By Megan Sayles
AFRO Staff Writer
msayles@afro.com

As election day draws near, Black voters face a pivotal moment, as candidates at national, state and local levels take distinct approaches to addressing critical issues, like health disparities, wealth gaps, reproductive rights, voter suppression and education. 

With a polarizing presidential race, tight races in Congress and contentious ballot measures, it becomes even more important for voters to identify the policies that enable them to thrive. The AFRO sat down with three leading, nonpartisan voter organizations that seek to empower the Black community to determine which issues are the most pressing. Here’s what they said. 

National Coalition on Black Civic Participation 

Voting rights

Voter roll purging, or removing individuals from registered voter lists, has escalated in recent years. The practice is meant to preserve the integrity of the list, clearing out people who have died or moved, but a number of states have used it to remove people due to infrequent voting in recent elections.

“Most Black people, close to 60 percent, live in the South where you have a lot of voter purging taking place,” said Melanie Campbell, president of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (NCBCP). “Voting rights is a big issue for us.” 

NCBCP has spearheaded a voter preparedness campaign to ensure people are registered to vote, know where their polling location is and understand the protections that exist.  

Economic security 

The economy has been a hot-button issue this election season. Campbell said Black women in particular are experiencing a great deal of concern over their finances. 

“We did a poll earlier in the year, and the number one issue for Black women had to do with economic security— issues around paychecks not making it all the way through the month and matching bills,” said Campbell. “There’s a high level of anxiety for Black women across generations.” 

Campbell also pointed out that the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which ravaged communities in the Southeast, would mean even more implications for the U.S. economy. 

Black Girls Vote

Economic security 

Leaders of Black Girls Vote (BGV) also touched on the economic plight of Black women. Founder Nykidra Robinson pointed out that they are the fastest-growing segment of entrepreneurs in the U.S., but they need to be able to preserve the wealth they are creating. 

“We have a lot of Black women who are heads of households or the breadwinner, but it’s tough,” said Robinson. “Even though we’re going to school and getting educated, we have student loan debt payments that come with our salaries, which can be limited.” 

She also highlighted the steep cost of housing today. Homeownership has traditionally been identified as a way to create generational wealth. But, if home prices are out of reach, this avenue may be closed to Black families. 

“The cost of housing is now astronomical, and Black women want to purchase homes,” said Robinson. “For those who are able, we want to make sure that they can stay in their homes and not just buy them.” 

Health equity 

BGV advisory board member Destiny-Simone Ramjohn, a public health sociologist, raised health care affordability, quality and access as a major issue up and down ballots this year.

“Health disparities exist along lines of race but also along income and geography. We need to vote for candidates who prioritize health equity and ensure that those policies are designed to reduce disparities by addressing social drivers,” said Ramjohn. “Most of what contributes to your health happens outside of your doctor’s office.”

The Black community faces disparities in maternal health, cancer rates, mental health treatment,  heart disease, hypertension and diabetes. Social determinants of health, or the conditions in which a person lives, works and ages, significantly impact these disparities, according to Ramjohn. 

She warned that the next president will inherit multiple public health epidemics, including those related to Black maternal health, gun violence, 

“Black women are three times more likely to suffer from maternal morbidity and maternal mortality when compared to their White counterparts,” said Ramjohn “We also know that firearm violence, which is now a leading cause of death among children, is concentrated in marginalized, racial and ethnic communities.”

Addressing reproductive justice is also a major issue under health care. While many associate the term with abortion access, it encompasses much more than that. 

“When we hear about reproductive justice, there’s so much talk about abortion, but we’re not talking about in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments or surrogacy,” said Robinson. “We’re not talking about the mothers who desire to have a child and may not be able to conceive or have complications when trying to have a child.” 

Black Voters Matter Fund

Economic security 

Co-founder of the Black Voters Matter Fund LaTosha Brown explained that Black communities consider the health of the economy at an individual level rather than global. 

“We’re not thinking about the health of the economy based on how the GDP is doing or the unemployment rate being lower,” said Brown. “We’re looking at costs and the health and wellness of our communities.” 

As Black families, who were disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, continue to recover from the pandemic, she said they have become increasingly sensitive to the rising costs of goods.

Like BGV, Brown called attention to pricey housing costs, which have made it difficult and sometimes impossible for African Americans to attain homeownership. 

“The cost of homes has exploded and risen to the point where it’s been cost-preventative for people coming out of college and new families to get a new home,” said Brown. “We need people with strong housing policies so we can build wealth.”

Student loan forgiveness

Though millions of Americans have outstanding student loan debt, there is a stark gap in the amount owed by Black borrowers and their counterparts. According to the Education Data Initiative, African-American college graduates owe an average of $25,000 more in student loan debt than White college graduates. 

Brown highlighted legal attacks, largely led by Red states, on President Joe Biden’s Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan, which is designed to make payments more affordable, expand forgiveness and eliminate interest. 

“They’re willing to give corporate welfare to bail banks out and millions of dollars to wealthy business owners in Paycheck Protection Program loans, but then there’s been attacks on student loan forgiveness,” said Brown. “That impacts us economically.”

Education

In recent years, assaults on Black history in schools have increased. Brown noted that several states have sought to ban AP African American studies and critical race theory. 

“Why is our history less valuable than any other? It is American history,” said Brown. “We have to see that that’s not just an attack on African American history; that’s an attack on our identity.”

The post Navigating the ballot: Key issues facing voters in the 2024 general election appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Megan Sayles
AFRO Business Writer
msayles@afro.com

Start off your October with these free events in the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area. 

Maryland 

Sweeten the Vote

Head to Sydney’ Ice Creams in Northeast Baltimore to register to vote and enjoy a free scoop upgrade. The Black-owned shop has teamed up with Black Girls Vote to make sure Baltimoreans are prepared to exercise their right on Nov. 5  

Date: Oct. 12

Time: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. 

Location: Sydney’s Ice Creams 

                  3432 Belair Rd. 

                  Baltimore, MD 21213 

Maryland Women’s Small Business Celebration 

October marks National Women’s Small Business Month. In honor of observance, the Maryland Governor’s Office of Small, Minority Women Business Affairs will host a celebration for the state’s women entrepreneurs. Diedre L. Windsor, founder of the Windsor Group, will serve as the keynote speaker and share tips on fostering healthy small business practices. Attendees will also have the opportunity to learn about state procurement opportunities.  

Date: Oct. 10

Time: 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Location: Montgomery Park 

                 1800 Washington Boulevard 

                 Baltimore, MD 21230 

HUD-approved Foreclosure Prevention Workshop

To support those who have fallen behind on their mortgage or encountered challenges with their mortgage provider, the St. Ambrose Housing Aid Center will lead a foreclosure prevention workshop. The session will feature counselors and legal experts approved by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Attendees will learn about the foreclosure timeline, opportunities for prevention, credit management and local resources. 

Date: Oct. 10 

Time: 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. 

Location: St. Ambrose Housing Aid Center 

                 321 East 25th St. 

                 Baltimore, MD 21218

D.C. 

Zenith Gallery Presents: We Are Not Going Back

Sparked by Vice President Kamala Harris’ run for president and her selection of Governor Tim Walz as a running mate, this exhibit showcases artwork that’s been created to inspire hope for the future. The show features a range of media, including paintings, sculptures, mixed media and prints. 

Date: Daily through Oct. 12 

Time: 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. 

Location: Zenith Gallery 

                 1429 Iris St. NW 

                 Washington, DC 20012

A Speakeasy Evening 

The National Museum of African American History and Culture invites the Black community, members of the LGBTQIA+ community and allies to an event honoring the 100th birthday of acclaimed writer James Baldwin. The event nods to the speakeasy clubs of the Harlem Renaissance. It explores the contribution of discos as an inclusive, safe space to dance and include a panel discussion, art-making, dancing and food. 

Date: Oct. 10

Time: 6:45 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Location: National Museum of African American History and Culture 

                 1400 Constitution Ave. NW 

                 Washington, DC 20001

Grounded: Plant Shop, Cafe, and Wellness Studio Grand Opening

Grounded welcomes all to their new space in Southeast D.C. It triples as a plant shop, wellness studio and cafe, making it the perfect place to wind down after a busy day. The grand opening will be filled with activities as visitors are invited to pick out plants,enjoy the cafe and engage in wellness activities.

Date: Oct. 12

Time: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Location: Grounded 

                 1913 Martin Luther King Junior Avenue Southeast 

                 Washington, DC 20020

Atlanta Fine Art Print Fair

Black Art in America’s (BAIA) annual Atlanta Fine Art Print Fair makes its first appearance in Washington, D.C. The multi-day market presents works from legacy and contemporary African-American printmakers, including D.C.-based artists Percy Martin, Lou Stovall, Ed McCluney and David Driskell. Attendees can talk to the artists and attend a panel conversation on Oct. 12 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

Date: Oct. 11 – Oct. 13

Time: 1 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 11, 12 p.m. – 8 p.m. on Oct 12 and 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Oct. 13

Location: 1201 K Street Northwest 

                 Washington, DC 20005 

2024 Free Women, Wellness and Wealth Conference 

Wealth strategist Deborah Short presents a summit addressing women’s financial and physical health. The Women, Wellness and Wealth Conference features conversations on retirement planning, mental health care, steps to take if a medical physician dismisses your concerns and creating generational wealth. Attendees have the chance to win door prizes, money bags and free manicures and pedicures.

Date: Oct. 19 

Time: 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Location: The Harborside Hotel 

                 6400 Oxon Hill Rd. 

                 Oxon Hill, MD 20745

Black on the Block D.C.

Join Black the Block D.C. at the Nationals Park Field Plaza and enjoy food, drinks, music, workshops and plenty of activations. There will be giveaways as well as special guests. The event is in collaboration with Walmart’s Black & Unlimited Shoutout and AT&T Dream in Black.

Date: Oct. 20

Time: 1 p.m. – 7 p.m. 

Location: Nationals Park Field Plaza

                 1500 South Capitol Street SE 

                 Washington, DC 20003

Virginia 

Black Maternal Health Legislative Summit

The Virginia Black Maternal Health Caucus, Virginia House of Delegates Speaker Don Scott and Senator L. Louise Lucas take on the health crisis facing Black mothers across the country. The summit assembles legislators, experts and stakeholders to identify challenges and opportunities in improving Black maternal health. 

Date: Oct. 18

Time: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. 

Location: Virginia General Assembly 

                 1000 Bank St. 

                 Richmond, VA 23219

“Souls to the Polls”  by the Fairfax County Branch PAC Committee

FREE Fish dinner with “I Voted” Sticker

Date: Sunday, October 27th, 2024 

Time: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Location: Mount Vernon Governmental Center

2511 Parkers Ln

Alexandria, VA 22306

Hampton NAACP 4th Annual Souls to the Polls March and Celebration

Go early voting alongside your fellow citizens with the Hampton NAACP’s Annual Souls to the Polls Celebration. After marching to the Hampton Registrar’s Office, residents can enjoy live music, food and talks from guest speakers. Early voting ends Nov. 2 in Virginia. 

Date: Oct. 13

Time: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Location: First Baptist Church 

                 229 North King Street 

                 Hampton, VA 23669

The post Upcoming events in the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Ariyana Griffin
AFRO Staff Writer
agriffin@afro.com

Morgan State University’s campus newspaper, The Spokesman, hosted a forum on Sept. 24 for students and the public to hear from leading candidates in the race for Maryland’s U.S. Senate seat. Both Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D) and Larry Hogan (R), former governor of Maryland, were invited, however Hogan did not join Alsobrooks on stage to speak with voters in attendance.

If elected, Alsobrooks will make history by becoming the first Black woman to represent the state of Maryland in the U.S. Senate. 

NBC Correspondent, Antonia Hylton, moderated the forum with three student reporters: Lillian Stephens, Aleisha Robinson and Tavon Thomasson.

Alsobrooks  said she was happy to attend the forum, which gave her another opportunity to introduce herself to voters. 

Gun violence 

Firearms were a crucial part of the discussion, as gun violence in the country is a growing concern among voters. 

The 2022 report by Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions stated that “since 2013, the gun death rate among children and teens (1–17) has increased 106 percent. Guns were the leading cause of death among children and teens, accounting for more deaths than car crashes, overdoses, or cancers.”

Data also shows that the fatalities linked to gun violence are higher in Black teens and children.

“In 2021, 46 percent of all gun deaths among children and teens involved Black victims, even though only 14 percent of the U.S. under 18 population that year was Black.” The study also stated that “both the number and rate of children and teens killed by gunfire in 2021 were higher than at any point since at least 1999.”

A panelist pointed out that the Morgan State University community is no stranger to the effects and loss of gun violence. Next month marks a year since the campus shooting that curtailed homecoming events. 

Alsobrooks shared that she was Prince George’s County’s first full-time domestic violence prosecutor, and the issue of gun violence is something that she cares about.

“It is unconscionable that we have had leaders who have been unwilling to make common sense changes that would prevent our children from dying of gun violence.”

According to the Office of Governor Wes Moore ,”Maryland ranks number 31 among the highest rate of gun deaths in the United States.”

Alsobrooks expressed that she has worked towards solving this issue, and as senator, she is going to sign legislation to help resolve the massive gun violence issue. 

“I will work to pass sensible gun legislation to make sure that we are working to ban assault weapons from our communities,” Alsobrooks said.

Reproductive rights 

The Roe v. Wade U.S. Supreme Court case in 197 legalized abortion in the United States. However, it was overturned in 2022. Since then, more than 20 states have placed severe restrictions on abortion or outlawed the procedure all together. 

“It is important that women all over the country have access to reproductive freedoms,” Alsobrooks said. 

“The laws should be equal across the country, which is why I will be in support of the Women’s Health Protection Act.”

The Women’s Health Protection Act protects abortion access and, according to Congress, “prohibits governmental restrictions on the provision of, and access to, abortion services.” The act was introduced in 2023 by Wisconsin’s  democratic Sen. Tammy Baldwin.

Economic goals

Aside from gun violence and reproductive rights, the cost of living and inflation were also a key point in the conversation with Alsobrooks. 

She explained that her goal is to attract more companies and opportunities to the state, which would create jobs for the residents she hopes to represent.

“My goal is to attract investment to the state of Maryland that will help large technology companies and other companies that want to invest in the state so that we have six-figure jobs for our young people,” said Alsobrooks. “I’m going to be fighting hard to bring jobs to Maryland.”

Alsobrooks told those in attendance that she is hopeful about the outcome of this election, which will take place in less than 50 days. “I’m going to be a good senator,” said Alsobrooks. “I’m going to go there with not only experience I’ve had over the last 27 years as an executive, but I’m going to take my lived experience.”

Attendees left the forum feeling informed and more knowledgeable about Alsobrooks and her stances on important issues.

“I feel invigorated,” 71-year-old Faye Belt told the AFRO. “Now that we realize it’s all about our future – we can move in a way that we can save this [country].”

The post Angela Alsobrooks, top Democratic senate candidate in Maryland, speaks on economy, reproductive rights with HBCU students appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Staff Writer
tmcqueen@afro.com

AFRO.com now features AFRO Votes, a one-stop shop of resources and information related to the upcoming Nov. 5 election. The new feature on the AFRO’s main web page can be found by scrolling to the bar that says “AFRO Votes” in the middle of the page.

At AFRO Votes, readers can check their registration status, learn about what elections are going on in their local area and request an absentee or mail-in ballot. It also contains a feature to help youth, between the ages of 13 and 17, register as future voters.

Included on the page are articles showcasing the AFRO’s latest election coverage, aimed at informing voters of the issues and platforms being discussed ahead of Nov. 5. 

According to the Pew Research Center, about 34.4 million Black voters will be eligible to vote in November, but not all are registered. 

Though the voter registration deadline is Oct. 15 in Maryland, Washington D.C. and Virginia, eligible voters can still register during the early voting period and on Election Day.

In Maryland, early voting is from Oct. 24-Oct. 31. In D.C., early voting runs from Oct. 28-Nov. 3 and in Virginia, early voting has started and will continue through Nov. 2.

The post AFRO Votes: A new go-to resource for information ahead of Election Day appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Dr. Frances ‘Toni’ Draper
Word In Black

The lyrics of an old Negro Spiritual poignantly declare, “Everybody talkin’ ’bout Heaven ain’t goin’ there.” Unfortunately, in 2024, despite all the discussion and debate about the presidential election, everybody talking about voting ain’t going there, either.  

It’s one thing to talk about the importance of this year’s presidential election, with Vice President Kamala Harris poised to become the first woman of color to hold the highest office in the land. It’s one thing to talk about the need to register and vote, but it’s another thing to actually register and then go to the polls on Nov. 5, Election Day. 

With all of the chaos, chatter, and confusion surrounding our democracy and our right as Black people to vote, it is more important than ever this election cycle that we not just talk about it but that we “be about it” — be about registering as many people as possible, be about helping people get to the polls, and be about understanding Project 2025, the right-wing blueprint that former President Donald Trump will almost certainly unroll if he wins the election.

We have to “be about” sending money not only to the Harris/Walz campaign but to down-ballot candidates running for the Senate and the House of Representatives whose policies and platforms align with your beliefs. That includes supporting Angela Alsobrooks, the Prince George’s County, Md., official who is running to become just the third Black woman elected to the U.S. Senate.

We must “be about” making a voting plan, and sticking to it — a plan that says, “If it rains, I vote; if it snows, I vote.” And if we don’t want to take a chance on something unforeseen happening on Nov. 5, we must “be about” requesting, filling out and submitting a mail-in ballot or voting early, if your state allows it. 

Most importantly, we must “be about” knowing our voter registration status today and making certain we are still eligible to vote.  

According to the Pew Research Center, “Black voters could play an important role in determining the outcome of key 2024 elections,” including the race between Harris and Trump. In Georgia, a closely-watched swing state, Black voters account for a third of all eligible voters in the state. 

The Black college student vote

Another group that plays a pivotal role in the voting landscape is the newly eligible young adult college student voter. 

A 2021 report from the Institute for Democracy and Higher Education said that “the voter turnout among college students jumped to a record high of 66 percent in the 2020 presidential election. And the student “yield” — the percentage at which students who are registered voters actually cast ballots — hit 80 percent. The report called it “an important milestone and signal that they are vested in their own futures and the health of democracy.”

Still, the report did not differentiate between Black and White students, so I decided to do a very informal, albeit extremely limited, poll of my own. I asked a few of our family’s college students who are first-time voters three questions: 

1. What excites you the most about voting in this upcoming presidential election?  

2. What scares you the most about voting in this upcoming election?

3. What’s your voting plan?   

Eva Lee, 19

Freshman, Georgia Southern University 

“I am excited to be a part of history and voting for the first Black woman in the election. I look forward to seeing how positive and hopeful Kamala Harris’ campaign is. I can’t wait to see new voters exercise their right to vote, especially Black teens. We all have a voice, and this is our chance to use it. 

Something that scares me is the hateful side of politics. I feel like it’s normalized to throw insults and spew misinformation and for our country, that is most bothersome. I hope the side that genuinely cares about us, the citizens, is chosen, where our rights will be respected and there’s less hate and more love for improving our livelihoods. I’m registering to vote here in Savannah!”  

Collin McLain, 18,

Freshman, Tuskegee University

“I’m most excited about finally having the chance to vote and to be able to assist towards making a change in this country. With such high stakes, the outcome of this election could significantly shape the future. 

What scares me the most about voting is feeling like my single vote is just one amongst millions and might not make much of a difference on its own. I plan to request and mail in an absentee ballot.”

Lyric Hamilton, 18

Freshman, Louisiana State University

“I am most excited for the experience to be able to vote: walking into the building, waiting in line, actually getting in the booth to vote. It’s a very surreal feeling knowing I can impact all of the U.S., from my singular vote on who helps run the government.  It is such an honor and a privilege to be a part of something that African Americans weren’t always allowed to have — especially at my age. 

What scares me the most is which candidate to choose. Each has their own flaws, and those flaws worry me sometimes. I’m not 100 percent settled on one person because neither of them lives Godly lives. I do know that whatever candidate seems closest to God is the one that I’ll be more than happy to support in this upcoming election. I hope whoever I choose doesn’t let us down, if they win, of course and strengthens America more than ever before. I plan to drive home on Election Day to vote, after my class ends at noon.” 

Blake Evans, 18

Freshman, Baylor University 

What excites me about voting in the upcoming election is voting with my family. As African Americans, it is an honor to be able to vote. Our ancestors fought for this right, and therefore, I will be going to the polls with my parents and my brother! 

I wouldn’t say I’m scared about voting in the upcoming election, but I am worried about my lack of preparation. They don’t talk much about the voting process in schools, nor do they talk about everything we’ll be voting on.  As I mentioned already, I will be going home on Election Day to vote with my family.” 

David Lee, Jr., 22

Senior, Georgia Institute of Technology

“I am excited to drive voter registration and education efforts on campus this election cycle. I am concerned about the level of misinformation that surrounds this election and worried about the long-term repercussions of this intentional falsification of reality within my community.  I go to school in my hometown, so I plan to vote in person on Nov. 5.”

Make a plan to “be about it”

Clearly, these young people have a plan to “be about it” as voters in their first presidential election. They are excited and anxious at the same time. But mostly they are full of optimism about going to the polls or mailing in their ballots.

Still, they also need to be prepared for those who don’t want them — or us — to exercise our right to vote: those who are spreading misinformation, interfering with a free and fair election, name-calling, lie-telling and plotting to overturn the election results. 

There are those who revel in what my cousin Laura Murphy calls “shenanigans.”

A seasoned civil rights and civil liberties lawyer, she reached out to her network for a toolkit of resources and election protection organizations, handy information for voters of any age:

1. Find out if you are registered, how to register and make an election-day plan by checking the Legal Defense Fund website.
2. Keep this number handy: 866-OUR-VOTE. Share it broadly. Use it If you encounter problems or interference at the polls. 
3. Join Win With Black Women to help in this election cycle

All our Word in Black publications have posted voter information on their sites; some even have links to other sites where you can check your voter registration. That includes:

• The Atlanta Voice, Voice Your Vote
• AFRO News, AFRO Votes
• The New York Amsterdam News, Election 2024
• The Seattle Medium, 2024 Elections Center
• The Washington Informer, Vote Your Future 

Let us all “be about it” during this and every election cycle. Check your voter registration status, make an Election Day plan and follow it. Encourage others to vote, utilize the suggested resources and prepare for a grand celebration in November!  

The post On Nov. 5, we must ‘be about’ voting – especially young people appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Milbert O. Brown Jr.
Special to the AFRO

The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo’s National Rodeo Finals was held Sept. 21 at the Show Place Area in Upper Marlboro, Md. 

Often referred to as the “Greatest Show on Dirt, ” the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo (BPIR) began in 1984 and this year celebrates its 40th anniversary of highlighting the Black cowboys and cowgirls and the rodeo culture that helped build the western part of the United States. 

The BPIR is more than just a rodeo; it’s a platform that reintroduces an essential aspect of Black western heritage into contemporary society. The BPIR also serves as a cultural event and opportunity for families to enjoy and embrace the cowboy culture while being educated and entertained with reenactments, history highlights and western adventure.

In 2024, the BPIR will feature four rodeos in Fort Worth, Texas; Denver, Co.; Memphis, Tenn.; Oakland, Calif.; Los Angeles, Calif. and Atlanta, Ga. 

The post Upper Marlboro hosts the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Aria Brent
AFRO Staff Writer
abrent@afro.com

A variety of events will take place at the end of September, leading into the month of October. From expos and art shows to information sessions and film screenings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the next few weeks throughout the D.C., Maryland and Virginia (DMV) area. 

Maryland

A Black Souliloquy

A Black Souliloquy welcomes Black women to their monthly event, a time to blend creativity and reflection to help Black girls and women connect, unwind and grow together. This month they’ll be exploring the theme of “Finding Peace During Challenging Times,” while stimulating their creativity with a sand candle workshop. During the candle making guests will engage in an open and reflective discussion on maintaining peace and balance when life gets difficult. 

Date: Sept. 28

Time: 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. 

Location: Cahill Recreation Center

     4001 Clifton Avenue 

     Baltimore, MD 21216

DMV Black Student Leadership Conference

Black Student Development invites Black students from across the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area to Morgan State University for a day of inspiration, empowerment and connection. Come out for a day filled with insightful workshops, motivational speakers and networking opportunities.

Date: Oct. 4

Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Location: Morgan State University

    1700 East Cold Spring Lane

    Baltimore, MD 21251

Prostate Cancer Health Matters in Montgomery County

The Silver Spring Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity will host their event, “Prostate Cancer Health Matters,” in Montgomery County, Md. This event is open to all, including men, women and families, as prostate cancer is a disease that affects the entire community once a diagnosis is received.  

The event will feature a showing of the film “The Black Walnut,” and the film’s producer, Terrance Afer-Anderson, will be featured in a panel discussion with a urologist and several prostate cancer survivors. The session will be aimed at debunking myths behind prostate cancer and treatment options.

Date: Oct. 5

Time: 12  – 3 p.m. 

Location: 51 Mannakee St. (Science Building)

     Rockville, MD 2085

Black Wall Street Renaissance Pop-Up Shops

Join A-List Productions as they hold their monthly pop-up shop. Come out and enjoy a family-friendly environment that promotes unity, self love and healthy eating all the while keeping Black dollars in the Black community. 

Date: Oct. 5 

Time: 11 – 5 p.m.

Location: Everlasting Life Restaurant and Lounge

     9185 Central Avenue 

     Capitol Heights, MD 20743

Unbought and Unbossed: Shirley Watch Party and Panel Discussion

The Theta Omega Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority will host a watch party for the film, “Unbothered and Unbossed,” which tells the legacy of Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm. Following the film’s showing, a panel discussion will be held for attendees to hear from Maryland State Legislators.

Date: Oct. 6

Time: 3 – 6 p.m. 

Location: Colesville United Methodist

     52 Randolph Road 

     Silver Spring, MD 20904

Bear Witness to Our Story

Morgan State University’s Counseling Center and NAMI Metro Baltimore invited the community to an evening focused on elevating the voices of students and faculty as they explore mental health experiences in the Black community.

Date: Oct.10 

Time: 6 – 8:30 p.m. 

Location: Morgan State University

     1700 East Cold Spring Lane 

     Baltimore, MD 21251

Washington D.C. 

Art to the Future – Art All Night on Pennsylvania Avenue East Main Street

Join the Penn Branch Center as they host the  Art to the Future – Art All Night 2024. Guests can look forward to a night filled with creativity, inspiration and innovation. This year, the fourth annual Art All Night on PAEMS will offer a diverse range of artwork and interactive exhibits from local artists. Event attendees will be delighted with live music and goods from some of D.C.,’s best artisans, vendors and craft enthusiasts.

Date: Sept. 27

Time: 6 – 12 a.m.

Location: Penn Branch Center

     3202 Pennsylvania Avenue

     Southeast Washington, D.C. 20020

Below the Surface: A History in African American Printmaking

Black Art in America is hosting a free art show, highlighting contemporary printmakers from across the nation.

Date: Sept. 27- Nov. 2

Time:11 – 6 p.m. 

Location: 1201 K Street Northwest 

     Washington, D.C. 20005

A Right Proper Block Party 2024

A Right Proper Block Party is returning for the fourth annual Art All Night party. Guests will experience this free event that will feature live music, a fire dancer, artists and local art vendors. Additionally, the Black Beer Garden, hosted by Black Brew Movement, will feature a series of local Black-owned breweries for attendees to enjoy. 

Date: Sept. 28

Time: 5 – 12 a.m. 

Location: 624 T Street Northwest 

     Washington, D.C. 20001

A FORGOTTEN MIGRATION |  Busboys and Poets 

Come out to Busboys and Poets for, “A Forgotten Migration,” a production that tells the story of “segregation scholarships.” The funding was used by states in the Southern part of the U.S. to help Black students seeking graduate education prior to the Brown v. Board of Education era. 

Date: Oct. 9

Time: 7 p.m.

Location: Busboys and Poets 14th and V

      2021 14th St 

      NW Washington, D.C. 20009

Virginia 

Walking Tour: Black Heritage Fort Monroe 

Guests are invited to the Fort Monroe National Monument to explore the rich and dynamic history of “Freedom’s Fortress.” 

Date: Oct. 1 – Nov. 8

Time: 1 – 2 p.m.

Location: 30 Ingalls Road

     Fort Monroe, VA

Improving Birth Outcomes: Health Disparities and Black Birthing People 

Virginia Commonwealth University Health office of Health Equity along with the Health Humanities Lab at the Humanities Research Center will host the 2024 History and Health annual symposium on Oct.2. The event will explore the history of reproductive healthcare policies, the social determinants fueling the ongoing Black maternal health crisis and strategies to combat the health and healthcare disparities. 

Date: Oct. 2

Time: 12 – 4:30 p.m.

Location: 800 E Broad St

     Richmond, VA 23219

*All events listed are free to attend.

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By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Staff Writer
tmcqueen@afro.com

The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced that they are awarding the Maryland Technology Development (TEDCO), an instrument of the state, $10 million to support small businesses.

With the funding, Maryland will create the Business Resource Information, Development and Guidance Ecosystem (BRIDGE) program. BRIDGE will provide specialized accounting, financial and legal advisory services to small businesses throughout the region.

During a Sept. 9 press call, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) acknowledged that it can be “difficult to become a successful entrepreneur.”

“When you start out, there are often more questions than answers,” said Moore. “How do you scale up a business model? How do you access the legal services that you need?”

He went on to emphasize that this initiative would help tackle those questions.

“It’s going to help us to create pathways for work, wages and wealth,” said Moore.

According to a 2023 Maryland small business profile by the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy, there are 639,789 small businesses in the state. Around 99 percent of Maryland businesses are small.

TEDCO plans to work with the University of Maryland to help the state develop and implement the new program. Both have already pledged to match almost $2.2 million to help support the initiative.

Troy LeMaile-Stovall, TEDCO’s chief executive officer, emphasized how the BRIDGE program will help entrepreneurs throughout the region.

“It will give them back a minute. It will give them access to talent that they need to grow and scale their enterprises,” said LeMaile-Stovall. “The whole TEDCO team and this ecosystem is excited about this opportunity to put these resources to work, to help make this region the economic powerhouse it can and should be.”

Though Maryland will lead BRIDGE, it will be done in partnership with Delaware, Virginia and Washington D.C.

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By Brittany Marshall

First Lady Dawn Moore and the Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) today announced the appointment of Lady Brion as Maryland’s 11th Poet Laureate. The first lady was joined by Maryland State Arts Council Executive Director Steven Skerritt-Davis and local members of the arts community in a ceremony at The Clifton House in Baltimore. 

“Lady Brion uses her voice to speak up for those who have gone overlooked and been left behind for too long. She is an ambassador for those who need hope, an advocate for those who need a fighter — and she will be a champion for all Marylanders, no matter their background, zip code, or personal story,” said First Lady Moore. 

“As First Lady, I am committed to working within the Moore-Miller administration to ensure that the arts are not just celebrated but are elevated in this state.”

Based in Baltimore City, Lady Brion is a spoken word artist, writer, cultural worker, and activist whose efforts focus on women’s empowerment and telling the story of the Black experience. The author of several written and recorded publications, Lady Brion is a mainstay in state, national and international spoken word scenes. In 2023, she performed before the inauguration ceremony of Governor Wes Moore and during the inauguration ceremony for Comptroller Brooke Lierman.

“I am deeply humbled and honored to accept the appointment as Poet Laureate of Maryland, a role that allows me to pay homage to the extraordinary poet Lucille Clifton. It is my mission to build upon her legacy, using the power of words to spark dialogue while fostering greater creativity, empathy and understanding across the state of Maryland,” said Lady Brion. “Special thanks to Governor and First Lady Moore, as well as the Maryland State Arts Council, for selecting me.”

Appointed by Governor Wes Moore, Lady Brion will serve as Poet Laureate providing public readings and programs for the citizens of Maryland. The honorary state position was established by the Maryland General Assembly in 1959. 

“Lady Brion exemplifies what it means to be Poet Laureate,” said Maryland State Arts Council Executive Director Skerritt-Davis. “Her talent, dedication to her craft and innate ability to engage people make her a natural fit for this prestigious role.”

For history of the Maryland Poet Laureate program and more details on Lady Brion’s role and booking information as Poet Laureate, visit msac.org/programs/poet-laureate.

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By Catherine Pugh
Special to the AFRO

The Maryland Legislative Black Caucus, with the support of the Maryland Black Caucus Foundation, hosted one of the largest state gatherings during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 53rd Annual Legislative Conference from Sept. 11 through Sept. 15 in Washington, D.C.

The weekend’s Friday night is reserved for states throughout the country to host their congressional, state and local constituents, civic and business leaders and guests.  

Maryland has the largest Black state legislative body in the country with 66 members.

The event titled, “Maryland Black Excellence,” showcased Gov. Wes Moore who reminded the audience: “We have to elect Angela Alsobrooks to the United States Senate to maintain control of the country’s future agenda.” 

Alsobrooks, county executive for Prince George’s County, is the Democratic nominee for the Maryland Senate seat being vacated by Democratic Sen. Ben Cardin. Alsobrooks appeared on the stage with a number of Maryland elected officials, including Moore, Congressman Kweisi Mfume, who represents Maryland’s 7th congressional district, and Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott. The diverse group also included U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Md., 5th district), Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller and Democratic candidate for Congress state Sen. Sara Elfreth (D-Dist. 30), who is running to replace Congressman John Sarbanes, who did not seek re-election. Congressman Glen Ivey (4th District) was also in attendance but had to leave for another event.  

The waiting list to attend the Maryland celebration exceeded 3,000 with over a thousand people in the room of the Salamander Hotel, which is owned by a Black entrepreneur Sheila Johnson and Henderson Park.

“The excitement and interest in the event with attendees from across Maryland reflects the energy and progress we are making in the state under the leadership of Governor Wes Moore and Speaker Adrienne Jones,” said Chairwoman of the Maryland Legislative Black Caucus Jheanelle Wilkins, who has represented District 20 in the House of Delegates since 2017.

“With the only Black governor in the country, and the first Black and female speaker of the House, Maryland stands as a model for Black political leadership with deep impact, “ continued Del. Wilkins.

“This was a night of celebration,” said the Rev. Dr. Zina Pierre, president of the Maryland Black Caucus Foundation. “We put in a lot of work to showcase our Black leadership at the federal level and to showcase the excellence of Maryland and its delegation. In Maryland we all work together. That is why you saw the chair of the (national) Democratic Party, Ken Ulman, along with congressional leader Steny Hoyer in attendance. Maryland is a state that is truly moving forward.”

Pierre said 34 members of the Maryland Legislative Black Caucus will head to the White House and Capitol Hill on Sept. 18 to lobby on behalf of the state of Maryland.

“We were so proud to come together during the nation’s foremost Black political week,” said Wilkins.

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By DaQuan Lawrence
AFRO International Writer
DLawrence@afro.com 

As the 2024-2025 school year picks up steam, students across the state of Maryland are preparing for after school clubs and activities, while teachers, parents and administrators anticipate back-to-school night events to engage all stakeholders. 

Though all involved are focusing on methods and mechanisms to support students’ personal and academic success, an issue of particular concern has been how to support Black male youth.

The AFRO spoke with Black male educators throughout Maryland about the need for programs and supportive mechanisms that promote the emotional and social healing of Black boys involved in grades K-12. 

The teachers shared insights about the importance of reconciliation programming across America and the recovery of the Black family from generations of traumatic experiences. 

Due to the various social, economic, emotional and psychological issues that Black male youth may experience, educators generally recommended that sports programs, extracurricular activities and mentorship programs could be beneficial to adolescents in need of positive and constructive outlets. 

Having access to an adult to speak with about personal, academic goals and family circumstances, and having household expectations that permit and allow Black male youth to communicate and express themselves were also suggestions that received multiple recommendations from Black male educators. 

“Just being a Black man, we are always told to toughen up and to ‘be tough.’ I think Black boys have a lot of [emotions] about their experiences built up inside, based on things that they have not been able to, or allowed to express,” Jesse Bragg, who is a middle school educator in Anne Arundel County, shared with The AFRO.  

“I think we need more mentorship for Black male youth. Black boys need an adult who they feel comfortable expressing themselves to,” Bragg, a native of Detroit, Michigan, who has been an educator in Maryland for the past 10 years, added. 

Educators generally suggested that schools can provide Black male youth with a sense of belonging through programs like sports and mentorship, which can help reduce feelings of isolation and rejection in students.

According to the 2008 National Assessment of Educational Progress – a federally mandated report on student performance which measured grades 4, 8, and 12 – the reading scores of Black boys in eighth grade were slightly higher than the scores of White girls in fourth grade. The National Center for Education Statistics also reported that in math, 46 percent of African American boys possessed “basic” or higher grade-level skills, compared with 82 percent of White boys. 

In Maryland the educational issues that Black male youth face reflect that of the nation at-large. In 2021, the Maryland State Board of Education commissioned efforts to address the widening achievement gap that disproportionately impacts Black male youth in state schools. 

According to the report “Transforming the Culture of Maryland’s Schools for Black Boys,” Maryland public school data revealed consistently lower proficiency and graduation rates for Black boys, based on test scores from the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC). 

Victor Smith, who is originally from Baltimore, Maryland, is currently an educator in Anne Arundel County Public Schools, although he served in the U.S. military and spent time working as a police officer in Maryland. 

“I believe that young Black males between kindergarten to 12^th grade and beyond need healing from many things that happened systemically to Black males throughout history. Black communities are embedded with trauma, and based upon history, it’s a part of the culture,” Smith told The AFRO. 

Researchers have shown that the abundance of educational barriers that Black male youth experience can be overcome by consistent institutional supports that address the issues youth endure. According to “Countering Educational Disparities Among Black Boys and Black Adolescent Boys from Pre-K to High School,” identifying the “cumulative impact of threats and protective factors” for Black males’ “academic success provides insight for supporting Black boys at various developmental stages.”

Or in other words, by creating and providing spaces and opportunities for Black boys to address their emotional health throughout their educational matriculation in grades K-12, families and schools can positively transform the lives of millions of Black male youth. 

“Parents might normalize behavior by saying ‘Boys don’t cry’, and there is a lot [of pressure] from households that Black kids endure without knowing how to deal with,” Bragg said.  

Providing spaces for Black male youth to discuss their daily experiences has become critical as the suicide rate among Black adolescents is increasing faster than thay of other racial and ethnic groups, according to research provided by the Emergency Taskforce on Black Youth Suicide and Mental Health. 

Between 2007 and 2020, the suicide rate among Black 10- to 17-year-olds increased by 144 percent, according to Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Gun Violence Solutions. 

Recent federal data from The Pew Charitable Trusts shows that in 2022 the suicide rate among Black youth ages 10 to 19 exceeded that of White youth for the first time, increasing 54 percent since 2018, compared to a 17 percent decrease for White youth. 

“I believe that the school system is going to be the foundation,” Smith said, sharing his thoughts on how schools play an invaluable role in preventing and diminishing suicide rates among Black male youth. 

“I think there is still some level of taboo about discussing suicide within households and schools are equipped with systems and adults who can readily provide Black male youth with needed support. The culture inside schools are different than households,” Smith said.

“If kids felt protected or felt that somebody had their best interest at heart, I think they’d be a little bit more willing to communicate with that person,” Bragg added, discussing his thoughts of ways to prevent suicide among Black adolescent males. 

“Most of the time they don’t have anyone or a safe space, so they keep everything to themselves and try to deal with it the best way they can,” Bragg explained.

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Four Red Line stations reopened on Sunday, Sept. 1, with MTA Purple Line construction continuing at Silver Spring. 

By Kevin McNeir
Special to the AFRO

As crews replaced crossties along the Red Line during the summer construction, Metro riders were forced to either take shuttles or secure other means of transportation. After a summer of lengthened commute times for passengers, four stations along the Red Line, in Glenmont, Wheaton, Forest Glen and Silver Spring, have reopened. Silver Spring remains an active construction site for the Purple Line and scaffolding will remain on site until the conclusion of the work, which has been extended to December 2027. At that time, Purple Line operations are slated to begin.  

The MTA has reported that more than 850,000 trips were made on the shuttles during the construction work and issued a note of thanks to customers for their patience as MTA made progress on the connection between the Purple Line light rail and Metrorail.  

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By Kevin D. McNair
Special to the AFRO

Members of the Maryland Legislative LGBTQ+ Caucus recently released a statement in response to reports about Larry Hogan allegedly dismissing the concerns of an LGBTQ+ Maryland voter who brought up his record of refusing to stand up for LGBTQ+ rights. 

“Larry Hogan is no friend to the LGBTQ+ community,” said District 3 Delegate and Chair of the Maryland Legislative LGBTQ+ Caucus, Kris Fair. “As governor, he refused to take a stand on basic legislation to protect LGBTQ+ Marylanders from hate crimes, stop discrimination against LGBTQ+ students and patients, or eliminate the so-called ‘panic defense’ that allows criminals to evade culpability when they harm LGBTQ+ people.” 

District 17 State Delegate Joe Vogel said he wants more than empty promises and an illusion of support. 

“I want to know whether my next Senator will stand up for transgender Maryland and LGBTQ+ children against an onslaught of attacks from the far-right,” he said. “I want to know whether my next Senator will fight back against a Supreme Court intent on repealing the rights generations fought for — including the right to gay marriage.”  

Hogan, the former Maryland governor, who’s running for U.S. Senate as a moderate Republican, says he can work across political divides. But he seemed to evade questions on his record about LGBTQ+ rights during a recent town hall via telephone.

Hogan said he didn’t know what bills were being questioned and added that he didn’t oppose any that he could recall and that they became law anyway. Several pro-LGBTQ+ bills did become law without his signature during his two terms in office (2015 – 2023) and he did in fact oppose others. 

Hogan’s campaign website doesn’t include a section on LGBTQ+ issues. In contrast, his opponent, Angela Alsobrooks, does include on her site a section on “Equality,” which notes that as Prince George’s County executive, she appointed the county’s first LGBTQ+ liaison.

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By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Staff Writer
tmcqueen@afro.com

Maryland voters’ approval of Vice President Kamala Harris (D), Democratic presidential nominee, and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) have increased since February.

According to a poll released on Sept. 3 by Gonzales Research and Media Services, Marylanders approve of Harris’ job in the White House by 55 percent and Moore’s job as governor by 64 percent. In a February poll by Gonzales, Harris had around 46 percent approval and Moore had 58 percent. 

In comparison, Harris’ Republican opponent, former President Donald Trump, has a 57 percent disapproval rating for his job in the White House. About 42 percent of Marylanders approve of Trump’s work as president.

Pollster Patrick Gonzales said he believes Harris’ approval ratings are up in Maryland, because “she had an excellent convention in Chicago.”

The poll was conducted on Aug. 24-30, days after Harris and Moore’s televised speeches at the vibrant 2024 Democratic National Convention (DNC).

Gonzales continued saying “the events of the last seven to eight weeks,” including President Joe Biden (D) dropping out of the presidential race, led Maryland voters to support her.

Gonzales said he felt that Moore’s primetime speech at the convention has much to do with his approval increase as well. He also credited Moore’s success to his handling of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse on March 26.

