Retired Maj. Neill Franklin says while police academies provide solid legal instruction, much of that training is lost once officers hit the streets. He believes stronger supervision and ongoing education are key to preventing civil rights violations.
Tag: The AFRO
Commentary: Why collaboration is key to advancing civil rights in all jurisdictions
Baltimore County’s Human Relations Commission continues its efforts as it leads with resolve amid structural changes and vacancies. Shown here, Cleveland Horton (left) the executive director Maryland Commission on Civil Rights and David Skinner the program manager of Human Relations Commission.
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.
Teaching Artist Institute celebrates Ghanaian Independence Day
By AFRO Staff Ghanaians and members of the African Diaspora worldwide recently celebrated the African country’s 68th Day of Independence. In Baltimore, the Teaching Artist Institute, which frequently hosts trips to Africa, hosted an event at the Sankofa Children’s Museum, located in the 1300 block of Pimlico Road. The program featured African dancers, food and […]
Athena Ware Hernandez and Geri Bryd: chiefs of change
This Women’s History Month, Athena Ware Hernandez and Geri Royale Byrd are celebrated for redefining leadership and creating pathways for future generations. As chiefs of staff in Maryland government, their work in public service, advocacy and policy continue to inspire and uplift communities.
A letter to the editor: Cherishing history and legacy
I enjoy AFRO for many, many reasons; mainly because I grew up with the AFRO-American Newspaper, which was sold in my grandparents newsstand in Georgetown, S.C. At age 79, I’m blessed to see history continue! Steve MyersCivil Rights Trail ToursMontgomery, Ala.
Maryland Lynching Truth and Reconciliation Commission prepares for final public hearing in Baltimore
The Maryland Lynching Truth and Reconciliation Commission (MLTRC) will host a two-day public hearing in Baltimore on April 4 and 5 to address institutional accountability and explore reparations for the state’s legacy of racial terror lynchings. This final hearing will focus on reconciliation, with expert panels examining criminal justice reform, media coverage of lynching’s history, and the lasting trauma caused by these racial injustices.
Gov. Wes Moore provides update on budget negotiations as deadline draws near
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) reaffirmed his commitment to tax code reforms and economic competitiveness while ruling out a sugary drink tax and business-to-business taxes in the FY 2026 budget. With a $3 billion deficit looming, Senate leaders anticipate deeper cuts, while Republican lawmakers remain skeptical about potential tax hikes.
Women join newsrooms in growing numbers, but few rise to leadership
While women are making strides in U.S. newsrooms, they still remain underrepresented in leadership roles, with only 24 percent of top editors being women, despite women making up 40 percent of journalists.
The Black women who built the AFRO: A legacy of truth and trailblazing journalism
The AFRO-American Newspapers has a rich history of journalistic excellence, thanks to the contributions of many Black women, including Frances L. Murphy II, Elizabeth “Bettye” Murphy Moss, Ida Murphy Peters, Vashti Murphy Matthews, Carlita Murphy Jones, Elizabeth Murphy Oliver, and many others.
Meet Ebony McMorris, the White House correspondent not afraid to tell the truth
Ebony McMorris, a White House correspondent for American Urban Radio Network, emphasizes the importance of the Black Press in reporting the truth and holding those in power accountable, especially in times of oppression and fear.
Commentary: Democrats must focus on their base – working and middle class Americans
Democrats must focus on economic issues affecting working and middle class families, such as affordable housing and paid family leave, to appeal to young, non-college-educated men, Blacks and Latinos in the 2024 elections.

