Kwanzaa, a week-long, non-religious celebration observed from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, honors African heritage through the seven principles of the Nguzo Saba, encouraging reflection, creativity and community engagement. Celebrants say the holiday remains vital today as a way for Black Americans to reconnect with culture, strengthen community values and affirm identity amid ongoing challenges to Black history.
Tag: Victoria Mejicanos
Posted inBUSINESS
Not just for the rich and wealthy: How to start investing in 2026
According to Pew Research, in 2022, 66 percent of White families owned stocks directly or indirectly, compared to 39 percent of Black families according to the Federal Reserve’s Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF).
Posted inBaltimore News
City leaders unveil 10-year financial plan to stabilize Baltimore, strengthen services
Baltimore City Administrator Faith Leach says Mayor Brandon M. Scott’s 10-year plan aims to target the city’s current budget deficit, while investing in service delivery, infrastructure and making taxes more equitable for residents.
Posted inBaltimore Community
Rooted in community: Coppin State University’s ‘tiny but mighty’ theatre program
Coppin State University’s small but powerful theatre program blends artistic training with community engagement, using productions and post-show discussions to address issues that impact West Baltimore. Students and alumni say the program nurtures their growth, offering interdisciplinary opportunities, close mentorship, and a strong sense of belonging.
Posted inVeterans
Delayed but not denied: Honoring Charles Jackson French
By Victoria MejicanosAFRO Staff Writervmejicanos@afro.com Charles Jackson French wasn’t supposed to be remembered. In a segregated United States Navy that intentionally kept him out of combat, French did the impossible. He saved 15 men by tying a rope around his waist and carrying a raft of his injured shipmates, swimming them to safety through shark-infested […]
Posted inBUSINESS
Home Depot program trains future trades professionals for free
Home Depot’s free Path to Pro Skills Program offers online training in construction and other trades to help address the labor shortage and boost diversity. Since 2021, more than 60,000 people have graduated and over 100,000 have participated.
Posted inHealth
Advocates, experts push for quality care to address breast cancer disparities
By Victoria MejicanosAFRO Staff Writervmejicanos@afro.com Every October, the world turns pink for breast cancer awareness month to encourage screening, educate about risk factors and symptoms and show support to those affected by the disease. For some, it is a symbol of hope and encouragement, and for others it is a reminder of how their lives […]
Posted inHBCU
Bowie State hosts 90th annual homecoming activities
By Victoria MejicanosAFRO Staff Writervmejicanos@afro.com Bowie State University is currently hosting its 90th annual homecoming. Activities began on Oct. 26 and will take place through Nov. 2 under the theme “It’s Off the Chain!” The celebration brings together students, alumni and community members for a celebration “filled with pride, connection and Bulldog spirit,” according to […]
Posted in!Front Page Baltimore News
There’s a clear gap in credit scores depending on race and place: How Baltimore is working to fix it
By Victoria Mejicanos AFRO Staff Writer vmejicanos@afro.com The weight of a number For residents of Baltimore, the barrier to buying a home, starting a small business or managing unexpected costs doesn’t rely on ambition alone. There’s a three digit number that plays a major part: the credit score. Research shows that a person’s credit score, […]
Posted inWashington D.C. News
Addressing family toxicity: How to move forward after trauma
Healing from family trauma starts with breaking cycles of secrecy, shame and emotional suppression. Life coach Nijiama Smalls urges open conversations, setting boundaries, and—even when needed—creating distance to protect peace and begin true healing.
Posted inBlack History
62 years later, the world remembers four little girls from Birmingham
By Victoria MejicanosAFRO Staff Writer On Sept. 15, 1963, the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Ala., was bombed, killing four girls in the church’s basement and shocking the nation. Sixty-two years later, the attack is remembered as a turning point in the civil rights movement and a reminder of the role Black churches continue […]
Posted inReligion
Funeral services announced for Elder Doug Wilson
Doug Wilson, 74, a beloved church elder, will be laid to rest Sept. 17 at Vaughn Greene Funeral Services in Randallstown. Friends and community members remembered him as a gentle and caring leader.