Go-go elite Rare Essence, continues to draw audiences to its live performances of Washington, D.C.’s homegrown sound delivered in the band’s signature style.
Credit: AFRO Photo/ J. Pamela Stills
Tag: Washington, D.C.
Rare Essence, D.C.’s legendary go-go band, proves they still have the magic touch
D.C. men grapple with incarceration, opioids and housing instability
Black men in D.C. face disproportionate rates of incarceration, homelessness and opioid-related deaths. City leaders are working to reverse these trends through health initiatives, community partnerships and policy reforms.
Iconic DC staple Ben’s Chili Bowl to close temporarily for renovations
Ben’s Chili Bowl is temporarily closing its historic U Street location in Washington, D.C., for the first time in over 60 years to undergo essential repairs and renovations. During construction, the beloved eatery will continue serving customers from a nearby pop-up location starting July 17.
Why do schools keep failing Black kids?
Despite dire statistics, advocates say there is hope — and progress — in American cities, where investments in youth programs are beginning to improve outcomes for Black students.
Six Flags to close Maryland park at end of 2025 season
Six Flags theme park is closing in Prince George’s County at the end of the 2025 season. The news hits hard at a time when many county residents are being laid off from federal employment and the Washington Commanders football team just announced a move to Washington, D.C.
DC artist Reggie Gillumo creates art that the visually impaired can ‘see’
Reggie Gillumo, a D.C.-based visual artist and sculptor, has spent nearly 30 years perfecting his signature style—vibrant, touchable artworks designed to be experienced by both sighted and visually impaired audiences. Celebrated for his innovative technique and community impact, Gillumo recently opened his own gallery and continues to inspire through mentorship and his deeply personal, inclusive art.
Saving, spending and surviving: Real talk on financial literacy
As financial literacy takes center stage this month, individuals are finding creative ways to budget, save and manage rising costs. From cutting back on dining out to using cash-only spending methods, everyday people share how they navigate their finances. While some prioritize emergency savings, others focus on investments or stretching their dollars with strategic shopping. Their stories highlight the realities of financial planning and resilience in today’s economy.
Black Press celebrates 198 years of advocacy
Journalists will gather at the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C., on March 16 to celebrate the 198-year legacy of the Black Press and the 60th anniversary of The Washington Informer. Publisher Denise Rolark emphasized the newspaper’s historical significance, its commitment to truth, and its digital expansion as a path forward to ensure Black voices remain represented in the evolving media landscape.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser agrees to remove Black Lives Matter mural in nation’s capital
Washington, D.C. leaders will remove the “Black Lives Matter” mural near the White House to avoid funding cuts threatened by White House leadership, after Mayor Muriel Bowser struggled to fend off threats of encroachment from both President Donald Trump and the Republican-controlled Congress.
How the Youth Leadership Foundation’s mentoring program helps D.C. students achieve successful outcomes
Youth Leadership Foundation, led by Janaiha Bennett, uses mentoring to help youth in Washington, D.C. discover their potential and achieve their goals, with a focus on developing meaningful relationships.
What is known about the collision between a passenger jet and Army helicopter near D.C.
A jet with 60 passengers and four crew members collided with an Army helicopter approaching Ronald Reagan National Airport near Washington, D.C., sending both aircraft plummeting into the Potomac River. All 64 on board are feared dead.
New Year brings wave of new laws across the United States
In 2025, new laws in various states will impact gun safety, healthcare, consumer privacy, transportation, and public safety, with gun safety taking center stage.

