By Beverly MoranThe Conversation More than 6 million Americans receive paper tax refund checks annually. Often, those refunds go to purchase groceries or pay the bills. But this year, those taxpayers may be surprised to learn that the paper check they’re waiting for no longer exists. That’s because of executive order 14247, which President Donald […]
Category: Washington D.C. News
Prince George’s County sees notable reductions in teacher vacancies as D.C. Council addresses teacher retention
Prince George’s County, Md., has reduced teacher vacancies by 52 percent, the largest in the state, helping to improve consistency for students and school culture. Recruitment for the next school year is already underway.
Credit: Photo courtesy of Prince George’s County Executive’s Office
Howard U. students walk out of classes, join peaceful march against ICE’s deadly attacks on Americans
Hundreds of Howard University students walked out of classes on Jan. 30, 2026, marching to the White House to protest what they called the violent and inhumane actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Organizers said the youth-led demonstration, joined by students from other campuses, was meant to defend immigrant communities and demand protection of civil rights.
Potomac Interceptor collapse leads to raw sewage spill
A 72-inch section of the Potomac Interceptor collapsed Jan. 19, sending millions of gallons of raw sewage into the Potomac River and C&O Canal. DC Water has activated a temporary bypass system to reroute wastewater while repair work begins and is urging the public to avoid affected areas.
UDC launches School of Education and Learning Sciences
The University of the District of Columbia is reinvigorating its founding mission of training educators with the launch of the School of Education and Learning Sciences (SELS). The new school will offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees and aims to strengthen the District’s teacher pipeline while preparing a diverse generation of educators for every classroom.
Eleanor Holmes Norton speaks on retirement after 35 years on Capitol Hill
By Victoria MejicanosAFRO Staff Writervmejicanos@afro.com Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, 88, has officially announced her retirement. After 35 years representing the District, Norton has filed paperwork to end her reelection campaign. In a Jan. 27 letter speaking on her retirement, Norton reflected on her career and its impact on the city. “I’ve had the privilege of […]
Longtime DC Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton is ending her reelection campaign for Congress
Eleanor Holmes Norton, the District of Columbia’s longtime nonvoting delegate to Congress and a Civil Rights Movement veteran, has filed paperwork to end her reelection campaign, signaling the close of her 35-year tenure on Capitol Hill. Her retirement opens a competitive Democratic primary in the overwhelmingly Democratic city as questions had mounted about her effectiveness amid heightened federal intervention in Washington.
Deadline looms as Congress risks another shutdown
With federal funding set to expire at 11:59 p.m. Jan. 30, Congress is again on the brink of a government shutdown, just months after a prolonged lapse disrupted essential services and deepened hardship for families nationwide. As Republicans push a single sweeping funding vote, Democrats warn that no viable agreement exists, leaving negotiations stalled and the risk of another shutdown growing as the deadline approaches.
National Guard troops to stay on Washington, D.C. streets through 2026
National Guard troops will be on the streets of Washington, D.C. until the end of 2026, according to a memo reviewed by The Associated Press, signed by Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and dated Jan. 14.
Massive winter storm across the US brings ice, frigid temperatures and widespread power outages
By Kate Brumback and Julie WalkerThe Associated Press A massive winter storm dumped sleet, freezing rain and snow across much of the U.S. on Jan. 25, bringing subzero temperatures and paralyzing air and road traffic. Power lines were draped in ice, and hundreds of thousands of people in the Southeast were left without electricity. The […]
Mary’s House, D.C.’s first housing created for LGBTQ+ seniors, faces criticism
Mary’s House for Older Adults was celebrated last year as Washington, D.C.’s first housing development created for LGBTQ+ seniors. Now, the housing complex is facing criticism from former residents and community members who allege problems with safety, management, affordability and accountability.
Community unites for annual D.C. Peace Walk and Parade
Join the 21st Peace Walk and Parade in Washington, D.C., celebrating MLK’s legacy and uniting the community with music, activism, and wellness.

