The AFRO has long been a vital voice for the Black community, shining a light on issues often neglected by mainstream media. As it nears its 133rd anniversary, the newspaper continues its mission to confront injustice and amplify Black voices in a changing political landscape.
Tag: Martha Howard Murphy
133 Years—and we’re still telling the truth
The AFRO-American Newspapers, a 133-year-old Black-owned and family-owned business, continues to thrive under the leadership of Publisher and CEO Frances Murphy Draper, blending its historic legacy with modern innovation while fighting for truth and equity in the face of current crises.
Titans of Media: A conversation on the AFRO’s impact through storytelling
At the “Titans of Media” panel at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, leaders of the AFRO News and Afro Charities discussed their ongoing efforts to elevate Black voices, preserve historical narratives and innovate within the media landscape. The conversation highlighted the AFRO’s role as both a chronicler of history and a driving force for future generations, ensuring that Black stories remain visible and influential.
PRESS ROOM: AFRO named to Inner City 100 List for second straight year
The AFRO has been named a winner of the Inner City 100 Awards for the second consecutive year, recognizing the 100 fastest growing businesses in underserved communities, and expanding their Digital Billboard Network and digitizing their archives to make Black history more accessible.
AFRO team visits land that played pivotal role in newspapers’ beginnings
The AFRO American Newspapers and Afro Charities team recently visited the land where Martha Howard Murphy, wife of AFRO founder John H. Murphy Sr., was enslaved and later owned, which provided seed money for the founding of the AFRO.
Walters Museum to host AFRO Publisher Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper for ‘Women as Creators and Leaders’ conversation
The Walters Art Museum will invite AFRO Publisher Frances “Toni” Draper to share the journey and accomplishments of the Black-owned newspaper while in conversation with Curator of Rare Books and Manuscripts Lynley Herbert on March 23.