Moore spent weeks in Baltimore working with federal, state and local officials to recover the six workers who died, reopen the Port of Baltimore and support those impacted by the tragic incident. Through that work, the port was reopened in 11 weeks.

Though Moore’s ratings have risen, recent scrutiny could have produced different results. 

Moore apologized on Aug. 29 for inaccurately stating that he received a military Bronze Star Medal on a White House application.

“I sincerely wish I had gone back to correct the note on my application,” said Moore in a statement. “It was an honest mistake, and I regret not making that correction.”

The AFRO reached out to the governor’s office for comment but did not receive a timely response.

The Gonzales poll found that if the election was held today 56 percent of Maryland voters would choose Harris, while 35 percent would vote for Trump.

Gonzales’ report acknowledges that voters’ preference for Democrat candidates makes sense for the heavily Blue state.

According to the poll, 81 percent of Democrats, 44 percent of independents and 10 percent of Republicans approve of Harris.

For Moore, 82 percent of Democrats, 52 percent of independents and 35 percent of Republicans approved of him.

Poll results show that Harris and Moore largely have the approval of Black Maryland voters.

About 88 percent of African Americans approve of Moore, while only 2 percent disapprove. About 84 percent of Black Marylanders approve of Harris, while 8 percent disapprove.

Gonzales noted that Moore’s high results can provide him with stronger “political capital,” policy-making power. Gonzales provided an example of how this influence works.

“If I was the governor of Maryland and I walked into a room trying to execute this big deal the same day a poll came out that showed my approval was at 30 percent, I would have a much more difficult time than if I walked into that room on a day when my approval came out at 65 percent,” he said. 

About 820 registered voters, who said they are likely to vote in the general election, were polled via live phone interviews for the poll.

The Gonzales poll also addresses what Marylanders find important. 

According to poll results, 58 percent of Maryland voters prefer strict laws that hold juveniles accountable for their actions, while 34 percent favor lenient laws.

Overwhelmingly, 95 percent of Marylanders surveyed believe it is important for the state to invest in transportation infrastructure. About 61 percent find it “very” important and 34 percent find it “somewhat” important.

The post Kamala Harris, Wes Moore approval ratings soar in Maryland appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Ariyana Griffin
AFRO Staff Writer
agriffin@afro.com

Each year, Maryland Public Television (MPT)  dedicates a week to uplifting the history, innovation and under-told stories of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) with its HBCU Week segments. This year, the network will feature programming Sept. 2-8.

Since 2020, MPT has broadcast a week-long series of HBCU news and history of the present, past, and future as part of its  “Standing Against Racism: Fostering Unity Through Dialogue” initiative. The initiative’s goal is to “stimulate thoughtful discussion and increase understanding of race-related issues in communities across Maryland,” MPT said in a statement.

This year will mark their fifth annual season of special programming with content produced locally and by individual producers.

This year’s programming will include 30 hours of HBCU based content and 12 premiere films that will debut across MPT TV, social media, and online platforms.

Some stories broadcasted throughout the week include “Journeys of Black Mathematicians: Forging Resilience,” “The Golden Year: Howard Women’s Basketball,” “The Morgan Lacrosse Story,” and many more inspiring stories regarding HBCUs across the nation on arts, music, history and sports. 

Take a look below at some of the events taking place this week:

History of a National Treasure: Morgan State University – Tuesday, September 3, 8-8:30 p.m.
Learn the story of Morgan State University in Baltimore, whose creation is rooted in the 1850 Fugitive Slave Act and born of the vision of five churchmen and former slaves, determined to lift their race through education.

George H. White: Searching for Freedom – Tuesday, September 3, 9:30-10 p.m.
View this documentary to learn about the life and legacy of one of the most significant African-American leaders of the Reconstruction Era. From humble beginnings in eastern North Carolina, George H. White, a graduate of Howard University, ascended to serve in the United States Congress as its sole Black voice little more than two decades after Emancipation.

Dr. Eddie Henderson: Uncommon Genius – Wednesday, September 4, 8-8:30 p.m.
Born on October 26, 1940, in New York City, Dr. Eddie Henderson is a renowned American jazz trumpeter and flugelhorn player. He is known for his lyrical phrasing and inventive improvisations, blending traditional jazz with contemporary elements such as funk and soul. Learn about this musician and his legacy during MPT’s HBCU Week on Sept. 4. 

Artworks: Imani-Grace Special – Wednesday, September 4, 8:30-9:30 p.m.
With a voice compared to Billie Holiday, Howard University graduate Imani-Grace Cooper has performed alongside jazz greats such as Esperanza Spalding and George Duke. In this Artworks special, Cooper performs Black American music classics that harken back to the jazz legends of the past, soul singers of the present, and a sound for the future.

Artworks: The Art of Strings – Wednesday, September 4, 9:30-10 p.m.
The Randolph String Quartet, a preeminent group of siblings – and Howard University alumni – who perform around the world, teaches viewers about the classic string ensemble format through classic and contemporary repertoire. This Artworks episode features performances by the quartet and offers a look at issues of diversity in classical music.

The Golden Year: Howard Women’s Basketball – Thursday, September 5, 8-8:30 p.m.
Since 1974, the Howard University women’s basketball program has been committed to excellence that extends beyond the court. Facing triumph and challenges, the team continues to raise the bar while embodying the spirit of resilience, determination, and pride. Learn about this golden year on Sept. 5 at 8 p.m.

Inside the CIAA: Impact – Thursday, September 5, 8:30-9 p.m.
Discover the impact that the CIAA Tournament – the nation’s largest and oldest HBCU postseason basketball tournament – has on the city of Baltimore, including its thriving Black business community.

Local, USA | HBCU Week: Tradition and Competition – Thursday, September 5, 9-9:30 p.m.
Experience the football culture of HBCUs, featuring the historic rivalry of Hampton and Howard since 1908 and the intense matchups of N.C. A&T vs. N.C. Central. This episode highlights the camaraderie and competition in HBCU sports and their impact on African American communities.

The Dream Whisperer – Thursday, September 5, 9:30-10:30 p.m.
In the midst of segregation, the all-Black Tennessee A&I Tigers became the first collegiate basketball team to win three consecutive national championships. Captain Dick Barnett fought to secure recognition for his team. Discover their triumph over adversity and Barnett’s relentless effort to preserve their legacy.

State Circle Special: Where Do We Go From Here? – Friday, September 6, 7-8 p.m.
Learn about groundbreaking new programs and initiatives at the six HBCUs located in the Maryland area from their visionary presidents and award-winning faculty and students.

Journeys of Black Mathematicians: Forging Resilience – Friday, September 6, 9-10 p.m.
Severely underrepresented in mathematics, African Americans have played important roles as researchers and educators in the field. This film traces the history of the individuals who worked as pioneers in expanding the presence of African Americans in mathematics.

The post Maryland Public Television highlights Black colleges and universities with fifth annual HBCU Week appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By D. Kevin McNeir
Special to the AFRO

Former Prince George’s County Councilman Mel Franklin pleaded guilty to felony theft scheme over $100,000 and perjury Aug. 26 after prosecutors determined that he had stolen money from his own campaign fund.

According to prosecutors, Mel Franklin allegedly took more than $124,000 from his Friends of Mel Franklin campaign account and used the money, without legal authority, to pay for his personal use and benefit, including loans, credit card debt, rent and cosmetic procedures. 

He has also been charged with falsifying reports to the state board of elections regarding expenditures. As part of the plea, Franklin agreed to a sentence of five years, with all but one year suspended, on both counts. The sentences will run concurrently. In addition, he agreed to pay $133,000 in restitution to the campaign. That money will go to a charitable organization.

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By D. Kevin McNeir
Special to the AFRO

Montgomery County Public Schools may be surprised with a new item coming to their bathrooms soon – vape detectors. 

That’s right – the Montgomery County Board of Education in Maryland recently approved a plan to use $2 million to install vape detectors in all county high schools.

Over the past few years, school officials throughout the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area have continued to address and confront the challenge of students vaping. Some school districts have already installed detectors, stationed bathroom monitors and provided information for teachers so they can better anticipate when and where students may attempt to sneak away for a puff. 

But the problem has only gotten worse. 

According to CDC research from 2023, 2.1 million students currently use e-cigarettes. Of the children who vape, 25 percent reported using e-cigarettes (electronic cigarettes) daily; more than 22,000 were surveyed by the FDA.

Further, recent data shows that e-cigarettes are currently the most widely used tobacco product among young people in the U.S. But hold onto your hats. While the number of high school students using tobacco decreased between 2022 and 2023, the number of middle school students went up, according to the FDA.

Any form of nicotine use, including vaping, has been found to have negative health impacts, experts say. E-cigarettes can damage lungs, leading to problems that include COPD, asthma and lung cancer. The chemicals found in e-cigarettes can also cause lung disease or heart disease. Medical officials warn that young people may become more easily addicted to nicotine because their brains are still developing.

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By Megan Sayles
AFRO Business Writer
msayles@afro.com

Bowie State University (BSU) celebrated the ribbon-cutting of the $166-million Martin Luther King Jr. Center on Aug. 27. The new 192,000 square-foot building will be the home base for studies in communications and humanities, as well as for the historically Black college’s military science program. 

The hub notably displays a two-story likeness of late BSU student 1st Lt. Richard W. Collins III, who was killed on the University of Maryland’s (UMD) campus in 2017 just days before his graduation. Collins’ parents said they were thankful for the university’s commitment to honoring their son. 

“We are thrilled that the university continues to remember our son. What happened to him seven years ago is something no parent should ever have to endure,” said Dawn Collins. “My son was ready to give his life for this country, and to have his life taken away from him because someone viewed him as ‘other’ is despicable. It’s momentous that the university would do this, and it’s so befitting that it’s in the MLK center.” 

In the early hours of May 20, 2017, Collins was waiting for a ride-hailing service with friends when UMD student Sean Urbanski approached him. Urbanski, a white man, instructed Collins to “step left, if you know what’s good for you.” When he refused, Urbanski fatally stabbed him in the chest. The U.S. Army commissioned Collins as a second lieutenant shortly before his death and later promoted him to 1st lieutenant posthumously. 

Investigators discovered that Urbanski was a member of a Facebook group called “Alt-Reich: Nation,” a page known for sharing bigoted posts about African Americans and other groups. Although prosecutors argued that the killing was a hate crime, the judge dismissed the charge for lack of evidence. Urbanski was convicted of first-degree murder in December 2019 and subsequently sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole. 

Following their son’s death, the Collins were thrust into advocacy. They quickly established the 2nd Lt. Richard Collins III Foundation to educate and empower young Americans who are dedicated to creating a hate-free society. 

The couple was also instrumental in the formation of the BSU-UMD Social Justice Alliance. As a result of their work, BSU and UMD began offering a new sociology course, “Hate Crimes in the U.S.: What Lt. Richard Collins III Can Teach Us About History, Hope and Healing,” this semester. The class is the first-of-its kind in the country. 

Collins’ father said his son would have been proud of the new portrait. 

“We’re proud of him, and he certainly would have been proud of the likeness and representation that he’ll forever have on his alma mater’s campus,” said Richard Collins Jr. “He was a young man who was full of life, intelligent, athletic, and he loved people. It’s a bittersweet moment for us because you never get over something as traumatic as what happened to our son, but it helps us to be energized around our active advocacy.” 

Aside from Collins’ image, the center’s main entrance displays abstract impressions of vocal sound waves from Dr. King’s 1964 Nobel Peace Prize speech. 

The building features a fitness center and outdoor training plaza for BSU’s ROTC students. Those studying communications have access to a podcast studio, two television studios, digital editing labs, a custom recording booth and an advanced digital screening room. 

The center also holds 18 general classrooms, a 1,500-seat auditorium and two lecture halls. 

“Every student receiving a BSU education will pass through this building at some point in their curriculum,” said BSU President Aminta H. Breaux in a statement. “The cutting-edge tools and resources found here will elevate instruction of the liberal arts and enable students to find their own voice and develop skills to navigate real-world challenges in their future careers.”

The post Bowie State University honors late student with image in new MLK center appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By DaQuan Lawrence
AFRO International Writer
DLawrence@afro.com 

Students and families in Baltimore County and Baltimore City returned to school for the official first day of school on Aug. 26. As the school year kicks off, the AFRO spoke with Baltimore City Public Schools CEO Sonja Santelises to get tips on how to properly return to classes.

At the top of the list? Sleep!

“Parents, grandparents and families– please make sure that young people are getting to bed at a decent time,” Baltimore City Public Schools (City Schools) CEO, Dr. Sonja Brookins Santelises said, when asked to speak directly to returning families with back to school tips.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), students who are between six and 12 years of age need an average of nine to 12 hours of sleep every 24 hours. Scholars ages 13 to 18 are said to need between eight and 10 hours of sleep every night. 

Though sleep is necessary for all students, Santelises gave tips for every grade band.

“If your student is in high school make sure you are checking their schedule. Students should be coming home with schedules, if not please call their school and tell them that CEO Santelises said, ‘Your student needs to have their schedule that first day- no later than by the end of the first week of school.’” 

She also gave a bit of advice for families with middle school students.

“If your child is in middle or elementary school, make sure that they are in the classes that they need to be in. Make sure you understand from the teacher what the expectations are and attend Back to School Night events if you can,” Santelises said. “If you cannot attend back to school night, make sure you know where to get that information.”

City Schools has shared a checklist with families that helps prepare students for the new school year, including information on attendance policies, school bell times and school supplies lists. 

The district suggests setting routines to make the process of returning back to school and getting into the flow of classes a smooth process. 

“Set routines that your family sticks to every day and make sure the children in your family follow them. Have specific times for waking up, starting homework, and going to bed. Check in with your child in the evening to ask about her or his day at school,” suggest City Schools experts in their attendance guide. “Maintain contact with your child’s teachers to keep up with what’s being taught and to keep an eye on your child’s progress; you can also check your child’s attendance through Parent Portal. Be sure to let your child’s school know when he or she needs to miss school. And, don’t forget to update your contact information with your child’s school if your phone number or address changes.”

The number to the attendance hotline, open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., is 410-396-8643.

Families and students can find more information about the upcoming school year at the City Schools website.

The district has information on how to access laptops and hotspots, where to find meals, and upcoming events available as well. Families or parents with questions, can call 410-545-1870.

“I think the biggest thing to remember is that the full year counts. School is a long-distance journey and I want our students to have a great 2024-2025 school year,”  Santelises said. We want a great start, but we want to make sure we are checking in with young people along the way.” 

While a few specific schools started classes in the past few weeks, most districts in Maryland welcomed all students back on Aug. 26. 

Students in Anne Arundel; Dorchester; Kent; Montgomery; Wicomico and Queen Anne’s Counties all have staggered returns, taking place between Aug. 26 and Sept. 3. 

Aside from the school districts in Baltimore, students in Allegany; Charles; Howard; Talbot and Washington Counties also returned in full on Aug. 26.

Calvert County students begin on Aug. 27. Caroline County schools will welcome all students on Aug. 28, and Carroll; Cecil; Garrett; Somerset and Worcester Counties are expecting all students to return on Sept. 3.

The post Back to school tips from Baltimore City Public Schools CEO Sonja Santelises  appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By AFRO Staff

The AFRO will host its annual D.C. High Tea on Sept. 7 from 2 – 5 p.m. at Shiloh Baptist Church.  

Each year the publication hosts the tea in honor of men and women who have significantly impacted the Black community. 

See pictures from the September 7, 2024 event here. Photo credit: Patricia Mcdougall. And the 360 Video here and below.

The AFRO will recognize Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks at the 2024 event, along with Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, civic leader and professor Cora Masters Barry and Former D.C. Mayor Sharon Pratt. 

“This year’s honorees were chosen due to their remarkable and unwavering service to the D.C. community,” said Diane Hocker, AFRO director of community and public relations. “It’s going to be a delightful tea with lots of high energy. Our attendees will have the chance to network, be entertained and enjoy some delicious food.”

Hocker started planning this year’s tea in December 2023. The event last came to D.C. in 2022, honoring Cathy Hughes, Dorothy Butler Gilliam, Denise Rolark Barnes, Michelle Richardson and Karyn A.Temple. The job of organizing the D.C. tea passed to her after the death of D.C.’s own Edgar Brookins, a beloved member of the community and long-time AFRO circulation and general manager, who orchestrated the inaugural D.C. High Tea years ago. 

“Edgar Brookins was everything. He was ‘Mr. D.C.,’” said Hocker. “He was very instrumental in the AFRO bringing the tea to the D.C. in 2018.”

This year’s tea will be a highlight of the 2024 social calendar, complete with catering from B&B II, great entertainment and of course, the AFRO High Tea fashion show, where participants show off their finest threads and hats. 

Tickets for the 2024 D.C. AFRO High Tea are available for $100 at afrotix.live and the admission price includes a free six month subscription to the publication.

The post AFRO Tea set for return to nation’s capital – See Pictures appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Aria Brent
AFRO Staff Writer
abrent@afro.com

When it comes to defying odds and blazing trails, Windsor Group knows a thing or two about it. Since starting in 2017, the Black, women and veteran- owned business has worked hard to continuously raise the bar in the world of business professional development. 

With a series of services offered including IT, project and program management, management consulting, staff augmentation and many more, the company is on the rise. 

Diedre Windsor, president and CEO of Windsor Group, spoke with the AFRO to discuss her ever-growing business, how it started, the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses and the role they played in providing funding opportunities from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to over 58,000 agriculturists. This week, Windsor’s company was listed on the Inc. 5000 list. According to information released by Inc.com, “companies on the 2024 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth over the last three years. They generated 874,940 jobs, $317 billion in revenue, and show where the economy is going.”

Read below to learn more about this Black woman on the move and what she told the AFRO about discrimination when it comes to African-American entrepreneurship.

AFRO: Tell me about Windsor Group. When were you founded and what’s your purpose? 

DW: We registered in January of 2014, but I did not start the business until 2017. In 2016, I quit my job in the federal government. I was working at the U.S. Department of Justice. I left that job and decided to start the business full time. 

We are a professional services firm. Under the umbrella of professional services, we offer IT services, project and program management, management consulting, training, development and staff augmentation. We are 100 percent federal government contractors. 

AFRO: How did you get involved with the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program and what was that like? 

DW: Interestingly enough, in the federal government, they have what’s called a “multiple award schedule.” We’re on the schedule and last year I got a call from a large company that wanted to pursue this opportunity at the USDA. It’s the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program. The program came from legislation 22007, of the Inflation Reduction Act, which required the USDA to provide 2.2 billion in financial assistance to farmers, ranchers and forest landowners who had been discriminated against. You had the national administrator, who was the final decision maker, but also the vendor that would make sure the checks were distributed. You also had the regional hubs and these vendors were responsible for making sure that we communicated this information. 

Our job was outreach and technical assistance. We needed to find the farmers and make sure they understood this information–that this financial assistance was available– and then help them with the application process. The application was 40 pages and that was daunting by itself. But that was our responsibility. They asked us if we were interested. We said “yes” and went forward. 

We ended up being awarded the contract to execute East of the Mississippi River and that was 26 or 27 states, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.There were 43,000 financial assistance awards made and 33,000 of those came from the East Coast. Our technical approach was successful because we were able to get over 58,000 applications. I’m sure some of them fell out for one reason or the other, but we were responsible for about 78 percent of the applications and we were responsible for about 72 percent of the awards that were distributed. The program was a huge success.

AFRO: What does discrimination within the agriculture industry look like? 

DW: It’s the same as what it looks like for me as a small business owner. 

For example, “Mr. Smith goes to the USDA and says ‘Hey, I have 15 acres and I want to do X,Y and Z,’” but then he is discriminated against: He can’t get the loan to do what he needs to do to progress on his land. That can result in him maybe having to sell the land because he has no money to keep it. 

The old saying goes, “You have to have some money, to make some money,”  and sometimes having money just means getting a small loan. You can only do so much borrowing from friends and family. Most of us don’t have friends and family that can lend us the type of money we need to actually get something like that off the ground. 

How are you going to make progress without getting the money that you need? 

There are people who told us they tried to get a loan, but couldn’t. When they didn’t get the loan they needed, they had their White neighbor go in and try to get the same loan. 

The neighbor got the loan. 

The Discrimination Financial Assistance Program addressed all forms of discrimination. 

AFRO: What’s next for Windsor Group?

DW: We’re looking to give back even more. 

For the last two years, we’ve been on the Washington Business Journal list of corporate philanthropists. I feel like the more we grow, the more we can give back. It’s made me think a lot about how I want to give back in the future because right now we help quite a few organizations. 

Right now, we are focused on a lot of veteran organizations. I try to stick to organizations where I know what kind of impact it will have on the person. 

As a Black woman veteran, I know the trials people like me deal with, and I know organizations that support that population. I want to support them, but I also want to support scholarships at HBCUs. I also want to support food insecurity. On the business side, we’re diversified within the government, and right now I’m looking at how we move beyond the government to the commercial space. In order to truly grow and scale, that’s going to take something different and I’m not 100 percent sure what that is yet. 

We’ve been very fortunate because we’ve grown every year. This week, we were notified we’re on the Inc. 5000 list– number 318. This is our fourth year in a row we’ve been on Inc. 5000 and that means that we’ve been consistently growing.

AFRO: Why is it important to support Black-owned businesses? 

DW: I think it’s critical. Sometimes it’s only us helping each other. I’m not saying other people don’t help us, but if we don’t help us—who’s going to help us? Don’t get me wrong, there are a lot of great philanthropic organizations and people out there that are helping us because “they don’t see color.” However, for me, it’s important that I help Black-owned companies, women-owned companies and veteran-owned companies.”

The post AFRO spotlight on Black excellence: Meet Diedre Windsor, the Maryland entrepreneur on the Inc. 5000 list appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Deyane Moses,
Special to the AFRO

The Association of African American Museums (AAAM) has officially returned to Baltimore for its annual conference, taking place Aug. 13-16 at the Hilton Camden Yard.  The event gathers museum professionals, historians and community leaders to explore the profound impact of African-American history and culture on the nation.

Dr. Vedet Coleman-Robinson is a visionary leader dedicated to preserving and elevating African American history and culture. As president and CEO of AAAM, she continues the organization’s legacy as a powerful force for change. Her expertise in museum management, coupled with her unwavering commitment to equity and inclusion, has resulted in significant growth and impact for AAAM.

“Maybe in the last six months or so, our registration has skyrocketed to over 700 attendees for the conference! This is a huge milestone for us. Our membership since I’ve been hired has gone up by over 270 percent. So we’re on a trajectory that we’ve never seen before,” said Dr. Coleman-Robinson.

This year’s conference theme, “Acknowledging Legacy, Fostering Progress,” marks a dual celebration. It commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act while placing a spotlight on Maryland’s rich African American heritage.

“We couldn’t imagine hosting this conference anywhere else but Maryland,” says Dr. Coleman-Robinson. “The state is steeped in history, from the legacy of Thurgood Marshall and Brown v. Board of Education, to the pivotal role of Morgan State University in civil rights activism.”

Attendees can experience dynamic programming, including engaging sessions, workshops, and keynote addresses. One highlight will be a panel hosted by Afro Charities titled “Reimagining Historically Black Institutions in the 21st Century.” The panel, set for Aug.16 inside of Key Ballroom 10 at the Hilton at Camden Yards, will look at how these institutions have adapted to continue their missions of equality, justice and equity.

The discussion will include directors from the Afro Charities, The National Great Blacks in Wax Museum, The Banneker-Douglass Museum and the Eubie Blake National Jazz and Cultural Center.

Dr. Coleman-Robinson is excited about the distinguished speakers that have arrived in Baltimore for the conference.

“We’re honored to welcome Dr. Carla Hayden, as she concludes her tenure as the Librarian of Congress, as our opening plenary speaker. She will receive the Dr. John E. Fleming Award. Additionally, we will present the John and Marjorie Kinard award to Robert G. Stanton, the first and only African-American director of the National Park Service. And to top it off, we’ll have the incredible musical talents of Sweet Honey in the Rock and Raheem DeVaughn.”

Beyond the inspiring speakers and thought-provoking sessions, the conference will also feature an exhibit hall showcasing the latest museum technology and resources.

Reflecting on the significance of the gathering, Dr. Coleman-Robinson shared, “This conference feels like a much-needed homecoming and family reunion for our members. We share common challenges and triumphs, and coming together creates a safe space to connect, recharge, and return to our work with renewed purpose.”

For more information on registration and the conference agenda, please visit the AAAM website at www.blackmuseums.org.

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By Megan Sayles
AFRO Staff Writer
msayles@afro.com

As the newspaper looks to its next chapter, the crucial succession question looms: Who can build on its powerful legacy?

It all started in 1892 when John H. Murphy Sr., a formerly enslaved man, borrowed $200 from his wife, Martha Elizabeth Howard Murphy to purchase a printing press for what would become the legendary AFRO-American Newspapers. What began as a church circular quickly became a vehicle for advancing Black rights and economic empowerment.

After Murphy’s death in 1922, his five sons took over, tasked with providing wages for their five sisters. Carl Murphy became editor and publisher. The family business has endured ever since and is set to celebrate its 132nd  on Aug.13.

Today, the newspaper is a media company, also known as AFRO News, with offices in Baltimore and Washington, D.C. Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, the great-granddaughter of Murphy Sr., sits at the helm as publisher and chairman of the board. Still, she said the crucial question of who will serve next is never too far in the distance.

“It’s an ongoing discussion,” Draper says. “There are a whole lot of people who have legal and stockholder interest in the company. But succession is always at the forefront, because we don’t want it to be left to happenstance or chance.” 

Honoring the vision 

One thing is clear to Draper: The next successor must uphold the newspaper’s original purpose, which John H. Murphy Sr. outlined in a letter to his five sons two years before his death. 

He wrote: “A newspaper succeeds because its management believes in itself, in God, and in the present generation. It must always ask itself: whether it has kept faith with the common people, whether it has no other goal except to see that their liberties are preserved and their future assured; whether it is fighting to get rid of slums to provide jobs for everybody; and whether it stays out of politics except to expose corruption and condemn injustice, race prejudice and the cowardice of compromise.” 

This charge has changed slightly over time, as readers have turned to the AFRO for endorsements of political candidates in addition to church and community happenings.

At present, the AFRO is a privately-traded C corporation. The vast majority of its nearly 100 shareholders and 17-member board are family members. Ownership has resided with the family since its inception in 1892.

Blending institutional knowledge with outside perspectives

Draper took over the AFRO in 2018 from John J. Oliver, who served as publisher and chairman of the board for 34 years. Oliver, great-grandson of John H. Murphy Sr., never intended to lead the AFRO, although he, like most family members, grew up working in the family business. 

The emergence of the personal computer led him back to the company. Oliver recognized that the AFRO would need to embrace the digital revolution in order to compete. Gone were the days of linotype and teletype machines.

When it came time for Oliver to step down, he says there wasn’t a formal blueprint for Draper to take over. 

“There wasn’t any real plan,” Oliver says. 

Adding that “the younger generations caught on to the importance of taking advantage of digital opportunities quickly,” while also “exploring new ways in which they could radically change what we, historically, expected to be the way a newspaper is run.” 

Kevin “MPECKABLE” Peck, vice president of marketing and technology for the AFRO, and Savannah Wood, executive director of the company’s philanthropic sister company, Afro Charities, are the great-great-grandchildren of John H. Murphy Sr. Several other fifth-generation members are involved via the AFRO board.  

Both Peck and Wood oversee operational areas that will be key to the future of the media company, according to Draper. 

Peck leads the company’s technology strategy, while Wood maintains the paper’s extensive archival collection, featuring nearly three million photographs, thousands of letters, rare audio recordings and other ephemera such as the program dispersed at the funeral of Shirley Parker, found dead in the fountain of the lake at Druid Hill Park Reservoir in 1968. 

“A strength that Savannah and Kevin have is they didn’t do their entire careers at the paper,” Draper says. “They bring other experiences and they have ideas around what may appeal to their generation and the next.” 

Draper, too, did not spend her entire career at the AFRO. She worked as an educator, stockbroker and preacher. She grew up working in the newspaper’s editorial department.  

Peck has years of experience in the music business, serving as the long-time manager of notable acts like Dru Hill. Peck came to the AFRO to support his mother, Draper, as she took over as publisher. He continues to work with musical artists today, but much of his focus for the publication centers on leveraging emerging technologies to streamline the AFRO’s operations and content delivery.  

Wood worked with various arts and humanities organizations in Chicago and Los Angeles before her arrival in 2019. She was initially the AFRO’s archives director. Shortly after becoming executive director of Afro Charities, management of the archives was transferred to the nonprofit partner. 

Wood and Draper underscored the importance of the next successor being committed to supporting the preservation of the archives. 

“The archives tell the story of the newspaper company, but also the broader story about world history through Black perspectives,” Wood says.

Peck said his mission at the AFRO has been taking it from the closet to the cloud, migrating elements of the company’s operations and data management to cloud-based platforms. He was instrumental in the company’s recent launch of the Digital Billboard Network (DBN). The AFRO’s DBN delivers original content to onsite screens at heavily trafficked community gathering spots like restaurants, barbershops, gyms and auto repair shops. 

“The mission and the history and the shoulders that I stand on cannot be ignored. I have to impact the business in a way that’s never been done before,” said Peck. “I have to use all of my entertainment and marketing knowledge to make sure there’s not a Black person that doesn’t know the name of the AFRO.” 

Peck acknowledged that he has considered how he would run the AFRO if he were chosen as the next successor. If he did get the call, he would take the position. 

“I would have to. It would be destiny,” Peck says. “It would feel like everything up to that point prepared me for that next level.”

The ideal next leader

The successor needs to be able to sustain the newspaper’s historical identity and integrity while generating a roadmap for the company’s future, according to Max Hughes, senior manager, Deloitte Transactions and Business Analytics LLP, who specializes in privately-held and family-owned businesses. Picking the right person, he says, is important to keeping public trust and confidence in the legacy business.  

“The right successor has to be a really special person, especially in a business like a newspaper where it’s a more public leadership role,” Hughes says. “You have this foundation and reputation and all of these things you’ve sustained on, and you have a great obligation to match that expectation.”

Micaela Saviano, a partner at Deloitte Tax LLP who specializes in succession planning, said though expectations within a family business can be high, a successor can draw in help from other sources. 

“The next generation doesn’t need to fill the shoes of their predecessor fully. You can supplement with external advisors, other family members, non-family executives, and the board,” Saviano explains. “There are a lot of folks to rely on beyond that one individual.” 

Draper said when it comes to her successor, she has several parameters in mind:

“They either need to have knowledge of trends in the industry or the ability to access that knowledge. They must be able to successfully navigate relationships with readers, policymakers, leaders, advertisers and employees,” she says. “You need someone who understands business, and it doesn’t hurt to have someone who is either technologically savvy or has an appreciation for changing technologies.” 

This article was originally published by The Exchange.

The post Standing on 132 years of history: A look at the future of the AFRO appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By B. M. Phillips IV
AFRO President

August 13 marks 132 consecutive years of publishing for the AFRO-American Newspapers, founded by John H. Murphy Sr. in 1892.

Determined to succeed, at the age of 51, Murphy, a father of 11, borrowed $200 from his wife, Martha Howard Murphy. With their children’s support, a historical journey began that continues today with fourth, fifth and sixth-generation family members.

Just one month before striking into the publishing business, Murphy’s youngest son, David Arnett Murphy, also known as “D. Arnett,” was born. On July 9, 1892, his birth completed what would become the second-generation owners of the AFRO.  Collectively, they set the standard of commitment, ensuring the company’s success and the pursuit of fairness and equality for Black Americans. They also supported other like-minded publishers.

When the founder died in 1922, his children embarked on an expansion that saw the company spread their offices north and south, growing to 13 editions. The AFRO became one of the largest Black publications in circulation, with over 200 employees —many of whom were unionized. Its printing press ran every day of the week except Sundays. 

The company dispatched seven correspondents (including the first Black woman) to the Atlantic and Pacific theaters during World War II to report the news. Their accounts are documented in the book “This is Our War,” which was released in a special reprint last year to mark the 75th anniversary of the desegregation of the United States Armed Forces.

Dr. Frances Murphy Draper, CEO and publisher, states in the foreword of the book that “Today, as lawmakers across the United States attempt to minimize and rewrite Black history, it becomes even more important for us to document and share our own stories.

‘This is Our War’ does just that by highlighting the triumphs and challenges Black soldiers faced. In their own words, AFRO journalists provided intimate details, including names and addresses of servicemen they encountered. In some cases, messages to loved ones at home were included.”

The paper has always been on the front line, battling racial inequality and afflictions threatening our readers.  Shining a light and advocating for better conditions required that the company be financially independent to ensure its message could not be tainted or silenced.  It became apparent that advertising revenue was critical to funding these efforts, and the addition of a sales team allowed the AFRO to augment circulation dollars and achieve its goals.

D. Arnett Murphy’s accomplishments are particularly noteworthy in these efforts. He began his career with the newspaper at the age of 13. He worked for the company for 66 years. 

His early roles included bookkeeper, pressman, linotype operator, makeup man and reporter.  At one point, he ran a sports event called AFRO Marathon, but ultimately, he discovered that advertising was his specialty.  

As director and vice president of advertising, his team fueled revenue growth during his tenure.  In support of AFRO offices throughout the eastern seaboard, he invested in his teams by holding sales meetings and conferences to share initiatives and train current and new employees to be successful. 

By partnering with similar publications across the country, a stronger pitch could be made to increase revenue.  In 1940, D. Arnette Murphy was elected vice president of the Eastern District during the initial formation of what is now the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA). Today, NNPA represents more than 200 Black-owned newspapers, both in print and digital formats.

In 1944, he organized and served as president of the Associated Publishers, a national advertising agency representing 35 other weekly newspapers at the time.

A key figure in the company’s management, D. Arnett Murphy was also a stockholder, voting trustee and a member of the board of directors until his death in 1972. He retired from day-to-day operations in 1963.

As reported by his niece Elizabeth “Bettye” Moss, he was Dubbed “Chief,” “Mr. Arnett”or simply “D.A” by associates and friends. He was an avid reader and an interesting conversationalist, known for his love and concern for people.

His impact extended beyond his dedication to the company, and he was proud of his role in integrating Baltimore City’s public golf courses. Along with other members of the Monumental Golf Club and the Citizens’ Civil Rights Committee, the AFRO executive responded swiftly to being denied entry to one of the public courses and helped finance the court suit that opened the public links to all in 1948.

D. Arnett Murphy was a life member of the NAACP and served on the board of Advance Federal Savings and Loan whose mission was to help African Americans secure loans and build their credit.

Like his younger brother Carl J. Murphy, D. Arnett Murphy didn’t have any sons. He and his wife Sadie Clark Murphy had three daughters Mae E Dyson, Virginia Murphy and Arnetta Lottier who followed in the footsteps of his generation working at the paper and lending their talents as members of the Board of Directors.

As noted in the article announcing his death, he had a great love for Grace Presbyterian, where he served many years as trustee and had been a member for 50 years.   

So, as we blow out the candles for another year, let’s not forget those who got us here— people like, D. Arnett Murphy, the youngest member of my great-grandfather’s sons and daughters.  

B.M. Phillips IV is the current president of the AFRO and is great-grandson of the founder, John Henry Murphy Sr. 

The post AFRO-American Newspapers marks 132 years of publishing appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Megan Sayles
AFRO Business Writer
msayles@afro.com

The Montgomery County Planning Board has submitted its updates to the county’s Growth and Infrastructure Policy (GIP) for 2024 to 2028. As of Aug. 1, it is now in the hands of the Montgomery County Council for review. 

The policy, which is revised every four years, is designed to ensure county infrastructure, like roads and schools, is sufficient to support growth and new development. 

“The GIP is vital to ensuring the county is meeting the evolving needs of a growing and diverse population,” said Jason K. Sartori, planning director for Montgomery County, in a statement. “We have shifted from a growth policy decades ago that was appropriate as farmland was converted into neighborhoods, to one that complements the infill and redevelopment of maturing neighborhoods, major employment centers, town centers and downtowns that we see today.” 

The top recommendations for the GIP include: extending a 50 percent impact-tax discount to developers who construct single family homes 1,800 square feet or smaller, exempting development projects that transform office space into residential units from impact taxes and exempting three or more bedroom households from school and transportation impact taxes. 

The planning board also suggested that the county conduct a Local Area Transportation Review for an upcoming development project that’s expected to generate heavy traffic and forgo transportation mitigation requirements during the construction of affordable housing units. 

“Our recommended updates to the growth policy ensure the county can continue to strengthen economic development opportunities while supporting transportation networks and school communities with the infrastructure needed to meet expected population and employment growth,” said a statement from Artie Harris, chair of the planning board. “The recommended GIP update is forward-thinking by aligning with the county’s goals of promoting housing for all, achieving racial equity and social justice, fighting climate change and harnessing economic development tools to create thriving communities.” 

The Montgomery County Council will host a public hearing for the GIP on Sep. 10. Residents can sign up to testify at the meeting on the council’s website. The policy must be approved by November 15 under county law. 

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By Nancy Grimm
Special to the AFRO

Preparing for a custody proceeding can be overwhelming and scary. Here are several steps to make the process easier. 

Once you have filed or been served with a complaint for custody, it is important to begin preparing for your case as soon as possible. There are basic steps that you can take to prepare. 

One critical component is discovery – the process of getting information from the other party (your spouse) before trial. Discovery is a legal tool each party can use to strengthen their case. Through discovery you may request information and documents from your spouse to use as evidence at trial. Discovery can be acquired by requesting certain documents or by asking questions of the other party, either in writing (interrogatories) or in person (deposition). Below are some excellent links to assist you in preparing your case through the discovery process.

• Discovery in the Circuit Court (mdcourts.gov)

• Preparing Your Case (peoples-law.org)

• Court Proceedings: What to Know Before You Go (mvlslaw.org)

If you are seeking child custody, you should consider the following in preparation for your custody court proceedings:

Prepare a Parenting Plan 

This plan is required by the court and will help both parents determine how the children will spend their time with each parent following a divorce or separation. This plan is usually provided to the parents at the first court hearing. By reviewing the Maryland Parenting Plan Tool ahead of time, you can familiarize yourself with the various child custody schedules and consider what would be in the best interest of the children. See Parenting Plans (mdcourts.gov).

If there are contested issues, you may want to review the Joint Statement of The Parties Concerning Decision Making Authority and Parenting Time, which is also a requirement for filing. See CC-DR-110 (mdcourts.gov), which will assist the court in determining child access.

Establishing Child Support

The parent who has physical custody of the children will receive child support from the other parent. If you and your spouse do not agree on child support, you will need to provide the court with the following information about monthly income and expenses:

• Total income before taxes
• Child support paid for other children
• Alimony paid to former spouses
• Alimony received from former spouses
• Health insurance premium for your children
• Work-related child-care expenses
• Extraordinary health expenses
• School and transportation expenses

It is important that you consider income from all sources, including wages, tips, self-employment and government benefits (e.g., Social Security, unemployment, disability). You will need proof of each source of income, such as recent pay stubs, W-2s, 1099s or Social Security benefit reports. You should not include public assistance benefits such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or Aid to Families with Dependent Children.

“Extraordinary medical expenses” include any uninsured expenses over $250 per year, including things like orthodontia, medical care for chronic health conditions and mental health counseling. “School expenses” include only K-12 education that is required to meet the children’s particular educational needs. “Transportation expenses” include the anticipated cost of transporting the children between the homes of each parent. See CC-DR-030 (mdcourts.gov). 

To speak to an attorney about your situation or for help with completing forms, call the Maryland Family Law Hotline at 1-800-845-8550 or visit the Family Law Self Help Center located in the Maryland Circuit Court where you will open your case or file your response.

For additional information and court forms pertaining to child support, custody and visitation, and for instructions on how to complete the forms, visit Family Law Court Forms (mdcourts.gov), The People’s Law Library of Maryland (peoples-law.org) and the Maryland Custody & Divorce Client Workbook (peoples-law.org).

Nancy Grimm, Esq., is a family law attorney with Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service.

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By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Political Writer
tmcqueen@afro.com

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) signed a plain language executive order on July 23 that aims to make state services and programs more accessible. Moore also recognized 34 years of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). 

“If a Maryland family cannot understand updates about a hurricane in their community because our website is hard to read, that’s not good government,” said Moore. “This executive order will help to ensure every piece of writing that comes out of this administration in print and online is simple, accessible, proofread and easy to read. This is not just going to help out some, this is going to help out all.” 

The ADA has been in place and protecting people with disabilities from discrimination within the workplace and state and local government programs since 1990.

According to the Pew Research Center, approximately 42.5 million Americans are living with disabilities. Those disabilities include people with vision, walking, cognitive and hearing difficulties.

“Today Governor Moore is taking more action to fulfill the promise he made to all of us when he ran for office, to leave no Marylander behind,” said Rachel London, executive director of the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council. “With this executive order, he is showing his commitment to make Maryland’s government more accessible and inclusive for all of us.”

London further explained the benefit of ensuring plain language is used in Maryland’s programs and services.

“Plain language is a way of writing so people can understand information the first time they read it,” she said. “When state agencies use plain language in their public documents and on their websites, more people can access the information they need and the information they want. Creation of the Maryland plain language plan will help state agencies take the steps necessary to make sure that happens.”

London touted the strength of the plain language approach, highlighting positive results the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council has seen through implementing it in Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) services.

“The MVA’s Driver’s Manual and learner’s permit test are now in plain language, making it easier for all new drivers to understand the rules of the road,” she said. “We are proud to say that since the plain language tests were rolled out late last year, the MVA has seen a 15 percent increase in people passing the test.”

The post Gov. Moore signs executive order making state resources more accessible appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By D. Kevin McNeir 
Special to the AFRO 

Montgomery County Police Department expands drone program 

If you’re outside at night over the next few months in Montgomery County, Md. – the region located just north of the District – and you hear buzzing above your head, have no fear. It’s not a UFO!

A program undertaken by the Montgomery County Police Department, in which they are employing about a dozen drones to improve public safety, has officially launched. 

The County counts as one of thousands of public safety agencies across the U.S. now using drones for a variety of public safety purposes. Officials in Montgomery County say their program is designed to send out drones to specific scenes when 911 calls are received. The drones arrive ahead of units responding on the ground and are now being referred to as “first responders.”

On July 17, after the public shared mostly positive views in a community meeting about drones inside of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School auditorium, the decision was made to expand the drone program into Bethesda, Md.

The County currently has a pilot drone program helping police fight crime in “real time” in Silver Spring and Wheaton. Officially, the program is called the “Drone as First Responder” Program – “DFR” for short – and it’s used to make it easier for police to secure real time information on incidents. 

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich (D), speaking at the meeting last week, said the drones have made a real difference and that he’s pleased that the program continues to be expanded throughout the county. 

Prince George’s County teacher keeps job in wake of hair braiding TikTok video 

When Marquise White shared a TikTok of his students taking his braids out during class on May 5, he could not have anticipated that the video would go viral – garnering more than 7.4 million views and 21,000 comments with mixed reactions. 

But the video–and the negative backlash which followed– led to an investigation by school district officials, jeopardizing his job and career. 

