Black Diary 1887 is a revolutionary, GPS-enabled mobile app that connects users with overlooked narratives from the African Diaspora through interactive maps and audio storytelling, and is now available in 30 US cities, including Washington, D.C.
Category: Washington D.C. News
Posted inU.S. Government
Pentagon clamps down on media, raising First Amendment alarms
The Pentagon has issued new restrictions requiring journalists to sign pledges not to report information — even unclassified — unless it is officially approved for release. Press freedom advocates and major news organizations condemned the policy as government censorship and a violation of First Amendment rights.
Posted inNational Sports
Washington Commanders builds with backups
The Washington Commanders, led by backup quarterback Marcus Mariota, defeated the Las Vegas Raiders 41-24 to move to 2-1. Mariota’s poised performance, along with a dominant run game, special teams spark, and Dan Quinn’s tough leadership, highlighted the team’s growing depth and resilience in the early season.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
New DCPS policy requires chaperones at football games
DCPS has issued an updated policy for students, parents and spectators attending football games this school year, which includes a chaperone requirement, separate sections for visiting and home teams, and earlier game times.
Posted inU.S. Government
No. 47 says he will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Ben Carson
The 47th president announced Sept. 20 that he will award former HUD secretary and neurosurgeon Ben Carson the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Carson is a former GOP presidential candidate and close ally of the current White House.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
No. 47’s economic promises to Black voters fall woefully short
Black unemployment, income, and homeownership have all declined since Donald Trump’s return to office, leaving many Black voters disillusioned with his economic promises. Critics argue his policies disproportionately hurt Black Americans while benefiting wealthier households, even as Trump tries to frame himself as a champion for working families.
Posted inOpinion
From federal overreach to local betrayal: The double threat to Black freedom in Washington, D.C.
Dr. Kevin Beckford and Yasmin Salina, co-founders of The Hustlers Guild, argue that both federal and local policies in Washington, D.C. are undermining Black freedom by reinstating cash bail and expanding pretrial detention under the guise of public safety. They call for rejecting punitive measures and instead investing in restorative justice, community supports and policies that protect pretrial freedom.
Posted inPolitics
Congressional Black Caucus Foundation prepares for 54th Annual Legislative Conference in D.C.
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 54th Annual Legislative Conference returns to Washington, D.C. on Sept. 24, bringing together policymakers, thought leaders and activists to tackle pressing issues facing Black communities. With sessions on health, education, economic empowerment and social justice, as well as signature events, like the National Town Hall and Phoenix Awards, the conference spotlights strategies for advancing equity and celebrates Black leadership.
Posted inU.S. Government
Norton to challenge multiple bills aimed at giving Congress greater control over D.C.
Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, who has represented D.C. residents in the U.S. House of Representatives since 1991, says she plans to raise opposition to four anti-D.C. home rule bills.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
D.C.’s ‘March On! Festival returns with focus on health of Black community
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFRO kmcneir@afro.com D.C.’s annual Civil Rights Legacy Project, rebranded in 2024 as “March On!,” kicked off their film festival on Monday, Sept. 15 in the nation’s capital. For six days, film screenings will take place alongside an emerging and student filmmaker competition, various award ceremonies, performances of the arts, […]
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Young leaders of GWUL’s Thursday Network honor service and step into future of Black advocacy
The Thursday Network, a GWUL auxiliary group, will honor local volunteers at their 10th Annual Spirit of Service Awards ceremony, while also increasing personal development for younger members and preparing them to move up the ranks.
Posted inDMV News
Black blood donors play a critical role in saving lives, but representation still lags
Black donors are critical to the U.S. blood supply, yet remain underrepresented. Greater diversity improves matching for sickle cell patients, a disease that disproportionately affects Black individuals.