Washington, D.C. transparency laws governing the Metropolitan Police Department’s interactions with federal officers have been extended through November, amid ongoing federal immigration enforcement activity and debate over accountability, oversight and public trust in policing throughout the District.
Category: Washington D.C. News
D.C. schools bring voter registration to students ahead of elections
Schools and community organizations in Washington, D.C. are bringing voter registration and civic education directly to students as the District prepares for upcoming elections and ranked choice voting.
HBCU presidents announce collaboration to expand research and innovation
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, […]
Thousands celebrate culture with ‘Around the World Embassy Tour’
By Patricia McDougallSpecial to the AFRO On May 2 the 19th annual Around the World Embassy Tour was held in Washington, D.C., with over 69 Embassies welcoming over 50,000 people. The University District of Columbia (UDC), a historically Black institution, hosted several of the embassies. The Embassy Tour is one of the biggest events in […]
Ben’s Chili Bowl reopens after lengthy renovation
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFRO Whether you are a go-go aficionado, a radio icon, a Hollywood superstar, or just someone from the D.C. area longing for a half smoke, Ben’s Chili Bowl is once again the place to go. The long-awaited grand reopening of the flagship location of Ben’s Chili Bowl took place […]
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.
District to freeze Child Care Subsidy Program for new enrollees on May 12Â
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFRO In early March, parents and childcare advocates met on the steps of the John A. Wilson Building, which serves as the seat of the District of Columbia housing, hoping to convince the mayor and city council to reconsider their decision to implement a freeze on the DC Child […]
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.
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.
D.C. budget hearings advance amid budget cut concerns
The D.C. Council is reviewing Mayor Bowser’s $1.1B deficit budget, with hearings through May 12 and a first vote expected June 9. Advocates raise concerns on proposed cuts to child care subsidies and the Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund.
Ben’s Chili Bowl Seeks community input for new mural as renovations wrap
As Ben’s Chili Bowl prepares to install a new mural following renovations, community members are being invited to help decide which figures will be featured. Retired Army Master Sgt. Elizabeth Ann Helm-Fraizer is advocating for the inclusion of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, highlighting the unit’s historic contributions and ties to Washington, D.C.
Millions invested into structured summer activities and resources for D.C. youth
The District of Columbia is awarding over $2 million in grant funding to 30 nonprofit organizations to provide structured summer activities and resources to an estimated 1,300 minors in the District.