White said his students’ parents approved of his TikToks and when speaking to the press in May, said he believed that he was being attacked and accused of impropriety because “I’m a young, handsome, Black man.” 

But according to the school district’s code of conduct, teachers must adhere to “personal boundaries by maintaining proper space” and “demonstrate appropriate behaviors.” Furthermore, teachers are discouraged from recording the faces or voices of students unless the class focuses on career technology or the performing arts.

Now, with classes set to resume in just over a month, White’s case has been dismissed and he will be allowed to return to the classroom in August. 

Maryland’s highly touted unemployment rate now higher than Virginia’s 

Maryland’s unemployment rate has risen significantly over the past 12 months. In June 2023, it was just 1.9 percent, but has since increased to 2.8 percent. 

Meanwhile, Virginia’s unemployment rate remains unchanged at 2.7 percent, which is lower than Maryland’s for the first time in years.

Still, both Maryland and Virginia have unemployment rates below the national average. The national average rose in June to 4.1 percent, up from 3.6 percent a year earlier. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Maryland counts as one of eight states that reported increases in their unemployment rates. 

As for the District, when compared to states, Washington, D.C., in June, had the highest unemployment rate at 5.4 percent, followed by both Nevada and California at 5.2 percent.   

Hyattsville center among beneficiaries of $2M grant to support Maryland’s homeless youth

Shelters that support youth homelessness in Prince George’s and Montgomery counties have learned that they will receive sorely needed financial assistance. The Department of Housing and Urban Development recently presented a check for $2 million dollars to Maryland’s Youth Homelessness System Improvement. 

One beneficiary includes Sasha Bruce Youthwork’s new center, located in Hyattsville, Md., which opened as part of their B-E-Z (be easy) Drop-in Program.

According to Donnell Potts, chief of programs, Sasha Bruce Youthwork, the services offered at the center, which include food, entertainment, basic necessities and case management, are provided with the goal of assisting 250 homeless youth and preventing 50 more from becoming homeless in Prince George’s County. 

Each year, an estimated 4.2 million youth and youth adults experience homelessness in the U.S., 700,000 of whom are unaccompanied minors – which means they are not part of a family or accompanied by a parent or guardian. In 2023, one in 30 youth ages 13-17 experienced homelessness over a 12-month period in the U.S.

Based on data from the D.C.-based National Network for Youth, instability in their homes forces many youth out onto the streets with child abuse, domestic violence, parental substance use or family conflict among the factors that often lead to youth homelessness.

Meanwhile, specific subpopulations of youth face a higher risk for homelessness: Black youth face an 83 percent increased risk than their white peers; Hispanic youth face a 33 percent increased risk; LGBTQIA+ youth were more than twice as likely to have experienced homelessness; and youth who do not complete high school are 3.5 times more likely to experience homelessness than peers who completed a high school diploma.

Services and shelters throughout Maryland whose primary mission is to assist and support youth who are experiencing homelessness will receive funds from the $2M grant.

Stay tuned. 

The post Hot off the press: News impacting the Black community in D.C., Maryland and Virginia area appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Deborah Bailey
AFRO Contributing Editor
dbailey@afro.com

It’s not your imagination. You really have been seeing more health prevention ads in your social media feed. 

If you live in one of Maryland’s high health risk areas for diabetes, heart attack, stroke or other chronic diseases, Maryland’s Department of Health is actively looking for you. 

More than one-third of Marylanders are estimated to have pre-diabetes, a condition that can lead to diabetes. Baltimore City, Prince George’s County and Somerset County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore are three areas where Black Marylanders have particularly elevated levels of diabetes and other chronic illnesses such as heart disease, stroke and brain diseases like Alzheimer’s.

Now, health officials are seeking to halt diabetes before it starts in high-risk communities across the state by identifying people who have a high likelihood of developing pre-diabetes and getting them connected with health prevention efforts. 

“We’ve been doing diabetes outreach for the past three years. We are promoting prevention activities Marylanders can engage in to avert a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes,” Williams said. 

Obesity is a risk factor that accompanies diabetes, according to health experts. In Baltimore, Prince George’s County and Somerset, more than one-third of each county’s adult residents are obese, according to the most recent data from the Maryland Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRSFF). 

Black Americans are more than twice as likely as White people to develop Type 2 diabetes with the racial gap rising, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). 

“People who participate in pre-diabetes screening and prevention activities have a 58 percent chance of not progressing to the full disease,” said Williams. 

Pre-diabetes occurs in individuals with elevated blood sugar levels, but not high enough for a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes. Most people with pre-diabetes don’t know they have it because there are no obvious symptoms, according to NIH officials. 

“Don’t think pre-diabetes is something to be taken lightly,” said Williams, who cautioned that pre-diabetes can also put you at higher risk for more serious health problems like heart disease and stroke. 

Williams urged all adults and teens in Baltimore, Prince George’s County and Somerset County to get evaluated for pre-diabetes and enroll in one of the many support programs offered by the Maryland Department of Public Health. 

“Pre-diabetes is a warning to change your diet and lifestyle,” said Tobias Arnold of Silver Spring, Md. who was diagnosed with pre-diabetes in 2016. 

“I really didn’t know what that was,” Arnold added. “I thought I just needed to eat less sugar– you know, cut out the candy bars. I didn’t know about carbohydrates.  My doctor used generalities and assumed that I would know how to change my diet.” 

Williams said there are both on-line and in-person pre-diabetes programs in each county that offer hands-on support to help participants make changes in diet, exercise and other lifestyle decisions needed to avert diabetes.

Williams urges Black Americans to see the onset of diabetes as more than just “a little sugar.” 

Complications from diabetes can affect many of the body’s systems and can lead to heart disease, vision loss, kidney disease, stroke, nerve damage, foot damage and amputation and other complications.

“This is a serious disease,” Williams said. “The Maryland Department of Health realizes a diagnosis of pre-diabetes may call for a complete lifestyle change for people. That takes time, support, and community support.”

    A-1C Test for Diabetes:  diagnosed at an A1C of greater than or equal to 6.5 percent*

Fasting Blood Glucose test: Diabetes is diagnosed at fasting blood glucose of greater than or equal to 126 mg/dl 
 

Reporting for this story is done through the support of a journalism fellowship from the Gerontology Society of America, The Journalists’ Network on Generations and the Commonwealth Fund.

The post Md. Health Department using targeted outreach to tackle pre-diabetes appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Deborah Bailey
AFRO Contributing Editor

The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) has unveiled the first cars of the Metro’s new Purple Line. The light rail line is expected to open between Prince George’s and Montgomery counties in 2027.  

“Celebrating the arrival of the Purple Line’s first light rail vehicle is the latest significant  milestone in getting this much-needed new transit line up and running,” said Maryland  Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedenfeld.  

When completed, the Purple Line will extend 16 miles from New Carrollton, winding through Riverdale Park, College Park, Langley Park/Takoma Park and other central Prince  George’s County communities, and will end in Bethesda, Montgomery County, with 21 total stops. 

MDOT officials said the Purple Line is now more than halfway done.  

“With thousands of feet of rail track installed and 16 or 21 stations now under construction, we are happy to announce the project is more than 65% complete,”  announced Maryland Transit Administrator Holly Arnold.  

Purple Line construction originally started in 2017 with the rail line originally slated to  start operating in 2022. However, in 2020, construction stalled on the project for more  than a year when the original contractor withdrew from the contract after numerous  disputes with state government about cost overruns.  

Construction resumed in summer 2022. But residents like Brittney Drakeford, an organizer with the Capitol Heights Farmer’s Market, noticed the impact of endless construction and long delays on low- and moderate-wealth neighborhoods located along the route of the rail project in Prince George’s County. 

Costs for the rail project have also ballooned, now close to $4 billion, said Arnold.

“Communities have been overwhelmed with the disruption of a transportation project  that has impacted their daily lives for years,” Drakeford said.  

This past spring, Drakeford and partners from the Greater Capitol Heights Improvement  Association developed the Blue Line Corridor Civic Leadership Institute. Organizers want to see more Black, low- and moderate-wealth residents in Prince George’s County armed with the tools needed to research, write and advocate for their own proposals about development in Purple Line light rail communities as well as other planned county  and state development proposals.  

 “We talk about equitable development and equitable design,” Drakeford said. “We go  through how to actually advocate for your needs in the public arena and where  community members can get data to support what we see and know about our  communities.”

The Purple Line Corridor Commission, a similar community organization focused on the needs of Silver Spring residents impacted by the proposed Purple Line, posted an editorial in the Baltimore Sun on May 19, expressing their concern about rising housing prices already impacting communities close to Purple Line rail stations.  

The post Purple Line trains unveiled; Prince George’s communities weigh in appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Mekhi Abbott
AFRO Intern
mabbott@afro.com

With rising temperatures and a heat wave hitting the D.C.-Maryland area youth athletes in the area are feeling the effects of the rising temperatures. 

On June 8, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced an extended heat emergency amidst a heat wave that has been plaguing the D.C.-Maryland area for the past few weeks. With temperatures over 90 degrees on most days of the past three weeks and heat indexes over 100 degrees, both Mayor Bowser and Gov. Wes Moore have advised D.C. and Maryland residents to plan for the historic heat wave appropriately. 

“The health and safety of Marylanders is our top priority. By declaring a State of Preparedness, I am directing the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate the comprehensive preparation of State government ahead of potential impacts because of the extreme heat and humidity,” said Moore in a press release. 

According to a study released by Associate Athletics Director David Klossner at the University of Maryland, the director of National Center for Catastrophic Sport Injury Research at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Kristen L. Kucera, Ph.D. and others, over 50 high school football players have passed away due to heat stroke in the past 25 years. Women’s cross country is actually the sport whose athletes have the highest risk of being affected by heat stroke.

Although the study shows that deaths in the sport of football are “rare but tragic events,” extreme heat and added weight from the equipment such as helmets and shoulder pads can heavily impact the safety of young athletes, exposing them to heightened levels of bodily malfunctions. Cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death amongst young athletes.

In January 2024, Philip and Ashanta Laster filed a lawsuit against the Rankin County School system after their son Philip “Trey” Laster died from a cardiac arrhythmia after collapsing during an afternoon football practice in Aug. 2022. 

“No child should ever be in danger of losing their life in pursuit of a passion, especially under the supervision and instruction of adults who should know when to stop pushing these young athletes,” attorney Benjamin Crump, who is representing Laster against the Rankin county school district, said in a news release. “Trey’s tragic death could have been, and should have been, prevented by those in charge, and shows a troubling lack of adherence to guidelines surrounding heat exhaustion prevention.”

In February, cross country runner Memphis Zabawa suffered a cardiac arrest episode while running at a meet according to heart.org. The seventh grader, who also suffers from asthma, was able to make a 100 percent recovery from the incident, thanks in part to people at the cross country meet who performed CPR. Athletes with asthma can be even more predisposed to cardiac related incidents when temperatures are high.

The post How climate change is affecting youth sports appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By AFRO Interns

As summer kicks into high gear, the AFRO would like to take time to recognize the interns that have been working hard all summer for the publication. From man on the street interviews to senior guides and more, the AFRO interns have hit the ground running, covering a range of important topics. Take a look below to see who has been reporting on post traumatic stress disorder, domestic violence on college campuses and putting together the event calendars from week to week. We are proud to be part of their humble beginnings in Black Press and look forward to following their journeys.

Aleisha Robinson, is a junior multimedia journalism major at Morgan State University with a minor in political science. She is from Westmoreland, Jamaica, where she attended St. Elizabeth Technical High School before pursuing her passion for journalism in the United States. At Morgan State, she is currently a member of the track and field team and serves as the campus news editor for the Spokesman, the school’s newspaper.

Robinson is an active participant in the Morgan State University National Association of Black Journalists (MSU-NABJ) and contributes as a journalist to MSU CREATIVES, an organization within the schools Athletic Marketing and Communications department.

Her love for storytelling and journalism stems from a deep admiration for the Black Press and its pivotal role in advocating for social justice and community empowerment. Robinson is excited to work at the AFRO American Newspapers, where she can contribute to amplifying diverse voices and stories that resonate within the Black community.

Throughout her two years of journalistic experience, she has covered a wide range of topics including politics, campus news, community involvement and sports. She aspires to be well-rounded in journalism, specifically in investigative journalism, data journalism, sports journalism and politics. Additionally, she would like to become an author. Beyond journalism, she enjoys reading, drawing and staying active at the gym. As a Black student journalist, she is committed to using her platform to inform, inspire and drive positive change.

Aleisha Robinson
Morgan State University
Multimedia Journalism

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Denim Fisher is a rising freshman at Spelman College studying sociology and creative writing on the pre-law track. She is passionate about activism and the arts. Her passion stems from her childhood. In her younger years, she was encouraged by her mom to study Black history and important, often overlooked events ,like the Tulsa, Okla. race riot and Nat Turner’s rebellion. This upbringing ignited Fisher’s fervor for activism. Fisher is a civic advocate at Beyond Youth Organization (BYO), and an awardee of the Princeton Prize in Race Relations. She is also a poet whose work touches on identity and race.

Fisher is a contestant for the NAACP ACT-SO program, using poetry to question the effects of oppression. She aspires to be a lawyer and “artivist,” pursuing law and the arts. Her purpose is to be a voice for Black and LGBTQ+ communities, challenging the status quo by expressing herself authentically.

Being raised in a predominantly White and Jewish community, and educated by a Eurocentric American education system, Fisher supplemented her education by volunteering and learning from Black community members. She is eager to continue her pursuit of knowledge about Black and queer stories at the AFRO. Fisher lives by the words of Jamaican political activist and Pan-African leader Marcus Garvey, “a people without the knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture is like a tree without roots.”

During her time at the AFRO she hopes to write about education reform, the intersection of domestic and global oppression, the liberation of love and the Baltimore Black arts scene.

Denim Fisher
Spelman College
Pre-law (M.J.)

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Lizzie Suber is a rising senior at Johns Hopkins University. She is double majoring in cognitive science and computer science with a specific focus on psychology. Suber hopes to use her time as an intern to inform and expand her perspective as she develops her ability to approach technology from a human-focused viewpoint.

Suber has seen in her own life the power of knowing what other Black people are doing. Acknowledging the diversity of the Black community evokes within her a deep sense of unity with other Black people that she struggles to feel otherwise. She joined the AFRO because it exposes readers to parts of the Black experience previously unknown to them, which cultivates a broader sense of Black unity within them.

While at the AFRO, Suber has written about various events in Baltimore, documented Black opinions on fatherhood and Juneteenth, and even created a crossword puzzle to bring some fun to the publication. She aims to use her writing to explore the “why” behind Black stories.

In her free time, Suber enjoys watching sunsets, spending time in nature, scrapbooking and making origami.

Lizzie Suber
Johns Hopkins University
Cognitive Science and Computer Science

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Mekhi Abbott is a master’s candidate at the University of Maryland, specializing in multimedia journalism. Abbott has been writing for the AFRO since Oct. 2023. This year, he is doing an internship with the AFRO, focused on sports journalism.

Abbott is a student-athlete and he completed his undergraduate studies at Howard University. During his time at the institution, he became a three-time Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference champion. He joined the Maryland Terrapins as a graduate transfer, and made it to the 2024 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Outdoor Track and Field East Region Championships. He has used his time at University of Maryland to become a better journalist and the school’s new record holder in the javelin.

“Working for the Black press is important to me because there are still so many neglected and untold stories in the greater D.C., Maryland and Virginia area – which many major publications ignore. At the AFRO, we tell the major stories, but we also make sure that our Black and Brown communities are being properly represented in the media.”

Abbott is passionate about historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and the intersection of sports, race and culture. He aspires to be a television personality one day and takes inspiration from Stephen A. Smith, Bomani Jones and Kevin Blackistone. Outside of writing, Abbott loves football and fashion.

Mekhi Abbott
University of Maryland
Journalism

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Mackenzie Williams is a senior at Howard University in the Cathy Hughes School of Communications, majoring in broadcast journalism with a minor in women, gender and sexuality studies.

Williams currently serves as the president of the Howard University Association of Black Journalists (HUABJ) and she is executive producer of News for Spotlight Network, which is a campus media organization. This summer, she will join other student elects to work on the student multimedia project for the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Convention in Chicago as a Producer for NABJ TV.

Outside of journalism, Williams enjoys community service, spending time with friends and walking in nature.

Throughout her experience working for the AFRO Newspapers, she has explored and written about topics such as domestic violence, Black mental health and entertainment.

Williams is honored to join the ranks of the Black Press this summer, as she understands the importance of keeping the Black press alive and raising awareness on issues that affect the community.

• Mackenzie Williams
  Howard University
  Broadcast Journalism

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Born and raised in Baltimore, Tierra Stone has been exposed to a myriad of cultures and creative expressions. She developed an interest in creative writing and theater from an early age, but it was multimedia journalism that stole her heart and took her to Morgan State University.

“When I first graduated from highschool I was very directionless and I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life—theater was always a passion of mine, but it didn’t make me happy and I wasn’t fulfilled. When I stopped studying theater, my love for writing mixed with my passion for storytelling and wanting to be on television made me realize that journalism was where I always needed to be.”

Stone is currently in her junior year at Morgan State where she previously worked as a staff writer for the Spokesman, which is a student-run campus newspaper. Some of her influences include Lester Holt, Christiane Amanpour and Oprah Winfrey. As she continues her journey of completing her undergraduate degree, she hopes that her work as a student journalist will carry her towards her career goal of one day becoming a correspondent for the Today Show, 60 Minutes or Dateline NBC.

When she isn’t working Stone likes to split her time between reading books, visiting local art museums and enjoying delicious food with her family and friends.

Tierra Stone
Morgan State University
Multimedia journalism

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Gabrielle Howard is a junior journalism and mass communications student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T).

Howard is passionate about using journalism and communications to uplift marginalized communities and educate others about social issues. She has set her sights on joining the ranks of the Black Press because of her appreciation for the legacy of Black journalism and the crucial role Black voices play in shaping media narratives.

Her dedication to her field was recognized when she was selected as a Class of 2024 ColorComm NextGen Fellow, from ColorComm, a leading platform for women in communications.

Howard also enjoys reading and sewing, to express her creativity outside of her academic pursuits.

Gabrielle Howard
North Carolina A & T
Journalism and Mass Communications

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Saniyah Larkins is an intern at the AFRO American Newspapers. She enjoys writing poetry and singing in her free time. Larkins is a 16-year-old senior at Western High School. She is in the choir and the National Honors Society.

When she goes to college, she wants to major in veterinary science and minor in journalism. Larkins wants to work at the AFRO because of its history in Black culture. While there, she wants to share more about teens’ political opinions because she believes their voices matter.

Being a teenager herself, Larkins believes that the opinions of people her age aren’t often taken into account when it comes to politics because they can’t vote– and when they are, it’s usually a dig at their generation.

She believes that teens should be able to be taken into account when it comes to politics because they are going to be the new adults. Larkin is determined to get her generation to be heard in politics because she doesn’t want her generation to live in a world where somebody else picked for them.

Saniyah Larkins
Western High School

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Madeline Seck is a senior attending the Philip Merrill College of Journalism at the University of Maryland. Seck is a double major in broadcast journalism and digital media communication with a minor in Black women’s studies.

She is the president of the Maryland Association of Black Journalists (MABJ) and the University of Maryland’s Chapter of NABJ for the upcoming Fall 2024 semester.

Outside of journalism, Seck loves reading, gaming, art and creating content.

Throughout her experience working in journalism at UMD and the AFRO Newspapers, she has explored topics about Black pop culture, fashion, arts and entertainment and feminist topics, such as rights for survivors of domestic violence.

As a Black journalist, Seck is proud to intern for a Black press this summer because she values telling stories that give a voice to underrepresented and marginalized communities and groups. She chose to intern at the AFRO Newspapers because they prioritize diversity, advocacy and stories that matter.

Madeline Seck
University of Maryland
Broadcast Journalism and Digital Media Communication

The post AFRO Interns on the move: Meet the next generation of Black journalists appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Madeleine Seck
AFRO Intern
mseck@afro.com

By Mackenzie Williams
AFRO Intern
mwillaims@afro.com

This week, the AFRO compiled a list of family-friendly events that are happening in the D.M.V. area ranging from festivals, movie nights, and networking opportunities. Take a look below to see what’s happening near you!

Baltimore City

Rhythm and Reels

Come out this summer to the Baltimore parks for free popcorn and a movie. Streaming this July is Arthur the King and a live rhythm concert.

Arthur the King
Date: July 19
Time: 5 p.m – 8 p.m.
Location: Eager Park
929 N Wolfe St,
Baltimore, MD 21205

Rhythm Concert House Head Reunion
Date: July 20
Time: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Location: Wyman Park Deli
2929 N Charles St,
Baltimore, MD 21218

Cost: Free

African American Quilters of Baltimore (AAQB) Trunk Show and Fiber Artist Talk with Glenda Richardson

This is a perfect event for hobbyists who love quilting. Get insight from artist Glenda Richardson at the museum as she showcases her work.

Date: July 25

Time: 6 p.m.

Location: Reginald F. Lewis Museum
830 E Pratt St
Baltimore, MD 21202

Cost: Up to $12, members free

Black Woman Genius Elizabeth Talford Scott

Explore the exhibit honoring the work of Elizabeth Talford Scott, a contemporary fiber artist who created exemplary artwork throughout her lifetime

Dates: Feb. 1 through Sept. 30

Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Location: Reginald F. Lewis Museum
830 E Pratt St
Baltimore, MD 21202

Cost: Up to $12, members free

Washington, D.C.

DMV Made Festival

Presented by Word Beats and Life at the National Mall, the DMV Made Festival celebrates an intersectionality of art and culture. The venue will hold multiple stages featuring soul, Latin, hip-hop music, Go-go artists and more.
Date: July 27

Time: 1 p.m. – 7:30 p.m

Location: 50 14th Street
Southwest Washington, DC 20004
Smithsonian Metro Stop

Cost: Free

Broccoli City Festival

One of the biggest festivals of the summer in the D.C. metropolitan area, Broccoli Festival will be held at a brand new venue, Audi Field. Headliners feature award-winning artists including Megan the Stallion, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Victoria Monét, Lil Yachty and more.

Date: July 27 – 28

Time: 2 p.m. – 11 p.m

Location: Audi Field
1100 Alabama Ave SE,
Washington D.C

Cost: Starting price $233

Kids World 2024

Join a family-friendly immersive experience at Kids World, where your little ones can go to storytelling sessions, meet-and-greets with their favorite cartoon characters, make a painting, build a bear, enjoy a bubble garden and more,

Date: July 27 – 28

Time: 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Location: Franklin Park
1315 I Street NW

Prince Goerge’s County

Black Health Connect: DC 2024 Mixer

Join the Black Health Connect for their 2024 Mixer with other black professionals in the healthcare field for an evening of networking and fellowship. RSVP via eventbrite.com by searching for “Black Health Connect” on the website.

Date: July 12

Time: 5 p.m.

Location: Dirty Habit
555 8th St NW
Washington, DC 20004

Cost: Free

Little Miss Black | Miss Black Teen US of A Pageant

Continuing the legacy, from age two to seventeen are participating in the Miss Black and Miss Black Teen US of A Pageant at the University of Maryland College Park.

Day 1: July 26
Time: 7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m

Day 2: July 27
Time: 1 p.m – 4:30 p.m

Location: Hoff Theater, Adele H. Stamp Student Union
3972 Campus Dr,
College Park, MD 20742

Cost: Up to $40

Movies On The Potomac

Grab a blanket and some popcorn for an outdoor movie on the waterfront at the National Harbor. This month, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, Arthur: The King, Elvis and more will be streaming.

Dates: Every Thursday and Sunday night through September 29

Time: Thursday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 6 p.m.

Location: 165 Waterfront Street
National Harbor, MD 20745

Cost: Free

Virginia

“Black Vets and Allies at Ft. Gregg-Adams Starbucks Military Family store”

Sponsored by Starbucks, join the Gregg-Adam’s Military family store to honor Black veterans as they celebrate the 76th anniversary of Executive Order 9981, which desegregated the U.S. Armed Forces in 1948.

Date: July 6

Time: 6:30 p.m – 8 p.m

Location: ​​5320 Oaklawn Boulevard
Hopewell, VA 23860

Cost: Free

Fauquier County Fair

Enjoy a day at the carnival with thrilling rides, games and watch a variety of shows.

Date: July 17-19
Time: 2 p.m -11 p.m

Date: July 20
Time: 9 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Location: 6209 Old Auburn Rd
Warrenton, VA 20187

Cost: Adult $10, $5 for children and senior citizens

Black Girls Code DMV Bootcamp

Ages 11 to 13 are invited to a boot camp to learn about AI-powered technology, meet experts in the field, explore opportunities in STEAM careers and more.

Date: July 29

Time: 4 p.m.

Location: Mastercard Tech Hub #11th floor
4250 Fairfax Drive
Arlington, VA 22201

Cost: Starting at $30

Virtual

Breaking the Chains: Decriminalizing Mental Illness in the Justice System

Join ​​St. Luke Community United Methodist Church as they host their 9th annual Mental Health Symposium. Important figures include Judge Lela Lawrence Mays, presiding Judge of the 283rd District Court in Dallas County, and Commissioner John Wiley Price, of Dallas County, Texas, will be attending.

Date: July 20

Time: 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Location: Online

Cost: Free

Virtual Writing Hour

Aspiring writers and those looking to pick up a leisure hobby can join the Smithsonian at the National Portrait Gallery for Writing Hours. Writing prompts will be given for 30 minute sessions at a time

Date: July 23

Time: 5 p.m. – 6 p.m

Location: Online Via Zoom

Cost: Free, registration required

The post Upcoming meetings and events in the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Deborah Bailey
AFRO Contributing Editor
dbailey@afro.com

It’s not your imagination. You really have been seeing more health prevention ads in your social media feed. 

If you live in one of Maryland’s high health risk areas for diabetes, heart attack, stroke or other chronic diseases, Maryland’s Department of Health is actively looking for you. 

More than one-third of Marylanders are estimated to have pre-diabetes, a condition that can lead to diabetes. Baltimore City, Prince George’s County and Somerset County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore are three areas where Black Marylanders have particularly elevated levels of diabetes and other chronic illnesses such as heart disease, stroke and brain diseases like Alzheimer’s.

So health officials are seeking to halt diabetes before it starts in high-risk communities across the state by identifying people who have a high likelihood of developing pre-diabetes and getting them connected with health prevention efforts. 

“We’ve been doing diabetes outreach for the past three years. We are promoting prevention activities Marylanders can engage in to avert a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes,” Williams said. 

Obesity is a risk factor that accompanies diabetes, according to health experts. In Baltimore, Prince George’s County and Somerset, more than one-third of each county’s adult residents are obese, according to the most recent data from the Maryland Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRSFF). 

    A-1C Test for Diabetes:  diagnosed at an A1C of greater than or equal to 6.5%*

Black Americans are more than twice as likely as Whites to develop type 2 diabetes with the racial gap rising, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). 

“People who participate in pre-diabetes screening and prevention activities have a 58 percent chance of not progressing to the full disease,” said Williams. 

Pre-diabetes occurs in individuals with elevated blood sugar levels, but not high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. Most people with pre-diabetes don’t know they have it because there are no obvious symptoms, according to NIH officials. 

“Don’t think pre-diabetes is something to be taken lightly,” said Williams who cautioned that pre-diabetes can also put you at higher risk for more serious health problems like heart disease and stroke. 

Fasting Blood Glucose test: Diabetes is diagnosed at fasting blood glucose of greater than or equal to 126 mg/dl 
 

Williams urged all adults and teens in Baltimore, Prince George’s County and Somerset County to get evaluated for pre-diabetes and enroll in one of the many support programs offered by the Maryland Department of Public Health. 

“Pre-diabetes is a warning to change your diet and lifestyle,” said Tobias Arnold of Silver Spring, who was diagnosed with pre-diabetes in 2016. 

“I really didn’t know what that was,” Arnold added. “I thought I just needed to eat less sugar; you know, cut out the candy bars. I didn’t know about carbohydrates.  My doctor used generalities and assumed that I would know how to change my diet.” 

Williams said there are both on-line and in-person pre-diabetes programs in each county that offer hands-on support to help participants make changes in diet, exercise and other lifestyle decisions needed to avert diabetes.

“This is a serious disease,” Williams said, urging Black Americans especially to see the onset of diabetes as more than just “a little sugar.” Complications from diabetes can affect many of the body’s systems and can lead to heart disease, vision loss, kidney disease, stroke, nerve damage, foot damage and amputation and other complications.

 “The Maryland Department of Health realizes a diagnosis of pre-diabetes may call for a complete lifestyle change for people. That takes time, support, and community support,” she added.

Reporting for this story is done through the support of a journalism fellowship from the Gerontology Society of America, The Journalists’ Network on Generations and the Commonwealth Fund.

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By Aria Brent
AFRO Staff Writer
abrent@afro.com

Black Restaurant Week is returning to Washington D.C. and Baltimore for its fifth year July 16-30. The two week event  focuses on stimulating the economy of the Black community in Charm City and the District. Each year, Black-owned culinary businesses and professionals who cannot afford marketing campaigns are celebrated and promoted to the public. With a variety of cuisines, businesses and culinary artists being highlighted during the 2024 campaign, the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area is in for a treat. 

According to the James Beard Foundation’s 2023 Industry Report, 53 percent of culinary business owners garnered lower profits last year due to the constant rise in food and labor costs. The costly changes have impacted menu prices and profits significantly since 2022.

“Black Restaurant Week is not only making people aware of amazing restaurants, but it is also increasing foot traffic for these businesses,” said Derek Robinson, a managing partner for Black Restaurant Week. “Black Restaurant Week is giving folks a great opportunity to support their own local businesses and try out new spots. We’re super excited to get these businesses more stability and more financial support from their communities.” 

Last year approximately 100 participants connected with the Greater Washington, D.C. campaign, whose mission is to “feed the cultural famine.” Through this mission they’ve not only prioritized rescuing the Black restaurant industry but also helped the public understand the beauty of ethnic cuisines while eliminating the stigmas around it. 

A plethora of local restaurants are set to participate in this year’s event, including Lydia on H, Appioo Bar and Grill, Berries by Quicha, D.C. Capital Square, England Eatery and many more. 

Aisha England, chef and owner of Baltimore’s England Eatery, weighed in on what she hopes to gain from the event.

“Last year around this time I’m not even sure if we were ready, but [we are] a year into the new location and being able to host people for dining. I look forward to bringing in those folks and having them experience our food,” said England. 

Although being a Black business owner comes with many struggles, England noted that receiving financial support for her business has been very challenging.

“The biggest thing is funding,” said England. “My biggest struggle is being able to get funding to do stuff. I’ve gotten a lot of grants and I’m blessed to have those. I know some of the things that have happened to me don’t happen to bigger corporations as far as funding goes.”

While many of the participating business owners are looking forward to the financial benefit of Black Restaurant Week, they’re equally excited for the opportunity to network and connect with their communities. 

“I’m looking forward to meeting new people and new patrons of course, and connecting with new restaurants,” said LaQuicha Brown, owner of Berries by Quicha, located in Baltimore.

Black Restaurant Week will conclude on July 30. After nine years, the initiative has helped more than 3,000 restaurateurs, bartenders, chefs, caterers and food trucks.

Tierra Stone, an AFRO Intern, contributed to this article. 

The post Black Restaurant Week returns to D.C. and Baltimore area for fifth year appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Deborah Bailey
AFRO Contributing Editor
dbailey@afro.com

The U.S. Africa Collaborative recently held the 2024 Pan African City Exposition on the campus of Bowie State University. The international affordable housing symposium offered an exchange of ideas in search of solutions to the affordable housing crisis across the African Diaspora, with emphasis on Africa, the United States (U.S.) and the United Kingdom (UK). 

The Collaborative, organized by Maryland native and international housing advocate, Elizabeth Glenn, connects affordable housing advocates across the African Diaspora, from government officials, universities, nonprofits and community-based voices. Glenn, former deputy director of Baltimore County’s Department of Planning has worked on affordable housing issues in Ecuador, Türkiye, South Africa, Australia as well as the U.S. 

“We operate based on the African Proverb that says ‘if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’  We are going together, and we are trying one step at a time to build bridges across the diaspora,” Glenn said. “The African Diaspora got spread out across the globe. We got disconnected from our past, but it doesn’t mean we have to be disconnected in our future.”

Glenn and symposium conveners presented a balance between U.S. housing issues and equity and solutions to the world-wide crisis in sustainable, affordable housing. Both Adrienne Todman, secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and Dr. Nana Mhlongo, deputy director-general of South Africa’s National Department of Human Settlements, addressed the audience and spoke to the deficit in housing for low wealth citizens and the need for innovative solutions. 

The U.S. currently has a 7.3-million affordable housing unit shortage,  according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. The backlog of South Africa’s government subsidized settlements is 2.4 million, according to the country’s International Trade Administration. Both countries also face a growing homeless population. 

Sanele Mbambo, lecturer at South Africa’s University of the Free State, has been involved with the U.S. Africa Collaborative since the symposium first convened in South Africa in 2022. He came to Maryland to learn how the U.S. tackles its legacy of housing discrimination. 

“The United States has a common case with South Africa in terms of racial discrimination. I am quite impressed with how many American organizations and institutions are managing the development of human settlements,” said Mbambo, regarding the 5.2 million U.S. households receiving subsidized housing assistance. 

Ayanna Nahmias, founder of Africa Vertical, offered rural solutions for economic empowerment through the farming project she oversees in Zimbabwe. The 200 women connected with Africa Vertical’s sustainable, organic farm, grow food that feeds communities. The farm not only provides the women skills in agriculture, but also supports them in a livelihood through the micro business they operate selling the produce they harvest. 

Nahmias, who lives between Northern Virginia and Zimbabwe, first moved to Africa as a child with her parents. She considers herself a “daughter of Africa,” and began the farm in 2015 after her father’s death in Zimbabwe. 

“The Africa vertical farm in Zimbabwe is an alternative to donor dependency,” Nahmias said. “The women involved with the farm are able to grow organic food, feed their families and community, and make a living.”

Nahmias is currently implementing a hydroponic farming model and seeking other countries, including the U.S. where her Zimbabwean farming model can be replicated. 

A Pan African housing symposium wouldn’t be complete without song, dance and Capoeira de Angola, a form of Afro-Brazilian martial arts. Jonal Lartique, from Richmond, and Troy Thomas, based in metropolitan D.C, taught participants about the highly stylized and rhythmic martial arts form that looks like a choreographed dance. 

“This art form is part of the traditional practice that came with us when we came to America,” Lartique said, adding that the demonstration visualized the data and information shared in the symposium workshops. “The healing is in each of us, coming together, working out our past and working toward our future.”

The post U.S. Africa Collaborative Housing Exposition offers solutions to global affordable housing crisis appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Ashley Estelle

Angela Alsobrooks, an attorney and the county executive of Prince George’s County, was recently nominated for Maryland’s open U.S. Senate seat. Given that nomination, and the fact that current Vice President Kamala Harris is of Black descent, you might think that Black women are serving in the U.S. government in considerable numbers. Unfortunately, you’d be wrong. If Alsobrooks wins, she will become only the fourth Black woman ever to serve in the U.S. Senate. Alsobrooks’ May 14th primary victory highlights an important moment for Black women in politics, reflecting ongoing progress and challenges. Her strength and determination—even in the face of racist and hateful attacks like vandalism on her campaign signs—mirror Black women’s convictions throughout their long history of political involvement.

As a Black woman myself, this recurring need for resilience hits particularly close to home for me, shaped not just by the broader strokes of history but by the intimate details of my upbringing. I vividly recall my mother proudly wearing her “I voted” sticker each time an election came around. Her interest in participating in the democratic process wasn’t just about casting a ballot; it was a unique expression of her belief in the power of collective voices to effect change in our country. Now, remembering those “I voted” stickers makes me realize that it was only a few generations ago that women in my family were constantly struggling to vote.

Even as the 19th Amendment was ratified in August of 1920, many Americans knew that African-American women would remain disenfranchised. Despite the amendment put in place, discriminatory practices such as poll taxes, literacy tests, and outright intimidation continued to disenfranchise the black community, particularly in the South. Black women organized and participated in conventions and gatherings across the country to advocate for suffrage and other issues. Their initiatives became hubs of activism, fostering solidarity and pushing their voices in the fight for political rights and equity. Ida B. Wells-Barnett, Sojourner Truth, Mary Ann Shadd Cary, and Mary Church Terrell were among the prominent Black suffragists. Their leadership and activism were instrumental in advancing the cause of suffrage, challenging both racial and gender discrimination.

The voting rights movement has often overlapped with human rights movements. Suffragists like Mary Church Terrell—a pioneering educator and the first president of the National Association of Colored Women (NACW)—focused on voting and broader issues of equality and justice. During the abolitionist movement, enslaved and free Black individuals addressed women’s rights. They dealt with racism and sexism, often finding themselves marginalized and excluded from mainstream suffrage organizations. Despite those obstacles, there was continued persistence in their goal of equality and justice not just for themselves, but for all.

Presently, Black women have emerged as a powerful force in recent elections, demonstrating high voter turnout rates and playing roles in mobilizing voters. Our efforts were instrumental in securing victories for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in 2020. Our collective power and commitment to political participation highlight the importance of amplifying Black women’s voices and representation in electoral politics. The resounding support for Biden-Harris, with approximately 90% of Black women casting their ballots in their favor, underscores our influence on electoral outcomes.

Despite Black women’s clear and demonstrated power as a voting bloc, many structural barriers hinder us from participating in politics as candidates and elected officials. Financial barriers to political candidacy, as articulated by City Council member Martha Castex Tatum, show the systemic inequities that persist within our political institutions. For example, former North Carolina state chief justice Cheri Beasley was given a small amount of party money in her campaign for the Senate in 2022. Yet, amidst these challenges, Black women activists continue to push the cause of voting rights. Figures like Stacey Abrams, LaTosha Brown, and Leah Aden exemplify the commitment to combat voter suppression and expand access to the ballot boxes for underrepresented communities. 

Now that Alsobrooks has won the Democratic nomination and is currently leading in the polls against former Gov. Larry Hogan, there is hope for one more Black woman to join the U.S. Senate from Maryland and broader hope that even more Black women will take their rightful place in the U.S. Senate from many states. This milestone invites us to reflect on the wider challenges Black women face in attaining political leadership roles. 

We must question the differences between civic engagement and holding positions of power. Does your local or state government support policies encourage those of diverse backgrounds to run for office? Does your party make it easy for Black women to be nominated and elected? Are there systemic barriers within our political institutions that must be addressed to ensure fair representation? As a Black woman myself, I recognize the power of my voice, deeply rooted in a history where many of my ancestors were denied the rights and opportunities I have today. 

Together, we can honor their fight by advancing the cause of justice and equality for future generations by filling our legislature with diverse and justice-oriented individuals.

The post Angela Alsobrooks and the history of Black women’s representation appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Tierra Stone
AFRO Intern
tierrastone@afro.com

and

By Mackenzie Williams
AFRO Intern
mwillaims@afro.com

This week the AFRO compiled a list of events happening throughout the month of July in the D.C., Maryland and Virginia (DMV) area. Take a look below to see what’s happening near you!

Baltimore

Captain America Movie Marathon

Are there any Marvel fans in the family? If so, the Enoch Pratt Central Library, which sits in the heart of downtown Baltimore is hosting a Captain America movie marathon–perfect for all the superheroes in your life.

Date: July 6

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Location: Enoch Pratt Central Library (Wheeler Auditorium)
400 Cathedral Street
Baltimore MD, 21201

Cost: Free

First Thursdays: Make and Mingle

Make art and mingle is an adults-only event to not only socialize but also unleash creativity with other locals. There will be food and drink vendors available for purchase and art supplies will be provided. If you have a membership with the museum you will receive a complimentary drink on the house, and any college students can show their ID to get a free cup of coffee.

Date: July 11

Time: 6 p.m – 7 p.m.

Location: The Walters Art Museum (Walters Cafe)
600 North Charles Street
Baltimore MD, 21201

Cost: Free

Walk A Mile in My Dreams Performance by Joyce J. Scott

The Baltimore Museum of Art is hosting an event led by musical artist Joyce J. Scott with collaborators Lorraine Whitlessey, and jazzman Derrick Thompson. Space is limited and all attendees must register online. Register at https://checkout.artbma.org/.

Date: July 14

Time: 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Location: Baltimore Museum of Art
10 Art Museum Drive
Baltimore MD, 21218

Cost: Free

Community Briefing: Caring for Maryland’s Children

Maryland public defender, Natasha M. Dartigue is hosting a virtual event that will feature an overview of the youth crime bill—the Yes Act as well as discuss the office of public defender’s community outreach and resources. Link: www.facebook.com/MarylandOPD

Date: July 16

Time: 3:00 p.m.

Location: Virtually on Zoom

Cost: Free

Summer Sounds at the Square

Make sure to bring your family and friends to historic Belvedere Square and enjoy a live musical performance by the local band The New Romance. The parking lot will be converted into an open-air market where there will be food and drink from local businesses such as Atwater’s, Prigel Family Farm, Sassy Squeeze and so much more.

Date: July 19

Time: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Location: Belvedere Square
529 East Belvedere Avenue
Baltimore MD, 21212

Cost: Free

Red Cross Blood Drive

The Enoch Pratt Central Library is hosting a blood drive to help those in need. All prospective donors will go through a screening process before their donation and will receive a snack after the procedure. Make sure to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water for the best result possible. All donors are required to register at https://www.redcrossblood.org/.

Date: July 20

Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Location: Enoch Pratt Central Library (Creative Arts Center)
400 Cathedral Street
Baltimore MD, 21201

Cost: Free

Washington, D.C.

Bold & Beautiful: After Dark

The Anacostia Community Museum is showcasing its new after-dark series of 2024 with a viewing of its exhibit, Bold and Beautiful Vision: A Century of Black Arts Education in Washington, D.C.,1900-2000. Enjoy this summertime theme with glow-in-the-dark art, jams by DJ Farrah Flosscett and a guided art phenomenon by instructor Lex Marie titled “Luminous Landscapes: A Neon Night of Art.” This event is 21+ register at https://www.eventbrite.com and search for Bold & Beautiful: After Dark.

Date: July 25

Time: 7 p.m -10 p.m

Location: Anacostia Community Museum
1901 Fort Place SE
Washington, D.C., 20020

Cost: Free

Jazz in the Garden

The National Gallery of Art will be hosting a jazz music concert every Friday until the first week of August. Come enjoy an outdoor experience with your family and friends with a new artist every week. The museum recommends public transportation and blankets for sitting in the grass, first come first serve. Tickets are placed in a lottery system so make sure you check the website for open time slots to register. For any other questions please contact tickets@nga.gov and register at https://tickets.nga.gov/events/.

Date: Every Friday until August 9th

Time: 6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m

Location: National Gallery of Art
The Sculpture Garden (located on the north side
of the National Mall between 7th and 9th Streets NW.)
Washington, D.C., 20565

Cost: Free

Asia in the Dark

In light of Bruceploitation weekend, The National Museum of Asian Art is hosting a film screening and after-hour party. The museum will leave exhibits open while you enjoy food, music, and a special screening of The Dragon Lives Again. If you register for the film you must be in line by 6:50 to claim your seat. Registering for the event and film is done so separately, register at eventbrite.com by searching for the event, and register at https://hkclassics.eventive.org/ for the film.

