At the State of Downtown Forum, D.C. leaders highlighted the looming loss of economic activity as federal workforce reductions threaten to remove 40,000 employed residents from the city. Mayor Muriel Bowser emphasized the importance of retaining these workers and attracting new jobs to ensure the District’s economic stability, especially in light of a budget shortfall caused by federal government interference.
Category: Washington D.C. News
Posted inOPINION
At the threshold: Why the D.C. Bar election matters for the future of legal integrity in America
The 2025 election for President-Elect of the D.C. Bar Association, though under the radar, could significantly influence the ethical direction of the legal profession during a time of heightened political pressure. As concerns about impartiality and the politicization of justice grow, the leadership of the Bar stands as a critical safeguard for legal independence and public trust.
Posted inMoney
From debt to success: Lamar Laing’s journey
Lamar Laing, CEO and founder of Copiafy, turned his struggles with debt and poor credit into a mission to empower Black Americans with financial literacy and resources. Through Copiafy, an online platform, he provides tools for setting financial goals and tracking bills and credit report disputes.
Posted inBaltimore News
World Autism Month sparks call for broader inclusion and acceptance
As World Autism Month calls for greater awareness and acceptance, advocates and creatives alike are pushing for more inclusive narratives. In Baltimore, Donte Lewis uses music and media to build community, while Taya Dunn Johnson challenges biases that delay diagnoses and deny dignity to individuals with autism.
Posted inDistrict of Columbia Government
Open meetings no more? D.C. Council reshapes transparency rules in emergency vote
By Martin AustermuhleThe 51st In early April the D.C. Council passed emergency legislation that significantly expands lawmakers’ ability to meet behind closed doors and away from the prying ears and eyes of the press and public. Ironically, an unrelated bill was introduced called the “Transparency is Accountability Act.” Proponents of the emergency measure – the […]
Posted inMoney
Saving, spending and surviving: Real talk on financial literacy
As financial literacy takes center stage this month, individuals are finding creative ways to budget, save and manage rising costs. From cutting back on dining out to using cash-only spending methods, everyday people share how they navigate their finances. While some prioritize emergency savings, others focus on investments or stretching their dollars with strategic shopping. Their stories highlight the realities of financial planning and resilience in today’s economy.
Posted inHealth
Federal legislation aimed at reform highlighted during Black Maternal Health Week
Lawmakers acknowledge Black Maternal Health Week and highlight top legislation from the 119th Congress that aim to improve maternal health care in America. U.S. Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) expressed concern over federal restructuring efforts and affirmed her commitment to expanding access to care for pregnant women.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Parade, celebrated entertainers and fireworks cap off DC Emancipation Day 2025
Thousands gathered at Freedom Plaza on April 13 to celebrate DC Emancipation Day with a vibrant parade, live entertainment and fireworks, marking the 20th anniversary of its official designation as a public holiday. The event honored the abolition of slavery in D.C. in 1862 and served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for racial equality, community unity, and D.C. statehood.
Posted inArts & Culture
Gospel Fest brings church to the Symphony Hall
In a time when divisions often feel louder than unity, Gospel Fest was a moment of communion—a reminder of the beauty that emerges when tradition, excellence, and faith share the same stage. The event, held at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall in Baltimore on April 3, featured the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Pastor Smokie Norful, and three of the nation’s most distinguished HBCU choirs, Bowie State University Choir, Howard Gospel Choir and Morgan State University Choir.
Posted inD.C. Government
D.C. leadership freezes hiring and pay increases to offset budget gap
Facing a $1.1 billion budget shortfall caused by a federal funding cap, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) has enacted immediate government freezes and invoked a law to adjust the District’s budget by 6 percent. With Congress stalled on a funding fix, Bowser warned that further cuts, including furloughs and facility closures, may follow if no action is taken.
Posted inCommentary
Budgeting and saving: Telling your money where to go
Frances Murphy Draper is the publisher and CEO of the AFRO. This week she reflects on the resilience, contributions and financial empowerment of Black communities—highlighting how faith, determination and collective action have shaped our economic journey.
Posted inARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Soulful country duo, The War and Treaty, set to hit Howard Theatre stage
War and Treaty will bring their genre-blending mix of soul, country and rock to Washington, D.C.’s Howard Theatre on April 11 as part of their Plus One Tour. Known for their emotionally-charged performances, the husband-and-wife team says the show is a space for healing, joy and connection—”a family reunion” where fans will “leave lighter than you came