Coppin State University unveiled SheCare Wellness Pods, designed by Taraji P. Henson’s foundation, to provide free, culturally responsive mental health support for Black women. Students praised the initiative as a much-needed space for healing, relaxation and breaking stigmas around mental health on campus.
Tag: Tashi McQueen
Baltimore residents demand fair budget, aid for immigrants at taxpayers’ night
By Tashi McQueenAFRO Staff Writertmcqueen@afro.com The Baltimore City Council held its fiscal year (FY) 2026 Taxpayers’ Night on May 15. Taxpayer’s Night is an annual opportunity for the community to voice their thoughts and concerns about Mayor Brandon M. Scott’s (D) proposed budget before the council decides whether to accept the mayor’s budget as is […]
Postpartum tips for moms: Balancing mental and physical wellness
The AFRO recently spoke with experts and mothers who emphasized the critical need for culturally informed, compassionate postpartum care to support Black moms. With higher maternal mortality rates among Black women and frequent dismissal of their health concerns, experts stress the importance of preparing early, building a strong support network, and advocating for personalized care.
Nursing students talk purpose, pain and pushing through challenges
By Tashi McQueenAFRO Staff Writertmcqueen@afro.com Two Coppin State University nursing students recently shared their inspiring stories about why they are pursuing a career in nursing and how they find the motivation to persevere. “I always knew I wanted to go into the medical field,” said Mawata Keita, a sophomore at Coppin. “I didn’t know if […]
Bowser announces $570k in grants to support small businesses in D.C.
Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) and the D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development announced a $570,000 investment to support 60 small businesses through the 2025 Robust Retail Grant Program. Grants up to $10,000 will cover key operational expenses.
Immigration authorities arrest nearly 200 in D.C. raids
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested 189 immigrants who entered the U.S. illegally and issued 187 compliance notices to D.C.-area businesses during a four-day operation from May 6-9.
AFRO wins over 20 awards in Maryland, Delaware, D.C. Press Association contest
The AFRO earned top honors at the 2024 Maryland, Delaware and District of Columbia Press Association Awards, taking home over 20 awards across multiple categories and reinforcing its 133-year tradition of journalistic excellence. Amid growing political challenges for the press, these wins underscore the essential role of Black media in uplifting community voices and safeguarding the truth.
Money woes and mental health: The unspoken struggles of financial stress
Money-related stress weighs heavily on many Black Americans, often manifesting as emotional and mental exhaustion and strained relationships. Experts say historical inequities, ongoing financial disparities and cultural pressures make the burden especially intense and deeply personal.
Moore approves major school funding legislation at third bill signing of 2025
Governor Wes Moore signed the Excellence in Maryland Public Schools Act to improve education and tackle the state’s teacher shortage through updated funding and support. Although there were proposed budget cuts, lawmakers restored money for community schools, which mainly serve low-income and Black students across Maryland.
Protect your data: Expert tips for safely using public Wi-Fi
Protecting personal and financial data on public Wi-Fi is essential to avoiding fraud carried out by hackers. Experts stress using VPNs and personal hotspots to secure information, as public networks are often vulnerable to cyberattacks.
Virtual care, real impact: How technology is changing patient-nurse relationships
AI and telemedicine are revolutionizing healthcare by enhancing access, improving decision-making, and expanding the roles of nurses beyond traditional clinical settings. Osanmoh notes that telepsychiatry enables consistent, stigma-free support, especially for marginalized populations.
D.C. gets ‘F’ for air quality in 2025 State of the Air Report
Washington, D.C., received an “F” in the 2025 State of the Air Report, reflecting a recent decline in air quality and an uptick in unhealthy air days. While city officials noted that rare events like the 2023 Canadian wildfires impacted the results, health experts continue to express concern about the long-term effects of air pollution, particularly on vulnerable communities.