Date: July 13

Time: 5p.m – 8p.m

Location: National Museum of Asian Art
1050 Independence Avenue SW
Washington, D.C., 20004

Cost: Free

PG County

Community Health is Wealth Fair

The V.K. Nyambi Foundation is hosting a community event where attendees can receive free health screenings and testing for vision, kidney, HIV, and Hepatitis B. There will also be resources for mental health, marital counseling, and financial advising. The event will also include free food giveaways as well as light refreshments being served.

Date: July 21

Time: 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Location: Hampton Conference Center
207 West Hampton Place
Capitol Heights, MD, 20743

Cost: Free

The post Upcoming meetings and events in the Baltimore and D.C. and Virginia Area appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Aleisha Robinson
AFRO Intern
arobinson@afro.com

and

Gabby Howard
AFRO Intern
ghoward@afro.com

As summer kicks into high gear, the D.C, Maryland and Virginia area is quickly becoming the place to be for fun in the sun. This week the AFRO interns compiled a mixture of events that will range from festivals, museum happenings, panel discussions and bike tours. Take a look at the events below to find something that piques your interest and don’t forget to register!

Baltimore

The National Great Blacks in Wax Museum’s 8th Annual “Voices of History” Street Fair

The National Great Blacks in Wax Museum, Discover Me, Recover Me and T.E.A.C.H will be hosting a free community event to celebrate Black history, culture and community. Music and live performances will be featured, along with local talent, vendors, art, food and more.

Date: July 13

Location: The National Great Blacks in Wax Museum
1601-1649 East North Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21213

Time:11 a.m – 6 p.m

Prince George’s County

U.S. Africa Collaborative

The Pan African City Exposition which is hosted by Bowie State University and sponsored by Wells Fargo will host a series of events to educate people of sustainability and urban development. The event will have plenary sessions with speakers such as Dr. Ernest Khalema, Ph.D, Maria Day Marshall Esq., Dr. Sijekula Mbanga, Ph.D and CEO of York Housing Authority Regina Stone Mitchell.

Date: June 26-29

Time: Sessions are on June 26, June 27 and June 28 are from 10:45 a.m – 5:15 p.m. and June 29 from 10:45 a.m – 5:30 p.m. See schedule for more details.

Location: Bowie State University
National Sciences Building and Student Center
14000 Jericho Park Rd, Bowie, MD, USA.

Cost: Free, (registration link): https://usafricacollaborative.org/registration/

Washington D.C.

NoMa BID: Sunset Concert Series

NoMa BID and DC Fray are hosting a Sunset Concert Series to celebrate a diverse culmination of artists and music ranging from go-go, funk, indie and more. There will be vendors and food trucks.

Date: June 11 to July 30

Time: 6:30 p.m – 8:30 p.m

Location: Alethia Tanner Park
227 Harry Thomas Way Northeast
Washington D.C. 20002

Cost: Free, RSVP on Eventbrite

W.E.B Du Bois Ethiopianism and Black Internationalism | Busboys and Poets Books

Busboys and Poets will host a conversation with Dr. Wayne A. Rose, Ph.D, along with Professor Robbie Shilliam, Ph.D to discuss his research on W.E.B. Du Bois and Black internationalism.

Date: June 30

Location: Busboys and Poets (Takoma)
235 Carroll Ave NW
Washington, DC 20012

Time: 6 p.m – 8 p.m

Cost: Free, RSVP on Eventbrite

A Night of Worship And Prayer
Worship leader and composer John Bolin and the Voices of Praise Choir are hosting “A Night of Worship and Prayer.” This live event features uplifting music, heartfelt prayers, and spiritual reflection of the Museum of the Bible.

Date: July 3 – 6
Time: Doors open at 5:15 p.m and event starts at 6 p.m

Location: World Stage Theatre
400 4th Street Southwest
Washington, DC 20024
Cost: Free, RSVP on Eventbrite

Subversive, Skilled, Sublime: Fiber Art by Women

Visual artist Mary Savig and Curator of Craft Lloyd Herman are hosting the virtual Subversive, Skilled, Sublime: Fiber Art by Women Lecture. This event will immerse listeners in discussions about art by women at SAAM’s Renwick Gallery.

Date: July 11

Location: Zoom

Time: 7 p.m – 8 p.m

Cost: Free, (registration link): https://americanart.si.edu/exhibitions/fiber-art-by-women

Housing and Urban Development Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business Event
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) is hosting the 17th Annual Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned (SDVOSB) event at the HUD headquarters building. This event will provide businesses with information about the laws, rules, and regulations that govern SDVOSB.

Date: July 11
Time: 10 a.m -1 p.m

Location: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
451 7th Street Southwest
Washington, DC 20410

Cost: Free, RSVP on Eventbrite

Hill Family Biking- Yards Park Ride

A network called Hill Family Biking is organizing a four-mile bike ride around Capitol Hill and adjacent regions of DC. Free Ice Cream will be provided to 200 ride participants starting with kids. Families are encouraged to be 15 minutes early if their bikes need maintenance. The police bike team will be in attendance.

Date: July 20
Time: 4 p.m – 5:30 p.m EDT

Location: Payne Elementary
1445 C Street Southeast Washington D.C, 20003

Entrances on 14th and D
Cost: Free, RSVP on Eventbrite

Virginia

Annual Voter Registration Training

The League of Women Voters of Arlington is holding an annual voter registration training event to inform the public because on July 31 registration and certifications will officially expire in Virginia.

Date: July 14

Location: Unitarian Universalist Church (The Activity Room)
4444 Arlington Boulevard
Arlington VA 22204

Time: 2:30 p.m – 4 p.m

Cost: Free, RSVP on Eventbrite

Black Pride RVA – Day of Purpose Festival

The Greater Richmond Convention center will be hosting a “Day of Purpose Festival.” This event will focus on the strength and diversity of the BIPOC LGBTQIA+ community. The attendees can enjoy live musical performances, art exhibits, and various vendors.

Date: July 20

Location: Greater Richmond Convention Center
403 North 3rd Street
Richmond VA 23219

Time: 11 a.m – 4 p.m

Cost: Free, RSVP on Eventbrite

The post Upcoming meetings and events in the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Special Release

The William and Lanaea C. Featherstone Foundation, an award-winning nonprofit, announces Dr. Frances Murphy Draper, CEO and publisher of the AFRO American Newspapers, as this year’s Featherstone Changemaker Award recipient. This prestigious prize recognizes an influential leader who drives social change and makes a positive impact in the community.

Draper, known by the nickname “Toni,” will be honored on Aug. 9, 2024 during the Featherstone Awards Ceremony, an annual event that showcases Baltimore’s most promising youth and promotes academic equity in higher education. During the awards ceremony, 27 exceptional students will receive Featherstone College Scholarships to attend Coppin State University, Morgan State University, the University of Baltimore and other institutions.

WJZ-13 CBS News Baltimore Reporter Janay Reece will emcee the awards ceremony. The lineup includes: Pablo Adrián Arrocha Olabuenaga, head of community affairs for the Consular Section of the Embassy of Mexico; Travis E. Mitchell, senior vice president and chief content officer of Maryland Public Television; Kurt L. Schmoke, president of the University of Baltimore, and Kerry R. Watson Jr., executive vice president of public affairs for the Baltimore Orioles.

“Dr. Draper is an iconic Baltimore trailblazer whose professional accomplishments, leadership and influence uphold the highest standards of excellence,” said Tameka Brown, executive director of the William and Lanaea C. Featherstone Foundation. “She’s lauded as an influential business leader and a role model for our Featherstone Scholars.”

Earlier this year, Draper received The First Citizen Award, the State of Maryland’s highest honor given by the Maryland Senate. In 2023, The Baltimore Business Journal named Draper a “Power 10 CEO.” For more than 131 years, the AFRO has been on the forefront of bringing vital information to communities.

“I am humbled and honored to receive the Featherstone Foundation’s 2024 Changemaker Award,” said Draper. “Congratulations to the scholarship awardees who are our future leaders and change makers.”

Draper holds a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Morgan State University where she also served on the university’s Board of Regents for 25 years. She holds a Master’s degree in education from Johns Hopkins University; a master’s degree in pastoral counseling from Loyola University Maryland, and a master’s degree in business administration from The University of Baltimore. Draper also holds a doctorate in leadership from the United Theological Seminary.

The event will take place on August 9, 2024 at The University of Baltimore.

The post AFRO CEO and publisher to be honored by William and Lanaea C. Featherstone Foundation appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By D. Kevin McNeir
Special to the AFRO

ATM bandits strike again, this time in Bowie, Md. 

It took less than five minutes for police officers to arrive on the scene after a burglar alarm was triggered at T&T Liquors in Bowie, Md., on Monday morning, June 10. But that was long enough for thieves to get through the metal gate covering the doors, break a heavy padlock and get away with an ATM, scratch-off lottery tickets, alcohol and cigarettes. 

According to police, the getaway vehicle, a red pickup, was found on Route 50 near the exit for Interstate 295 less than one hour after the robbery. 

So far, police have not caught those responsible for the crime, nor have they determined if this latest robbery counts as the efforts of a group of individuals who have been targeting ATMs in Prince George’s County, or if this break-in was committed by copycat thieves. 

Lt. John Knott, commander of investigative services with the Bowie Police Department, said thieves often use a stolen pickup truck that is used to pull the ATM out of the store and then carry it away.

The number of ATM thefts continues to be a major concern for law enforcement officials in Prince George’s County, with 67 ATM robberies or attempted robberies already recorded this year and 140 recorded in 2023. Local officials say they’re working on cracking down on these crimes as legislators consider passing tougher sentences for those found guilty. 

Just a couple weeks ago, on the evening of June 6, an ATM was stolen from The Wayne Curry Sports and Learning Center in Landover, Md. – a facility frequently used by those in the community because of its tracks and fields, especially by seniors. But, one of the biggest “paydays” for these proficient thieves occurred four months ago when a group of bandits targeted 10 locations, most of them 7-Elevens, smashing and grabbing 14 ATMs in four days across Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia during overnight hours.  

Officials sound the alarm as HIV infections, STD cases spike in Prince George’s 

Health officials in Prince George’s County are urging residents to get tested and know their status after seeing a spike in rates for HIV and sexually transmitted infections.

Recent data shows that approximately 7 percent to 8 percent of people with whom the Health Department interacts tests positive for HIV while Prince George’s County is second only to Baltimore in the state of Maryland for HIV and STI rates.

On June 11, officials emphasized the importance of communicating to the public that HIV, which was a death sentence in decades past, is now both preventable and treatable. 

In the U.S., Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) was first recognized as a new disease in 1981 when young homosexual men began to contract and die from unusual opportunistic infections and rare malignancies, according to the CDC. 

One lesser known fact: after the first cases were detected in the U.S. in 1981, a later study revealed that African people had been infected as early as 1959. Other studies have shown that HIV has been circulating in humans for even longer, probably since the end of the 19^th century. 

In speaking with local reporters, Michael Rice, clinical director for Daydream Sunshine Initiative, a Bowie-based nonprofit that offers testing and treatment for HIV and STIs, said that given the resources and treatments now available, the number of new HIV infections should be zero, not the 2 percent positivity rate which his organization reported in 2023 after testing an estimated 1,100 people. 

Rice added that those populations who represent the most significant increase in recent HIV infections include Black cisgender women (women whose gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth) and younger adults between the ages of 18 and 34. Capitol Heights, Md. has also been identified as a hotspot for new HIV infections. Health centers and nonprofits throughout Maryland offer free testing to anyone who enters their doors.  

Wendell Felder wins Ward 7 Democratic primary race while Mayor Bowser considers an unprecedented run for a fourth consecutive term in 2026 

Ten candidates were on the ballot for D.C.’s Democratic primary race for Ward 7, which took place on June 4. But it took two more days before The Associated Press projected a winner: 33-year-old Wendell Felder, a local politician and the former chair of the Ward 7 Democrats who currently leads the local Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC). However, Felder’s victory was far from decisive as two other candidates, Ebony Payne, a Kingsman Park ANC commissioner, and Eboni-Rose Thompson, president of the State Board of Education, were close behind by several hundred votes. 

Felder’s victory presumably occurred, in part, because of his endorsement by Vincent Gray,  the District’s former mayor and council chair who had held the Ward 7 seat since 2005. Gray earlier announced that he would not seek reelection due to health challenges. He suffered a stroke in 2021 and another in April 2024 and continues to receive physical therapy for complications related to mobility and speech. 

Because the District is heavily dominated by Democratic voters, Felder will almost assuredly win the general election in November and succeed the retiring Gray in Ward 7. 

On another note, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has been making the rounds, appearing on local TV news stations and holding multiple press conferences addressing topics that include public safety, summer internships for youth and the new budget. She has yet to decide if she will run for an unprecedented fourth consecutive term for mayor in 2026. 

D.C.’s “Mayor for Life,” Marion Barry was elected mayor for four terms but only three of his terms were consecutive. 

Stay tuned.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA Newswire) – The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) concluded its 2024 annual summer convention on June 22, leaving its mark on Baltimore and making history as the first trade association with a presidential campaign as an event sponsor. The Biden-Harris campaign also announced a groundbreaking seven-figure advertising and sponsorship deal with the NNPA, which represents 250 Black-owned newspapers and media companies comprising the Black Press of America.

“In August of last year, our campaign announced the earliest and largest investment into Black media for any reelection campaign in history,” said Jasmine Harris, the director of national Black media for Biden-Harris 2024. “This partnership with the NNPA is a continuation of those efforts and will strengthen our work in meeting Black voters where they are, to underscore the stakes of this election for Black America. President Biden and Vice President Harris are responsible for creating millions of new jobs for Black workers and record low Black unemployment. Black America has far too much to lose this election.”

In a letter to publishers, Vice President Harris asserted that the NNPA has remained steadfast in its commitment to supporting Black publishers. “Your work helps ensure that communities gain critical knowledge and have access to accurate information on the pertinent issues impacting our country,” Harris said. “As you know, the freedom of the press is essential to our democracy. I commend the efforts of the NNPA as you continue to be trusted voices of your communities and tell stories that too often go untold.”

NNPA Chairman Bobby R. Henry Sr. emphasized that “it is extremely important to show support of the business side of the Black Press owned by Black business leaders. Verbal support is good, but financial support is better.”

The 2024 convention began with the unveiling of the “Marylanders Cry Freedom, Civil Rights at Home and Abroad” exhibit at Baltimore City Hall, which celebrated the 40th anniversary of Maryland’s divestment from South Africa’s apartheid regime in 1984.

The unveiling featured remarks from Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, U.S. Rep. Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.), Chavis, Henry, AFRO Publisher Dr. Toni Draper, and other dignitaries. Distinguished guests included U.S. Black Chambers President Ron Busby and Dr. Camille Ragin of Fox Chase Cancer Center.

The convention offered a series of insightful panels and discussions. A GenZ panel on voter issues featured journalist Ashleigh Fields, University of Maryland Student journalist Savannah Grooms, North Carolina A&T student journalist Melvin Harris Jr., Huffington Post journalist Phillip Lewis, community organizer Brielle Morton, and Elijah Pittman, an anti-colonial, Afro-diasporic-centered journalist from Howard University. Additional panels, hosted by Wells Fargo, Google News Initiative, General Motors, Pfizer, and Reynolds, aligned with the convention’s theme, “Empowering the Black Press, Communities, Families, and Voter Turnout.”

During the NNPA Fund’s Merit Awards, Baltimore Times Publisher Joy Bramble was honored as Publisher of the Year. The St. Louis American led with 12 awards, including first place in the Armstrong Ellington Entertainment category and the Robert L. Vann Layout & Design Award. Real Times Media publications, the Michigan Chronicle, and the New Pittsburgh Courier collectively garnered eight awards. The Michigan Chronicle won five awards, while the New Pittsburgh Courier earned three.

The Atlanta Voice received six awards for journalistic excellence, including the Emory O. Jackson Award for health coverage and the Ada S. Franklin Award for fashion. The Sacramento Observer, whose publisher Larry Lee won the 2023 Publisher of the Year award, also secured six awards. Other recognized publications included The Washington Informer, Texas Metro News, Houston Forward Times, Houston Defender, Insight News, Minneapolis Spokesman-Recorder, Los Angeles Sentinel, New York Amsterdam News, and Seattle Medium.

The NNPA’s daily digital show, “Let It Be Known,” was celebrated with the Black Press of America’s “Black Excellence in Media” award. The NNPA National Legacy Awards, always among the convention highlights, honored Maryland Democratic Congressman Kweisi Mfume. Erica P. Loewe, a White House Office of Public Engagement assistant to the president and chief of staff, and photographer Mel D. Cole received the inaugural “Future Goes Viral” award from “Let It Be Known,” under the direction of Greer Marshall, for their bravery and unwavering resolve during and after the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Philadelphia Tribune Publisher Robert Bogle, and Defender Network CEO Sonny Messiah Jiles were also presented with the “Future Goes Viral” award for their tireless advocacy as publishers of Black-owned newspapers and media companies.

The conference formally closed with a dinner cruise presented by Regi Taylor of the Baltimore Times that was titled, “From Shackles to Ownership: A Reflection of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.”

“Gratitude is owed to our sponsors, speakers, awardees and organizers for their unwavering support in making this event possible,” Henry said. “Together, let’s harness this moment to inspire, learn, and collaborate, shaping a brighter future for all through the NNPA and its Black-owned media companies.”

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By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Political Writer
tmcqueen@afro.com

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) alongside several top state officials and legislators announced a historical number of pardons, over 175,000, for convictions related to low-level marijuana offenses on June 17. 

To the sound of applause, Moore emphasized that Maryland must address the consequences of criminalization done in large part by the war on drugs, a legal effort meant to address illegal drug use by increasing the incarceration and penalties of convicted drug offenders.

“We know that legalization does not turn back the clock on decades of harm that was caused by the war on drugs. It doesn’t erase the fact that Black Marylanders were three times more likely to be arrested for cannabis than White Marylanders,” said Moore. “Policy making is powerful. If you look at the past, you see how policies have been intentionally deployed to hold back entire communities. We are talking about tools that have led to the mass incarceration of Black men and boys.”

“To undo that kind of intentionality, we need to apply intentionality of our own,” said Moore. “Today, we take a big step enacting the kinds of policies that can reverse the harms of the past and to help us to work together to build a brighter future.”

Recreational cannabis use and possession was legalized in Maryland on July 1, 2023, for adults 21 and up.

Moore’s signing ceremony marked one of the largest state-level pardons in the country. The governor’s office said that an estimated 100,000 people will be impacted by the pardons.

In a virtual call ahead of the announcement, the governor’s office said there are no people currently incarcerated solely on misdemeanor charges in Maryland. Due to that, there will be no people released from jail exclusively due to these pardons.

“The legacy that the war on drugs has had on our city of Baltimore – and many places around the country like it – is still visceral and tangible. We still see and feel the wounds every day in the lives, families and communities that were disrupted and destroyed,” said Baltimore City Mayor Brandon M. Scott in a statement after the ceremony. “For those receiving the pardons – which includes thousands upon thousands of Baltimoreans – it will be life-changing.”

Baltimore City is receiving an overwhelming 39,865 pardons, 22.77 percent, compared to Baltimore County’s 22,298, 12.74 percent, and Prince George’s County’s 21,080, 12.04 percent.

“I want to thank and commend Governor Moore for his commitment, compassion and love for the people who have been so impacted by this history,” continued Scott. “This action and our work together to overcome the dark legacy of our predecessors, will lay the foundation for a better, safer future for all of our residents.”

Now that the executive order has been signed, the Maryland Judiciary will make sure every individual court docket is updated, notifying those who were pardoned by Moore of their status. The process should take around two weeks according to the governor’s office.

Moore’s executive order pardoned misdemeanor convictions for simple possession of cannabis and misdemeanor convictions for use or possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia. 

Through this order, more than 150,000 convictions were pardoned for simple possession of cannabis and over 18,000 convictions for use or possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia. 

“This legislative session, we prioritized re-entry reform and transforming our system in our state of Maryland for returning citizens. We focused on expungement and expanding expungements and making them automatic,” said Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland Chairwoman Del. Jheanelle Wilkins (D-Md.-20), after the ceremony. “This is just really a true partnership in terms of the governor’s actions to absolve people of their crimes.”

When asked to respond to people who may not believe pardons for past marijuana convictions are necessary or helpful Wilkins said, “We know that it’s the right thing to do, and it moves us towards equity in our state.”

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University of Maryland Medical System is bringing high-quality, comprehensive cancer treatment to Prince George’s County with the Cancer Center at UM Capital Region Health, part of a new 100,000-square-foot Center for Advanced Medicine on the UM Capital Region Health campus in Largo.

Breast, colon, lung and prostate cancers are prevalent in Prince George’s County, and specialists at the Cancer Center diagnose and treat these cancer types, as well as lymphoma, melanoma, pancreatic and sarcoma. Specialists employ a full range of services to provide treatment, including medical oncology and chemotherapy, radiation oncology and surgical oncology.

Focused on Holistic Patient Care

The team at the Cancer Center focuses on each patient’s emotional well-being throughout their treatment journey. Services provided to patients include counseling, financial assistance to those who qualify, nutrition guidance and social support. A nurse navigator with medical and institutional knowledge helps patients navigate the complexities of scheduling their care, answers questions about treatment and connects patients with available services and resources.

Private suites equipped with sofas, televisions, and adjoining examination rooms provide a comfortable environment inside the new Cancer Center. More importantly, this arrangement allows patients to stay in one place and have multiple providers come to them, eliminating the need to schedule multiple appointments and visit multiple locations.

This multidisciplinary, patient-centric approach provides exemplary cancer care in a setting designed to reduce stress and anxiety.

Connecting with Prince George’s County

For one provider, making an impact in this community is personal. Dr. Melissa Vyfhuis grew up in Prince George’s County, and today serves as the Cancer Center’s medical director of radiation oncology. As a first-generation Dominican American, Dr. Vyfhuis’ experience as an adolescent translator for her parents and grandparents at their medical appointments taught her the value of connecting with patients and ensuring they are actively involved in and understand their course of treatment.

Access to an Integrated Network of Specialists

When the need arises, specialists at the new Cancer Center at UM Capital Region Health work with their partners at University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, a National Cancer Institute-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. This relationship is key to enhancing cancer care for Prince George’s County, and provides access to the latest treatment advances through a comprehensive medical network.

For a Healthier Prince George’s County

UM Capital Region Health is committed to helping the community live longer, healthier lives. The new Cancer Center brings that commitment to life by delivering advanced cancer care in one central location and providing support services throughout a patient’s treatment journey.

The Cancer Center at UM Capital Region Health
9333 Healthcare Way
Largo, MD 20774
240-677-8300
umcapitalregion.org/cancer

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By Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper
AFRO CEO and Publisher

Recently I was asked, “Why do we need Juneteenth? Aren’t Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Black History Month enough?”  

I carefully explained – even though I was disturbed and perturbed by the question– that Juneteenth, MLK Jr. Day and Black History month are distinctly different. It was like asking why we recognize Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Don’t both have something to do with those who served in the Armed Forces? They do, but they are distinctly different and unique. 

The same is true of Juneteenth, which addresses issues and celebrates victories that are not the focus of either MLK Jr. Day or Black History Month. Juneteenth stands on its own in terms of significance. Thus, President Joseph R. Biden had the wisdom and courage to declare Juneteenth a national holiday June 2021. All 50 states and the District of Columbia recognize Juneteenth as a holiday or observance. 

Juneteenth speaks to aspects of American history, particularly African-American history, that are not fully covered by either MLK Jr. Day or Black History Month:

• Juneteenth specifically celebrates the end of slavery in Confederate states that seceded from the Union, an event that has profound historical and emotional significance. It acknowledges the pain of slavery and the joy of freedom in a way that is not the primary focus of MLK Day or Black History Month.
• Juneteenth highlights the fact that the themes of freedom, emancipation and the ongoing fight for civil rights are ever relevant. Juneteenth provides a moment to reflect on past injustices and consider the work that remains to achieve true equality.
• Juneteenth is not just a historical commemoration, but also a cultural celebration. It includes traditions such as community gatherings, music, food and education, enriching the cultural fabric of the nation.
• Juneteenth, MLK Jr. Day and Black History Month each complement each other, together offering a more comprehensive understanding and appreciation of African-American history and contributions.

Having Juneteenth as a recognized holiday alongside MLK Jr. Day and Black History Month ensures that the full scope of African-American history and the quest for freedom and equality are acknowledged and celebrated. 

As frequent AFRO contributor,  Dr. Karsonya Wise Whitehead wrote in a 2022 commentary, “Even though the Emancipation Proclamation did not legally end slavery (that did not happen until Dec. 6, 1865, with the ratification of the 13th Amendment), Black people have used that moment and every moment since then to make America live up to its creed to be both the home of the brave and the home of the free. 

Even though true freedom has yet to arrive, we recognize Juneteenth as a day of celebration, education and agitation. We mark this occasion with tears and with joy because we understand that we were not supposed to survive, but we did.” 

It is with this understanding, that we produced this special edition highlighting the importance of Juneteenth and passing down Black traditions, five ways to honor the ancestors and Juneteenth books for young readers and teens. 

Thanks to our advertisers, sponsors and AFRO Team members who contributed to this edition. 

We want to congratulate our AFRO Juneteenth breakfast honorees, Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Dr. Thelma T. Daley, Bobby Henry Sr. and the Root Branch Media Group. I would also like to extend a warm welcome to the leadership and members of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) who open their national convention in Baltimore on June 19. 

Happy Juneteenth! 

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By Mackenzie Williams
AFRO Intern
mwilliams@afro.com

“Struggle is a never ending process. Freedom is never really won, you earn it and win it in every generation.”

― Coretta Scott King, quote from “My Life With Martin Luther King Jr.”

Juneteenth is a defining moment for when Black people began their journey into freedom.  

This Juneteenth, the AFRO looked at ways the Black community can reclaim their power and liberation by taking the time to honor the meaning of this holiday.

1. Embrace your community 

Juneteenth is an African-American holiday that can be celebrated by all.  Though the date has been celebrated in Texas since 1980, the holiday became a federal holiday in 2021.  Last year, the Pew Research Center reported that “at least 28 states and the District of Columbia” officially “recognized Juneteenth as a public holiday – meaning state government offices are closed and state workers have a paid day off.”

Jo Von McCalester, Ph.D, a political science and Afro American Studies professor at Howard University, weighed in on how to embrace community on June 19.

“I want us to know and acknowledge what we are barbecuing for,” McCalester told the AFRO. “Tap into your community, because there are all kinds of celebrations happening. Individuals don’t have to create their own traditions around Juneteenth–at least not right now. They can join in with other groups that are celebrating. From there, they can get an idea of what is being celebrated.”

2. Know your history 

“While history is what happened, it is also, just as important, how we think about what happened and what we unearth and choose to remember about what happened.”

― Nikole Hannah-Jones, excerpt from “The 1619 Project: A New American Origin Story”

In 2021, Governor Ron De Santis announced the STOP W.O.K.E Act, which “works to combat critical race theory practices and corporate wokeism.” His legislation put forth the narrative that slaves benefited from slavery because it afforded the opportunity to learn “useful skills.” In the past few years the Black community has seen their books banned and their history rewritten. While Juneteenth is a holiday to celebrate freedom–it’s also a time to take advantage of the freedom to gain knowledge and dispel untruths. 

This Juneteenth, take time to examine a part of Black history you are unfamiliar with or revisit an era you know from beginning to end– you may learn something new. The AFRO Archives and “1619 Project,” by Nikole Hannah-Jones, are the perfect places to start!

3. Document your story

The term “slave narrative” gained popularity in the 18th and 19th century as a surge of slaves documented their life experience in oratorical and rhetorical fashion, to the surprise of enslavers and bigoted Americans. The purpose was to not only shed light on the conditions of slave labor, but also on the humanities and capabilities Black people had in comparison to their White counterparts. The words of Frederick Douglas in “Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass: An American Slave,” and the book, “Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl,” by Harriet Jacobs, shook the country into a space of understanding and rebellion. 

This Juneteenth holiday, take time to record your story and information on the life and times of your living relatives. Experts say journaling can help lower blood pressure, decrease depressive symptoms and improve overall well-being. The ancestors worked tirelessly and even risked their lives to gain the right to read, write, speak their minds and make meaning of their experiences– exercise your right today by recording your story. 

4. Learn about traditional foods 

On Juneteenth, the color red is used as a symbol of resilience and the bloodshed of ancestors. Hibiscus tea, also known as “sorrel” to West African families, is one traditional item to make this year on June 19. 

The recipe for sorrel has been orally passed down, keeping with tradition, and is made up of spices and herbs commonly found in the Caribbean. Good fortune foods, such as black eyed peas or cabbage, also symbolize Black tradition, passed on to instill hope. 

5. Practice health and wellness

Within chattel slavery, inhumane and cruel living conditions and diets made up of nutrient-poor foods significantly impacted the well being and spirit of the Black body. Today, Black people are now actively fighting to improve their collective physical, mental and emotional health. 

Many are using meditation or mindfulness practices to help rebalance themselves. 

According to the National Library of Medicine, while African Americans report higher rates of chronic stress, “the practice of mindfulness meditation is largely underutilized in African American communities despite its potential health benefits.” 

Krista Johnson, Ph.D,  the director for the Center of African studies at Howard University, 

encourages the Black community to engage in wellness practices– especially the younger generation because she says “it hasn’t gotten enough attention.” 

“You can’t underestimate breathing,” Johnson told the AFRO.

This Juneteenth, take time to truly understand how our ancestors survived enslavement and make a point to take better care of yourself. Remember, the healthier you are, the better you are able to live out the wildest dreams of your ancestors.

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By Congressman Kweisi Mfume

This week, I am wishing a Happy Father’s Day to every father, father figure and family. It is the joy of my life to be a father and a grandfather, and I cherish the honor and responsibility every day. 

It is essential to give thanks to all the fathers – biological and otherwise – who are around us and in our lives day in and day out. 

When a child steps into your world, your life changes forever. That new life is yours to oversee, guide, mentor and protect. As all fathers know – there are no limits to the ends that a man will go to ensure his child’s health, safety and security. 

But fatherhood is not without its challenges. With the addition of new life comes unforeseen tests. It is not just the blossoming of a new relationship between father and child, but a new chapter in your relationship with the world around you. We are tested as men and challenged to overcome the day-to-day obstacles of fatherhood. But when we are successful in this pursuit, we become an evolved version of ourselves. 

In the harsh reality of life, situations and circumstances can get out of control. Oftentimes, they will get in the way of our journey through life as fathers. The infamous government “man in the house” rules of the 1960s were a case in point. Those government regulations mandated that a child – who otherwise qualified for public assistance – be rejected if there was a single or married able-bodied man living in the home. That rule hastened the disintegration of Black families during that era and was punitive, mean and short-sighted.

Our government system of public assistance is designed to ensure that all Americans are able to receive basic human needs. Hindering those who rely on these benefits to live, simply because they have a father figure present, was unquestionably wrong. While the U.S. Supreme Court struck down this rule in 1968, I know that this inhumane policy took a toll on those Americans who were subjected to its harsh penalties.

In my capacity as both a father and an elected official, I have worked tirelessly to champion the voices and needs of fathers, mothers, children and families. I have sought to protect the most vulnerable among us and work legislatively to support all fathers and father figures across our nation.

In just this year alone, I successfully worked with others to secure hundreds of thousands of dollars in Community Project Funding to support those purposes. This direct federal funding will expand and improve a number of family-related efforts, such as the LIGHT Rock Children’s Village in Baltimore, allowing for increased enrollment in early childhood education efforts. These investments are a commitment to supporting our children’s futures, which I know is principal in the minds and hearts of fathers across our nation. 

Equally as important were the successful efforts to enhance the Child Tax Credit passed as part of the American Rescue Plan in Congress. Family support measures such as this are the building blocks which bolster fathers and fatherhood by lifting millions of children out of poverty in 2021 alone.

As a community, we must always encourage the roles of both fathers and mothers in a society where unfortunately families face harsh scrutiny and are devalued at times. We know that by supporting fathers and fatherhood we are also guaranteeing a future that is directly opposite of the aforementioned government policy and attempts of the 1960s to tear down that future. 

On this Father’s Day, let us support and continue to encourage all of the dads who have answered the call of being a guardian, leader, teacher, mentor and most of all father to the children of our communities.

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By James Matheson
Capital News Service

A yellow bus filled with middle schoolers heading home slowed to a stop at the corner of Sutler Drive and Iverson Street in Prince George’s County. It was just before 5 p.m. on a spring Monday in May 2023.

Three young people hidden behind black face-coverings burst onto the bus, past the driver and the bus aide.

The masked juveniles held a handgun to the chest of the lone middle schooler who remained on the bus, according to Prince George’s County Police. The trigger was pulled, but the gun jammed three times. The assailants beat the boy and fled the scene.

Although disaster was averted that day, the incident weighed on Vennard Wright, a security and technology specialist who a few years earlier formed a cybersecurity firm called Wave Welcome.

As a native of Prince George’s county, Wright had seen enough gun violence and wanted to do something about it.

“Thankfully the gun jammed,” Wright said of that heartbreaking day last May. “But because of that, we developed a technology that uses AI to detect firearms and notify police.”

Wright is among a growing number of African Americans who in recent years have formed companies in Prince George’s County, which has become the leading county in the state for the number of new businesses, according to data from the United States Census Bureau.

Wright’s newest company, which he founded last year with his wife Janelle, is called PerVista. It uses artificial intelligence to scan surveillance footage alongside a database of firearms. The system triggers an alert and sends the portion of video to public safety officials and police if anything from the footage matches the database.

The company hopes to sell its services to schools, shopping malls, sporting venues and office buildings.

Wright says the technology can detect firearms if any part of the gun is showing, but won’t alert police unless the gun is produced and can accurately be verified as a weapon.

The technology also utilizes a drone called WatchWing to verify the software’s finding. Right now, PerVista does not target concealed carry and doesn’t scan the inside of backpacks.

“Our goal is to reduce the impact and number of active shooter events in schools, hospitals and other public places,” Wright said.

Janelle Wright is now CEO of Wave Welcome while Vennard Wright took the reins at PerVista, which has six full-time employees. The couple is committed to developing an artificial intelligence workforce in the county.

Wright, who graduated from the University of Maryland with a degree in business administration, is author of  “Cracking the C-Code,” a book to help readers become C-level executives.

He was also director of technology for Hillary Clinton during her successful re-election campaign for the U.S. Senate in New York in 2006 and her unsuccessful presidential run in 2008. He also served as Prince George’s County chief information officer from 2010 to 2017 and was honored as “Innovator of the Year” in 2023 by the Prince George’s County Chamber of Commerce.

This article was originally published by Capital News Service.

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By Madeline Seck
AFRO Intern
mseck@afro.com

The Capital Jazz Fest returned to Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Md., entertaining attendees from around the region from June 7 to 9. 

The 2024 Capital Jazz Fest captured the essence of Black music, art and culture, and brought out thousands from around the D.C., Maryland and Virginia (DMV) area and beyond. The festival featured diverse groups of artists whose genres range from jazz and funk to R&B and soul. Headliners, such as Andra Day, Babyface and Leela James also took the stage. 

Attendees were able to enjoy the  music with family, friends, good food and a festival marketplace filled with Black-owned businesses. Vendors sold art pieces, clothing, bags, accessories and more.

The festival kicked off the night of June 7 with an evening of soul, with podcast producer Laiya St. Clair serving as host. Separated by two genres of jazz and soul, attendees chose between two stages on June 8 and 9 from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. The Symphony Woods Stage, hosted by radio show host Cayman Kelly, held soul performances. The Pavilion Stage was hosted by, Marcellus “The Bassman” Shepard. 

Capital Jazz Festival takes place during the first weekend of June with a goal of celebrating Black Music Month. Founded by former President Jimmy Carter in 1979, Black Music Month was created to express and recognize African-American music.

The event was first hosted at the Bull Run Regional Park in Centreville, Va. in 1993. The venue has been at Merriweather Post Pavilion since 2004.

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By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Political Writer
tmcqueen@afro.com

At a campaign rally at the Kentland Community Center in Landover, Md., Vice President Kamala Harris (D) endorsed the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks. 

“I was so proud to support her when she was state’s attorney and to endorse her when she was county executive. Today, I then proudly endorse Angela Alsobrooks for the United States Senate,” said Harris, amidst the cheers of the crowd on June 7. “She was the first assistant state’s attorney in Prince George’s County, Md., to specialize in domestic violence cases. To be here to support her today is to know she will be an experienced leader on this issue.”

The event also addressed National Gun Violence Awareness Day.

Throughout the gathering, leaders emphasized that the leading cause of death for children and teens in the U.S. is guns, according to the CDC. Speakers put emphasis on voters to choose those candidates and leaders that will support gun safety regulations on the federal level.

“Together we can break the cycle of gun violence and create a world where safety is given, not a privilege, in every community,” said Isabella Socha Soares, social lead for the Students Demand Action-University of Maryland chapter of Everytown for Gun Safety, a non-profit gun control advocacy organization.  “Students all over the country want to feel safe and not fear that they might go to school and not come home. I fight as a student not because I want to, but because I have to for students across the nation and for future generations.”

Gov. Wes Moore (D) and more top Maryland Democrats were present, supporting Alsobrooks and other Democratic nominees in this year’s general election. 

“Today, tomorrow and all the way through November, we are going to ride with Angela Alsobrooks. We’re going to ride with the Biden-Harris Administration,” said Moore. “We have to have the right leaders in place who are going to fortify our future, who are going to actually use their time and their energy and their power to increase freedoms and not to decrease them.”

Alsobrooks outlined what she would do as senator about crime and gun violence prevention.

“As a senator, I’ll stand for common sense approaches to make sure that firearms don’t end up in the hands of the wrong people, who can’t pass a background check,” she said. “I won’t back down from holding gun manufacturers accountable.” 

Republican nominee for U.S. Senate, former Governor Larry Hogan’s campaign responded to the event via X, a social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

“While Angela Alsobrooks is campaigning today, instead of just offering more platitudes, we urge her to tell voters how she will address the skyrocketing crime on her watch in Prince George’s County, Md.,” reads the statement. “Hogan has put forward a plan to address this out-of-control crime wave by funding law enforcement, taking repeat violent criminals off the streets and getting guns out of the hands of violent criminals and the mentally ill.”

The post Vice President Kamala Harris endorses Angela Alsobrooks in Prince George’s County, Md. appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Deborah Bailey
Contributing Editor

Bowie State University’s 659 spring graduates got a relatable boost of encouragement from hometown heroine and philanthropic champion for underserved communities, Wanda Durant during commencement ceremonies, May 24.   

Durant, known affectionately locally as “Mama” Durant, serves as president of the Durant Family Charitable Foundation and is the mother of Phoenix Suns basketball star Kevin Durant.  Mama Durant treated the audience to a heartfelt exchange, sharing passages from her life’s journey.         

“OK. Let me just be Mama Durant,” she said after pausing from prepared remarks and transitioning flawlessly to an extemporaneous, transparent conversation with Bowie’s graduates.

The audience roared its approval as Durant spent the next 10 minutes in an unscripted dialogue about life as a young single mother, and her raw determination to create a life for her sons that supported success.    

“When I stand here and look at you graduates, I see myself, I see my sons,” Durant said. 

“See, I know what it takes to persevere. I came from the streets of Capitol Heights, Maryland. At the time it was the drug capital of the world,” she said to cheering members of the audience, referencing the small Maryland community bordering northeast and southeast D.C. where she raised her children as a single mother. 

“I had to raise two sons on my own when I was fearful and not knowing who I was or what I had to offer the world.  I had to do what you did and continue to strive on,” Durant said. “I made a promise to them that we were going to have a plan. Not just dreams but a plan attached to it.” 

Durant then transitioned from her family’s story to admonish graduates to live for more than their own success.  

“All of your success is not just for your glory. It’s for you to look back to those coming behind you. Continue to pave the way for them” Durant said.  

Liera Ford from Suitland, Maryland, reflected on her own parents as Durant spoke about the determination needed to encourage her children to succeed.     

“I totally connect with Ms. Durant,” said the newly minted business management bachelor’s degree recipient.  

“I know what it feels like to receive that level of support from your parents. My mom and dad stood up for me every step of the way. I was due to graduate last year, but here I am today and my parents and siblings are here with me. This is a big milestone for me,” said Ford with tears in her eyes. 

Small but significant touches make HBCU graduations unique events. Bowie State graduates were treated to congratulatory messages by both Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Wes Moore. 

Finally, someone is going to make sure graduates are camera ready for their moment to walk across the stage.  At Bowie State, that person is Shinzira Shomade, College of Education retention coordinator and double Bowie State University graduate. 

Shomade straightened collars, buttoned shirts and told graduates to lift their heads high just before they walked on stage to receive their degrees from President Aminta H. Breaux and University Provost Guy Alain Ammousou. 

“It brings me immense pleasure, honor and gratification to participate in the commencement ceremony, preparing our visionaries and change agents for this exciting moment,” Shomade said. 

Breaux announced several major initiatives, scholarships and recognitions received by the campus, including a ribbon cutting this summer of the new Martin Luther King Jr. Communication Arts & Humanities Building. The $159 million facility is scheduled to replace a 50-year-old academic building that currently bears the civil rights leader’s name.    

“If you don’t remember anything else this president said, go out and vote,” Breaux said emphatically. “Go out and vote.”

The post Hometown hero ‘Mama’ Wanda Durant inspires Bowie State University grads appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Written by Stacker

Memorial Day Weekend looms, while gasoline prices remain essentially unchanged over the last week. That’s as a near-record number of Americans are expected to hit the road for travel between Memorial Day and Labor Day, according to GasBuddy’s holiday forecast.

Fortunately for travelers, that forecast includes an expectation that the average price of gas per gallon will hover in the $3 range this summer. The last time Americans saw a significant spike in gas prices over the summer month was in 2022 when the Russian invasion of Ukraine drove prices to record levels.

Meanwhile, AAA says gas prices could tick up slightly over this weekend due to the increase in demand but expects that to be temporary.

“This week’s move by the Biden Administration to sell off the million barrel Northeast Gasoline Supply Reserve might help stave off any regional pump price surges,” AAA spokesperson Andrew Gross said in a statement, “but likely won’t move the national average that much.”

Stacker compiled statistics on gas prices in Maryland. Gas prices are as of May 24.

Maryland by the numbers
– Gas current price: $3.67
– Week change: +$0.12 (+3.3%)
– Year change: +$0.18 (+5.2%)
– Historical expensive gas price: $5.02 (6/14/22)

– Diesel current price: $4.05
– Week change: +$0.12 (+3.0%)
– Year change: +$0.17 (+4.5%)
– Historical expensive diesel price: $5.99 (6/11/22)

Metros with most expensive gas in Maryland
#1. Cumberland (MD Only): $3.73
#2. Hagerstown: $3.71
#3. Washington (MD only): $3.67
#4. Baltimore: $3.67
#5. Salisbury: $3.66
#6. Annapolis: $3.65
#7. Frederick: $3.65
#8. Bowie-St. Charles: $3.64

States with the most expensive gas
#1. California: $5.14
#2. Hawaii: $4.79
#3. Washington: $4.57

States with the least expensive gas
#1. Mississippi: $3.06
#2. Arkansas: $3.09
#3. Oklahoma: $3.12

This story features writing by Dom DiFurio and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 50 states.

