By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to The AFRO By her own admission, the Reverend Nontombi Naomi Tutu, daughter of the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu, struggled against accepting the call to ministry for most of her life. But you couldn’t tell, based on the reactions of worshipers at Asbury United Methodist Church (UMC) on Sunday, April 2, […]
Category: Washington D.C. News
Lawmakers move to oust Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick for alleged ethics violations
The House is moving toward a bipartisan vote to expel Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Fla.-20) after a committee investigation proved 25 ethics violations. While a federal judge has delayed the Florida Democrat’s criminal trial for the alleged theft of $5 million in FEMA funds until 2027, congressional leaders indicated that the chamber is prepared to act as early as next week.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott named president of African American Mayors Association
Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott is now president of the African American Mayors Association. Read more about the selection and the organization’s recent conference in Washington, D.C. on AFRO.com.
Navigating life’s big changes: Expert advice on finances, divorce and disasters
Life-changing events—from divorce to a serious illness to natural disasters—can upend not only daily routines but financial stability. Certified financial planner Zaneilia Harris shares strategies to help households prepare, protect and recover when the unexpected happens.
District leaders, residents and visitors celebrate Emancipation Day
By Patricia McDougallSpecial to the AFRO More than 100 years ago, on April 16, 1862, the Compensated Emancipation Act was signed by President Abraham Lincoln. On that day, slaves in the District of Columbia gained their freedom. More than a century later, the residents of D.C. gather on an annual basis to honor and celebrate […]
The Apollo Theater and The Howard Theatre co-present ‘Best of The Apollo’ in Washington, D.C., with special performance by legendary hip-hop duo Clipse
Apollo Theater and Howard Theatre will co-present “Best of The Apollo” on April 26 in Washington, D.C., featuring performances by hip-hop duo Clipse and rising artists, while celebrating the legacy of “Amateur Night” and supporting the Howard Theatre Foundation.
Black churches put a fresh spin on Easter traditions
Black churches are keeping many of the Easter traditions that have long defined the season, while also introducing new activities aimed at engaging families, young people and surrounding communities. Church leaders said the core meaning of Easter remains unchanged, but many congregations are finding creative ways to carry that message to the next generation through service projects, expanded worship experiences and community-centered gatherings.
Ruby red slippers, a mean old lion, and Black folk adorned in emerald green can only mean one thing – ‘The Wiz’ is coming back to DC
The Tony Award-winning musical “The Wiz” returns to Washington, D.C., for a limited run at the National Theatre from April 7–12, showcasing a new generation of talent in the beloved all-Black reimagining of “The Wizard of Oz.” Cast member Cal Mitchell, who stars as The Lion, highlights the production’s enduring cultural impact, its celebration of Black joy and artistry, and its continued ability to inspire audiences across generations.
Youth lead conversation at 2026 D.C. Teen Summit
The D.C. Teen Summit, held on March 13, brought young people together to lead conversations on mental health, identity and leadership. Through workshops and dialogue, teens shared experiences, built connections and emphasized the need for safe spaces and supportive adults.
Uncertainty looms for small businesses as RFK stadium project advances
As plans for the RFK Stadium redevelopment move forward, small business owners and community leaders in Washington, D.C., say uncertainty remains about how the project will affect local enterprises. While officials, including Councilmember Wendell Felder (D-Ward 7) emphasize economic opportunity and community benefits, residents and advocates are calling for clearer commitments to ensure small businesses are prioritized and not displaced.
Sen. Angela Alsobrooks joins leaders from the Black Women’s Roundtable to champion voting rights
U.S. Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) and leaders from the Black Women’s Roundtable convened at the U.S. Capitol to denounce the SAVE America Act, arguing that its strict citizenship documentation requirements would disenfranchise millions of eligible voters. The group is pivoting toward a national mobilization effort to counter these restrictive measures while demanding that Congress instead prioritize the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to safeguard ballot access ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Tempers flare between District’s mayoral frontrunners Kenyan McDuffie and Janeese Lewis George during Free D.C. candidate forum
A Free D.C. candidate forum turned contentious when mayoral frontrunners Kenyan McDuffie and Janeese Lewis George clashed on stage, highlighting growing tensions in a competitive race as voters weigh leadership and trust ahead of the primary election.

