Dr. Jermaine Dawson has been announced as the new CEO of Baltimore City Public Schools.
Category: POLITICS
Back from the brink: ‘Afropop’ season 18 to premiere in June
The season features Listen to Me, Kanika Harris and Stephanie Etienne’s urgent documentary on the Black maternal and infant mortality crisis, and This World Is Not My Own, Opendox’s visually striking film using animation about celebrated folk artist Nellie Mae Rowe, who turned her home and yard in Vinings, Georgia, into the fantastical creative world she called the Playhouse. Emmy Award-winning actress Uzo Aduba and Broadway veteran Amy Warren bring Rowe and her friend, gallery owner and arts patron Judith Alexander, to life through voice and movement. A third title, to be announced later this year, will premiere in November.
Supreme Court weighs future of 14th Amendment in historic citizenship case
The Supreme Court is preparing to rule on an executive challenge to the 14th Amendment that could replace the long-standing principle of birthright citizenship with a system requiring proof of parental status. Legal experts and advocates warn that this shift could create profound administrative hurdles for marginalized communities and potentially leave millions of American-born children without access to essential services.
Many US Catholics are dismayed by No. 47’s unprecedented broadside at the first American pope
Many U.S. Catholics and some evangelical leaders are expressing dismay after the 47th U.S. president launched an unprecedented verbal attack on Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, highlighting growing tensions between the White House and key religious constituencies ahead of the midterm elections.
Executive order targets inclusion, equity and diversity in federal contracting
The recently signed executive order mandates the immediate removal of diversity, equity, and inclusion requirements from all federal contracts, prioritizing a strict merit-based standard for government procurement. This policy shift is expected to significantly alter the economic landscape for Black and Brown business owners who have historically utilized these programs to gain access to the federal marketplace.
Mayor Scott outlines $5 billion budget at virtual town hall
Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott presented a nearly $5 billion proposed fiscal year 2027 budget during a virtual town hall, emphasizing investments in infrastructure, youth programs and public safety without raising property or income taxes. Residents raised concerns about transportation, housing and access to grocery stores as officials encouraged continued public input ahead of City Council hearings.
Calls for investigation after Haitian asylum seeker dies days after ICE release
A 31-year-old Haitian asylum seeker was found dead at a Pittsburgh bus stop just days after being released from federal immigration custody. Attorneys and advocacy groups are calling for answers about the circumstances surrounding her release and death.
Black Voters Matter raises alarms over threats to voting rights ahead of 2026 midterms
By Megan SaylesAFRO Staff Writermsayles@afro.com Black Voters Matter (BVM) led a virtual briefing with Black media on April 1, alerting people to escalating attacks on voting rights and urging them to remain vigilant ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Leaders highlighted current legislative proposals and court cases that could redefine voter access nationwide, particularly in […]
Moore unveils Baltimore Transit-Oriented Development Plan
State and local officials unveiled the Baltimore Regional Transit-Oriented Development Strategy at Rogers Avenue Metro Station on April 6. The strategy aims to boost housing, expand transit access and drive economic growth, including 400 new housing units and major Light Rail investments.
U.S. president pulls back on threats against Iran with 2-week ceasefire agreement
The U.S. president has announced that he’s pulling back on his threats to launch devastating strikes on Iran. A two-week ceasefire is now in effect in the war against Iran, which was launched on Feb. 28 by the United States and Israel.
Lawsuit filed against president’s mail-in voting executive order by Lawyers’ Committee, NAACP and Common Cause
Overview: On March 31, President Trump signed an executive order in another attempt to steer American elections. The order, among other things, would create lists of U.S. citizens who are eligible to vote in each state and compel the U.S. Postal Service to send mail-in ballots to only those “verified” voters. WASHINGTON – The Lawyers […]
Special committee seeks public input on changes to Baltimore City charter
Baltimore’s Charter Review Special Committee is gathering public input on potential changes, including revisions to how city contracts are awarded. Residents and council members alike say understanding the charter’s complexities is key to making informed decisions.