The post How gas prices have changed in Maryland in the last week appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Nick Jones
Abel Communications

As Small Business Month comes to a close, the AFRO, the oldest Black-owned business in D.C., Maryland and Virginia, will host the Black Business Matters Expo 2024 on Thursday, May 30 from 4 p.m. to  7 p.m. The media company’s fourth annual event is titled “Celebrating Black-Owned Small Businesses.”

The expo is a virtual event designed to empower and uplift the Black entrepreneurial community. 

Whether you’re just starting off or well on your way and looking to scale your business, this year’s expo will feature a lineup of top-notch speakers that will teach an array of business topics. The expo offers valuable insights and strategies for businesses, providing a unique opportunity for learning and growth within the Black business ecosystem. 

The event will be held virtually on the super innovative virtual platform STEM City, offering attendees an enriching experience at no cost. The AFRO aims to showcase and support the achievements of Black entrepreneurs, providing a dynamic platform for learning and growth.

The 2024 program will feature a full slate of speakers, including Baltimore City Mayor Brandon M. Scott, Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman, Special Secretary of Small, Minority and Women Business Affairs Yolanda Maria Martinez and various notable Black business leaders. 

Attendees will be treated to special performances by Elyscia, a contestant on season 25 of “The Voice,” and the Morgan State University Choir.

“As a Black-owned family business, we at the AFRO are proud to celebrate other Black businesses creating opportunities throughout the region,” said Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, CEO and publisher of the AFRO. “There is endless innovation and entrepreneurship on display at this event, and we are proud to connect sharp strategic minds.” 

This event is brought to you for free by the AFRO Media Group, with support from sponsors including Chase; United Bank; TEDCO; United Way of Central Maryland; Giant; Security Plus Federal Credit Union; PNC Bank and Live Casino and Hotel.

Registration is available at: https://www.afrotix.live/e/black-business-matters-expo-2024/tickets

To learn more about the AFRO, visit: https://afro.com

About the AFRO

The AFRO is the oldest Black-owned business in D.C., Maryland and Virginia, and the third-oldest in the United States. For over 130 years, the AFRO has offered a platform for images and stories that advance the Black community, fulfilling the vision of John H. Murphy Sr., a formerly enslaved man who founded the publication with his wife, Martha Howard Murphy. Today, through the leadership of Murphy’s great-granddaughter, Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, the AFRO remains the Black Media Authority, providing readers with good news about the Black community not otherwise found.

The post AFRO News to host Black Business Matters Expo 2024 appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Ashlee Banks
Special to the AFRO

Police departments across the nation are struggling to fill law enforcement positions. Now, members of Congress have introduced the Recruit and Retain Act to address the police hiring crisis.

On May 14 both U.S. Reps. Wesley Hunt, R-Texas, and Glenn Ivey, D-Md., took to the House floor to introduce the measure. If enacted into law the bill would increase recruitment for qualified officers, provide departments across the nation with grants to reduce application-related fees such as background checks, psychological evaluations and testing and require the Department of Justice to create new guidelines for police agencies applying for Community Oriented Policing Services grants.

Hunt said in a statement obtained by the AFRO that “In recent years law enforcement agencies have found recruiting new officers to be a major challenge. The Recruit and Retain Act addresses this challenge and provides real support to help law enforcement.”

Ivey said in a statement “Recruiting and retaining highly trained law enforcement professionals is of the utmost importance. Our ability to attract and develop the best, brightest and most compassionate and dedicated men and women of differing backgrounds is vital to the health and well-being of our nation.”

This statute was introduced just days after Roger Fortson, a Black senior airman was shot and killed by a Florida deputy while in his apartment. Fortson’s name has been added to a long list of Black Americans who have died at the hands of police officers in recent years.

U.S. Rep. Cori Bush, D-Mo. opposes the measure and said in a statement that “Michael Brown. George Floyd. Breonna Taylor. Tamir Rice. Theirs and so many other precious lives have been lost or permanently altered due to our country’s failed approach to public safety.”

She added, “As a leader in the movement for community-led safety and as someone who has met with and responded directly to the needs of both community members and police chiefs across my district, I believe that public safety is a matter of public health.”

Ivey told the AFRO that this act aims to quell the issue of police brutality by requiring police officers to be properly vetted and have “diverse and culturally competent” backgrounds to better serve their communities.

The Maryland lawmaker stated that police brutality has been a hot button issue for nearly 15 years, “you started seeing the videotapes of the excessive force and people who are not African American finally realized that this is a real issue.”

He added “The question became how do we address it and one of those was training. But, the other one was maybe we need to pick better people for these positions to start with.”

Ivey strongly believes that if more departments recruit officers who are culturally sensitive then that could help with “better policing” and creating a stronger relationship between communities and law enforcement.

To date, the act has been endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, the National Association of Police Organizations, the National Sheriffs Association, Major County Sheriffs Association, Major Cities Sheriffs Association, the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, and R Street.

If passed in the U.S. House of Representatives, the bill will need to pass in the U.S. Senate and be signed into law by President Joe Biden.

The post Maryland Rep. Glenn Ivey introduces bill to recruit officers amid nationwide police shortage appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

NEWS:

The AFRO announced their full slate of endorsements for the 2024 campaign, including Angela Alsobrooks for U.S. Senate, Brandon M. Scott for Baltimore City mayor, Nick Mosby for president of the Baltimore City Council and more. The full list of endorsements includes:

• Angela Alsobrooks for U.S. Senate
• Brandon M. Scott for Mayor
• Nick Mosby for Baltimore City Council President
• President Biden and Vice President Harris for re-election 
• Kweisi Mfume for Maryland’s 7th Congressional District 
• John “Johnny O” Olszewski Jr. for Maryland’s 2nd Congressional District 
• Mike Rogers for Maryland’s 3rd Congressional District 
• Bill Henry for Baltimore City Comptroller

For Baltimore City Council Representatives

• District 1 No endorsement 
• District 2 Danielle McCray
• District 3 Margo Bruner-Settles
• District 4 Mark Conway
• District 5 Isaac Schleifer
• District 6 Sharon Green Middleton
• District 7 James Torrence
• District 8 Bilal Ali
• District 9 John T. Bullock
• District 10 Phylicia Porter
• District 11 Eric Costello
• District 12 Robert Stokes Sr.
• District 13 Antonio Glover
• District 14 Odette Ramos

For Baltimore County Circuit Court Judges

Vote to Retain 

• Judge Michael S. Barranco
• Judge Patricia M. DeMaio
• Judge Marc A. DeSimone Jr.
• Judge James Rhodes

Candidates secured the coveted endorsement after a robust process, through which candidates were vetted by the AFRO editorial team.

“Our endorsement process includes valuable input from community members, particularly individuals who have a finger on the pulse of the issues at the grassroots level” said Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, CEO and publisher of the AFRO. 

#Endorsements #AFROEndorsements #Election2024 #Primaryelection

#voters #Blackvoters #ElectionDay2024

The post The AFRO endorses Alsobrooks, Scott, Mosby and more appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By BlackPR Wire

(Black PR Wire) WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) will host its 61st National Convention October 9 -13, 2024, in Baltimore, Maryland. Convention activities and event workshops will take place in the Baltimore Convention Center and the host hotel will be the Baltimore Hilton.

“We are proud to bring our convention to Baltimore, further investing in the local economy while enjoying all that the city has to offer,” said National Chair, Dr. A. Lois Keith. “Our biennial conventions are an opportunity for us to engage our constituency from across the country and discuss topics that are pertinent to anyone invested in the well-being of our communities. In a city as culturally diverse as Baltimore, it is the perfect place for NCNW to convene and strengthen our coalition of national women’s organizations while discussing strategies to combat racism, sexism and other systems hindering women and girls. I am excited for what this convention will bring and look forward to seeing all of our NCNW sisters in Baltimore.”

“Considering the city’s rich history, waterfront attractions, and the overall cultural hub that makes Baltimore the northeastern epicenter that it is, the decision to host this year’s convention in ‘Charm City’ was a simple one,” said President and CEO Shavon Arline Bradley. “Baltimore’s beautiful Inner Harbor and convention center creates the perfect environment for our members, affiliate organizations and supporters to convene to discuss social and economic justice issues impacting Black women and girls. We are not only excited to visit Baltimore but also equally thrilled to build lasting relationships with city and state officials and the surrounding community that extend long after our convention ends.”

The organization’s biennial national convention is a meeting of the voting body, members and affiliates of NCNW to conduct business as well as a convening of Black women and their allies to discuss issues pertaining to Black women, their families, and communities. With the local and state government being led by Mayor Brandon Scott, the youngest mayor in the city’s history, and Governor Wes Moore, the country’s only Black governor, NCNW is excited to conduct its business in a dynamic city that represents the positive potential of the future of our nation.

Convention registration opened on May 9, 2024.

NCNW is an “organization of organizations,” composed of 330 campus and community-based sections and 37 national women’s organizations that enlightens, inspires, and connects more than 2,000,000 women and men. Its mission is to lead, advocate for, and empower women of African descent, their families, and communities.

Join our mailing list at ncnw.org to receive convention updates and follow us on all social media platforms for more information in the coming weeks.

The post PRESS ROOM: NCNW announces host city and hotel for the 61st Convention location appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Aria Brent
AFRO Staff Writer
abrent@afro.com

Throughout the last year the AFRO has worked hard to produce content that is worth consuming and that hard work was recognized and rewarded at this year’s Maryland, Delaware, DC (MDDC) Press Association’s Editorial and Advertising contest. A total of 18 members of the AFRO’s staff and freelance writing teams took home awards,  including recognition in the General News Photo, Best Photo Gallery, Breaking News and Social Media, Editorial and Editorial Cartoon categories.

Coverage of events such as the March on Washington’s 60th anniversary, the 2023 CIAA basketball tournament, the Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary and the Morgan State homecoming shooting were reported and covered with diligence by the 131 year old publication during 2023. Featured AFRO team members that took home an award from the 2024 ceremony include:

Helen Bezuneh; Aria Brent; Darius Brockett;  Rev. Heber Brown III; Ericka Alston Buck; Marnita Coleman; Reuben Greene; Ariyana Griffin; Re’Jon Jones; DaQuan Lawrence; Tashi McQueen; Ralph E. Moore; Dana Peck; Alexis Taylor; Kofi Tyus; Megan Sayles; Jared Still; Reginald Williams and the AFRO staff at large. 

AFRO managing editor Alexis Taylor was amongst this year’s award recipients. As a writer and leader of the AFRO editorial team she was proud to see the publications progress awarded, noting that even through times of difficulty the staff created stories that were factual and well written.

“I am so proud of the entire AFRO team, but the award that really made me feel like we are truly making progress as a publication was the “Best in Show” award for breaking news on social media,” said Taylor. “The night of the Morgan State University shooting was a rough one. As a Morgan alum, it was heartbreaking to watch such a tragic event take place during a week meant for homecoming celebrations. I gave a call to Ms. Ariyana Griffin, a student at Morgan, and she immediately jumped into action.”

Taylor thanked Griffin, who was an intern at the time, for her hard work and service to the AFRO.

“Her reporting is why we have that award. Her willingness to leave the comforts of home in the middle of the night for a story led us to take a category usually reserved for the mainstream media giants of our market. Ms. Griffin and writers of her caliber will surely take the AFRO into the future.” 

Several awards were won collectively by members of team AFRO such as the Religion Reporting award, which was won by Marnita Coleman, Rev. Heber Brown III, Jared Still and the AFRO staff at large. Additionally, several staff members were recognized for their work in the category for Continuing Coverage, including DaQuan Lawrence, Aria Brent, Ralph E. Moore Jr., Re’Jon Jones, Helen Bezuneh and the AFRO staff at large. 

Long-time AFRO writer and columnist, Ralph E. Moore, Jr., reflected on how it felt to contribute to the legacy of Maryland’s oldest Black owned business and have his work recognized.

“It was a wonderful surprise to receive awards for columns I wrote for the AFRO American Newspaper. It is the honor of my life to have worked for such an esteemed media source,” Moore stated. “The AFRO is an important institution in Baltimore and the award from the MDDC Press Association for AFRO writing is a tremendous honor for me.”

Members of the AFRO team weren’t the only journalists of color to be recognized. After the ceremony, the AFRO was delighted to catch up with Baltimore Banner data reporter and MDDC Rookie of the Year award winner, Greg Morton. 

The award is given out each year to a promising journalist that’s been working professionally for less than 18 months. Following the award ceremony, Morton discussed what journalism means to him.

“For me, journalism is about getting the opportunity to do interesting research and to do research that’s a little more actionable and accessible,” Morton stated. “That’s what it’s about for me really– getting to do research that makes an impact on the community.”

The budding journalist also shared a piece of advice for other journalism rookies.

“Do the stuff that you think is interesting,” he said. “A lot of this came from me getting the opportunity to work on stuff that I thought was fun to talk to people about and fun to work on. I think the quality of the work was respected and reflective of that.” 

As the year continues, the AFRO is excited to continue covering the news that matters most to our readers and the opportunity to create stories that are helping shape the landscape of Black media. 

The full list of AFRO team members that won at this year’s award ceremony and their respective awards can be found below. 

• Helen Bezuneh: 2nd Place for Continuing Coverage- Division F
• Aria Brent: 2nd Place for Continuing Coverage- Division F
• Darius Brockett: : 1st Place for Multimedia Storytelling (Sports)- Division F
• Rev. Heber Brown III: 1st Place for Religion Reporting- Division F
• Ericka Alston Buck: 2nd Place for Arts/Entertainment Reporting- DIvision F
• Marnita Coleman: 1st Place for Religion Reporting- Division F
• Reuben Greene: 1st Place for Public Service- Division F
• Ariyana Griffin: 1st Place and Best in Show for Breaking News and Social Media- Division F
• Re’Jon Jones: 2nd Place for Continuing Coverage- Division F
• DaQuan Lawrence: 2nd Place for Continuing Coverage- Division F
• Tashi McQueen: 2nd Place for Local Government- Division F
• Ralph E. Moore Jr.: 2nd Place for Continuing Coverage- Division F; 1st Place for Local Column: Critical Thinking- Division F; 1st Place and Best in Show for Sports Column
• Dana Peck: 1st Place and Best in Show for Breaking News and Social Media- Division F
• Alexis Taylor: 2nd Place for State Government- Division F; 1st Place and Best in Show for Breaking News and Social Media- Division F ; 1st Place and Best in Show for Editorial- Division F
• Kofi Tyus: 1st Place and Best in Show for Editorial Cartoon- Division F
• Megan Sayles: 1st Place for Investigative Reporting- Division F, 1st Place for Sports Feature Story- Division F
• Jared Still- 1st Place for Religion Reporting- Division F
• Reginald Williams: 1st Place for Media/Science Reporting- Division F

The post Team AFRO wins big at the 2023 MDDC editorial and advertising contest appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Political Writer
tmcqueen@afro.com

Gov. Wes Moore (D) announced on May 6 that over $125 million will be allocated to State Revitalization Programs under the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) to support community, housing and economic development projects.

“We must ensure that our cities, towns and communities are strong and resilient. Serving as viable, vibrant economic and social hubs with pathways to opportunity for all Marylanders,” said Moore in a news release. “Our State Revitalization Programs foster partnerships with local governments and stakeholders and provide critical capital resources to address the unique redevelopment goals and challenges of Maryland’s diverse communities.”

The funding will be available through seven programs, which include Community Legacy, Maryland Facade Improvement, Strategic Demolition Fund-Project C.O.R.E., Strategic Demolition Fund-Statewide, Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative, National Capital Strategic Economic Development Fund and Seed Community Development Anchor Institution. 

The Governor’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget includes:

• Community Legacy: $8 million capital
• Maryland Facade Improvement Program: $5 million capital
• Strategic Demolition Fund – Statewide: $10 million capital
• Strategic Demolition Fund – Project C.O.R.E.: $50 million capital to accelerate the elimination of vacant properties in Baltimore
• Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative: $20 million capital, $2 million operating
• National Capital Strategic Economic Development Fund: $19 million capital, $1,200,000 operating
• Seed Community Development Anchor Institution Program: $10 million capital

Interested applicants should apply by June 26 at 3 p.m. The governor’s office advises first-time applicants to reach out to a regional project manager for more information on the process and to determine eligibility.

“Each year, State Revitalization Programs support hundreds of community improvement projects and activities that generate millions of dollars in additional public, private, and nonprofit investment,” said Jake Day, secretary of DHCD, in a news release. “I am extremely grateful that Governor Moore recognized the importance of these resources to local communities by maintaining or increasing funding for these important programs in his budget.”

Eligible projects should align with strategies outlined in an approved local government sustainable community plan. 

There will also be application training webinar sessions on May 20 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. 

To register, visit https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Communities/Pages/StateRevitalizationPrograms/default.aspx.

Tashi McQueen is a Report For America corps member.

The post Gov. Moore announces over $125 million for state revitalization projects appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Ericka Alston Buck,
Special to the AFRO

On the evening of May 4, the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront Hotel was flooded once again with displays of Black excellence, as Coppin State University hosted their second annual gala. 

Under the resplendent theme of celebrating and inspiring students on the path to “be more,” the gala pulled together a diverse tapestry of esteemed guests, including elected officials, community leaders, artists and philanthropists.

The 2024 Coppin State University Gala was more than just a glamorous event—it was a manifestation of Coppin’s commitment to shaping a brighter future for its students and the surrounding community. With a mission to raise $25 million over five years through the ‘BE MORE’ campaign, Eagle Nation aimed to bolster student support, expand scholarship opportunities and enhance academic offerings.

The gala commenced with a VIP reception, where the air was thick with excitement and camaraderie. Among the attendees was Dion Lawson, a proud Coppin alum, who reminisced about his college days. 

“Coppin State gave me everything I needed in terms of being a leader, in terms of looking at the future. If it wasn’t for Coppin State College, I don’t know where I would be,” he said.

As the doors to the main ballroom opened, guests were greeted by the melodious strains of an orchestra, setting the stage for an evening of elegance and sophistication. Ballerinas gracefully danced throughout the room, adding a touch of class and charm to the atmosphere.

The gala served as a platform to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to Coppin State University and the wider community. Among the distinguished honorees were Brian D. Pieninck, president and CEO of CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, who received the Blue and Gold Impact Award for his corporation’s outstanding commitment to philanthropy. Carim V. Khouzami, president and CEO of Baltimore Gas and Electric, was honored with the Wings of Excellence Award for his innovative solutions and significant advancements within the community.

Joseph H. Lewis, a Coppin alum, was presented with the Eagle Legacy Award in recognition of his exemplary civic and charitable responsibility spanning over ten years. Dr. Tammira Lucas, also a Coppin graduate, received the Eagle of the Year award for her outstanding achievements and contributions.

Throughout the evening, guests were inspired by the stories of resilience, dedication and leadership exemplified by the honorees. Their unwavering commitment to making a positive impact served as a reminder of the transformative power of philanthropy and community involvement.

One of the highlights  of the evening was undoubtedly the five-star surf and turf seated dinner, expertly prepared. Attendees savored every morsel of the sumptuous meal. Each dish, from the perfectly cooked filet mignon to the succulent mahi-mahi, was a testament to culinary excellence and the dedication of the catering team.

Destiny-Simone Ramjohn, vice president of community health and social impact for CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, spoke with the AFRO about why the company helped sponsor the event.

“Historically Black colleges and universities, along with PBIs or predominantly Black institutions and minority serving institutions, are part of my personal and professional mission,” she said. “Carefirst BlueCross BlueShield believes that educational attainment and economic opportunity are the social drivers that can most move the needle on individual and community health outcomes.”

To conclude the event, Anthony Jenkins, Ph.D., president of Coppin State University, delivered a moving speech on what it means to invest in the future of the West Baltimore university and the Coppin State community at large. 

“Since 1900 Coppin has stood as a beacon of hope. In over 124 years, we have proven ourselves to be a university that is invaluable and irreplaceable. What started in the basement of a local high school, today, is a leader in urban higher education,” said Jenkins. “Education still remains the greatest equalizer in our nation. That is why the work we do at Coppin State University is so important.” 

“We educate a diverse, multicultural, multigenerational student population,” he continued. “At the hands of our incredible faculty and our dedicated staff, they are transformed into the thought leaders…the solution finders and the change agents that are helping shape and lead our world. At Coppin, our commitment to improving the human condition and creating upward, economic mobility is unmatched and unwavering.”

Jenkins implored those in attendance to help financially support the institution’s goals and the scholars who attend the historically Black campus.

“Before you could be the cure for cancer–the next nurse who may save your or a loved one’s life, the teacher who may be responsible for your child or grandchild- the next great CEO, judge, political leader, actor, scientist, professor, athlete or military officer,” he said, voice swelling with passion. “At Coppin we challenge our students and we push them beyond their intellectual and creative limits and we help them understand that the sky is not the limit. We help them to appreciate and understand that earning your degree does not make you educated- the education comes from the evolutionary transformational journey that we immerse them in.” 

“It is during this time and this space that they transition from student to scholar and leader. That is the power of a Coppin State education,” said Jenkins, as the audience erupted in applause.

As the night drew to a close, guests took to the dance floor, celebrating the success of the gala and the bright future ahead for Coppin State University. With sold-out tickets and a growing reputation as a must-attend annual affair, the gala served as a beacon of hope and unity, attracting attendees from near and far who were eager to support Coppin’s mission and be part of its transformative journey towards excellence.

The post Coppin State University Gala 2024: A night of celebration, inspiration and philanthropy appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By AFRO Staff

Delegate Mike Rogers is running for election as Maryland’s 3rd Congressional District representative in the U.S. House of Representatives. Rogers is currently serving as the representative for District 32 as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates, and has over 30 years of service in the U.S. military. 

In his current role, Del. Rogers serves on the economic matters committee where he’s been able to support legislation that is focused on subjects such as insurance, alcohol, utilities and veteran affairs. With a community oriented mindset and a passion for service, Rogers is promising to continue the work he’s been doing in the House of Delegates if elected to the Senate. 

His lengthy background in leadership both in the community and the military, along with his legislative experience gives him a skill set that separates him from 21 other candidates in the race for Maryland’s 3rd Congressional District. He is the only candidate in the race that is a sitting legislator with military experience, in addition to being the first Black man to serve as the chair of the Anne Arundel County Delegation. 

With plans to combat issues like crime and community safety from the inside out with programs like Policing and Communities Together (P.A.C.T),nRogers intends to expand the work he’s done in Anne Arndel to a statewide level. He is a candidate that understands the power of this position and he wants to use it to address issues that directly affect our communities. Rogers is ready to create legislation that will oppose environmental justice matters, like the zoning of minority majority neighborhoods and commercial entities like dump sites. 

Rogers’ service in the military has made veterans affairs a top priority for him. He’s promising to ensure security and consistency in the funding for the local Veterans Affairs facilities and quicker turnaround times for veterans when it comes to receiving their benefits. In addition to this, Rogers wants to educate veterans about all of the resources and systems that are in place for their benefit. 

His passion for the betterment of our communities has spoken for itself throughout the years, however it is time for Rogers’ work to benefit a larger audience. For this reason, the AFRO endorses Delegate Mike Rogers for Maryland’s 3rd Congressional District representative in the U.S. House.

#Endorsements #AFROEndorsements #Election2024 #Primaryelection

#voters #Blackvoters #ElectionDay2024

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By AFRO Staff

Prince George’s County (PG County) Executive, Angela Alsobrooks, a life-long Prince Georgian, is running to be the Democratic nominee in the race for Maryland’s representative in the U.S. Senate. Alsobrooks is seeking a seat vacated by long-time Sen. Ben Cardin, who announced his retirement last May.

Alsobrooks is a native of Maryland and has dedicated nearly 30 years of service to families throughout the state in a variety of roles. During her time as PG County State’s Attorney, she says she learned how opportunities or resources often miss residents who eventually have run-ins with the law. With a new perspective and the power to provide change for these disadvantaged individuals, she has worked to improve healthcare, neighborhood safety, new schools and facilities that focused on addiction and mental health care.

The former State’s Attorney, who has been PG County Executive since 2018, has a platform that is centered around issues like education, reproductive health, gun violence, economic opportunity and affordable housing. Alsobrooks is promising to fight against matters that are disproportionately affecting minority communities across the nation. At the top of her agenda is women’s reproductive care, noting that she plans to pass legislation that will focus on not just proper access to abortion care but a woman’s right to privacy, access to contraception and funding for Planned Parenthood.

Alsobrooks told the AFRO she recognizes Marylanders have concerns around economic opportunities available, and she has promised to focus on bringing back infrastructure resources like transportation, and internet access in rural areas. Alsobrooks says the efforts are aimed at building a better economy and further qualifying Maryland as the perfect area for high paying jobs. She has already proven her ability to bring economic opportunity to Maryland, seen in her efforts to bring the FBI National headquarters back to Maryland.

Her work within the community has allowed her to pinpoint Marylanders biggest grievances, one of those being affordable housing. She is dedicated to lowering the cost of housing and making things such as healthcare more affordable so that families throughout the state can thrive.

After years of working directly with members of the community who have been disadvantaged she’s approaching this campaign with an understanding that those who are closest to the problem are usually closest to the solution as well. In knowing this, Alsobrooks has promised to create policies that are mindful of those it’s meant to benefit and serve.

The need for Black women’s representation in the U.S. Congress is evident, furthermore Alsobrooks qualifications for this position is equally apparent. She has a results-oriented record that speaks for itself and for this reason, along many others, the AFRO endorses Angela Alsobrooks as the Democratic nominee in the race for Maryland’s representative in the U.S. Congress. The Democratic primary election takes place on May 14, with early voting taking place May 2-9.

#Endorsements #AFROEndorsements #Election2024 #Primaryelection

#voters #Blackvoters #ElectionDay2024

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By D. Kevin McNeir
Special to the AFRO

On April 25, during a public safety press conference held at National Harbor, Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks shared the news of an executive order that bans unaccompanied minors from National Harbor on weekends.  

The juvenile curfew took effect at 5 p.m. on Friday, April 26 and requires those 16 and younger without supervision to be off the property between 5 p.m. and 6 a.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights.   

“The safety and well-being of our residents, visitors and businesses at National Harbor are of the utmost importance,” Alsobrooks said during the press conference. “The implementation of a juvenile curfew is a necessary step to address the recent incidents of unruly behavior and ensure public safety. We are committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to preserve the vibrancy and security of National Harbor.”

Alsobrooks was joined by Prince George’s County Police Chief Malik Aziz, County Chair Jolene Ivey (District 5), state Senator C. Anthony Muse (District 26) and County Public Schools Superintendent Millard House II. 

Ivey thanked the County Executive for initiating the emergency measure.

“We want to make sure we’re in partnership with the business community, with law enforcement and the residents of our county, who have all been strong supporters of these measures,” Ivey said during the press conference. 

In an interview with the AFRO, she said what the county is now facing is a regional problem. 

“What happens if these youth shift their focus and gather somewhere else?” quipped Ivey. “This is more than just a Prince George’s County problem. Kids are coming from everywhere. We don’t know where the next ‘cool place’ will be. As community leaders and elected officials, we need to be alert and prepared to stop this kind of behavior before it gets out of hand. 

“We’re seeing hundreds of children running loose and acting irresponsibly,” Ivey continued. “In most cases, it’s typical teenager stuff – it’s no different from when we were their age. But the stakes are much higher now. Leaders have to be ready to deal with whatever situations arise.”

The curfew comes after months of engagement and collaboration with the Peterson Companies, National Harbor’s management company, and by Prince George’s administrators and police in efforts to better understand and respond to public safety concerns at the harbor. 

The move also comes after around 800 youth, mostly teenagers– but some as young as eight years old– converged at National Harbor on April 20, many of whom were unaccompanied by adults. While some may have been there to mix, mingle and enjoy the waterfront, a contingency of youth had other things on their minds as they engaged in fights, smoked marijuana and committed a series of crimes including shoplifting. 

Now an enhanced safety plan is being developed by the Prince George’s County Police Department and will include enhanced collaboration with local businesses, residents and will employ community engagement officers to inform and educate the juvenile visitors.  

“It doesn’t take a lot of people to start a ruckus and these youth are communicating with one another through direct messaging and other means – ways in which they know what’s being planned before we do,” Aziz said during the press conference. 

“We have increased the number of personnel at National Harbor with the support of a lot of others to form a united partnership for the betterment of National Harbor that includes more than just police officers,” Aziz continued. “We’re there for the safety of youth, visitors and National Harbor businesses. But we are not there to babysit.”

Recent juvenile curfews have proven successful 

Alsobrooks noted that her administration has implemented successful juvenile curfews in the past, enacting one during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 and again in 2022. The 2022 curfew coincided with a substantial improvement in crime numbers with homicides declining by 71 percent during the curfew. 

“A juvenile curfew has always been in place,” Alsobrooks said during the press conference. “It’s been on the books since around 1991 and is one of the tools in our toolbox. The chief decided we needed it– as did I– when we saw a spike in carjackings involving underage youth occurring between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. We’re going to take very aggressive action to protect the lives of youth and adults in Prince George’s County.” 

Both Aziz and Alsobrooks agreed that when the curfew was enforced several years ago, the results were positive with most of the community agreeing with the decision. 

“Last weekend we had one youth smoking marijuana right in front of an officer – that youth was arrested,” Aziz said. “There’s also a trend to carry fake weapons and some kids had those with them. We issued citations after a fight broke out. Look, this is not television. When the police have to detain you, we have you. That’s why we joined with National Harbor personnel last Saturday (April 20) and closed things down.

“Sure, there are studies across the nation that say curfews work – there are other studies that say they do not,” said Aziz. “What I know is when the county executive implemented the last curfew under my watch, it worked. It succeeded because we had cooperation and compliance with the community and with parents. It may not work in other places but it works here in Prince George’s County.” 

Learn more about the National Harbor Juvenile Curfew at mypgc.us/NationalHarborCurfew.  

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By Lisa Woelfl,
Capital News Service

In what advocates call the most important case on homelessness in 40 years, the Supreme Court must decide whether cities can punish the unhoused for sleeping in public when they have nowhere else to go.

The case comes from the small Oregon city of Grants Pass, which prohibits sleeping in public with so much as a blanket. After three homeless people filed a complaint, courts have blocked the city from enforcing the rule. 

Grants Pass, supported by dozens of other cities and states, wants the Supreme Court to overturn a decision by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, which ruled that punishing homeless people for sleeping outside when they have nowhere else to go violates the Eighth Amendment’s ban on cruel and unusual punishment. 

Theane Evangelis, the lawyer representing Grants Pass, told the justices in oral arguments Monday that the city needs to protect its public spaces, but the lower court’s ruling has tied its hands to address public health and safety.  

If the Supreme Court affirms the decision, the city will have to “surrender public space” while local shelter beds go unused, she said. 

Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan and Ketanji Brown Jackson, who make up the liberal minority, appeared to strongly oppose the city’s fines for homeless people sleeping on public property. 

Evangelis argued that the camping ban, which includes setting down a blanket to sleep, applied to everyone. Sotomayor rejected that claim, citing the testimony of the Grants Pass police officers, saying they hadn’t ticketed anyone who wasn’t homeless. 

Much of the discussion revolved around whether sleeping in public is an inextricable part of being homeless or a behavior that can be outlawed. 

Evangelis insisted that “sleeping outside is considered conduct.” 

“You could say breathing is conduct too, but presumably, you would not think it’s okay to criminalize breathing in public,” Kagan replied. 

Sotomayor asked what would happen if all cities and states passed laws like the city’s public sleeping ban. 

“Where are [homeless people] supposed to sleep? Are they supposed to kill themselves [by] not sleeping?” Sotomayor said. 

Department of Justice Deputy Solicitor General Edwin Kneedler, who represented the United States at the hearing, said that Grants Pass made it “a crime to be homeless while living in Grants Pass” and accused the city of banishing its homeless residents. 

Chief Justice John Roberts asked if it was reasonable to expect someone to take a shelter bed just outside the city, or even 30 miles away. He was skeptical that cities should be held to build more local shelters. 

“What if there are lead pipes… Do you build the homeless shelter or do you take care of the lead pipes?” he asked. 

If sleeping is protected from fines because it is a biological necessity, the ruling could have broader implications, parties siding with Grants Pass argue. 

“Its next logical application is urination and defecation, which are ‘biologically compelled’ no less than sleep is,” said a brief signed by 24 states that was filed with the high court. 

Justice Brett Kavanaugh wanted to know if someone suffering from hunger could be prosecuted for stealing food. 

Justice Neil Gorsuch expanded that argument and asked if public urination and defecation would be protected if there were no public bathrooms. 

Kelsi Corkran, who represented the homeless people of Grants Pass, argued that stealing food or urinating in public are not inextricably linked to the state of being homeless, but sleeping outside is.  

She pointed out that cities can still punish homeless people for refusing to go to a shelter if a space is available to them. 

All justices seemed to agree that fines and imprisonment will not solve the homelessness crisis.  

“When you get out of jail… what’s going to happen then?” Kavanaugh asked. “You still don’t have a bed available. So how does this help?” 

Nevertheless, the conservative majority seemed skeptical of blocking city laws that deal with homelessness. 

Maryland is among six states in the case supporting the Grants Pass people experiencing homelessness. A brief filed by Attorney General Anthony Brown states that policies criminalizing sleeping in public “just move the problem elsewhere” and might even increase homelessness by imposing debts through fines and creating criminal records. 

Maryland is outside the Ninth Circuit Court’s jurisdiction. But if the Supreme Court sides with the homeless residents of Grants Pass, Maryland cities would be blocked from punishing homeless people for sleeping outside when they have nowhere else to go. 

At least one Maryland city has such a law on the books. 

The city of Frederick’s ordinances prohibit laying down bedding and sleeping in public. A violation of these rules is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or six months in jail.

It is unclear whether the city enforces the law. The communications department didn’t return multiple emails and calls asking about enforcement. 

The nation has seen unprecedented levels of people living and sleeping outside. Unsheltered homelessness affected over 250,000 people on any given night in 2023, according to the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development.

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By Ericka Alston Buck
Special to the AFRO

The Howard County NAACP is gearing up for its annual Freedom Fund Jazz Luncheon, scheduled for April 27. This year’s luncheon promises to be an electrifying affair, featuring Grammy-nominated poet, human and civil rights activist, journalist and author Kevin Powell as the keynote speaker.

The Freedom Fund Jazz Luncheon holds a special place in the hearts of Howard County residents, serving as both a fundraiser and a platform to honor local champions of justice and equality. Willie Flowers, president of the NAACP Howard County Branch, highlighted the event’s significance. 

“The Freedom Fund is our annual event, a fundraiser, but more importantly, an opportunity for us to recognize people in the community,” he said. 

Flowers emphasized the NAACP’s commitment to advocacy and community service, citing programs like the Freedom School and the George Washington Carver Community Garden as examples of the organization’s dedication to addressing social justice issues. 

“Our funds go specifically for our advocacy activities, responding to every single challenge that happens in the community at the civil rights level,” Flowers explained.

In an exclusive AFRO News interview, Powell echoed Flowers’ sentiments, emphasizing the critical role of organizations like the NAACP in the fight for equality. 

“It’s more critical than ever,” Powell remarked. “All the little victories that we’ve gotten around the Civil Rights era, one by one, people are pushing back hard.”

Powell, known for his activism and extensive work in journalism, urged emerging leaders to prioritize community upliftment. 

“We’ve got work to do around legislation that’s being pushed to set us back 50, 60 years, if not more,” Powell stated. “We’ve got to raise our voices, use our voices in some very critical ways.”

The luncheon will provide a platform for Powell to address urgent issues facing the community and inspire attendees to take action. 

“As the keynote speaker at the NAACP Freedom Fund, I hope to convey the urgency of now,” Powell explained. “We’ve got work to do to preserve things that were fought for.”

Flowers emphasized the need for accountability among elected officials.

“Our black elected officials should represent us. They should not do the same things that other officials have done to nullify hope for our young people moving forward,” he said.

The Howard County NAACP Freedom Fund Jazz Luncheon promises to be a transformative event, bringing together community members, activists and leaders to celebrate progress and renew their commitment to social justice.

For more information about the event and how to get involved, visit the NAACP Howard County Branch website.

The NAACP Howard County Branch, founded in 1944, is dedicated to advocating for civil rights, equality and justice in Howard County, Md. Through its programs and initiatives, the NAACP Howard County Branch works to address systemic issues and empower communities to create positive change.

The Howard County NAACP Freedom Fund Jazz Luncheon will be held on Saturday, April 27 at The Hotel at Arundel Preserve, located at 7795 Arundel Mills Boulevard Hanover, Md. Tickets are available for purchase on the NAACP Howard County Branch website, available at https://www.howardcountynaacp.com/freedom-fund-luncheon. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a movement for change and join the Howard County NAACP in the fight for justice and equality.

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By Karyn Cook,
Special to the AFRO

As April is National Financial Literacy Month, this week’s edition includes tips from finance experts in all walks of life, looking to help people improve finances and build generational wealth. One expert who spoke with the AFRO was Michelle Singletary, a personal finance advisor and journalist.

A graduate of the University of Maryland at College Park and Johns Hopkins University, Singletary has been honored by the National Association of Black Journalists with the Legacy Award in 2023. 

 Q: What are your top three money tips for Black children, young adults and people over 35. 

A: One, have a budget. It’s so important that you understand what’s coming in and going out. A lot of people are afraid of a budget, they feel like it limits them–but it allows you to do things important to you. 

Two, invest for your older self. It’s hard to do for younger people since you’re living in the present and it seems far away, but the best time to do it is when you’re young and have time on your side. 

Three, limit the amount of debt you take on for everything–make sure a lot of your money doesn’t serve debt because that’s less money to invest.   

Q: What do you consider the top thing to do in preparation for retirement? 

A: The most important thing when you’re younger is to save as much as you can. You have decades to get there. Comb your budget and see what is extra. If you have a workplace retirement plan, put it in there. If you don’t, contact your financial institution and tell them you want to save for retirement and they can put towards mutual funds. Low-cost index mutual funds are a way to invest as a young adult.

Q: When it comes to technology, what are things you must pay attention to? 

A: You just need to be careful about technology. I do my budget on pen and paper, you don’t need fancy apps. Make sure when you use technology, that you slow down the payment process, because the quicker it is the more likely you’ll overspend.

Q: How did you get into finance? 

A: I started at the Baltimore Evening Sun, the business editor there suggested I come work with the business section. She wanted to expand to more young people, women and people of color. It was a turning point for my career because it was an area that I was new to. Business, in the sense of personal finance, wasn’t as popular as it was today. It really opened a door in an area that was great for my career.

Q: Who are your mentors or inspirations for your work in the finance industry?

A:  First of all my grandmother Big Mama, was my mentor. She was great with her money– she didn’t make a lot of money, but she handled it well. 

I like this investing group called ‘Bogleheads.’ They follow the investment advice of John Bogle, founder of Vanguard, a group of people who believe in building wealth through low cost index funds. I just love that group because it’s just regular people putting away money over a lifetime to build wealth. 

The responses above have been edited for length and clarity. 

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in Prince George’s County

University of Maryland Medical System is bringing high-quality, comprehensive cancer treatment to Prince George’s County with the Cancer Center at UM Capital Region Health, part of a new 100,000-square-foot Center for Advanced Medicine on the UM Capital Region Health campus in Largo.

Breast, colon, lung and prostate cancers are prevalent in Prince George’s County, and specialists at the Cancer Center diagnose and treat these cancer types, as well as lymphoma, melanoma, pancreatic and sarcoma. Specialists employ a full range of services to provide treatment, including medical oncology and chemotherapy, radiation oncology and surgical oncology.

Focused on Holistic Patient Care

The team at the Cancer Center focuses on each patient’s emotional well-being throughout their treatment journey. Services provided to patients include counseling, financial assistance to those who qualify, nutrition guidance and social support. A nurse navigator with medical and institutional knowledge helps patients navigate the complexities of scheduling their care, answers questions about treatment and connects patients with available services and resources.

Private suites equipped with sofas, televisions, and adjoining examination rooms provide a comfortable environment inside the new Cancer Center. More importantly, this arrangement allows patients to stay in one place and have multiple providers come to them, eliminating the need to schedule multiple appointments and visit multiple locations.

This multidisciplinary, patient-centric approach provides exemplary cancer care in a setting designed to reduce stress and anxiety.

Connecting with Prince George’s County

For one provider, making an impact in this community is personal. Dr. Melissa Vyfhuis grew up in Prince George’s County, and today serves as the Cancer Center’s medical director of radiation oncology. As a first-generation Dominican American, Dr. Vyfhuis’ experience as an adolescent translator for her parents and grandparents at their medical appointments taught her the value of connecting with patients and ensuring they are actively involved in and understand their course of treatment.

Access to an Integrated Network of Specialists

When the need arises, specialists at the new Cancer Center at UM Capital Region Health work with their partners at University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, a National Cancer Institute-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. This relationship is key to enhancing cancer care for Prince George’s County, and provides access to the latest treatment advances through a comprehensive medical network.

For a Healthier Prince George’s County

                  UM Capital Region Health is committed to helping the community live longer, healthier lives. The new Cancer Center brings that commitment to life by delivering advanced cancer care in one central location and providing support services throughout a patient’s treatment journey.

The Cancer Center at UM Capital Region Health

9333 Healthcare Way

Largo, MD 20774

240-677-8300

umcapitalregion.org/cancer

The post University of Maryland Medical System Is Advancing Access to Cancer Care appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By AFRO Staff

Knowledge is power- but the process of learning how to properly deal with money is often a hard lesson. In honor of National Financial Literacy Month, members of the AFRO team weighed in on how they have navigated their finances over the years and tips they have used along the way. Read below and send your finance tips in to the AFRO at editor@afro.com

Question 1: What is the best financial advice you have ever received? Who gave it to you?

Question 2: Have you ever been in a tight financial situation? How did you get through it?

Q1: “The best financial advice you ever got was in reference to stocks: hold your investment until you make a 10-15 percent profit and reinvest all the profits you make. That came from a friend who is a successful portfolio manager.”

Q2: “I’ve been in a tight financial situation. I got through it by cutting my day-to-day costs as much as possible and paying off the debts that were accruing the most interest first.” 

-Yahya Abdelhamid

 AFRO Media Sales Consultant

Q1: “The best financial advice I have ever received is “save, save, save.” My pastor, Rev. Willie B. Tripp of Bibleway Community Church of God, gave me this advice.

Q2: “I have been in tight financial situations before and to get through them I used my pastor’s advice. I leaned on loved ones for support, advice and encouragement while I kept working and researching ways to save money and make more.”

