The AFRO-American Newspapers, the nation’s oldest continuously published Black-owned newspaper still owned by its founding family, has been named to Feedspot’s list of the “45 Best Black News Websites of 2025.” The recognition honors The AFRO’s legacy of trusted journalism and its continued innovation in digital media, storytelling, and community engagement.
Category: Washington D.C. News
African American sorority makes history again with first chapter in Puerto Rico
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority has chartered its first-ever chapter in Puerto Rico, marking the organization’s historic expansion into a Spanish-speaking Latin American region. The new Alpha Delta Nu Omega Chapter, based in San Juan, will continue the sorority’s mission of service by supporting women, children, and families across the island, beginning with projects addressing childhood hunger and disaster preparedness.
Journalists turn in access badges, exit Pentagon rather than agree to new reporting rules
Dozens of journalists turned in their Pentagon access badges on Oct. 15 rather than comply with new rules imposed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that limit how reporters can gather information. News organizations rejected the rules as a threat to press freedom but vowed to continue covering the military from a greater distance.
Free Halloween weekend Lyft rides throughout Greater Washington prevent drunk driving
By Washington Regional Alcohol Program Preparing to combat that time of year when, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than one-third (39 percent, 2022) of U.S. traffic deaths involve drunk drivers, a local nonprofit organization announced today that free safe rides will be offered to would-be drunk drivers throughout the Washington-metropolitan […]
Millions march in ‘No Kings’ protests nationwide
By Mike Pesoli, Matt Brown and Gary Fields Large crowds of protesters marched and rallied in cities across the U.S. on Oct. 18, for “No Kings” demonstrations decrying what participants see as the government’s swift drift into authoritarianism under President Donald Trump. People carrying signs with slogans such as “Nothing is more patriotic than protesting” […]
Malcolm X meets Shakespeare in revisioning of ‘The Tragedy of Julius Caesar’ at D.C.’s Folger Theatre
“Julius X: A Revisioning of The Tragedy of Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare” is a powerful and emotionally charged play that merges the lyrical brilliance of spoken word artist Al Letson with the time-revered speeches and scenes of William Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar,” featuring renowned Shakespearean actor Brandon Carter as Malcolm X.
As savings accounts dwindle, federal workers say they’re holding on with ‘hopes and prayers’
Thousands of Americans rallied nationwide on Oct. 18 to protest federal policies that have led to job losses, program cuts, divided families and a prolonged government shutdown. Struggling federal workers say they’re surviving on dwindling savings and faith as they call for accountability and renewed civic engagement.
Mayor Bowser unveils ‘Talent Capital’ initiative to support displaced federal workers in Greater Washington
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has launched Talent Capital, a first-of-its-kind initiative leveraging artificial intelligence to help displaced federal workers navigate career transitions. The program offers free job-matching, re-skilling and training opportunities to retain top talent in the Greater Washington region amid widespread federal job cuts.
Government shutdown forces Smithsonian to temporarily close all museums and National Zoo
The Smithsonian owns 17 museums within the Washington D.C area, in addition to the National Zoo. Since Oct. 12, all 21 of the Smithsonian museums nationwide and the zoo have been closed. Shown here, would-be visitors, as they learn that the doors to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History are closed due to the shutdown.
‘One of One’: Howard’s 101st homecoming promises joy, tradition and big names on the ‘Yard’
By Victoria MejicanosAFRO Staff Writervmejicanos@afro.com Howard University will be celebrating its 101st homecoming this year, under the theme “One of One” from Oct. 19-26, to celebrate its community. The university’s tradition started in 1924, making it one of the earliest HBCUs to establish a homecoming, a point of pride for the university. Princess Gamble, the […]
Government shutdown–what it means for work, travel and daily life
When the federal government shuts down, the effects are felt far beyond Washington, D.C. Federal workers may miss paychecks, travelers can face longer lines, and job seekers often experience delays in background checks and hiring. Even after funding is restored, agencies face backlogs that can take weeks or months to resolve, leaving practical consequences across communities nationwide.
Kamala Harris draws sold-out D.C. crowds on book tour, urges Democrats to stay in the fight
Former Vice President Kamala Harris drew sold-out crowds at Washington, D.C.’s Warner Theatre on Oct. 9 to discuss her new book, “107 Days,” reflecting on her 2024 presidential campaign and America’s political challenges. In candid remarks, she urged Democrats to stay engaged and united as the fight for democracy continues.

