland Comptroller Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman today announced that Chief of Staff Rianna Matthews-Brown will depart the Office of the Comptroller of Maryland on April 30, concluding her tenure as a senior leader in the agency during a period of significant transformation and growth. Matthews-Brown was the first African-American person to […]
Posted inPrince George's County News
HER Gala: Women of Impact Awards highlight women of Prince George’s County
By Dr. Deborah BaileyAFRO Contributing Editor Prince George’s County Council chair Krystal Oriadha (District 7) joined council members Wala Blegay (At-Large), Wanika Fisher (District 2), Shayla Adams-Stafford (District 5), and Danielle Hunter (District 6), to bring Women’s History Month to a glamorous close in a ceremony honoring 25 women across the county. Honorees represented ladies […]
Posted inReligion
Black churches put a fresh spin on Easter traditions
Black churches are keeping many of the Easter traditions that have long defined the season, while also introducing new activities aimed at engaging families, young people and surrounding communities. Church leaders said the core meaning of Easter remains unchanged, but many congregations are finding creative ways to carry that message to the next generation through service projects, expanded worship experiences and community-centered gatherings.