-Tashi McQueen

 AFRO Political Writer

Q1: “The best financial advice I ever received came from Michael Shacklette. He was the president of a multimillion dollar construction company. He told me ‘If your business isn’t paying your bills– it’s not a business, it’s a hobby.” He told me I needed to “get a job.” I learned that there was no shame in going back to work when my business wasn’t turning a profit or paying my bills. I’m proud to say that I’ve not had to go back to work for anyone since 2018!”

Q2: “I once got out of a financial bind by selling four pairs of designer shoes and three handbags. I keep my high ticket items in great condition just in case I’ve got to cash them in, in the future. That crisis was to pay my daughter’s student loans off, she’s debt free.”

–Ericka Alston Buck

AFRO Freelancer, Arts and Culture

Q1: “My grandfather [said] save your money.”

Q2:  “I have been in a tight financial situation. I’ve cried, prayed and used resourcefulness to find solutions. Otherwise, I borrowed.” 

–Edward Robinson
AFRO Contributor, Sports

Q1: “The best financial advice I ever got was to only spend what I have to spend and to be realistic when it comes to memberships and subscriptions.”

Q2: “When in a tight financial situation I usually fall back on credit cards. I try to only use it for emergencies because it is easy to be dependent on them. And, of course, I bug my parents when I need some help, especially as a college student.”

–Ayriana Griffin
AFRO Freelancer

Q1: “Use payroll deductions! When you don’t see it, that makes you not want to touch it so fast.

This was advice from a co-worker.”

Q2:  “I took money from my stocks to get ahead.” 

–James Fields
AFRO Photographer

Q1: “‘Pay yourself first – add to your savings and retirement plans,’” [was] told to me by my dad.

Q2: “Yes, several times. My support was from a Black bank –“my family.” Even now, [with] my parents passed on, my mom instilled in her children to support each other and I can always count on my siblings.”

–Bonnie Deanes

AFRO Finance Manager

Q1: “When I got my first job in high school, my father told me I needed to put 20 percent of each paycheck into a savings account. Being 15 at the time, I didn’t really understand why it was necessary. I was just excited to have my own money to spend. But, the practice became routine, and it’s benefited me ever since.”

Q2: “To support myself during college, I worked at a local wedding venue during the summers. When the semester started, I would work sporadically, but I made the bulk of my money in the summer. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, my hours were cut significantly the summer before my senior year. This meant I went into the school year with a lot less money compared to prior years. To offset the hit to my bank account, I became a delivery driver for Postmates and Instacart. When school started and events picked back up again at my job, I spent my weekends working at the venue. This combined with a strict budget helped me get through the year with a modest amount of money to spare.”

-Megan StylesAFRO Business Writer

The post Spotlight on finances: Tips and tricks from the AFRO team appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Megan Sayles,
AFRO Business Writer,
msayles@afro.com

For some, retirement means freedom— freedom to travel, freedom to spend more time with friends and family, freedom to pursue hobbies and freedom to essentially do anything you didn’t have time for while working. But, without the requisite savings, these freedoms might not be possible. 

According to Shelly-Ann Eweka, senior director at TIAA Institute, forty percent of U.S. households risk running short on cash in retirement. The risk is heightened for Black and Brown people, who are less likely to have retirement accounts. 

“You do see a significant difference between different races and ethnicities,” said Eweka. “About half of Hispanics and Blacks have retirement accounts, 52 percent for Hispanics and 49 percent for Blacks. That’s compared to 76 percent for Whites and 71 percent for Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders.” 

There are also gaps between genders. Sixty-four percent of women have retirement accounts compared to 70 percent of men. For Black and Brown women, that number is 48 percent and 45 percent respectively. 

Eweka said a number of factors contribute to these disparities. 

“Many Black Americans face great challenges from the moment they graduate from college,” said Eweka. “Student loans impact our cash flow, which then means we have less to save toward retirement.”

According to the Education Data Initiative, Black borrowers owe $25,000 more than White borrowers for undergraduate degrees on average. Forty-eight percent of Black borrowers also owe more than they initially borrowed four years after graduation compared to 17 percent of White borrowers. 

Salary gaps are also a contributor to the deficits. 

“Women roughly earn about 85 cents for every dollar earned by men. For Black women, it’s 63 cents, and for Hispanic women, it’s 53 cents,” said Eweka. “Women, if they can afford it, are also much more likely to take time off of work to care for their children or elderly parents, which can also impact their savings and salary and promotion opportunities.” 

As life expectancy rises in the U.S., retirement plans become even more critical. Joy Stephens, D.C. market director at J.P. Morgan Wealth Management, said people should start saving for retirement as soon as possible. 

“When it comes to investing for retirement, the sooner the better. The amount of time you are invested is one of the most important factors in growing your wealth,” said Stephens. “I like to say it’s about time in the market, not timing the market.” 

Two common retirement plans are Roth IRAs and IRAs. The accounts differ based on how they are taxed. Investments in Roth IRAs are made with after-tax dollars, meaning they grow tax-free and withdrawals in retirement are also tax-free after age 59.5. IRA contributions grow tax-deferred and then they’re taxed when money is withdrawn after age 59.5. 

Certain workplaces also offer employer-sponsored plans, like 401(k) and 403(b)  plans. 

“Many employers match a portion of their employees’ workplace retirement plan contributions. If your company offers a retirement plan with a match, consider taking advantage of this,” said Stephens. “If you can, contribute at least the maximum amount that your employer will match. You don’t want to leave any money on the table.”

According to Stephens, one of the biggest obstacles to investing in retirement is thinking that it requires a lot of money to get started. This, along with believing retirement is in the distant future, is a misconception. 

Contributions to retirement accounts vary between people and are dependent on their current financial situation. However, consistency is key, according to Stephens. Whether big or small investments, it’s important to make them regularly. 

“Consider contributing as much as you can to your retirement accounts. If you can increase your contribution rate automatically every year that might be a good idea,” said Stephens. “It can be easier to contribute more when the increases occur automatically.” 

When forming a retirement plan, Stephens encouraged people to think about the lifestyle they want to live when they retire, where they’d like to live and what their expenses will look like. This can help them set goals to personalize their plan. 

It can also be helpful to employ the help of a financial advisor. 

“For some people, working with an advisor can be beneficial. An advisor can sit down with you to outline your goals and help you create a customized plan to work toward them,” said Stephens. “You should check in on your plan with your advisor on a regular basis to see how you’re tracking toward your goals and to adjust your strategy when your life or priorities change.” 

Megan Sayles is a Report for America corps member.

The post Securing your financial future: the importance of saving for retirement appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Hailey Closson,
Capital News Service

“Have you seen the gravesite?” a neighbor asked.

“Seen what?” Amanda Sciaretta responded.

The weather was pleasant the day Sciaretta joined her father and daughter for a walk around her new neighborhood in the fall of 2023. 

She and her husband, Anthony, were a few months away from welcoming a member to their growing family, another daughter, and had recently moved from a Maryland suburb to an emerging housing development in King George’s County, Va., called Oakwood Estates. It’s a small rural community in the northern part of the state, complete with farmlands and a bustling nature scene along the Potomac River. 

Through her neighbors, Sciaretta learned that her home connected to lurid whispers about an enslaved woman’s grave in the forest.  

“We were just walking outside in my neighborhood and people had mentioned that there was a grave in our neighborhood in the woods. As we were walking, we were looking… and we could see it from the road,” Sciaretta said. “We went closer and that’s when we saw the gravesite they had mentioned.” 

King George’s County is home to a legion of historic sites including a national trail and the birthplace marker of James Madison, the fourth president of the United States. But lesser-known is the final resting place of a vital figure in the development of gynecological science, an enslaved woman named Anarcha Jackson. 

Off the road in the thickets of a shallow preserve stands a polished tombstone adorned with a statue of a cherub, surrounded by several marked and unmarked stone slabs.

“We said a prayer before we approached it because we didn’t want to be disrespectful,” Sciaretta said. “But we looked at it and you could see she had a really nice headstone that looked like somebody put [it] there more recently.” 

The burial grounds Sciaretta and her neighbors encountered belonged to a White Reconstruction-era family whose matriarch was named Hattie E. Jackson, according to J.C Hallman, researcher and author of the 2023 biography about Jackson, “Say Anarcha.”

Jackson’s headstone lies further back in the woods, propped against a tree.

Who was Anarcha Westcott Jackson?

Anarcha Westcott Jackson was born on the Westcott Plantation in Alabama around 1828, where she was listed as the fourth of five children, according to some of the earliest birth records found by Hallman. 

In 1845, physician J. Marion Sims, the man known as the “father of gynecology,” received a request to visit the Westcott Plantation near his practice in Montgomery, Ala., to perform a forceps delivery on Jackson. 

Sims had created a “Negro hospital” in his the backyard of his residence to perform orthopedic and ophthalmological surgeries, according to docuseries, “The Anarcha Archive,” available on Youtube. He conducted experiments at a local infirmary on enslaved men suffering from face and jaw cancers. He also experimented with the infants of enslaved mothers, finding that a diagnosis he called “infant lockjaw” was the bacterial infection tetanus.

It’s estimated that Jackson was 15 or 16 at the time of her pregnancy, which was likely due to rape, as the Westcott Plantation was known for forcing enslaved women to reproduce, Hallman said. 

She was in labor for days. After her delivery, she suffered a vesicovaginal fistula, an opening between the bladder and the vagina that causes involuntary urinary incontinence, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. The abnormality can occur from difficulties during childbirth. 

Sims determined Jackson’s condition was incurable, as were the conditions of two other women battling the same affliction, Betsey and Lucy — the only names (minus Jackson) who were listed in his writings about his first round of pelvic experiments. He discharged the women but returned after testing a curative method on a white woman who’d dislocated her uterus from a fall off a pony, according to “The Anarcha Archive.” 

Sims gathered Jackson, Lucy, Betsey, and seven additional enslaved women suffering from vesicovaginal fistulas to be the subjects of his and his colleagues’ medical tests in his backyard hospital. 

His experiments were conducted without the patients’ consent and without anesthesia, a sedative and pain reliever that, while in its early development, was given to white women, according to Vanessa Northington Gamble, professor of medical humanities at George Washington University in a 2016 interview with NPR. 

It is estimated that Jackson underwent 30 procedures while in Alabama and an unknown number of additional procedures after being sold to plantations in Virginia. 

Sims founded a women’s hospital in New York in 1855. His assistant married a woman in Alabama, prompting the discovery that the original surgeries Sims performed on Jackson did not cure her. Jackson was sent to Richmond, Va., to be further studied by the founder of a new medical school in the state, Charles Bill Gibson. Gibson was unsuccessful in curing Jackson, pregnant with her fifth child at the time, and sent her to Sims in New York. 

The details of her trip to New York are unclear because of insufficient documentation, a common struggle in the research of enslaved people, according to Hallman. 

The Maury family of Bowling Green, Va., later “owned” Jackson. Around 1863, she was leased to the “Alto” Plantation, owned by Charles Mason in King George, Va.

A letter between Mason and William L. Maury details that Jackson was in poor health and unable to work. She lived through the emancipation of enslaved people in 1865 and is recorded by the King George’s County Historical Society to have died in 1870 at age 48. 

Unofficial marriage records show that Anarcha Westcott Jackson, also referred to as Ankey, Anky, and Annacay in varying historical documents, deemed herself married to a formerly enslaved man named Lorenzo or Laurenzi in 1864, Hallman wrote. Lorenzo is believed to have adopted Jackson’s birth last name and not the name of her first enslavers on the Westcott Plantation. He died 15 years later in 1884 and is buried next to her and two of their infant children in the woods. 

Jackson carried 10 pregnancies to term. 

The path to memorialization

Jackson’s gravesite rests on private property and no formal arrangements have been made between the county and the landowner. 

Nick Minor, the director of economic development and tourism for King George’s County, said the property owner has been cooperative in allowing people to visit the gravesite and helped to confirm it as Jackson’s. 

Minor says his department and the King George’s County Historical Society have discussed a project, but are unable to do anything without a formal request and collaboration by the landowner. 

“We can’t just interject on this project and take control over it– that’s not how this works,” Minor said. “This has to be a cooperative project from the landowner to the historical society, to the county, and then any other organization that would need to be involved to do this the right way.” 

Under a solemn tree, Jackson’s grave will be preserved in its spot and remain there permanently, said Robert Gertz, the president of the company that owns Oakwood Estates. The Rawlings family cemetery will also be preserved as the work in that phase of the neighborhood is completed, he said.

This article was originally published by Capital News Service.

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By Aria Brent
AFRO Staff Writer
abrent@afro.com 

Community members filed into the Sollers Point Multipurpose Center in Dundalk, Md. on April 7 to see two of the top candidates in Maryland’s Congressional senate race face off against each other. However, most learned when they arrived that U.S. Representative David Trone had taken ill and was unable to meet his opponent, Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, on the Southeast Baltimore prepared for them.

For two hours Alsobrooks answered numerous questions on her plans for the state, should she be elected to represent the state of Maryland in the U.S. Congress.

Hosted by the Baltimore County and Baltimore City Democratic Parties, the event was set to have a six-person panel, consisting of James Kraft, Charlotte Wood, Olivia M. Lomax, Braxton C. Street, Keisha Allen and moderator, Jayne Miller. Though a table was set for the panel to sit on stage, shortly before the event started the panelists gathered and took reserved seats in the audience, asking their questions with only Alsobrooks and Miller on the stage.

Topics discussed during the debate included crime and public safety, education, climate change and more. Before diving into the many questions the crowd had, Alsobrooks set the tone for the evening by sharing some of the things she’s accomplished throughout her political and judicial career, and how she plans to continue those efforts if elected as senator. 

“As U.S. Senator I will continue to work on prioritizing the families of Maryland and making sure we address the issues that are at your kitchen table,” she stated. 

Public safety 

When it came to crime and gun violence, Alsobrooks shared that she thinks the increasing amount of gun violence is a result of the lack of mental health resources and gun laws throughout the nation.

“We know that gun laws are safe, and we need to take action to put some sensible gun legislation in place. Ghost guns are a huge issue in our community. Gun violence is an epidemic and our children are dying,” Alsobrooks said. “Behavioral health is the number one health issue in multiple communities.We need access to mental health care so that people can have the opportunity to heal.”

Education

Alsobrooks noted that she looks forward to helping students receive equal opportunities to a proper education regardless of their neighborhood, socioeconomic background or learning disabilities. 

 “I’ll be fighting to ensure that we are increasing funding for programs like Title 1, which allows our children who are at a disadvantage in impoverished communities to have an excellent education,” Alsobrooks stated. “I’ll be fighting also for the individuals with disabilities. It is so heartbreaking to know how many of our children with disabilities are left behind.”

Further discussing her agenda for improving education, Alsobrooks addressed the current issues that are shaping our school systems and how it’s impacting our students.  

“Many of our local jurisdictions rely so heavily on local property taxes to fund education. We have created a system where your zip code determines the quality of your education and in my mind there is something so wrong with that,” she said. 

Health care 

When discussing the topic of healthcare Alsobrooks explained how the ever changing expense is both a necessity and a right to all people.  

“I believe every person in our community has a right to quality and affordable healthcare. It should not be a privilege to have health care,  it’s a right,” explained Alsobrooks. “The Affordable Care Act is what we have used to bring down the cost of healthcare. It’s allowed us to have 22 million additional people covered by insurance.” 

Going on to further explain why our nation needs The Affordable Care Act, Alsobrooks discussed some of the changes she’s looking to bring to health care and some of the  progressive efforts that have happened under the Biden administration such as lowering the out of pocket cost of insulin and Medicare’s negotiation with the pharmaceutical industry to cap the out of pocket cost for prescription drug medications.

“I’m looking to build on the Affordable Care Act. Things like dental care and vision care, all of those things added to the Affordable Care Act will bring down the cost of healthcare for our families—this is a huge issue for some families. I’m fighting for health care and to make sure it’s affordable for all families,”she stated. 

Members of the community who attended the event shared their thoughts following Alsobrooks’ impromptu town hall meeting. Some expressed concern for Trone for his absence, but noted that regardless of circumstance being present during your campaign in an election year is vital. 

“I hope that he is well, but I personally thought this was very important and sometimes you have to soldier up,” said Haki Ammi, a board member of the Maryland Black Caucus Foundation. “Sometimes you got to go through the minefield for our community and sometimes outside of true death, you soldier up to make things happen for our community. That’s just how I feel, if it were me I would have been wheeled out here.” 

Though a range of topics were discussed, one thing seemed to be at the forefront of people’s minds: the importance of voting.
“Register and vote. Just vote, get out there,” Lynda Rice, vice president of the Anne Arundel County, West County Democratic Club, told the AFRO. “Let your voice be heard. Please do not think it doesn’t matter. If you think your vote doesn’t matter, turn on the news and see that it does.”

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By Tashi McQueen,
AFRO Political Writer,
tmcqueen@afro.com

Maryland’s state legislators acknowledged April 8, the last day of the Maryland General Assembly session, with a flurry of last minute deals and– finally, as the clock struck midnight– blasts of confetti to signify the crossover into April 9. 

“This session we responded to the moment and we protected Maryland’s future,” said Senate President Bill Ferguson (D-Md.-46). “While we did some remarkable work this year, the last 14 days really proved what this general assembly is about. There were a number of issues from housing security to making sure that our neighborhoods are safer.”

Major bills such as the Juvenile Law Reform and the Maryland Protecting Opportunities and Regional Trade (PORT) Act passed in time to make it to the governor’s desk.

“This year, we worked together to pass meaningful juvenile justice legislation. Legislation that puts rehabilitation front and center while strengthening the oversight and accountability for the Department of Juvenile Services to make sure children are treated fairly and held accountable to their treatment plans,” said House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones (D-Md.-10).

The general assembly passed over a thousand bills in the 2024 session.

The Juvenile Law Reform bill, laid out in HB 814 and SB744, was one of the high-tension bills this session, with everyday Marylanders and legislators alike concerned about the number of youth involved in crimes in the state over the last year. 

During fiscal year 2023, the Department of Juvenile Services reported that there were 12,363 complaints about Maryland juveniles.

HB 814 expands the juvenile court’s jurisdiction to include 10 through 12-year-olds who have allegedly committed car theft, animal abuse, offenses involving firearms and third-degree sexual offenses. Current state law says that no child under 13 can be charged with a crime.

It also requires that intake officers forward complaints to the state’s attorney to consider prosecution. The bill also authorizes detention before a hearing.

Some were not happy with the bill, which permits the Department of Juvenile Services to have control over children ages 10-12.

“I don’t want anybody’s child locked up at 10 years old,” said Zakiya Sankara-Jabar, of Racial Justice Now! “I don’t want people to think that it’s okay to lock up 10-year-olds without providing the necessary services and care they deserve. These kids need care, not cages.”

Dayvon Love, director of  public policy for Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle, was one of many gathered days before the April 8 deadline to pressure Gov. Wes Moore to veto the bill.

“That’s the last step in the process,” said Love. 

But Moore supported the package when it was announced, so Love said he’s not confident that the governor will veto it.

If the governor signs the bill it will take effect on January 1, 2025.

“It’s been great, having my first session with the general assembly under my belt as a Delegate,” said Del. Malcolm Ruff (D-Md.-41) as he reflected on the 2024 session. “A couple of things that I’ve been able to accomplish include, today, passing the bill that will start the process of developing Gwynn Falls/Leakin Park into a state park.”

House Bill 1358, if signed into law, will convene focus groups on the establishment of the state park, identify priority needs and associated costs and establish an advisory committee to oversee the management of the park.

Ruff said he was also able to work on a bill that would keep Preakness in Park Heights in Baltimore City and fund community revitalization efforts in the Park Heights community.

“For too long Park Heights has been left out of the spoils of Preakness,” said Ruff. “I think with House Bill 1524, which I along with the senator and my fellow delegates in the 41st district were able to help weigh in on how we would set up a plan that would really work for the people of the neighborhood that hosts the Preakness.”

The bill also transfers ownership and operation of thoroughbred racing facilities in the Maryland Jockey Club (MJC) to the Maryland Thoroughbred Racetrack Operating Authority (MTROA). If signed, the bill would take effect on June 1.

The PORT Act was the first bill to be signed into law from the 2024 session on April 9. The PORT Act aims to provide financial support to Baltimore port workers and businesses impacted by the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse through the slowdown of port operations.

“Today, I will proudly sign the PORT Act into law,” said Moore at the signing. “This bill will help create a new permanent scholarship program for the families of transportation workers who died on the job. The legislation will empower our administration to stay nimble in our response to the collapse.”

Because the PORT Act is an emergency bill, it became law immediately upon receiving the needed signatures on April 9.

Moore also signed a few of his bills, including the Time to Serve Act of 2024, a bill that will provide more military leave for members of the National Guard and Reserves to 30 days and a bill to rename the Port of Baltimore the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore.

Moore highlighted that he has gotten all of the 26 bills he’s introduced since becoming governor passed by the Maryland legislature.

The Budget bills SB360 and SB362, were passed and sent to the governor’s desk on April 5. The governor has not yet signed the bills.

The budget process took a bit longer this year, partly due to the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse on March 26 and legislators’ being at odds on how to address the $761 million projected deficit the state began with for fiscal year 2025.

House delegates believed in using raised taxes and fees to close the gap and the Senate, as well as the governor, were against raising taxes.

The House and Senate reconciled $257 million of revenues by raising vehicle registration fees, creating a Transportation Network Company impact fee, an annual registration surcharge on owners of zero-emission and plug-in electric vehicles, raising the dealer processing charge and increasing fines for speeding in work zones via Senate Bill 479.

The budget eliminates the projected fiscal 2027 Blueprint Fund shortfall by increasing taxes on cigarettes, dedicating new revenues and a portion of existing tobacco tax revenues to the Blueprint Fund and transferring $40 million from the School Construction Revolving Loan Fund.

“We have passed a budget that funds the Blueprint through 2027 and makes critical investments in Maryland’s Transportation system to ensure that we don’t see catastrophic cuts to roads, bridges, busses, transit, airports and the port,” said Jones. 

The budget also restores funds the governor’s proposed budget reduced including nearly $10 million for community colleges, $5 million for pediatric cancer and $1 million for warrant apprehension grants.

Tashi McQueen is a Report For America corps member.

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By Yesenia Montenegro,
Capital News Service

Maryland Rep. Jamie Raskin’s recent planned lecture on democracy at the University of Maryland instead turned into a lively discussion on the Israel-Hamas conflict on March 28.

Raskin was invited to give the Irving and Renee Milchberg Endowed Lecture and his intended subject was “Democracy, Autocracy and the Threat to Reason in the 21st Century.”  

“Progress in history requires not just reasoning, which is certainly necessary, but it’s not sufficient, because it also requires the addition of the pro-social emotions, as the psychologists call it, of solidarity, empathy, love and the political virtues of justice and equality and freedom,” Raskin said at the start of his speech.   

His remarks were interrupted just a few minutes later by pro-Palestinian protesters shouting that Raskin is was “complicit in genocide.” In response, Raskin said that he wished the protesters had engaged in a conversation with him, rather than “heckling.”  

Raskin emphasized that he has taken a strong position on returning the hostages held by Hamas, has advocated a military ceasefire, and has championed a two-state solution. As he attempted to continue his lecture, protesters continued interrupting and shouting. Various protesters questioned Raskin’s actions since the Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7. 

“We need a new peace movement too, if you are the representatives of it,” Raskin said. “Because you’re not engaging in real dialogue with people and you’re not convincing anybody.”

Protesters supporting Israel and those backing Palestine from both sides continued heckling and arguing with each other, making it impossible for Raskin to continue. He then abandoned the speech and said he was open to taking questions from the audience, leading to more discourse among protesters.  

“It’s very tough to solve problems in the Middle East here at the University of Maryland in the physics department,” Raskin said.  

Darryll Pines, the president of the university, later stepped in and terminated the lecture early.  

“He came here to speak about where our democracy is going in our country,” Pines told Capital News Service. “What you saw play out actually was democracy and free speech and academic freedom. From our perspective as a university, there are the difficult conversations that we should be having.” 

Pines added that he wished, however, that the protesters had been more civil. He also praised Raskin’s patience and empathy when responding to the protesters’ comments and questions.   

“I wanted to make a plea for constitutional patriotism in defense of democracy and freedom around the world,” Raskin told CNS about his original speech. “Their sentiments were perfectly consistent with a lot of what I had to say.” 

“I’m not really opposed to heckling,” the congressman added. “But it seems like heckling today is all about drowning out the speaker, and that’s totally antithetical to the spirit of free expression.”  

Howard Milchberg, University of Maryland professor of physics and electrical and computer engineering, along with his wife Rena Milchberg and their three children, started the lecture in 2019. It celebrates the memory of Howard Milchberg’s late parents, who survived the Holocaust.  

“It didn’t go as planned, but it maybe turned out better than normal,” Howard Milchberg told CNS. “It was an actual exercise of democracy rather than a story about democracy.” 

This article was originally published by Capital News Service.

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By Catherine Pugh 

Special to the AFRO 

An office of Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks’  was broken into on April 5. The office is located at 8455 Colesville Road in Silver Spring, Md. 

Alsobrooks is in the running to represent Maryland in the United States Senate, replacing U.S. Senator Ben Cardin, who has announced he will not seek re-election. Major opponents in the race include David Trone and former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan.

“I’m disappointed to see that our office seems to have been targeted,” said Alsobrooks. “Someone forced their way in, went through sensitive material, threw some of our campaign shirts in the trash and stole personal items from a staff member.” 

No one reportedly has been hurt and the office remains open to campaign workers and the public.  

Alsobrooks told the AFRO that she is not “deterred.”

“This only strengthens our resolve to run the kind of uplifting campaign we’ve been running since day one,” she said.

The election for United States Senate will take place in Maryland on May 14. The deadline to register to vote in the election is Tuesday, April 23. Early voting will begin on May 2.

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By Tashi McQueen,
AFRO Political Writer,
tmcqueen@afro.com

Eight U.S. Senate candidates attended a March 21 forum in Baltimore the day after a Washington Post-University of Maryland poll revealed that Republican frontrunner and former Maryland governor Larry Hogan (R) is leading his Democratic opponents.

Before Hogan suddenly entered the race on Feb. 9, Democrats, through Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D) and U.S. Rep. David Trone (D-Md.-06), were believed to have a clear path to the seat in November. 

Now, according to the poll, Hogan is leading by double digits over his Democratic competitors. About 49 percent of voters said if the general election were today, they’d choose Hogan over Trone. About 37 percent said they would select Trone over Hogan.

Around 50 percent of voters said they’d choose Hogan over Alsobrooks, while 36 percent said they choose Alsobrooks over Hogan.

“We’ve got to be real about what is coming at us,” said U.S. Senate Candidate Brian Frydenborg (D), during the forum at New Psalmist Baptist Church. “Hogan 50–Alsobrooks 36,  Hogan 49–Trone 37, that is not where we need to be as Democrats. What that means is that despite the best of intentions and two quality frontrunners, we are failing.”

The results were not completely in Hogan’s favor, though. The poll found that 55 percent of the surveyed Maryland voters prefer a Democrat-controlled Senate.

Maryland, a longtime blue state, hasn’t had a Republican senator in 37 years, but Hogan’s popularity as governor and bipartisan views make him a top contender for the seat.

“I think the Democratic candidate will still win in the end, but this is going to be a competitive race,” said Nina Kasniunas, an associate professor of political science at Goucher College. 

In the months since Hogan entered the race, candidates have called out Hogan’s rhetoric and policies on reproductive rights and abortion. Alsobrooks said he is subject to compromise to Republican demands in the Senate.

“Larry Hogan, if re-elected, would align with Republicans,” said Alsobrooks. 

Republicans largely agree with more restrictions on abortion or banning abortions altogether.

Michael Cobb Sr. (D), Marcellus Crews (D), Robin Ficker (R), John Myrick (R), Steven Seuferer (D) and Andrew Wildman (D) also attended the forum, but Trone and Hogan did not.

Tashi McQueen is a Report For America corps member.

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By Megan Sayles,
AFRO Business Writer,
msayles@afro.com

The state of Maryland is currently considering legalizing i-gaming, or internet-based gambling on casino-style games. Two bills in the Maryland General Assembly, HB1319 and SB603, would give residents the chance to vote on authorizing online slot machines, roulette, poker and other table games. 

If legalized, the assembly predicts i-gaming could generate more than $900 million in gross revenue by 2032. The measure comes after voters approved online sports betting in 2022. 

Morgan State University’s Center for Data Analytics and Sports Gaming Research (DASGR) hosted a town hall to explore the opportunities and implications of the legislation on March 15. Part of the argument for legalizing the practice is combating the Black Market that already exists for i-gaming.

“We’re talking about legalizing it in Maryland, but I just Googled online gaming on my phone, and I could start playing in five minutes,” said West Virginia Delegate Shawn Fluharty, president of the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States. “You can play. It’s already there. It’s just not regulated, and you’re not making revenue off of it.”

Not regulated by government entities yet, the i-gaming Black Market can pose consumer protection risks. Betters are vulnerable to financial fraud and unjust gaming practices, and there are no measures in place to curb problem gambling. 

“Just like all other forms of consumer products, gaming is going to have a digital channel,” said Scott Gunn, senior vice president of corporate public affairs for International Game Technology. “Policymakers in this state and others should put their imprint on it, rather than let consumers find unregulated sites.” 

A primary concern for legalization is i-gaming’s effect on brick-and-mortar casinos. Under the legislation, the establishments would receive their own i-gaming licenses, but some worry that escalation of online gambling will lead to the cannibalization of land-based casinos, putting numerous people out of jobs. 

An example of this can be seen in the retail industry, with more people choosing to shop online rather than patronize physical stores. 

“Operators are always concerned that if they go online with their services, they might lose money, and along with losing money, they might lose jobs. No one wants to bring in a new legal business where jobs are going to be lost, especially post-COVID,” said Jeff Ifrah, online gaming attorney and founder of iDevelopment and Economic Association (iDEA). “Everyone’s trying to get back to normal, which means we want casinos to have the revenue they had before.” 

A study commissioned by the Maryland General Assembly reported that i-gaming would be responsible for a 10.2 percent decline in gross gaming revenue (GGR) for brick-and-mortar casinos. By 2032, the study forecasted that Maryland casinos would lose $222.5 million as a result of internet gambling. 

Ryan Eller, executive vice president and general manager at Live! Casino and Hotel Maryland, said his establishment experienced a 70 percent decline in visitation when online sports betting was legalized in 2022. He expects i-gaming to follow suit. 

“It certainly isn’t my fear that Maryland Live!, which employs close to 3,000 people and has a great deal of livelihoods associated with it, would go the way of the local strip mall and become vacant. The sky is not falling in that respect,” said Eller. “But, it would have similar impacts. If cannibalization does materialize the way we anticipate that it would, some of the stores in our mall would inevitably go dark.” 

However, four Maryland casinos, Rocky Gap Casino and Resort, Hollywood Casino, MGM National Harbor and Horseshoe Casino, have expressed their support for i-gaming during a House Ways and Means Committee hearing. 

Proponents of the bill have also cited a study from Eilers and Krejcik Gaming (EKG), commissioned by iDEA, that determined i-gaming will have a positive impact on revenue for brick-and mortar casinos. The report examined states like New Jersey, West Virginia and Michigan, which already operate live and online casinos. 

It found that the states’ land-based casinos experienced a 2.44 percent quarterly revenue increase after legal i-gaming was enacted. The study concluded that, in a typical U.S. state, i-gaming would have a 1.7 percent positive impact on revenue for physical casinos. 

“Online gaming is a different way to approach a new consumer. It’s not an existing consumer who is going to choose this instead of that,” said Ifrah. “It’s someone new and that provides a new opportunity because not everyone goes to land-based casinos.”

Megan Sayles is a Report for America corps member. 

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By Torrence Banks,
Special to the AFRO

Laura Crandon was 47 when she was first diagnosed with breast cancer. The hard lump she found during a routine self-exam in the shower came only five months after she had an inconclusive mammogram. The year was 2016.

A year later, Crandon thought she had the disease defeated. But in 2018 it returned– this time metastasizing into her brain and altering the course of her life forever.

After her experience with the disease, Crandon began talking to her friends. The conversations gave her life a new meaning. 

Crandon became alarmed when she realized none of her friends knew about the process of getting breast cancer screenings. She started thinking about the ways that she could help them and other women decrease their risk of dying from the disease.

Crandon knew that she had the power to promote change and she went to work.

In 2019, she started writing a business plan for her nonprofit to fill the gap for Black women like herself. She named it Touch4Life. The goal: to heighten breast health knowledge in underserved communities and communities of color.

Throughout that year, she started attending health fairs under the organization’s name and passing out information on breast health to women. Touch4Life works with other nonprofits and community organizations to educate women on the risk factors of breast cancer and the types of testing they should receive.

In the last four years, the nonprofit has had a substantial impact on women’s lives. More than 2,500 women have attended community events that Touch4Life has been connected with. At the events that Touch4Life has been the sponsor at, 100 mammograms have been performed.

Touch4Life also communicates with pharmaceutical and genetic companies to ensure that companies are being inclusive in clinical trials as well as genetic and genomic testing.

The organization’s work has attracted more than a dozen funders, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and Johns Hopkins Medicine.

She uses her more than 15 years of experience as a healthcare executive to volunteer with Touch4Life. Crandon also serves on the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange board, an agency whose goal is to connect Marylanders to affordable healthcare coverage. She was appointed to the board by Maryland Gov. Wes Moore in 2023.

In a conversation with the AFRO, Crandon talked about the inspiration behind her work today, her experience dealing with cancer and her service to others through Touch4Life.

Q: Describe the moment when you first found that you had a cancer lump in 2016. What thoughts were initially in your head?

A: I found it myself doing a self-exam in the shower. It was on one side and not the other. It was more like a welt, sort of like a mosquito bite. I had to have an ultrasound-guided biopsy, and then I got the call from the doctor’s office that it was indeed cancerous.

Q: Can you talk about your “inner circle” you had to support you during your first battle with cancer?

A:  I didn’t really tell anyone. I didn’t want it to define me as ‘Laura the cancer patient.’ I didn’t want people to have pity on me because I was really intent on surviving and healing and being healthy.

The treatment for that first diagnosis was really brutal. My hair fell out. not to tell a lot of people at work either. I would take conference calls lying in the fusion center–things like that. My sister and my husband were at most of my chemo appointments.

Q: Did anyone from the job that you were working at the time notice that anything was going on?

A: I told my boss. She knew, and one of my close colleagues knew and kind of looked out for me. But, I really tried to not let it be all-consuming. I thought I did a pretty good job of hiding it. But obviously, I was weak and not myself. I remember being out at a team meeting in California. Coming back, I had to get the cart because there was no way I could walk from TSA to the gate. I was just too weak.

Q: At what point did you decide that you should let other people know?

A: My best friend told me that my husband was really struggling because I didn’t want people to know. When I told him not to tell anyone, he had no outlet–no one to talk to. She told me that you’ve got to let people know. That really loosened it up. From that point on, I learned that it’s okay to let people love you.

Q: Did your mindset change when you had cancer a second time in 2018?

A: Definitely! I didn’t care who knew at that point. It was very scary because the prognosis at that time was literally 24 months.

Q: How did you go about treatment every day given your prognosis?

A: I had to have brain surgery, radiation to the brain, and then medication. So it changed everything because I had gone from being you know what I thought was cancer-free to being restricted to having this medication for the rest of my life. I also went into research mode, which was what is this? How do I attack this? How do I live? But the other key thing for me was getting connected with a behavioral health therapist who specialized in medical conditions. So that was key, from a mental health perspective.

Q: At the time of your first diagnosis, did you know anything about cancer? Did it run in your family?

A: My parents lived to be 97, 96. I always thought I had really good genes. Genetics only makes up a certain portion of your health. It’s still important because that portion that it does makeup can make a lot of difference. But no cancer didn’t run in our family.

Q: What made you want to start Touch4Life?

A: I had seen one of my sorority sisters at a regional conference and within a few months she was dead. It was “de novo,” meaning it was the first time she has been diagnosed with cancer, and it was metastatic. The first time she found out that she had cancer, it had spread. So that spoke to me. 

I thought “What happened there? Why wasn’t there a screening of something that could have maybe prevented it or treated it early on when it’s more curable?

Q: What are the most important resources that Touch4Life offers?

A: We do a monthly series called SOS–that stands for Soul-filling Our Sisters. So we bring the top experts from around the country. It’s a webcast from around the country to talk about topics that are important to the traditionally marginalized community. We bring people with lived experience, so it’s one hour, once a month. And the topics vary.

Q: You received access to genetic testing and whole genome sequencing, which is the reason you’re here today. Why do you feel that more women of color need to get access to that type of testing?

A: Doctors don’t just offer it. At least that’s what the data shows. I asked a lot of questions and did a lot of research.

Q: On the Touch4Life website, it mentions that CDK inhibitor treatments are important in helping stop cell division, and research shows that Black women could benefit from getting that treatment earlier. What is the argument for preventing women from getting this treatment earlier?

A: I don’t know a valid one. In some cases, policies are made based on the clinical trials. And if we’re not in the clinical trials, these policies get set. For example, annual mammograms at the age of 40, let’s say that’s the standard. I mentioned that Black women get breast cancer under the age of 35 at a higher rate. What that standard procedure of testing at age 40 says to me is that there weren’t enough Black women in the trial because if they were, that age would probably come down. The standards get set without us in mind, but apply to us.

Q: Can you explain how the lack of inclusivity in clinical trials by pharmaceutical companies impacts African Americans?

A: One of the medications I took. I was sitting at the dinner table and my youngest son said, ‘Mom, why are your hands black?’ I looked and they were like black. I thought I was going into organ failure.

What that says to me is that no one melanated or not enough melanated people were in that clinical trial for the drug. So when I take it, does it work for me? When the drug companies are looking for the mutations that are driving cancer, if Black, biodata isn’t in the dataset, then what they’re looking for isn’t what’s driving us to have cancer at higher rates and younger ages.

Q: What are your long-term goals for Touch4Life?

A: I want to reach millions of people with the message that we have around the importance of family health history, genetic testing, and biomarker testing. So that people can get precision oncology. I also want to continue getting funding to continue to deliver the programs that the community tells us based on our survey data are really valuable, really informative and really change lives.

The post Laura Crandon battled breast cancer and won– now she’s fighting for a healthcare system that considers Black women appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By AFRO Staff

For persons trying to escape the shadow of a criminal history, help may be on the way. 

Maryland Legal Aid (MLA), in partnership with Reid Temple A.M.E. Church of Glenn Dale, Md., is hosting a free expungement clinic at the church on April 27. Individuals with a criminal history will have an opportunity to be advised by legal professionals and have petitions prepared on site. This includes people with cannabis-related charges who may be newly eligible for expungement.

The one-on-one assistance could be life-altering for the thousands of persons whose lives were tainted by a criminal history. Experts say for those who have run-ins with the law, that history could pose a steep barrier to gainful employment, stable housing and general reintegration into society, leading to higher chances of recidivism. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, 44 percent of persons released from state prisons are re-arrested within a year. And over a nine-year period, that number increased to 83 percent.

“Successful reentry is measured over time and the ability of a person to expunge their criminal record, where appropriate, can be critical to their ability to move forward,” said Nancy La Vigne, director of the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), in a statement.

Expungement is a means for offenders to remove information about their criminal cases from legal and law enforcement records, which prospective employers and landlords may tap into when conducting background checks.

In Maryland, a resident can file for an expungement if that person’s case ended with disposition of acquittal, dismissal, probation before judgment (PBJ), nolle prosequi (prosecutor dropped case), stet (indefinitely postponed), or not criminally responsible. No fee is required.

In the case of a guilty verdict, Maryland law allows certain criminal convictions to be expunged after satisfactory completion of the sentence, including parole, probation or mandatory supervision. The nature of the crime determines when that person can file for expungement. The nonrefundable application cost is $30.

To find out more about the free expungement clinic, visit online at: https://www.mdlab.org/reid-expungement-clinic/ 

This includes people with cannabis-related charges who may be newly eligible for expungement. This one-on-one expungement assistance can be life-changing for the vast number of people who qualify.

What:
Maryland Legal Aid / Reid Expungement Clinic

When:
Saturday, April 27, 2024

Where:
Reid Temple A.M.E. Church
11400 Glenn Dale Blvd.
Glenn Dale, Maryland 20769

The post MD Legal Aid teams with Reid Temple A.M.E. to offer free expungement clinic appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By AFRO Staff

Caring Communities, a nonprofit organization based in Maryland dedicated to supporting people with disabilities and their caregivers, is calling for volunteers to assist with its World of Possibilities Disabilities Expo. The annual event will be held April 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Samuel Riggs IV Alumni Center in College Park, Maryland.

The expo will feature over 70 exhibitors showing off the latest in adaptive technology, learning tools, adaptive medical and exercise equipment, service resources, recreation and travel resources, disability law resources and much more. Advocacy and self-help support groups will also be on hand to provide guidance and other assistance.

Attendees can also take advantage of several educational forums, personal care attendants, product demos, live music, on-site wheelchair repair, book signings and exhibits from differently abled authors and artists, face painting and other entertainment aimed at the entire family.

Volunteers will be tasked with such activities as assisting vendors set up their booths, greeting attendees and answering questions, assisting visitors to fill out registration passes, restocking information booths, conducting exit surveys, packing up at the end of the expo and other duties as assigned.

Middle and high school volunteers can use the opportunity to gain service learning credits.

Interested persons should sign up as an attendee on this link and contact mona@caringcommunities.org to volunteer.

The post Volunteers needed for World of Possibilities Disabilities Expo appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Megan Sayles,
AFRO Business Writer,
msayles@afro.com

Members of Caring Across Maryland, a coalition that represents advocates, workers and patients in nursing homes, assisted living and home care, assembled in Annapolis, Md. on March 5 alongside partner organizations to rally support for key legislation that would enhance compensation and data collection across the state’s care landscape.

The event was a part of a larger national campaign spearheaded by the National Domestic Workers Alliance (NDWA). The initiative advocates for government to invest in a care infrastructure that provides comprehensive support and services to paid and unpaid caregivers and those who receive care. This includes living wages, benefits and pathways to citizenship for care workers, who predominantly tend to be women and people of color. 

Caring Across Maryland championed two bills while in Annapolis, the Homecare Workers Rights Act, or HB39, and HB189. The first would bar the Maryland Department of Health from reimbursing residential service agencies (RSAs) that hire care workers as independent contractors. The second would require RSAs to submit data to the Maryland Department of Labor regarding wages for care workers. 

“We’re working to transform the care industry,” said Chanelle Croxton, director of state strategies and organizing for NDWA. “We’re making sure that people who need access to care can get that access and that the folks who are working in it are able to have dignified wages and be in this profession that they love without having to sacrifice their livelihood.” 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Maryland’s home health and personal care aides earned an average of $15.67 per hour and $32,590 each year in 2022. Meanwhile, their day-to-day responsibilities can include assisting individuals with bathing and dressing, administering medications, shopping for groceries, preparing meals, housekeeping and driving individuals to appointments. 

Aside from substandard wages, a major issue for the care industry is misclassification. According to Croxton, care workers are classified as independent contractors at times. This has implications for labor protections and taxes. 

