Carla Hayden, the former Librarian of Congress ousted under the 47TH presidential administration, has been named a senior fellow at the Mellon Foundation, where she will advise on advancing public knowledge through libraries and archives. Her appointment marks a return to cultural leadership amid growing national debates over censorship, federal funding cuts, and access to information.
Category: Washington D.C. News
UDC launches ‘Cybersecurity Tech Hub’ at Congress Heights campus
A new apprenticeship program at the University of the District of Columbia’s Congress Heights campus is helping District residents launch careers in the rapidly growing cybersecurity industry.
Power in Action: Delta Sigma Theta hosts 57th National Convention
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority is hosting its 57th National Convention from July 8–13, 2025, in Washington, D.C., gathering over 20,000 members in person and 13,000 virtually to celebrate more than a century of sisterhood, service, and social action. Events include community service projects, scholarship awards, entrepreneurship competitions, and a keynote address by Senator Cory Booker at the Social Action Luncheon.
Bowser moves to formally repeal D.C.’s ‘sanctuary city’ status
By Martin Austermuhle It was five years ago that Mayor Muriel Bowser called D.C. a “proud sanctuary city,” but now she’s trying to scrub the designation and protections it offers some immigrants. As part of her proposed budget for 2026, Bowser is pushing to repeal a 2019 law that limits how and when city agencies […]
Report identifies need for new jail in the District of Columbia
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 […]
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.
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.
DC public libraries to provide summer activities for youth
To keep kids engaged during the summer heat, the D.C. Public Library has launched “Discover Summer: Adventure Begins at Your Library!”—a citywide series of events, programs, and challenges for youth of all ages. From summer bingo and LEGO socials to virtual reality game time and cultural events like Yoruba drumming, the initiative offers a wide variety of enriching and entertaining activities through Aug. 31.
Free Independence Day Lyft rides offered throughout Greater Washington to prevent drunk driving
To reduce drunk driving during one of the deadliest holidays for traffic fatalities, the Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP) will offer free Lyft rides on July 4 from 4 p.m. to 4 a.m. on July 5 across the D.C. metro area. The SoberRideⓇ initiative, which covers up to $15 of a Lyft fare, aims to prevent impaired driving and save lives during Independence Day celebrations.
DCPS rolls out districtwide phone ban to cut distractions
D.C. Public Schools Chancellor Dr. Lewis D. Ferebee gives information on the districtwide ban on personal cell phones and electronic devices for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year.
Mayor Bowser kicks off 46th annual Marion Barry Youth Employment Program
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) kicks off the 46th annual Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program, alongside District youths on June 23. The program will connect around 13,000 young people with paid summer jobs, mentorship and career exploration opportunities.
Capital Youth Empowerment Program: Helping fathers mentally, professionally and emotionally
Capital Youth Empowerment Program: Helping fathers mentally, professionally and emotionally

