As 2025 ended, the District of Columbia saw a second consecutive year of significant declines in violent crime. While reported numbers show progress, federal and local officials remain at odds over the accuracy of the data and what it means for public safety.
Tag: president
D.C. delegate seat draws crowded field ahead of 2026 midterms
The crowded 2026 race for Washington, D.C.’s nonvoting House delegate seat in U.S. Congress reflects growing concerns over federal interference and the city’s future. Multiple candidates say the moment demands new leadership to protect local autonomy and representation.
Blacks vets share mixed views as Department of Defense eliminates shaving waivers
Black military veterans are expressing mixed reactions to the Department of Defense’s decision to strictly enforce facial hair grooming standards and significantly limit medical shaving waivers. While some veterans view the policy as part of the military’s long-standing emphasis on uniformity and discipline, others worry it will disproportionately affect Black service members who suffer from medical conditions like pseudofolliculitis barbae, potentially forcing some out of the armed forces.
Investing in entrepreneurship after the government shut down
The 42-day government shutdown deepened an already growing crisis for minority- and women-owned small businesses, erasing billions in economic output and halting critical programs that support SEDI entrepreneurs. Eric Morrissette argues that reopening the government must now serve as a broader act of renewal, rebuilding trust and restoring the agencies essential to inclusive economic growth.
Prince George’s County Council passes emergency support legislation for furloughed federal workers
Council Chair Edward P. Burroughs III (D- Prince George’s County- 08) and Councilwoman Wala Blegay (D-Prince George’s County-06) are working hard on behalf of Prince George’s County residents currently experiencing the sting of yet another federal shutdown.
What Charlie Kirk’s death reveals about America
Dr. Frances Murphy Draper serves the AFRO as CEO and publisher and is a fourth-generation member of the publication’s founding family. This week, in her call to conscience, she speaks on the brutal death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, his record and the culture of contempt that has become the norm in America.
Five years after George Floyd: A look at policing under a new administration
Shifts in policy related to policing are raising concern, as activists and experts voice concern about lost progress.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott boasts progress during 2025 State of the City address
In his 2025 State of the City address, Baltimore City Mayor Brandon M. Scott highlighted significant reductions in violent crime and outlined ambitious goals for education and housing, including plans to lower property tax rates and rehabilitate vacant homes. He also criticized federal policies, emphasizing Baltimore’s commitment to progress despite national challenges.
AFRO News among 50 honored for advancing women in leadership
Executive Alliance honored 50 Maryland organizations, including AFRO News, for advancing women in leadership despite federal diversity setbacks.
Faith coalition protests outside U.S. Capitol, demands Congress defend Constitution
Faith-based organizations gathered outside the U.S. Capitol to demand Congress defend against the 47th president’s assault on the Constitution and vulnerable communities, and will continue to do so every Wednesday in March if demands are not met.
Commentary: The ‘America first agenda’ and what it means for marginalized communities
President Trump’s “America First” agenda, which includes hardline immigration policies and a reduction in government hiring in DEI initiatives, could exacerbate existing inequities for Black Americans.
Commentary: Resisting the current presidential administration: Look to Florida — and organize
Florida has become a laboratory for MAGA experiments in extremist education policies, but Fedrick C. Ingram, secretary-treasurer of the American Federation of Teachers, emphasizes the importance of organizing to resist these extremist policies.