Care workers classified as independent contractors must use 1099 tax forms, meaning they are subject to paying for both self-employment and income taxes. They also do not receive benefits like overtime pay and health insurance.

Baltimore native Vivian Boone has been in home care for 35 years, working for The Elizabeth Cooney Agency, Sunrise Senior Living and Chesapeake Home Health Care amongst other agencies. Over her career, she’s generally made anywhere from $12 to $15. She works a part-time job in a school cafeteria to supplement her income. 

“If it’s a difficult patient, you might get $18,” said Boone. “But that doesn’t [reflect] that I have to come in, get you out of bed, put you in your wheelchair, help you stand to get a shower, cook your meals and wash your clothes. It takes a toll.” 

Although Boone said she was hired as an employee, her current agency has classified her as an independent contract. 

“I get no benefits. None. I’m going to be hit real hard at the end of the tax year,” said Boone. “Yeah, I could find another job, but right now I just want to focus on getting this fixed.” 

Croxton said HB189 is positioned to complement a federal proposal from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services that would direct more funds to care workers’ wages. The rule, Ensuring Access to Medicaid Services, proposes that 80 percent of Medicaid payments for homemaker, home health aide and personal care services be earmarked for workers’ compensation. 

“With information on what workers are making, we’re able to come back to the legislature to ask for our fair share of that and ensure that workers actually see the benefit from the funding that’s put toward this work,” said Croxton. 

Both bills have passed the House and are being considered by the Senate Finance Committee. 

Megan Sayles is a Report For America corps member.

The post Advocates call for better wages and data collection for workers in care industry appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Zenitha Prince,
Special to the AFRO

Heat waves. Floods. Surprise blizzards. Wildfires. 

Such extreme weather conditions have become almost commonplace bulletins on the nightly news. And with their growing frequency and intensity – driven by climate change – taxpayers are laboring under the increasingly heavy burden of “hidden extreme-weather taxes” as states seek to recover, climate advocates said.

But a new bill introduced in the Maryland General Assembly seeks to shift that financial burden where activists believe it belongs–fossil fuel companies.

The Responding to Emergency Needs from Extreme Weather (RENEW) Act (HB1438 / SB0958) would require the 40 largest polluters in Maryland to pay $9 billion in compensation for the ravages of climate change.

“We are in a time where we are contending with record breaking heat, storms and wildfires of a magnitude never seen before. The RENEW Act proposes a bold solution and ensures the biggest polluters pay their fair share to prepare for and recover from escalating natural disasters,” said bill co-sponsor Del. Adrian A. Boafo, D-Pr. George’s. He added, “I learned at a young age a very simple lesson — if you make a mess, you clean it up. It’s time for Big Oil companies to clean up their mess and pay their fair share.”

A statewide Gonzales poll commissioned by the Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN) found that two-thirds of respondents supported making the key emitters of greenhouse gases pay for the state’s efforts to prepare for and recover from the effects of environmental degradation. 

“Marylanders support the RENEW Act overwhelmingly because we are experiencing the costs of climate change first hand. The RENEW Act makes Maryland a cleaner, more resilient, and more affordable state to live in,” said Maryland State Sen. Katie Hester (D- Howard and Montgomery). Hester’s district includes Ellicott City, where a multimillion mitigation effort, including a massive drainage tunnel, is underway after being devastated by floods in 2016 and 2018.

Now climate advocates are calling for Gov. Wes Moore to throw his support behind the RENEW Act, saying the bill’s expected revenue of $900 million a year for 10 years could help finance his administration’s robust Climate Pollution Reduction Plan. 

“To keep hidden extreme-weather taxes from going through the roof, Maryland must pass the RENEW Act,” said Jamie DeMarco, Maryland director of the CCAN Action Fund, in a statement. “Every  year that we allow industry polluters to avoid paying for the harm they’ve done is another year Maryland taxpayers will be left on the hook for the rising costs of climate disasters.”

Gov. Moore has committed to investing $1 billion a year toward addressing climate change, and has already outlined how he would invest $90 million in 2024, alone.

Under the Climate Solutions Now Act (CSNA), passed into law in 2022, Maryland is required to reduce statewide greenhouse gas emissions 60 percent from 2006 levels by 2031 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2045, the most ambitious GHG reduction goals of any state in the nation.

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By Frances “Toni” Draper,
AFRO Publisher

On March 15, I had the distinct honor of testifying in favor of Maryland House Bill 0370, sponsored by Delegate Mike Rogers (D- Anne Arundel County) and others. The bill, if passed and signed, will require Maryland’s governor “annually to proclaim March 9 as 6888^th Central Postal Directory Battalion Day.”  

Currently, Maryland has 16 official commemorative days, seven months and one week that are recognized in State law including Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Negro Baseball League Day, Thurgood Marshall Day and Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day.  

Testifying along with Delegate Rogers and me, were Janice Martin (daughter of 6888^th member Indiana Hunt-Martin for whom a post office in Buffalo, N.Y. was recently named) and Col. (Ret.) Edna Cummings.  

I could go on and on about the 6888^th and their amazing service to the United States, especially during a time when Black women were marginalized and ignored.  I could spend hours writing about these 855 predominantly Black women who were stationed in Europe working three 24-hour shifts, seven days a week to sort 18 million letters addressed to U.S. troops scattered across Europe during World War II.  

I could write about the three 6888th members who died there and were buried in Normandy in coffins made by French prisoners. I could write about the recent honors, their commanders Major Charity Adams Earley (the first Black woman to be an officer in the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (later called WACS), Captains Mary F. Kearney and Bernice G. Henderson.  

I could shout out the name of my aunt PFC Vashti Murphy Matthews who was a member of the 6888^th –although I never heard her talk about her time in the Army– and I could certainly point out that if it hadn’t been for the AFRO’s extensive coverage (1945-1946) of these brave soldiers, the names and hometowns of many would not be known today.       

Due to the tireless efforts of Col. (US Army Ret.) Edna Cummings and others like Master Sergeant (Ret.) Elizabeth Anne Helm-Frazier, more people are learning about this brave, dedicated pioneering battalion.  

According to Womenofthe6888th.org, “the 6888^th was not an All-Black or an all African-American unit.  The 6888 Central Postal Directory Battalion was a multi-ethnic unit that was predominantly Black with at least one Puerto Rican and one Mexican woman.  This is a change from what we have been writing and saying for years. Recently, the committee became aware of this mistake.  The second oldest 6888^th veteran still with us is 102-year-old PFC Crescencia Garcia.  PFC Garcia is Puerto Rican and knew others in the unit.”

A native of St. Petersburg, Fla., MSG (Ret.) Helm-Frazier joined the Army for its educational and job opportunities. Throughout her 25-year career, she held a variety of assignments and high-profile positions. Her bio notes that she was an exceptional soldier, role model, and was frequently commended for her outstanding leadership, recruitment and retention skills. After her retirement in 2006, she continued her service to military women, veterans and community activities.

Helm-Frazier, along with Col. Cummings, helped raise funds to build a monument at Fort Leavenworth, Kan. to recognize the 6888th’s exemplary service in WWII. 

“I started on the 6888^th Monument team which was the dream of Commander Carlton G. Philpot, US Navy (Ret.),” she said.  “Our goal was to raise money for the monument and get the word out about the 6888^th and their mission to reduce the two-year backlog of mail because mail was the third most important thing to a service member: first, pay; second, food and shelter, and third, mail!” Additionally, she served as a producer of the critically acclaimed documentary, “No Mail, Low Morale,” which tells the 6888th Postal Directory Battalion story.

Then there’s Col (Ret.) Edna Cummings – an amazing community servant and role model extraordinaire.

“In 2018, Lizz (MSG Helm-Frazier) and I began a journey to raise funds for the 6888^th Monument at Ft. Leavenworth, Kan. to honor these unsung WWII Sheroes,” said Cummings. “Little did we know that the monument would launch a movement of international recognitions, an award-winning documentary, a Blue Plaque at the King Edward’s School in Birmingham, England,  a Congressional Gold Medal, a post office renaming in Buffalo, N.Y., a military base renaming at Ft. Lee, Va. (after LTG Arthur Gregg and Major Charity Adams), a Broadway-bound musical by Executive Producer Blair Underwood, a Netflix movie, and many other state and local proclamations.  I am grateful to be a part of sharing the Six Triple Eight’s history with the world.” 

This month, as the AFRO celebrates Black women heroes, Col. Edna Cummings, we are grateful to you, Lizz and so many other outstanding women leaders who have served well and continue to serve. You are role models extraordinaire, as are the women we are featuring in this month’s special edition. Kudos to you for staying on the battlefield! We are looking forward to celebrating 6888^th Day in Maryland on March 9, 2024, and every year thereafter.  And, who knows, by then there may be 6888^th days throughout the nation! 

We also salute the past and current women of the AFRO, including those who are not of African descent. You are appreciated for all that you do every day to help us tell our story—including this beautiful special edition saluting Black women young and old, women from all walks of life, women who do what they do because it’s the right thing to do. 

The post AFRO salute: the women behind the 6888th keep pushing appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Gene Lambey,
Special to the AFRO

Maryland Congressman Steny Hoyer (D-Md.-District 5) invited Cathy Hughes, the founder and owner of the largest African-American owned and operated broadcasting company, UrbanOne to speak at the 43rd annual Black History Month Breakfast Celebration on Feb 17. 

“Every year, the Black History Month Breakfast theme follows the national Black History Month theme as established by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH),” Hoyer shared. “Dr. Carter G. Woodson, recognized as the Father of Black History Month, founded ASALH in 1915 to carry forth the work of Black History Month.”

This year’s  breakfast celebration was held at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt, Md. 

“It is with sincere humility and gratitude that I am joining the 43rd Annual Black History Month Celebration that Congressman Steny Hoyer has conducted for over four decades,” said Cathy Hughes.

This event was created to promote African-American artists now and in the future to continue doing their work. 

“As a lifelong supporter of the arts, I strongly believe arts and humanities are a critical component of our democracy. American artists remind our country of who we are – and African-American artists play a key role in that in our history and our future,” said Hoyer. “One of my top priorities in Congress is securing robust public school funding and ensuring that Maryland schools can maintain and expand the arts for students in the Fifth District.”

Congressman Hayer opened the event, listing several African-American figures in the arts from poets such as Phillis Wheatley to rap artists such as Common. He spoke on the support of African-American artists during the height of the Civil Rights Movement.

“The Black History Month Breakfast has a rich history with distinguished speakers including my friend and brother the late Congressman John Lewis, then-Sen. Barack Obama, Vice President Kamala Harris and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore,” Hoyer told the AFRO. “For 43 years I’ve looked forward to the BHMB breakfast as a highlight of my year – bringing together community leaders, public servants, and Prince Georgians to celebrate Black history. I was proud to partner with my friend Betty Richardson many years ago to establish the Black History Month Planning Committee which is made up of community leaders who spearhead this excellent event.”

After referencing these historical, past and current Black artists, he spoke about Hughes and her background. Hoyer expressed that Hughes helped “amplify the voices of so many artists” over the years.

“She is a woman with great appreciation for the arts and a tremendous work ethic,” said Congressman Hoyer.

Growing up in the projects in Omaha, Nebraska, Hughes learned to adapt and developed herself. While taking care of her son, she attended the University of Nebraska Omaha and Creighton University, and took Business Administration courses. 

Her early career in journalism and radio and time at these universities prepared her to work as the general sales manager for Howard University’s radio station, WHUR, in Washington D.C. in 1971.  

Hughes helped pioneer the “quiet storm” format, along with Howard University intern Melvin Lindsey in 1976. The “quiet storm” format named after Smokey Robinson’s song would tie into the late night WHUR show, opening with rhythm, blues and smooth jazz, to  include jazz fusion music. The format was adopted by stations across the nation quickly.

She bought her first radio station, WOL-AM in 1980 and continued buying radio stations. Adding to these radio stations, Hughes ventured into television, radio talk shows and music genres.

In 2004, her platform, Urban One, went public, becoming the largest African-American multimedia company. Hughes became the first successful African-American woman to own a public company.

“Today, Urban One oversees dozens of stations spanning many of the biggest media markets in America. Urban One has created a platform for black voices and artists that would have seemed unimaginable just a generation ago,” said Hoyer. “None of it would have been possible without Cathy Hughes and her extraordinary vision.”

The post Cathy Hughes speaks at 43rd Black History Month Celebration Breakfast appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Ericka Alston Buck,
Special to the AFRO

In the heart of Annapolis, Md., nestled at 84 Franklin Street, lies the Banneker-Douglass Museum, a beacon of African-American history and culture. Stepping through its doors, visitors embark on a journey through time, a journey that is both reflective and forward-thinking. 

Now, with 2024 marking the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the museum proudly presents “REVISIT/REIMAGINE: The Civil Rights Era in Maryland and Parallels of Today” — a poignant exhibition that pays homage to the legacies of civil rights leaders while shedding light on contemporary issues that continue to shape our society.

Curated by creative visionary Thomas James, “REVISIT/REIMAGINE” is not merely an exhibition; it is a testament to resilience, activism and the enduring spirit of progress. At its core, the exhibit aims to bridge the gap between past and present, inviting visitors to reflect on the strides made since the Civil Rights Movement, while acknowledging the work that remains.

Upon entering the exhibition space, visitors are greeted by a curated collection of images showcasing nationally and locally recognized civil rights leaders, sourced from the archives of the AFRO-American Newspapers. These striking visuals serve as a powerful reminder of the individuals who paved the way for change and justice. Savannah Wood, executive director of Afro Charities and moderator of the panel discussion, provided insight into the exhibition’s composition.

“When people come, they can expect to see contemporary artwork by Maryland artists,” said Wood, adding that an array of creatives were included in the exhibition, curated by James. 

According to Wood, the installation also included “a selection of images from the archives that Thomas selected during extensive research in partnership with Afro Charities.”

The lineup of exhibiting artists reads like a who’s who of creative talent, with each bringing their unique perspective to the dialogue. 

Murjoni Merriweather, one of the featured artists, shared her vision for the exhibition. 

“For me, what I want people to take away from this experience is the self-love of Black people. I want us to be proud of where we came from, know the history, and also see the creators now making works that talk about us being proud of ourselves,” she said. 

The pieces, ranging from paintings to sculptures, from mixed media to digital art, serve as a mirror reflecting the issues of Black people through the Civil Rights Movement and the equal rights initiatives that followed. From education inequities to race-based violence, from disability justice to technological surveillance— each artwork ignites conversations and challenges perceptions.

In a nod to intergenerational relationships, the exhibition space is designed to evoke the familiarity of a home, complete with books, records and other objects scattered throughout. 

James explained the intention behind this setup. 

“This show is set up to encourage or enact a feeling of home—a feeling of warmth—and really leveling with folks that have done extraordinary things…[they] are just like you. They come home every day to the life that they live, and you can do the same thing in your own way.”

The opening reception, held on Feb. 24th, was a celebration of art, activism and community. Guests had the opportunity to engage with the artwork, to immerse themselves in the narratives woven throughout the exhibition. Following the reception, a panel discussion titled “Exhibition Talkback” provided a platform for dialogue, featuring James, Banneker-Douglass Museum’s executive director Chanel C. Johnson, and Wood. 

As “REVISIT/REIMAGINE” continues its run until Jan. 4, 2025, it serves as a poignant reminder of the progress made since the Civil Rights Era and the work that lies ahead. 

The exhibit is a testament to the power of art in sparking change, in amplifying voices, and in uniting communities. And above all, it is a call to action— urging each of us to play a role in shaping a more just and equitable future.

The post REVISIT REIMAGINE’: Commemorating Maryland’s ‘Year of Civil Rights’ at the Banneker-Douglass Museum appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Tashi McQueen,
AFRO Political Writer,
tmcqueen@afro.com

The Maryland House of Delegates Judiciary Committee unanimously voted favorably on a major juvenile justice bill, HB 814/SB744, which brought a range of reactions.

With Black children making up 77 percent of the children detained in Maryland juvenile jails, this legislation, as it stands, could increase that number, causing many observers to voice concern.

“The young people of Maryland don’t need us to turn to more ineffective, failed ‘tough on crime’ policing and incarceration,” said Hashim Jabar and Zakiya Sankara-Jabar, co-executive directors at Racial Justice NOW, in a statement on Feb. 26. “They urgently need us to make deep investments in providing a world-class education, community-led, culturally relevant programs. Investing in our children should be our highest priority.”

The Juvenile Law Reform makes several changes to the juvenile system, including increasing the juvenile court’s jurisdiction to include 10 through 12-year-olds who allegedly committed certain violent crimes. Those crimes include cart theft, animal abuse, offenses involving firearms and third-degree sexual offenses. Currently, no child under 13 can be charged with a crime.

“HB 814 remains a plague on Black and Brown communities,” said Natasha M. Dartigue, Maryland’s public defender. “The Office of the Public Defender (OPD) will continue to amplify the voices of marginalized communities, fight laws that have a disparate impact on Black and Brown people challenge systems that further strain and impact the quality of legal services that OPD provides.”

The bill also extends the amount of time possible for several probationary periods and implements various required reporting and referrals for the Department of Juvenile Services to ensure children are not left without needed services.

Those who approve of the bill say it is a comprehensive approach that addresses critical issues, encourages accountability and increases public safety.

“Our goal is not to lock every child up; the goal is rehabilitation, but there has to be accountability,” said Aisha Braveboy, Prince George’s County state’s attorney, at the bill hearing on Feb. 8. “What we don’t always know in the system is what is happening to the child. Are they receiving the services ordered by the court, and if they are not receiving the services, why aren’t they?”

“Having some additional safeguards in the legislation that can provide for accountability is extremely important and that’s why we support this bill,” said Braveboy.

The post Favorable vote on juvenile justice legislation gets mixed reaction appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Megan Sayles,
AFRO Business Writer,
msayles@afro.com

The 15th annual MBE Night in Annapolis took place on Feb. 22, assembling local political leaders, members of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland and the minority business community. The conference exists to expose minority business enterprises (MBEs) to economic and procurement opportunities in the state. 

Former Maryland Del. Herman Taylor, who founded MBE Night in Annapolis in 2009, opened up the program by discussing his devotion to supporting  minority-owned businesses. 

“I am steadfastly passionate about minority business inclusion and entrepreneurship because it gives people power—not power over other people but power over themselves,” said Taylor. “It gives them power to control their own lives, which is what we call self-determination, so they can create their own opportunity and destiny and live their own dream.” 

Gov. Wes Moore also gave remarks during the event. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening Maryland’s MBE program and holding state agencies accountable for complying with the state’s aspirational goal of 29 percent MBE participation on government contracts. 

Moore also highlighted his recent appointment of Nichelle Johnson as Maryland’s first MBE ombudsman, who will be instrumental in resolving contract issues between primes and MBEs and creating policies to streamline MBE program compliance. 

“I’m proud of the fact that just in our first year, the Board of Public Works delivered $1.4 billion to MBEs, a $160 million increase compared to the year before despite the fact that we allocated $6 billion less than the year before,” said Moore. “There was a significant increase in how we evaluated and made sure there was significant MBE participation in the way that government dollars are allocated and treated.” 

Minority business owners heard from two prominent Black CEOs on a panel covering growth and success during the conference. Del. Jazz Lewis (D-Pr. George’s) led the conversation with Warren Thomspon, CEO of Thompson Hospitality, and Doyle Mitchell, CEO of Industrial Bank. 

Mitchell encouraged entrepreneurs to take advantage of Industrial Bank’s financial literacy workshops and resources. 

“A bank is a very inexpensive place to get certain financial advice. We have borrowers who constantly talk to the lenders, and when they listen, they tend to do very well,” said Mitchell. “Our job is to try to grow businesses. The more they grow, the more we grow.” 

Thompson said his company maintains a division dedicated to engaging small and minority businesses for contract work. The hospitality firm also aids entrepreneurs in getting certified as MBEs with the National Minority Supplier Development Council. 

“It’s often said, ‘It’s lonely at the top,’ and it is,” said Thompson. “I think any good leader will realize that and surround himself or herself with smart people who are willing to give you good advice and tell you when you’re messing up.” 

Megan Sayles is a Report For America corps member. 

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By Tashi McQueen,
AFRO Political Writer,
tmcqueen@afro.com

Longtime Congressional Democrats Reps. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-Md.-02) and Steny Hoyer (D-Md.-05) endorsed Baltimore County Executive John “Johnny O” Olszewski Jr. (D) for Maryland’s Second Congressional District on Feb. 21.

Ruppersberger announced he was retiring from Congress in January, leaving his seat open this election year.

“You must move on and have other people coming up that you like, respect and that makes a difference. Johnny is one of those people,” Ruppersberger told reporters outside the historic Towson courthouse. “The factor that made my decision easy in the end – and it was not easy until the end – was that Johnny O was waiting. Johnny, you are the right person at the right time.”

Del. Harry Bhandari (D-Md.-08) and Kim Klacik (R) are among the nine candidates running for Maryland’s Second Congressional District.

“I’m truly honored and humbled to be joined by two of the best leaders Maryland has to offer,” said Olszewski. “Thank you both for your endorsements. I appreciate your belief in me, this campaign and this movement.”

Olszewski has acquired over 70 endorsements from various state and local leaders since announcing his campaign on Jan. 30, including Maryland House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones (D-Md.-10), Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman (D) and Baltimore City Mayor Brandon M. Scott (D).

Ruppersberger has been in office for about 21 years and Hoyer has been in Congress for more than 40.

May 14 is the Maryland primary and Nov. 5 is the general election. 

Tashi McQueen is a Report For America corps member.

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By Michayla Maxwell,
Special to the AFRO

Just weeks into the new year, the Anacostia Community Museum is ready to celebrate the opening of its new 2024 exhibition. 

The Anacostia Community Museum will be opening “A Bold and Beautiful Vision: A Century of Black Arts Education in Washington D.C.,1900-2000” on March 23. This exhibit will run through the spring of 2025 and celebrates some of Washington, D.C.’s most gifted artists. 

Samir Meghelli is the curator of “A Bold and Beautiful Vision” and hopes to tell the story of the teachers and students who made Washington, D.C., a genuinely unparalleled center for Black arts education. He was able to feature both known and not so well known artists including Elizabeth Catlett, Alma Thomas, James A. Porter, Loïs Mailou Jones, David Driskell, Hilda Wilkinson Brown, Sam Gilliam, Thomas Hunster and Georgette Seabrooke Powell.

“Rarely has it been acknowledged that some of the twentieth century’s most gifted artists taught and were educated in Washington, D.C. schools. The city is home to a long line of African American artist-educators who dedicated their lives to inspiring a love of the arts in young people despite the challenges of a longtime segregated, underfunded education system,” Meghelli said. 

Meghelli sees this year’s exhibit as an opportunity to share “rich history” and “international mentorship” with the rest of the D.C. community. The exhibit will include a wide array of arts and artifacts that can showcase the “little-known, but rich history” of black artist educators. 

Included in the showcase are original prints from Elizabeth Catlett’s first-ever solo exhibit which was previously at D.C.’s own Barnett-Aden Gallery, one of the first Black-owned commercial art galleries in the nation. They were a fixture for many years at her alma mater, D.C.’s Dunbar High School. The exhibit will also include a painting Sam Gilliam made while he was a teacher at McKinley Tech High School in the 1960s, a marionette that William Buckner made with his Armstrong High School students in the late 1930s, and silkscreen concert posters that Lou Stovall and Lloyd McNeill made in the late 1960s for the Adams Morgan-based youth arts organization.

Due to so much artistic history in D.C., one of the biggest challenges Meghelli faced was choosing what pieces to include. 

“The exhibition covers over a century of history and the stories of inimitable artists and educational institutions. Knowing we have the limitations of time and space, we hope that this exhibition will open up space for more and future exhibitions that explore the topics and which can include the work and stories of even more artists,” Meghelli said.

“We began conceptualizing the exhibition by diving into our museum’s archives and art collection, which contain incredible stories of local Black Washington arts communities dating back to our museum’s founding in 1967 and even much further back than that,” he said.

“Inspired by the deeply-rooted and intergenerational relationships among artist educators and their students over so many years, we set out to begin telling the story of that lineage—almost a family tree, in a way—of Washington’s African American art teachers and their influence across the generations.” 

Meghelli was able to break down the exhibition into four major sections, which include different hands-on art activities, artwork, artifacts, photographs and videos to create the theme throughout the exhibit. 

The exhibition starts by tracing the rise of art education in Washington’s segregated public school system in the late 19th and early 20th century and the pioneering work of educators at the city’s first two high schools for Black students: M Street High School (later known as Dunbar High) and Armstrong Manual Training School. 

 Next comes the work reflecting Howard University’s Art Department and its faculty and distinguished alumni. 

The third section examines the impact of school desegregation and the rise of Black power on arts education in Washington. 

The final section features the story of Duke Ellington School of the Arts, which Peggy Cooper Cafritz and Mike Malone began as a small program called Workshops for Careers in the Arts in the late 1960s but which has grown into a prestigious pre-professional arts school that has now graduated generations of talented artists of all disciplines. 

“The exhibition includes prints, objects and art materials used by artists and teachers throughout this period,” said Shanita Brackett, acting director of the museum. Once an object that intrigues me demonstrates the lineage and connection between art teachers and students, it’s presented as a lineage or bubble map.”

She believes once someone can understand “the impact of each teacher and the artists they taught, as well as the collaboration between those artists, their genres and art forms, and their geographic base and work, then they can discover a rich history of reach and influence.”

The Anacostia Community Museum is the first federally funded community museum in the nation, United States. Brackett said she hopes, “visitors will leave the exhibition with a new appreciation for black arts education, and generations of artists, educational institutions, and communities will look back and appreciate the profound specialties and skills shared with so many others on various platforms.”

Brackett said community programming is crucial.  

“We will host various community-based and family-friendly programs,” she said, “including Earth Day on April 20, which will also be the launch of our Farm Stand for the season, and Juneteenth on June 19, which will showcase local artists and musicians.” 

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By Tashi McQueen,
AFRO Political Writer,
tmcqueen@afro.com

Members of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland (LBCM) recently unveiled their 2024 legislative priorities, which include upholding recently passed juvenile justice laws, making resources more available for Maryland’s small businesses and ensuring prescription drugs are affordable for Black Marylanders.

“Members of the legislature founded the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland to advance policies that promote the interests of Black residents. For 54 years we have fiercely advocated for change that ensures Black Maryland thrives,” said LBCM Chair Del. Jheanelle Wilkins (D-Md.-20). “We will work together to ensure passage of every single one of these bills that we have outlined.”

Justice Reform and Public Safety

As public safety and juvenile justice remain significant concerns for Marylanders, in 2024, LBCM will prioritize establishing and supporting a correctional ombudsman office within the attorney general’s office, creating an expungement expansion bill package, supporting the success of returning citizens and maintaining recent policies and laws related to juvenile justice.

“The Legislative Black Caucus last year in the Maryland General Assembly passed really important foundational legislation to make sure that children in our communities are not interrogated without their Constitutional right of access to an attorney,” said Wilkins. “We believe that legislation is a critical bill, and we will defend that legislation this session.”

Black Wealth and Black Business

Redeveloping Maryland small business online resources, ensuring accountability and transparency between the Board of Public Works and Minority Business Enterprises (MBE) and increasing MBE contracting opportunities are prime legislative initiatives for the LBCM in 2024.

“The caucus truly believes that Black wealth will grow through entrepreneurship,” said Del. N. Scott Phillips (D-Md.-10). “We will work with the Comptroller’s office to create a public interactive searchable informational dashboard of public works data.”

The Board of Public Works oversees most state agency procurements and contracts exceeding $200,000, according to their website. Phillips said caucus members believe that “transparency in that process is essential for us to understand procurement in the state of Maryland and to grow the opportunities for minority businesses.”

Phillips explained that the dashboard would include relevant information from BPW agenda items such as contract spending amounts, MBE goals and MBE waiver requests. 

Housing and Transportation 

“It’s a bold policy posture to create a dedicated funding stream to pay for public transit. This is a moral decision,” said Del. Robbyn Lewis (D-Md.-46). “Martin Luther King fought for the right of Black people to move freely in pursuit of education, health care and opportunity. As members of the LBCM, the largest such body in the U.S., we have a sacred duty to carry on his work to help make sure Black people can move and seize opportunity.”

LBCM’s initiatives in this area include authorizing just cause evictions for lease non-renewals and increasing oversight and compliance on evictions. They are also working on “banning the box” on lease applications and protecting access to transportation for Black communities. 

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, a bipartisan non-governmental organization, “banning the box” is a movement to remove questions about an applicant’s criminal history from job applications until after they are offered the job. It ideally gives applicants a better chance at employment.

Health and Environmental Justice

LBCM’s top health and environmental justice priorities include the Maryland Maternal Health Act of 2024, the Prescription Drug Affordability Drug Act, a prostate, breast and lung cancer screening bill and legislation on the impact of environmental permits.

“Maternal health continues to be an area where we struggle and witness devastating outcomes. We find that Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than their White counterparts,” said Del. Jennifer White Holland (D-Md.-10).

Holland said the bill aims to update and streamline medical forms used during pregnancy and upon discharge to improve care coordination and connections to community-based services. It would also increase the state’s study and action on severe maternal morbidity.

Education Equity

“I’m proud to sponsor, alongside Chair Wilkins, legislation to support the expansion of community schools under the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future,” said Del. Alonzo Washington (D-Md.-22). “The bill does several things, including empowering community school coordinators to operate with flexibility to create transformational change with their students [and] codifying national best practices for community schools implementation.”

Del. Stephanie Smith (D-Md.-45) said there is a bill she is planning to sponsor this session that will ensure unnecessary duplicate programs from HBCUs are not approved, much like the issue that heated up in 2023 between Towson University and Morgan State University concerning a duplicated doctoral program.

LBCM’s other initiatives in this area include equitable funding for land grant institutions and preserving the affordability of the Child Care Scholarship Program.

Tashi McQueen is a Report For America corps member.

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By Megan Sayles,
AFRO Business Writer,
msayles@afro.com

In 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic shut down the world, Black unemployment peaked at 16.8 percent in the U.S. Now, White House officials have reported that 2023 was the lowest year for Black joblessness on record. It currently sits at 5.3 percent. 

Officials say the recovery was jump started by President Biden signing the American Rescue Plan into law, which provided stimulus checks to Americans, deployed capital to hard-hit small businesses, extended unemployment benefits and expanded tax credits. 

“Because of the actions of this administration and the grit and determination of the American people, we’re experiencing the most equitable recovery in American history,” said U.S. Department of Treasury Deputy Secretary Wally Adeyemo. “As we’ve succeeded in driving a historical equitable economic recovery, we’ve also been increasing our long term economic activity through the president’s Investing in America agenda.” 

Biden’s agenda comprises the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the CHIPS and Science Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. Each policy was created to drive public and private investment in manufacturing, repairing roads and bridges, delivering high-speed internet and creating clean transportation. 

The policies also aim to generate good-paying jobs, including union jobs. 

“Under President Biden, 2.6 million more Black Americans have jobs. The latest jobs report also shows the share of Black Americans in the workforce is above its pre-pandemic level and near its highest level in over a decade,” said Adeyemo. “We’ve also seen Black Americans earnings rise faster than inflation. Earnings for the typical Black full-time worker are up 7.1 percent since before the pandemic.” 

Black wealth has also increased by 60 percent since 2019, the largest growth on record. However, the country’s stark racial wealth gap still persists. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, median Black wealth was $24,520 in 2021 compared to $250,400 for Whites. 

“The gap between Black and White wealth in America is still too great. That’s why the president’s been focused on doing things like making sure we’re providing access to small businesses, especially underrepresented small businesses, with the tools they need to build out the economies and communities they live in,” said Adeyemo. “[This includes] $1.4 billion being provided to Black-owned and Black-operated banks in America that will not only make those banks more stable, but will allow them to be in a position where they can lend to businesses in their communities, which traditionally tend to be run by people of color.” 

While in office, the Biden-Harris Administration has continued to increase federal spending on contracts to small businesses. In Fiscal Year 2022, the administration hit an all-time-high by delivering $163 billion in procurement dollars to small businesses, $70 billion of which was awarded to small disadvantaged businesses. 

The U.S. Small Business Administration has also eclipsed $1 billion in lending to Black, small businesses for the third year in a row. 

“The president and vice president came into office on day one, committed to revitalizing our economy from the middle out and the bottom up, combating previous systems that have left communities behind by decades of failed trickle down economics,” said White House Public Engagement Director Stephen Benjamin. “The unemployment numbers we’ve seen today are truly historic, but it’s also important to note the economy is getting fundamentally stronger for African Americans because this administration is making long overdue investments in Black communities.” 

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By Katharine Wilson,
Capital News Service

Americans are reporting fewer frauds since a peak in 2021. However, experts at a Jan. 31 Senate hearing said scammers are only getting better at extracting more money from their victims.  

Witnesses and senators agreed that action is needed to fight this issue – but they differed on what are the best strategies to protect the millions of Americans suffering from the effects of financial fraud.  

Total fraud losses reported to the Federal Trade Commission increased from $3.3 billion in 2020 to $8.8 billion in 2022, according to testimony from John Breyault, vice president of public policy, telecommunications, and fraud for the National Consumers League.  

This increase is partially due to advancing scam technology, artificial intelligence and a lack of federal regulation on fraud cases.  

“We are not winning the fight against fraud, and we need Congress to act,” Breyault said during a hearing of the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee.  

Maryland was fifth in the nation for most fraud reports per capita, according to 2023 Federal Trade Commission data.  

“This has been an ongoing issue in Maryland as around the country and it takes all forms,” Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Maryland, told the hearing. 

The banking panel solicited advice about how to tackle scams and fraud in the banking system.  

There are two major types of payment frauds: unauthorized and fraudulently induced transactions, according to Carla Sanchez-Adams, senior attorney for the National Consumer Law Center. 

Unauthorized transactions happen without the knowledge of the fraud victim. Fraudulently induced transactions occur when the victim of a scam initiates a transaction after being manipulated or deceived by the frauder.  

Unauthorized electronic funds transfers are protected under the Electronic Funds Transfer Act. However, victims of other payment frauds have little hope of getting their money back. Victims of fraudulently induced frauds – such as a scammer pretending to be a bank – have no clear protections under state or federal law, Sanchez-Adams said.  

Older Americans lose the most money from payment frauds, but younger Americans are more often victimized, she said. Some payment systems also target low-income customers and minorities who are often pushed out of the banking system, the senior attorney added. 

Multiple senators pushed the idea of educating consumers about financial fraud. Sanchez-Adams said there is more to do beyond that.  

“I think that financial education is extremely important, but it doesn’t solve the problem, especially because the scams change overnight,” Sanchez-Adams told the senators.  

Instead, Sanchez-Adams and the other witnesses urged the adoption of new policies to increase responsibilities for financial institutions and to make federal oversight of common scam tactics possible.  

Payment platforms should have a larger financial incentive to stop scams before they happen, Breyault said. Sanchez-Adams touted the United Kingdom’s policy under which the victim’s and the wrongdoer’s financial institutions each have to pay half of the reimbursement.  

“If we did that here and the receiving institution were obligated to pay 50 percent, you could believe that they would be doing more to prevent their own customers from committing fraud and they should bear the cost because they’re allowing this to happen,” Sanchez-Adams said.  

Sen. Thom Tillis, R-North Carolina, expressed concerns with holding banks accountable. Tillis said he is worried that banks will stop accepting customers who are at a higher risk for falling victim to fraud.  

“There are a number of times we’re proposing legislation, like here, that upon the surface looks good, but ultimately underbanks or unbanked people, so we’ve just got to strike the right balance,” Tillis said. 

He urged Congress to give special priority to passing legislation, including the Protecting Consumers from Payments Scams Act, which would protect victims of fraudulently induced payments.  

Cryptocurrency is already or soon will be the “method of choice” for scammers, Breyault said. This is because the currency allows transfers that are anonymous and difficult to trace.  

The Digital Asset Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2023, a bill sponsored by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, would make it easier for financial regulators to track suspicious crypto activity, Warren said at the hearing. Her bill has been cosponsored by 20 senators including Van Hollen and is supported by the National Consumers League.  

These bills are only a few policies being considered by Congress to improve consumer protections.

This article was originally published by Capital News Service.

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By Megan Sayles,
AFRO Business Writer,
msayles@afro.com

Violet Apple, the first Black CEO of Girl Scouts of Central Maryland, stepped down from her post on Jan. 31. Apple has led the organization, which serves more than 35,000 girls and adults, since 2014. 

Her exit marks the first time in her career that she has not worked for a Girl Scouts council. 

“I’m stepping down from this role, but that doesn’t mean I’m stepping down from Girl Scouting,” said Apple. “It’s been part of my life, and it’s going to continue to be. I really have enjoyed everything about the work I have been able to do, the people I have met and the communities I have served.” 

Growing up in Lebanon, Pa., Apple was a Girl Scout herself. She, alongside a group of friends, joined a troop in the fourth grade. She recalled volunteering, holding spaghetti dinners and camping—something she said her family never would have done. 

Although Apple’s time as a Girl Scout ended during her seventh grade year, several of her fellow troop members became her lifelong friends. 

After Apple became her family’s first college graduate, earning a social work degree from Millersville University, she secured her first job with a Girl Scouts council in Pennsylvania

She was hired in a full-time position as membership extension coordinator, although she had only applied for a summer job. 

“My job was predominantly to go into communities of color and recruit more diverse girls into the organization, and that was many moons ago,” said Apple. “That’s how I got started with the organization, but what kept me was learning about what was happening to girls in terms of academics and how they saw themselves.” 

Apple came across a study from the American Association of University Women that found girls excelled in math and science until just before middle school. Then, there was a drop in achievement. 

Through working with the Girl Scouts, Apple thought she could help to change these outcomes by encouraging girls to embrace science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). 

Apple rose through the ranks in Pennsylvania before moving to Massachusetts in 2008 to serve as the chief membership services officer for the Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts. She oversaw all membership, programming, volunteerism and camps for the council, which totaled 60,000 members at the time. 

Six years later, Apple was selected to become CEO for Girls Scouts of Central Maryland. During her tenure, parents regularly approached Apple, telling her how much it meant to their daughters to see a Black woman as the top executive. 

Julia Lenzer, board chair of Girl Scouts of Central Maryland, described Apple as a servant leader. She said she led with integrity and intention. 

“Violet is one of the hardest workers I know,” said Lenzer. “She worked day and night, often at her own personal expense.” 

Volunteer Melissa Bain recalled Apple coming to an event for World Thinking Day, a celebration  for Girl Scouts and Girl Guides, at the request of a Junior Girl Scout. Bain didn’t think Apple would come, but she did and stayed the entire night. 

During the event, adults lined up to meet Apple, while Bain’s brownies troop waited at the back of the line until Apple spotted them. 

“She put her hand up and said something along the lines of, ‘I’m enjoying talking with you all, but I’m here for the girls. They are the VIPs here,’” said Bain. “Then, she directed them to come to the front, and she spent time with them.” 

Some of the work Apple’s most proud of doing as CEO involves promoting STEM education. Apple put on all-day STEM conferences for the girls and invited parents to participate in workshops that would help them understand how to support their children’s interest in the fields. 

“For me, it wasn’t about just putting a program in place. It was about nurturing each girl’s interest all the way through and inspiring them to want to do something that is not a traditional career,” said Apple. “It was also about giving them the chops to not give up because it isn’t easy for women and girls to go into STEM professions.” 

Looking to the future, Apple said she’s weighing a number of opportunities. But, whatever she chooses, it will be grounded in serving and uplifting individuals. 

She’s also looking forward to taking a break to re-center herself. 

“I just hope at the end of the day people recognize that for me it was all about making opportunities available to girls and giving girls an opportunity to find their own voice,” said Apple. 

Megan Sayles is a Report For America Corps member.

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By Ama Y. Brown,
AFRO Editorial Assistant

“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Love never fails.”

1 Corinthians 13, Verses 4-8

As we celebrate the beauty of Black love, the AFRO spoke with married people to get some advice from veterans of the “Couples Club.”

While it may be easy to focus on the good times, this week, the AFRO asked how marriages survive beyond the honeymoon phase and specifically— when times get tough. 

Read below to find out how couples have traveled through time together and decided they wouldn’t have it any other way!

1. Keep God first— and remember the magic words

 Andre and Dr. Frances ‘Toni’ Draper 

“There is absolutely, positively nothing too hard for God. If He could create everything with a word, part the Red Sea, turn water into wine, heal a blind man, raise a dead man, stand up a lame man, feed 5,000 with a little boy’s lunch, cast out demons, get up from the grave…surely He can repair your marriage—if you let Him!” 

• Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper

“Practice saying the two words that will make her smile every time, all the time: ‘Yes, Dear.’

• Andre Draper 

2: Communication is crucial

Vanessa and James Jones

“Communication is the key to navigating difficult times. Listen to each other, respect each other’s opinions and remember you are on the same team. You have to tackle the situation together.” 

• Vanessa Jones

“Always communicate no matter how big or small.”

• James Jones

3: The power of prayer

Frances and Jeffrey Bedford

“Pray together! Read the word of God!”

• Frances Bedford

4: Seek understanding 

Nicole and Alan Wallace

“Pause… pray, ask God to intervene. Be understanding, seek resolution and end in an embrace!”

• Nicole Wallace

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By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Political Writer
Tmcqueen@afro.com

U.S. Rep. John Sarbanes (D-Md.-03) recently announced his endorsement of Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D) for U.S. Senate.

Sarbanes said he sees Alsobrooks as “good for Maryland” and “terrific for our country.”

“It’s why I’m as motivated as I am in this moment to support her and her candidacy,” said Sarbanes. 

Maryland is primarily a Democratic state, meaning the winner of the Democratic primary election may likely be the overall winner. The Maryland primary is on May 14.

Alsobrooks has over 160 endorsements from local, state and national leaders and organizations. Gov. Wes Moore (D), U.S. Rep. Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.-07) and Howard County Executive Calvin Ball (D) are a few notables on that list.

“Thank you so much again, congressman, for your support today and for your leadership. We are just really grateful — 15 years pushing democracy at a time when people weren’t talking about it the way they are today, but you had the foresight to know that this moment was coming,” said Alsobrooks. 

Alongside the announcement was a roundtable discussion with Towson University (TU) students on protecting democracy and voting rights. Students asked questions about how to keep their friends and family engaged in politics and the importance of voting for Americans.

“Make a project of voting. Commit to it, be intentional about it,” said Sarbanes. “If people are trying to stop you from voting, get creative and figure out every single way to get around those obstacles. That kind of creativity, when it comes to democracy, can determine whether we hold on to this democracy or not.”

Alsobrooks encouraged the students to speak with their peers and make sure they are engaging and participating in the voting process. As well, she wanted them to remind their peers that “this is your country too” and that they have a stake in how it turns out.

Citiyana Amsalu, a criminal justice major and political science minor at TU, commented on the event.

“I would say that that was very refreshing,” said Amsalu. “My big thing is making sure that people who are running for Senate, or anything electoral, engage with voters. Making sure voters know moving forward, you can vote, it’s okay to go and there should be no fear. I think it was really great that we addressed this and had a talk about it.”

