In this Letter to the Editor, Richmond resident Ernest Parker Jr. says this year’s Independence Day celebrations were overshadowed by concerns about racial injustice and what he sees as setbacks to civil rights. Despite his disappointment, he urges readers to remain united, vote and persevere in the face of adversity.
Tag: Washington, D.C.
D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation brings residents free fun with weekly Thursday movie nights
The District’s Department of Parks and Recreation is hosting weekly outdoor movie nights at Yards Park, providing free entertainment and activities for residents of all ages to enjoy throughout the summer.
Janesse Lewis George wins decisively in Democratic primary for D.C. mayor
By D. Kevin McNeir Special to the AFRO On June 16, in what many described as one of the most significant elections in the city’s history, Washington, D.C. voters overwhelmingly chose Ward 4 Councilmember Janesse Lewis George, a Democratic Socialist, as the Democratic candidate for mayor. Political pundits had predicted that with the District implementing ranked-choice […]
Upcoming Juneteenth events in the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area
The DMV area is hosting a variety of free Juneteenth events, including block parties, museum events, music and art celebrations, and community service activities, to honor Black culture, creativity, and community connection.
How ownership helped a Black-owned U Street businesses survive gentrification
As Washington, D.C.’s historically Black U Street corridor continues to gentrify, longtime Black-owned businesses like Lee’s Flower and Card Shop and Ben’s Chili Bowl say ownership and adaptability have been key to their survival. While both families acknowledge the economic growth brought to the area, they also reflect on the displacement of longtime Black residents and the changing identity of the once predominantly Black community known as “Black Broadway.”
Say ‘no’ to child care budget cuts: D.C. families can’t wait any longer
Discover the rising cost of childcare in Washington, D.C., and how it affects families, especially Black and Brown communities. Learn about National Day Without Child Care and its impact.
Major D.C. mayoral and congressional delegate debates set for May 2 at George Washington University
Voters in Washington, D.C. will have a chance to hear directly from candidates for mayor and congressional delegate during the DCision 2026 debates on May 2 at George Washington University. Hosted by a coalition of civic and media organizations, the event will spotlight key issues including public safety, housing, economic recovery, education, and D.C.’s push for full congressional representation.
Commentary: Turning the page toward a healthier and more engaged DC
Jimmie Williams is CEO and president of the Washington Literacy Center and Adrian Jordan is a member of the board and works for Elevance Health. In this piece, they posit that improving adult literacy in Washington, D.C., is essential to strengthening public health, economic opportunity and civic participation, particularly as new challenges like ranked-choice voting emerge.
Uncertainty looms for small businesses as RFK stadium project advances
As plans for the RFK Stadium redevelopment move forward, small business owners and community leaders in Washington, D.C., say uncertainty remains about how the project will affect local enterprises. While officials, including Councilmember Wendell Felder (D-Ward 7) emphasize economic opportunity and community benefits, residents and advocates are calling for clearer commitments to ensure small businesses are prioritized and not displaced.
U.S. Rep. Owolewa condemns federal overreach on D.C. traffic cameras
Washington, D.C.’s shadow representative, U.S. Rep. Oye Owolewa, called the U.S. Department of Transportation’s plan to ban traffic cameras a federal overreach. He said it threatens safety and undermines D.C.’s local authority.
Rev. Robert Turner to take reparations fight nationwide after years-long protest
Rev. Robert Turner, the pastor who has walked from Baltimore to the White House for 40 months, has concluded his monthly treks to bring attention to the need for federal reparations. Turner recently spoke with the AFRO about his next steps.
Anacostia Coordinating Council stays true to mission of promoting ‘all things good East of the river’
The Anacostia Coordinating Council (ACC) is a volunteer-based consortium of organizations and individuals working to revitalize the Anacostia neighborhood of Washington, D.C., which has faced significant challenges due to gentrification and historical disinvestment.

