By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFRO Whether you are a go-go aficionado, a radio icon, a Hollywood superstar, or just someone from the D.C. area longing for a half smoke, Ben’s Chili Bowl is once again the place to go. The long-awaited grand reopening of the flagship location of Ben’s Chili Bowl took place […]
Tag: D. Kevin McNeir
Posted inDistrict of Columbia Government
Securing statehood dominates 2026 Emancipation Day conversation in D.C.
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to The AFRO Washingtonians of all ages, some even in strollers and wheelchairs, filled city sidewalks and streets, enjoyed a liberty-themed luncheon as guests of the mayor, and frolicked on the fields at RFK Campus, April 16 – 19, for a four-day celebration that marked 2026 DC Emancipation Day. Event planners […]
Posted inWashington D.C. News
As RFK Stadium redevelopment plan continues, hundreds voice concerns during public comment meeting
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFROkmcneir@afro.com Several hundred residents, business owners, and city officials participated in a public scoping meeting for the redevelopment of the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium Campus on Wednesday, Nov. 19, at St. Coletta of Greater Washington in Southeast D.C. It served as the first public meeting since the project […]
Posted inNational News
Nonprofits struggle to fill in the gaps as more federal workers, SNAP recipients seek food assistance
While the 47th president of the United States promised that food prices would go down under his watch, the opposite has occurred. Now, with a prolonged federal government shutdown, more families are facing food insecurity after either losing their jobs or being furloughed.
Posted inNational News
Black attorneys respond to president’s executive order calling for elimination of cashless bail
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFROkmcneir@afro.com On Monday, August 25, the 47th president of the United States signed two executive orders to end cashless bail – a decision which he asserted will protect Americans. In the two executive orders, one focusing on the District of Columbia, where the president has declared a “crime emergency,” […]
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Rare Essence, D.C.’s legendary go-go band, proves they still have the magic touch
Go-go elite Rare Essence, continues to draw audiences to its live performances of Washington, D.C.’s homegrown sound delivered in the band’s signature style.
Credit: AFRO Photo/ J. Pamela Stills
Posted inBlack History
National Park Service hosts 150th birthday fete for Mary McLeod Bethune
A small but enthusiastic group of supporters attended the 150th birthday celebration for civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune, featuring a keynote address, music, a spoken word presentation, and a wreath laying ceremony led by NPS officials.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Trayon White defies the odds, regains Ward 8 D.C. Council seat
Trayon White reclaimed his Ward 8 D.C. Council seat in a narrow victory during the July 15 special election, overcoming a crowded field, limited funding, and ongoing federal scrutiny. Despite losing, rival Sheila Bunn and others in the community emphasized unity moving forward, urging collaboration to address urgent issues like public safety, mental health, and economic equity.
Posted inUncategorized
Depression, exhaustion and fear: The hidden burdens of dementia caregiving
Millions of Americans caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s face deep emotional, financial and physical strain while struggling to find support. This National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, experts and caregivers stress prioritizing self-care and seeking resources early to avoid isolation and burnout.
Posted inAfro Briefs
Florida’s Raiford Prison bans AFRO edition from inmates; warden cites threat to security and rehabilitation initiatives
Florida’s Raiford Prison banned the AFRO’s special edition on George Floyd and racial justice, claiming it posed a security risk and threatened rehabilitation efforts. Critics argue the ban reflects a broader pattern of censorship that suppresses inmates’ access to reform-focused content and silences marginalized voices behind bars.
Posted inWashington D.C. News
100 Fathers, Inc. unites D.C. community to build stronger Black families
100 Fathers, Inc. hosted a conference at Howard University to promote health and wellness, eliminate violence, and develop values and character development, with a focus on empowering Black men and their families to become leaders in their communities.
Posted inBlack History
George E. Johnson speaks on his journey from ‘Afro Sheen’ to ‘Soul Train’ and more
George E. Johnson, founder of Johnson Products Co. and creator of Afro Sheen, revolutionized Black hair care and became the first African American to have a company listed on the American Stock Exchange. In his memoir “Afro Sheen,” he details his journey from humble beginnings to business success, crediting his mentor S.B. Fuller, his faith in God, and the guiding principle of the Golden Rule.