Shawn Bell, a political science major at TU, shared his thoughts on Alsobrooks.

“I’m lucky to be from Prince George’s County, Md., and she is just an outstanding individual who will be an amazing asset in Congress,” said Bell. 

Alsobrooks is running against U.S. Rep. David Trone (D-Md.-06). Over 60 congressional members have endorsed him for his bid for U.S. senator, including U.S. Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-Md.-02) and U.S. Rep. Colin Allred (D-Texas-32). He has about 130 endorsements in total.

There are about 12 others in the race for U.S. senator, including John Thormann (R) of Baltimore County, Md., and Robert K. Houton (D) of Montgomery County, Md.

Tashi McQueen is a Report for America corps member.

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By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Political Writer
Tmcqueen@afro.com

U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Md.-05) announced Jan. 9 that he will seek re-election in 2024, ending speculation that he would step down after representing the state for 23 terms in the House of Representatives.

In an interview with the AFRO, Hoyer said he sat down with his wife, Elaine C. Kamarck, to put some serious thought into whether he should run for re-election or not.

“We sat down and talked about it and the challenges to the country posed by the Trump candidacy and the support, sadly, that Trump has in the Republican Party and the threat that he poses to our democracy, Constitution and our values as a country,” said Hoyer. “The overall environment is a very concerning one for me and I felt that the priorities that I care a lot about are at risk. I wanted, therefore, to stay in the fight.”

Those priorities include securing the funding for the new FBI headquarters in Greenbelt, Md. 

“Over the last 14 years, Angela Alsobrooks both as state’s attorney and as a county executive – we’ve both worked very hard to get the FBI to select ,” said Hoyer. “Now we want to fight very hard to make sure that we get the money to have it constructed.”

Hoyer has endorsed Alsobrooks to take the seat to be vacated by the retirement of Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.) in 2025.

Hoyer is the longest-serving current representative in Maryland and was House majority leader during Rep. Nancy Pelosi’s (D-Calif.) term as House speaker.. 

Pelosi similarly announced her run for re-election via X back in September 2023.

“Now more than ever our city needs us to advance San Francisco values and further our recovery,” said Pelosi. “Our country needs America to show the world that our flag is still there, with liberty and justice for ALL. That is why I am running for reelection — and respectfully ask for your vote.”

Hoyer, Pelosi and Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.-06) stepped back from their longtime Democratic leadership positions in the House in 2022 to let younger leaders step forward for the Democratic party.

“I imagine it is a difficult call for congressional leaders like Nancy Pelosi and Steny Hoyer about whether to retire or not given the stakes are so high right now about which party governs as the majority,” said Nina Kasniunas, an associate professor of political science at Goucher College.  “Pelosi and Hoyer have a lot of experience and fundraising prowess that can still benefit Democrats in Congress, while at the same time there is a push for the older members of Congress to step out and make room for younger leaders.”

Pelosi has been in office for 37 years and Clyburn for 30 years.

Hoyer was celebrated in 2023 at the Maryland Democratic Gala for his 50-plus years of political work.

Six candidates have officially filed for the 5th congressional district seat: Quincy Bareebe (D) of Anne Arundel County, Md., Andrea L. Crooms (D) of Prince George’s County, Md., Leonard “Lenny” Proctor (D) of Charles County, Md., Michelle Talkington (R) of Charles County, Md. and McKayla Wilkes (D) of Charles County, Md.

Tashi McQueen is a Report For America corps member.

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By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Political Writer
tmcqueen@afro.com

The much anticipated 2024 Maryland General Assembly commenced on Jan. 10. Though the first day is largely ceremonial, hundreds of pieces of legislation have already been filed and assigned to committees.

The 90-day session will feature policies aiming to reduce gun violence trauma, protect youth and hold them accountable for their actions and ensure legislators are executing their roles to the fullest.

“As we’re focused on addressing the issues around juvenile crime, I think that we have to be thoughtful on how we do it,” said Del. Marlon Amprey (D-Md.-40).  “I’m looking forward to figuring out how we can hold accountable, but at the same time, taking care of our young people holistically.”

Amprey pre-filed HB 121, which aims to limit the number of police training facilities near hospitals, school buildings, state correctional facilities and juvenile locations. 

“Training locations are next door to the prisons. When you are walking around in the yard on the premises, you can hear gunfire throughout the day,” said Amprey. “If they’re really trying to become better people and leave that life behind, hearing gunfire throughout the day is not going to help them.”

“We can’t fix it overnight and we’ll have to find those kinds of spaces somewhere else or move it indoors, but it’s going to cost money, and we don’t have a lot of money right now,” continued Amprey. “I think the ultimate fix is what can we do around firing range times to make sure those who are incarcerated either have earmuffs or they’re not outside. I’m up for any solution, but I know for a fact we cannot have repetitive gunfire around our prisons. That is just not humane.”

The first hearing on this legislation will be held on Jan. 23 at 2 p.m. in the Maryland House Appropriations Committee.

Amprey is re-introducing his artistic expression bill, which aims to prohibit creative work such as rap music from being used in criminal cases in Maryland.

“The Judiciary Committee had a heavy plate last session and I think that our bill just wasn’t a priority at the time. This year, they have a little bit of a lighter load as far as major bills,” said Amprey. “We’re looking forward to continuing to press on that matter and collect more people that have more information around how it truly impacts the state of Maryland.”

Del. Regina T. Boyce (D-Md.-43A) will be working to make HB 80 law, which she has been trying to do for the last five years. 

“ that an elected official cannot also be an elected central committee member,” said Boyce. “There’s no need for an elected official to be an organizing member of a party when the committee essentially works on behalf of a candidate from each party.”

Boyce said central committees are organizing bodies that help candidates aligned with a political party, such as Republicans and Democrats, garner votes and fundraise for their campaigns.

“As an elected official, there’s no reason for me to be on the committee. When it comes to organizing, doing the work, I’m not going to be available because I’m doing the work of being a delegate or a council member,” said Boyce.

This legislation was heard on  Jan. 17 at 1 p.m. in the Maryland House Ways and Means Committee.

Sen. Jill P. Carter (D-Md.-41) is re-introducing the NyKayla Strawder Memorial Act, SB 2.

NyKayla Strawder was a 15-year-old girl who was shot and killed by a nine-year-old in Baltimore in 2022. Due to the juvenile justice reform law, the nine-year-old could not be charged with the crime. His grandmother, April Gaskins, has since been found guilty and sentenced to three years in prison for reckless endangerment and one year for firearm access by a minor, according to the Office of the State’s Attorney Baltimore City.

“After talking to the family and other people at the Department of Juvenile Services, it is my belief that we need to mandate that some type of evaluation and assessment of that nine-year-old,” said Carter.

Currently, a child in need of supervision (CINS) can be filed when an intake officer suspects a child needs guidance, but it’s not required. Carter aims to change this with her legislation.

“If a child commits a violent or a felonious act and they are not eligible for prosecution because they’re too young, then it would mandate that a CINS petition would automatically be filed,” said Carter.

Carter sponsored the Juvenile Justice Reform Act in 2022.

This legislation has been assigned to the Maryland Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee but has not been given a hearing date yet.

Marylanders can keep up with what‘s happening in the general assembly, including bills introduced and hearing dates at mgaleg.maryland.gov .

Tashi McQueen is a Report For America Corps member.

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By Tashi McQueen
AFRO Political Writer
tmcqueen@afro.com

Gov. Wes Moore (D) became the first Black man to lead the state of Maryland on Jan. 18, becoming only the third Black governor to be elected in U.S. history. 

Moore has spent his first year making good on campaign promises and funding initiatives throughout the state.

“In year two, we will keep saying ‘yes’ to many of the priorities that we focused on in year one. ‘Yes’ means continuing the all-out assault and bipartisan assault that this state needs to make on child poverty. In 12 months together, we have lifted over 34,000 Maryland children up the next rung on the economic ladder,” said Moore, at the live-streamed 2023 Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Winter Conference. “‘Yes,’ means elevating our state’s assets. For example, because of the investments that we have collectively made together, Baltimore is now a federal tech hub and a federal workforce hub, which will bring tens of millions of dollars into the city for infrastructure.”

Moore has also funded affordable internet access and authored and signed 10 bills through the 2023 Maryland General Assembly session, which includes a service year option for high school graduates.

In February, Moore set in motion a review of the state’s minority business enterprise (MBE) goals. He signed an executive order giving the 70 agencies affiliated with MBE 60 days to disclose their progress in meeting Maryland’s MBE procurement goal of 29 percent—a target that has not been hit in over a decade. 

The Moore administration revealed that the report was the first survey of MBE outreach plans, their strategies for engaging the MBE directly and indirectly and a more in-depth request for information that has been done before in Maryland for MBE goals. 

After examining each agency’s plan, the Moore administration will be able to determine which agencies are currently reaching MBE goals and then use their tactics on a larger scale with other state agencies. 

Moore also invested $122 million into police departments throughout Maryland to help with reducing crime. His plans include funds to bolster the correctional system, enforce parole and probation tactics by “following the data.” Though these investments were implemented, a detailed plan has not been released, nor has Moore outlined a specific youth crime reform plan, which is a top concern for Marylanders.

Towards the end of the year, he also had to deal with an impending statewide deficit.

Moore highlighted that in the last 20 state budgets, 17 needed cuts to stay balanced. 

“Since at least 2017, The Department of Legislative Services has forecasted a structural budget deficit,” he said.

Moore recognized that aid due to the COVID-19 pandemic and record highs in the stock market helped bring in tax revenue that kept the government afloat, but said that extra money in the short term is not the solution to the chronic deficit issue that the state faces.

“This year is going to be difficult, but I can tell you right now, we’re not flinching,” said Moore. “I know we enter this season of discipline. It will all be for the benefit of unlocking remarkable potential and future generations.”

January 

After being sworn into office on Jan. 18, Moore held a grand People’s Ball at the Baltimore Convention Center, bringing together more than 10,000 supporters. This move showed his well-articulated support for Baltimore, promising he would stand up for the city more than his predecessor, Larry Hogan (R). 

On Jan. 30, President Biden and Moore announced funding to replace the Baltimore-Potomac Tunnel through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. On Jan. 31, Moore announced a $3.9 million award to Coppin State University for their broadband initiatives for students and the underserved portions of the West Baltimore community. 

February 

On Feb. 1, Moore gave his first State of the State Address, where he recognized Black History Month and the significance of being the first Black person to provide the State of the State Address in Maryland. He also highlighted legislation he sponsored throughout the 2023 Maryland General Assembly, including affordable child care and pre-k, a service year option for high school graduates and the Maryland Educator Shortage Reduction Act of 2023. 

On Feb. 3, Moore attended a public safety summit in Baltimore City alongside Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown, Baltimore City Mayor Brandon M. Scott, Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan J. Bates and Morgan State University President David K. Wilson to discuss their part in the state’s public safety and potential future partnerships.

March

Moore announced that Home Chef, a meal kit company, will create about 500 jobs in Baltimore through their new distribution center at East Patapsco Avenue. On March 29, Moore committed to increasing clean energy vehicle usage by 2035 in Maryland. Moore also nominated the first Black person to lead the State police, Lt. Col. Roland L. Butler Jr., who was fully sworn in on April 11.

April

Moore began signing various bills as the Maryland General Assembly ended its 2023 session, including the ten bills he introduced, such as a service year program. Moore’s first 100 days in office was April 28. Moore announced $20 million in aid for Marylanders with COVID-19 water bill debt. Assistance was provided through 19 water systems that were awarded funding through the Water Assistance Relief Program. Moore proclaimed that Maryland would remain an abortion-access state a year after Roe V. Wade was repealed and state-wide restrictions throughout the U.S. increased. 

May 

In May, Moore signed hundreds of bills, including SB 858, Firearm Safety – Storage Requirement legislation, HB 186, the Victim Services Stabilization Act and HB 243, the Young Readers Program Act of 2023. Moore gave graduation speeches at several universities, including Coppin State University, Morehouse College and Howard Community College. 

June 

Throughout June, Moore held his first official meeting with Maryland’s federal legislators, focusing on federal funding plans for improved public safety across the state. He followed his promise to Baltimore leaders and residents that the Redline, which would connect East and West Baltimore like never before, would be reinstated.

July 

Moore presented $11.4 million in state funds to the West North Avenue Development Authority (WNADA). WNADA intends to use the money from the West North Avenue Corridor, which runs between Coppin State University and the Maryland Institute College of Art —to help expand the internet across the state through $268 million federal investments in broadband infrastructure.

August 

On Aug. 10, Moore announced that more jobs would come to Maryland through Early Charm, a venture studio that creates sustainable companies. The company opened a new production shop in Baltimore City, which plans to create 115 jobs in four years. Moore marked six months in office by touring Mountain Maryland with his cabinet. 

Moore announced $6.3 million to improve local police recruitment and retention efforts and protect Marylanders from hate crimes through the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services. He held a town hall where he heard from Marylanders about their top concerns, including public safety, education and affordable housing. 

September

Moore, the Maryland Stadium Authority and the Baltimore Orioles finalized a memorandum that keeps the Orioles in Baltimore for at least 30 years, modernizes the facility operations and helps revitalize downtown Baltimore City.

October

Moore launched the first public service year program for high school graduates, housed by the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation. Program members will work at least 30 hours a week and earn $15 an hour while working with support coaches. Moore went to the Banneker-Douglass Museum to announce 2024 as the civil rights year for Maryland. Throughout the year, the museum will show programming to celebrate the milestone.

Baltimore is named a national tech hub for biotechnology and artificial intelligence (AI). In October, Biden deemed 31 communities across the United States Regional Innovation and Technology hubs through the CHIPS and Science Act.

November 

Moore and Lt. Governor Aruna Miller endorsed Angela Alsobrooks to succeed Sen. Ben Cardin in 2025. Moore shined a light on transportation investments in Baltimore. Moore and Lt. Governor Aruna Miller continued their past few weeks of supporting Maryland and, specifically, Baltimore City’s workforce by signing an executive order on Nov. 17. 

December 

Moore introduced a portion of his 2024 legislative agenda that will significantly support military families if all bills are passed. Moore announced that there will be cuts to the Maryland Department of Transportation in fiscal year 2025 due to an expected $418 million deficit. 

Tashi McQueen is a Report For America corps member.

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By Ryan Mercado
Capital News Service

The Washington Metro Area Transit Authority (WMATA) recently celebrated the one-year anniversary of the opening of the last Silver Line stations in northern Virginia, despite modest ridership numbers.

“We are thrilled the six new Silver Line stations have had more than 3.4 million trips since we opened last year,” WMATA Media Relations Manager Jason Pascale told Capital News Service.

The six new stations expanded the Silver Line from the Wiehle–Reston East Station to Washington Dulles International Airport and on to Ashburn in Loudoun County.

Many people have been moving into suburban communities on the new line and have direct access to nearby office complexes, Dulles Airport and downtown Washington.

“We kind of just narrowed it down to one city when we knew where I was going to work,” said 27-year-old Dillon Bull. The systems engineer moved to Reston in March from Washington State with his girlfriend, Johanna Rosenboom, 27, after he accepted a job offer in Chantilly and she took a job as a medical assistant in Fairfax.

“We kind of just saw Reston as kind of an easy, middle point,” Bull said.

Bull and Rosenboom live in Reston. Bull drives to work, but Rosenboom uses the Metro.

According to WMATA’s ridership data portal, the average number of riders passing through the six new stations over the past year was only 794 people per day. That represents a 68 percent decrease in ridership compared to when the original five Silver Line stations opened in 2014, with a daily ridership of 2,504 passengers per day.

At the Washington Dulles International Airport Station, that number is 1,624 people per day, the busiest of the six new stations.

“It’s actually much less crowded than I would expect, especially since I have colleagues who commute from a similar area and very much don’t use the Metro,” Rosenboom said. “My daily commute is relatively uneventful. There is always space for me to sit, it’s relatively empty.”

Rosenboom thinks the low numbers have to do with lack of accessibility to the stations.

“Getting from the Metro to my office is not very pedestrian friendly…There’s no signage, there’s no clear path, there’s an area where there’s only one sidewalk on one part of the road,” she said.

Many of the new stations are located in suburban areas where the only way to access them is by driving and parking in a parking garage, an additional daily cost on top of Metro fares.

“I don’t know that the presence of a Metro is really going to have a huge impact on the communities around it when the existing stations are not well integrated to places,” Rosenboom said.

Existing stations on the Silver Line with easy access for pedestrians have the highest ridership.

Of the 11 new stations on the Silver Line opened since 2014, Tysons Station is the busiest, recording 1,728 people per day on average over the past year. The Tysons Corner Center Mall is located at the station and easily accessible to riders.

WMATA, along with other transit systems in the country, is facing low but rebounding riderships this year as people return to offices as the COVID-19 pandemic subsides. Before the pandemic, average daily ridership on the Metro system was 505,903 trips per day. This year, there were only 289,122 trips per day on average, but that was an improvement from a low of 121,000 in 2021.

Despite the low overall ridership on Metro, Dulles Airport has seen positive impacts from the opening of the Silver Line.

“Dulles International Airport has seen more than 1 million trips and airlines have told airport officials they are bringing more flights to IAD because of the direct rail connection,” Pascale said.

According to data from the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, air travel at Dulles Airport has completely rebounded since the pandemic, averaging 2,016,316 passengers per month for the past year, from a low of 978,353 passengers per month from 2020 to 2021.

In its first year since opening, the Dulles Metro station has recorded 582,798 total trips, the highest of the six new stations by far.

“It’s super, super convenient for airport access,” Bull said. “That’s my, like, main perk…From my apartment to the airport is like 20 minutes total.” His company sends him on trips about 10 times a year, so having easy airport access to the Metro is an asset.

Reaching Dulles from downtown Washington on the Silver Line takes a little over an hour and costs $6.00 during weekday peak fare prices. By car, the trip takes 50 minutes, not including traffic, tolls, taxis, or rideshare rates and parking.

“Apparently the driving experience to the airport is not super friendly. So having the Metro is incredibly convenient,” Bull said.

While Metro ridership rates are still down, WMATA officials are hopeful for the future.

“As with any new rail line, we expect ridership will increase as economic growth and new travel patterns develop in the area,” Pascale said. “The Silver Line is a generational investment, and we look forward to serving millions of customers in the years to come.”

This article was originally published by the Capital News Service.

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By Deborah Bailey
AFRO Contributing Editor

Cable network anchor and Bowie High School graduate Abby Phillip reminded Bowie State University winter graduates Dec. 23 of the power of failure in life.

Phillip, anchor of “CNN NewsNight with Abby Phillip,” a Harvard graduate and a member of Bowie High School’s class of 2006, told the 405 graduates that the road to success is filled with redirection, difficulties and unavoidable pain. But even with life’s many obstacles, she assured the graduates, what is meant for you will come. 

“There has been nothing that was meant  for me that I did not receive or was given to someone else,” Phillip declared.  

Phillip cautioned students that “successful people have a high tolerance for adversity, for discomfort, for unhappiness, even,” as she recounted experiences in college and her career that were filled with rejection and experiences where she did not fit in. 

“I wish that someone had told me that bad things are going to happen to you. But the real question is, what do you do when that happens,” Phillip said.  

Phillip shared with graduates of the Maryland HBCU and their parents that it took her years to figure out that rejections are part of life, even when they are based on “unfairness.”  

 “There can be trauma associated with rejection, being left out, especially when you think there is unfairness at play,” Phillip said. 

“We have to start training our minds and our hearts to see the messages in rejection knowing that we can triumph over it. Sometimes we have to hear a loud and resounding ‘no’ in order to fight for yourself.”

The university’s winter graduation included a surprising 2023 fine arts graduate: Myles Frost, who won a Tony in 2022 for his portrayal of music icon Michael Jackson in “MJ the Musical.”  Frost entered the stage shouting out  ”We graduating baby” to his classmates before belting out a rendition of “Enjoy Yourself,” originally performed by the Jackson 5 in 1976. 

Frost ended his graduation appearance with a touching tribute to his 90-year-old grandmother, Hattie Strayhorn, who he said “is still walking and talking with style and grace.” Frost gave his grandmother flowers when she walked to the stage, assisted by his mother, Charmaine Strayhorn. 

Bowie State University President Aminta Breaux said Frost demonstrated “good character to pursue his hopes and dreams (on Broadway) while getting his education and being awarded his degree today.”  

The themes of family and resilience were woven throughout the Bowie State ceremony, which also highlighted five doctoral level graduates in computer science and educational leadership, as the institution is focused on moving toward a Carnegie Research Level II institution. 

Antuan Terrell Jemerson Sr., a newly minted graduate in business administration, personified the theme of resilience.  The Upper Marlboro, Md. business marketing major started his degree program in the 1990s and returned to BSU in 2021 after his son suggested he come back to the college classroom. 

“My kids are here; my son inspired me to come back to school. Today feels great, it’s exhilarating, I’m proud. Overall it feels amazing,” Jemerson said. 

Following the ceremony, Phillip expressed joy at addressing an audience “at home” in Bowie. In many ways, she said, she’d never left.

She also summed up the importance of the day and the occasion of an HBCU graduation ceremony.

“There would not be a Black middle class without HBCUs and this is so important,” she said. “HBCUs carry on the legacy of many in this country.” 

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By Deborah Bailey

AFRO Contributing Editor 

dbailey@afro.com

Veteran Prince George’s County Councilwoman Jolene Ivey (D-Prince George’s County- District 5) is now head of the County Council. Ivey took the gavel with the unanimous support of 11 council members, all of whom were in attendance at the gavel exchange ceremony inside of Largo’s County Council hearing room Dec. 5.  

“As Prince George’s County grows we should make sure that our families thrive along with it. Strong parents lead to great students, a more vibrant economy and safer communities,” Ivey said.

Ivey stated that resources for teachers, support for the local business community,  new housing that minimizes traffic congestion and support for the county’s non-profits were also priorities. 

“We have to stay laser-focused on the budget,” said Ivey, adding that “being able to pay for schools, to pay for police, the fire department” is top priority. 

In her first remarks as council chair for the 2024 session, Ivey lauded the council for their role in advancing the county’s development. She also warned they must stand united to deliver results including prioritization of county resources for vulnerable residents, smart development and increasing staffing of public safety positions to improve Prince George’s County for citizens in 2024.

While Ivey’s selection by her peers for council chair was smooth sailing, a short dispute rose for the vice chair’s spot, as both Sydney Harrison (D-Prince George’s County- District 9) and Walla Blegay (D- Prince George’s County- District 6), were nominated. Harrison ultimately won the post, following a failed vote to affirm Blegay. 

Ivey’s constant refrain and warning was for council members to stand united in serving Prince Georges’ residents in 2024.  

“This is the unity our council requires and the unity our residents deserve,” Ivey said.

She shared that, “We’ve come a long way in Prince George’s County. The FBI Headquarters has found a new home and will relocate from the nation’s capital to Greenbelt.”

Virginia lawmakers have requested a federal investigation into the relocation decision,  stating that Greenbelt was chosen for political reasons, according to a letter sent to the U.S. General Services Administration’s office of the inspector general.  

Many are hopeful that the original decision will be upheld. It would bring in much needed economic growth, as there is a projected $58 million deficit in the fiscal year that begins in July of 2024, according to an October report from the Spending Affordability Committee. Leaders have proposed strict spending cuts to balance the county budget amid the dipping tax revenue in order to fund essential departments with public services. 

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By Deborah Bailey

AFRO Contributing Editor  

dbailey@afro.com

A Prince George’s County Police Officer has been acquitted in the Jan. 27, 2020 death of William Green,  a resident of Southeast D.C. who was shot while in handcuffs. 

Michael Owen Jr. was found not guilty of four charges filed against him in a Prince George’s County Circuit Court jury on Dec. 6. The charges of first degree murder, second degree assault, manslaughter and misconduct in office, were filed following the death of William Green, of Southeast D.C., according to court records. 

In January of 2020 Owen’s became the first police officer in the history of the country to be charged with murder while handling an on-duty case just 24 hours after the shooting. 

Owen has been reprimanded for the use of force against citizens over 9 times in the course of his career. Prior to the killing of Green, he sought workers compensation for psychological trauma caused by another shooting earlier in his career.  Supervisors claimed to be unaware of the other shooting incident. 

Green was shot six times while in the front seat of Owen’s police cruiser. Owen handcuffed Green, who was first found unconscious in Temple Hills, Md. on Jan. 27, 2020, after crashing into multiple vehicles. 

Greene’s family was awarded a $20 million settlement from Prince George’s County months after the incident. The settlement was the largest in history for a police-involved shooting death in Prince George’s County, according to the Murphy, Falcon, Murphy law firm which represents the family. 

“It is our belief that when we are at fault, we take responsibility. And in this case, we are accepting responsibility,” said Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks.

At a 2020 press conference, Alsobrooks also stated that she did not object to the court charges levied against Owen. “He should not be treated any differently than any other individual who had just shot someone multiple times with no clear justification,” she stated. 

During testimony at the trial, both prosecution and defense agreed upon the facts of the case. Police were called to the scene of the shooting on the night of Jan. 27, 2020 after Green crashed into several vehicles. Both sides say Green was under the influence of illegal narcotics and alcohol at the time of his arrest and placement in the police cruiser. However, that is where the discrepancies begin. The disputed aspects of the case center on whether the men struggled before the shooting and if Owen shot Green in self-defense. 

Joel Patterson, Prince George’s County Assistant State’s Attorney argued that Green was “not a threat” that warranted the use of deadly force while handcuffed in Owen’s cruiser. Nonetheless, Owen’s attorney, Thomas Mooney, successfully argued that Owen acted in self-defense. 

During the trial, Owen took the stand, defending his actions and — for the first time since the incident— explaining his version of what happened while Green was handcuffed in the front seat of his police cruiser.

Maryland law considers self-protection a reasonable defense when facing a homicide charge if the defendant believes they were in imminent danger of death or serious bodily harm, and the use of force was reasonable in the moment. 

In State v. Faulkner (Md. 1984) the Maryland Court of Appeals ruled “self-defense operates as a complete defense to either murder or manslaughter.” The burden of proof was on Green’s attorneys, as he was tasked with breaking down Owen’s self-defense argument.

Owen was fired from the Prince George’s Police Department shortly after the incident.  His trial was originally delayed after Prince George’s State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy offered a plea deal that would have reduced the charges against Owen from murder to voluntary manslaughter. Judge Michael R. Pearson rejected the plea agreement and issued a rare rebuke to Braveboys’ team. The judge said Braveboy “dropped the ball” by not exchanging required evidence with the defense needed to start the trial after three years.  

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The Associated Press

GEORGETOWN, S.C. (AP) — A late-year storm unleashed heavy rain and gusty winds as it barreled up the East Coast on Dec. 17, forcing water rescues from flooded streets and the cancellation of some holiday celebrations.

Authorities rescued dozens of motorists stranded by floodwaters in South Carolina’s waterfront community of Georgetown, according to Jackie Broach, public information officer for Georgetown County, situated between Charleston and Myrtle Beach. More than 9 inches (22.9 centimeters) of rain fell in the area since late Dec. 16.

“It’s not just the areas that we normally see flooding, that are flood-prone,” Broach said. “It’s areas that we’re not really expecting to have flooding issues.”

Water rescues also took place on Kiawah and Seabrook islands, according to media outlets.

There were numerous road closures across South Carolina’s Lowcountry as the storm dumped heavy rain. The tide gauge at Charleston swelled to reach the city’s highest nontropical tide on record and the fourth-highest tide of all time, media outlets reported. Charleston was soaked by about 4 inches (10 centimeters) of rain that tapered off by afternoon. Dozens of roads were closed, while stranded cars littered streets.

“It’s like a tropical storm, it just happens to be in December,” Broach said in a phone interview.

There were no reports of injuries or deaths in Georgetown County, she said. Gusty winds were strong enough to topple some signs and trees. Outdoor holiday decorations were tossed about, she said.

Farther up the coast, minor to moderate coastal flooding was expected Dec. 17, according to the National Weather Service office in Wilmington, North Carolina.

There were more than 31,000 power outages in South Carolina, according to PowerOutage.us, along with over 14,000 in North Carolina and more than 11,000 in Florida.

The storm was forecast to gain strength as it tracked along the Georgia and Carolina coasts, producing heavy rain and gusty winds, the weather service said. Wind gusts of 35 mph to 45 mph (56 kph to 72 kph) could bring down trees, especially on saturated ground.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul warned of a possible 2 to 4 inches (5.1 to 10.2 centimeters) of rain, powerful winds and potential flooding in parts of the state. Flood watches were in effect in many locations in New York City, and high wind warnings were activated around the city and Long Island.

“We will get through this storm, but preparation is the key,” New York Mayor Eric Adams said. City officials told residents to expect several hours of rain and possible delays during the Dec. 18 commute.

The storm dumped up to 5 inches (12.7 centimeters) of rain across Florida, inundating streets and forcing the cancellation of boat parades and other holiday celebrations.

The National Weather Service issued flood warnings and minor flooding advisories for a wide swath of the state, from the southwest Gulf Coast to Jacksonville. Major airports remained open, however, at the start of the busy holiday travel season.

“Today is not the day to go swimming or boating!” Sheriff Carmine Marceno of Lee County, on Florida’s southwestern coast, said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Coastal advisories were issued for much of Florida as strong winds churned waters in the Gulf and along the north Atlantic coast.

The storm could be good news for residents in southwest Florida who have been facing water restrictions and drought conditions heading into what normally is the region’s dry season.

The weather service also warned of 2 to 4 inches (5.1 to 10.2 centimeters) of rain in parts of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, with the heaviest expected late Dec. 17, and possible urban and small stream flooding and at least minor flooding to some rivers through Dec. 18.

Forecasters also warned of strong winds in coastal areas, gale-force winds offshore, and moderate coastal flooding along Delaware Bay and widespread minor coastal flooding elsewhere.

The weather service said there is a slight risk of excessive rainfall over parts of New England through Monday morning, with the potential for flash flooding. Northern New England is expected to get the heaviest rain Dec. 18 through early Dec. 19.

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By Reginald Williams
Special to the AFRO

More than 200 Prince George’s County citizens filled the Bowie State University’s Student Center Ballroom on Nov. 28 to partake in the community forum on rising youth crime. Also in attendance were Prince George’s County law enforcement and local and state representatives.

Sponsored by Councilmember Ingrid Watson (D-District 4), the forum’s goals, according to the councilwoman, were:

• To hear from the panel experts on crime and learn its impact on communities;
• Share thoughts about solutions;
• Review proposed legislation to address those crimes;
• Connect with members of the community.

“This is an opportunity to create an action plan of how to move forward beyond the forum,” said Watson, who believes the forum is a start to creating solutions.

As in many communities nationwide, there is a rising concern amongst the residents regarding the escalation of violence. According to Circuit Court documents, from Jan. 1, 2019-Oct. 31, 2023, there were 450 carjackings in Prince George’s County. Violent crimes over the past 12 months increased 9 percent to 4,163 attacks (murder, sex offenses, robbery, assault and domestic violence) from 3,815 in 2022. 

Sen. Ronald L. Watson (D-Prince George’s County) and panelists introduced some aggressive legislation to address the problem.

Sen. Watson introduced five bills to the audience: The Violent Firearm Offender Act, Illegal and Stolen Firearms, Organized Retail Theft, Protection at the Pump, and Maryland Firearm Detection Platform Act.

Each bill, divided into five sections, is intended to address a different aspect of the crime problem.

“When Councilmember Watson asked what could I do, I said, ‘Let me bring Annapolis to Bowie. Let me show you how we get bills done. That’s what we’re going to do tonight. We’re going to get as many done as we can with the time that we have,'” explained Sen. Watson.

Before introducing the bills, Sen. Watson began his PowerPoint presentation by showing media clips and disturbing images of crime victims. 

“Are we there yet?” Sen. Watson repeatedly asked while sharing his year-end review of the county’s crime. “Have we reached the point where we are ready to demand action? Have we reached the point where we are ready to go to Annapolis by the busloads and keep the politicians in their seats until we are heard because the squeaky wheel still gets the grease?”

The panel of experts also included District Attorney Aisha Braveboy, Police Chief Malik Aziz and Prince George’s County School Superintendent Millard House II.

Tiffanie Colvin, a Bowie, Md., resident, attended the forum with a contingent of parents from Pointer Ridge Elementary, looking for some answers about the Excellence in Gifted and Talented Education program, found value in the councilwoman’s efforts but had issues with House II’s offering.

“I thought the forum was very informative. The ideas presented I did like, but I would like to have more information before I fully say yes, we should move forth,” explained Colvin. “I kind of like the direction, but the superintendent did not say much about school safety.”

Former police officer and Cheltenham Youth Detention Center mentor Richard Beckwith also held mixed feelings about the community discussion.

“I thought the turnout and the response was very good, but I still feel that the projects he’s proposing are programs the government has previously shut down—like Job Corp,” said the 77-year-old county resident. “The programs we had, the government decided weren’t good anymore. And they instituted restraints that make it difficult to discipline our children.”

Braveboy, a former Maryland House of Delegates member representing the 25th district, shared several initiatives her office is implementing to combat crime.

She also voiced her understanding of the mental health component that exacerbates the problem and that that violence was more encompassing, and could not be blamed entirely on youth.

“We must hold everyone accountable,” said Braveboy. “The children are getting the guns from somewhere. Who’s putting these guns in children’s hands? This is not all on the children.”

Beckwith believes the problems of violence are greater than just the children.

“We can’t compromise and discount all of the underlying circumstances that created this atmosphere amongst our juveniles,” Beckwith said. “If we want to reverse these problems, we can’t ignore the trauma that created it.”

In Sen. Watson’s opening, he said the plan to reduce crime wasn’t rooted in mass incarceration. However, much of what was offered revolved around policy and policing. 

But Aziz echoed in his presentation the need for more services to address the psychosocial needs of the youth. He ended his presentation by saying: “You throw away behaviors. We don’t throw away the people.”

Reginald Williams, the author of “A Marginalized Voice: Devalued, Dismissed, Disenfranchised & Demonized” writes on Black men and holistic health concerns. Please email bookreggie@reginaldwilliams.org or visit amvonlinestore.com for more information.

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By Megan Sayles 
AFRO Business Writer
msayles@afro.com

Maryland residents living in historically redlined communities may now get a new chance at homeownership, thanks to a new program announced by Gov. Wes Moore on Dec. 4. 

Managed by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), Utilizing Progressive Lending Investments to Finance Transformation (UPLIFT) will tackle appraisal gaps and advance new construction and the restoration of quality affordable housing. Homeownership has long been considered a tool for wealth-building, and the program seeks to use it to close the racial wealth divide.

“Tackling the racial wealth gap is a priority of the Moore-Miller Administration. We must actively work to reverse decades of disinvestment through good policy decisions and innovative programs like this one,” said Moore in a statement. “Maryland will be a leader in these efforts, and we will continue to expand work, wages and wealth for all Maryland families.” 

Redlining’s legacy of disinvestment has caused homes in certain neighborhoods to appraise for less than the cost to build them. UPLIFT will finance the difference between the appraised value and the sales price. 

The program will then select developers to build, sell and rehabilitate housing in targeted neighborhoods, which will be identified using data from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) low-income Census tract and Maryland’s Sustainable Communities.

Twenty-five percent of the homes will be earmarked for residents with incomes below the area median income. As new homes are constructed, the expectation is that UPLIFT will boost the housing markets in these communities and reduce the appraisal gaps that exist. 

UPLIFT’s initial round of funding amounts to $10 million, as allocated in Maryland’s budget for fiscal year 2024. The program expects to directly finance nearly 200 units in eight to 10 projects in its first phase. 

“Overall, our hope is that UPLIFT responds to two urgent, if long-delayed, priorities for Maryland. The first is to close gaps in household wealth across racial categories by elevating depressed property values in capital deficient neighborhoods, predominantly occupied by historically disadvantaged households,” DHCD Secretary Jake Day told the AFRO. “The second is to strengthen those neighborhoods so they effectively support the aspirations and well-being of those living within them.”

Photo courtesy Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD),

The origins of redlining date back to the 1930s under President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal. At that time, the federal government established the Home Owners’ Loan Corporation (HOLC) and the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to address the housing crisis engendered by the Great Depression. 

The HOLC created “residential security maps” of major U.S. cities to categorize neighborhoods based on their perceived risk for mortgage loans. Hazardous or high-risk areas were shaded in red on the maps, and largely comprised Black neighborhoods. The FHA promoted the use of these maps to lenders, incorporating them in its handbook for underwriting. 

“Redlining is not just the story of banks that don’t lend. It’s also the story of the way the federal government taught banks how to create security maps that they used to redline. You have this government action that helps initiate redlining,” said Lawrence T. Brown, research scientist at the Center for Urban Health Equity at Morgan State University (MSU). “You also have the appraisal system. Even though they are not engaged in lending, they’re using these maps to devalue Black property, especially in Black neighborhoods.” 

Brown is the author behind “The Black Butterfly: The Harmful Politics of Race and Space in America.” In the book, he uses Baltimore as an example to examine the causes and effects of segregation and discriminatory policies, like redlining. 

He coined the term “Black Butterfly” to illustrate how predominantly Black and low-income neighborhoods make up the East and West side of the city, resembling the wings of a butterfly. 

“Research is continuously documenting that redlining is still taking place today nationwide,” said Brown. “Banks are at the heart of redlining, but you can see other entities engaged in it, like insurance companies. They’ll often charge more for insurance in Black neighborhoods.” 

He pointed to a 2019 Urban Institute study that reported that the average loan amount per household in neighborhoods where the population is more than 85 percent African American was $68,133 but in neighborhoods where less than 50 percent of the residents are African American the amount was $160,438. 

Brown thinks UPLIFT will benefit the chosen households, as they will not have to pay the difference created by appraisal gaps. However, he considered it a baby step in fixing a pervasive problem. 

“The phenomenon of redlining is so deep that $10 million won’t go very far. That’s my concern. It’s a great idea, but this should be the first baby step,” said Brown. “The appraisal system itself needs to be changed. If they’re only going to cover the gap in a system, where appraisers can continually devalue and undervalue homes in Black neighborhoods, we’re not really getting that far.” 

The current iteration of UPLIFT is DHCD’s first draft. The agency will be taking public comment on it until Dec. 29, and on Dec. 19 DHCD will host a virtual listening session from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. 

In January, DHCD will release UPLIFT’s final program guide, host an information session and start accepting applications. 

Megan Sayles is a Report For America corps member.

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More than $3.2 million in funding to be unlocked if goal is reached

By Savannah Wood
Special to the AFRO 

In August, Afro Charities launched its Make History With Us! campaign in an effort to raise $350,000 by December 31. The funds will be used towards securing a financial closing for their Upton Mansion redevelopment, which includes a mix of New Market Tax Credits, Federal and State Historic Tax Credits, a temporary bridge loan and governmental and philanthropic support. If Afro Charities is able to meet its goal by December 31, the project will be shovel-ready by spring 2024, allowing for an opening in late 2025. Since August, the organization has raised just over $160,000 from 91 donors, with more donations and pledges on the way.  

Afro Charities was awarded the right to redevelop the City-owned Upton Mansion in 2020. Since then, they have launched a successful fundraising drive, attracting philanthropic support from both local and national foundations, including the Mellon Foundation, and grant support at every level of government– including a $2,000,000 federal earmark.

Of the overall $13,300,000 redevelopment budget, the organization has just $1,500,000 left to raise. This year’s $350,000 goal is included in the larger $1,500,000 gap that Afro Charities will continue to tackle following its financial closing and the beginning of construction in early 2024. If the organization fails to meet its goal, both the timeline and budget for the project will likely be extended.

To become a Groundbreaker — a founding donor to Afro Charities’ Make History With Us! campaign — make a pledge or an outright donation of $500 or more at the campaign page here: https://www.afrocharities.org/make-history-with-us.

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Reginald Williams
Special to the AFRO

More than 200 Prince George’s County citizens filled the Bowie State University’s Student Center Ballroom on Nov. 28 to partake in the community forum on rising youth crime. Also in attendance were Prince George’s County law enforcement and local and state representatives.

Sponsored by Councilmember Ingrid Watson (D-Greenbelt-District 4), the forum’s goals, according to the councilwoman, were to hear from the panel experts on crime and learn its impact on communities, share thoughts about solutions, review proposed legislation to address those crimes and connect with members of the community. 

“This is an opportunity to create an action plan of how to move forward beyond the forum,” explained Councilmember Watson, who believes the forum is a start to creating solutions.

As in many communities nationwide, there is a rising concern amongst the residents regarding the escalation of violence. According to Circuit Court documents, from Jan 1, 2019-Oct 31, 2023, there were 450 carjackings in Prince George’s County. Violent crimes over the past 12 months increased nine percent to 4163 attacks (murder, sex offenses, robbery, assault and domestic violence) in 2023 from 3,815 in 2022. Sen. Ronald L. Watson (D-PrinceGeorge’s County-23) and panelists introduced some aggressive legislation to address the problem.

Sen. Watson introduced five bills to the audience: The Violent Firearm Offender Act, Illegal and Stolen Firearms, Organized Retail Theft, Protection at the Pump and Maryland Firearm Detection Platform Act. Each bill, divided into five sections, is proposed to address a different aspect of the crime problem. 

“When Councilmember Watson asked what could I do, I said, ‘Let me bring Annapolis to Bowie. Let me show you how we get bills done. That’s what we’re going to do tonight. We’re going to get as many done as we can with the time that we have,'” explained Sen. Watson. 

Before introducing the bills, Sen. Watson began his PowerPoint presentation by showing media clips and disturbing images of crime victims. “Are we there yet,” Sen. Watson repeatedly asked while sharing his year-in-review of the county’s crime. “Have we reached the point where we are ready to demand action? Have we reached the point where we are ready to go to Annapolis by the busloads and keep the politicians in their seats until we are heard because the squeaky wheel still gets the grease?” 

The panel of experts also included District Attorney Aisha Braveboy, Police Chief Malik Aziz, and Prince George’s County School Superintendent Millard House II.

Tiffanie Colvin, a Bowie, Md. resident, attending the forum with a contention of parents from Pointer Ridge Elementary looking for some answers about the scheduled 2024 closure for the Excellence in Gifted and Talented School, found value in the councilwoman’s efforts but had issues with House II’s offering.

“I thought the forum was very informative. The ideas presented I did like, but I would like to have more information before I fully say yes, we should move forth,” explained Colvin. “I kind of like the direction, but the superintendent did not say much about school safety.”

Former police officer and Cheltenham Youth Detention Center mentor Richard Beckwith also held mixed feelings about the community discussion. 

“I thought the turnout and the response was very good, but I still feel that the projects he’s proposing are programs the government has previously shut down—like Job Corp,” explained the 77-year-old county resident. “The programs we had the government decided wasn’t good anymore. And they instituted restraints that make it difficult to discipline our children.”

Braveboy, a former Maryland House of Delegates member representing the 25th district, shared several initiatives her office is implementing to combat crime. She also demonstrated an empathic understanding that there’s a mental health component that exacerbates the problem and that the violence was more encompassing than just the youth. 

“We must hold everyone accountable,” said Braveboy. “The children are getting the guns from somewhere. Who’s putting these guns in children’s hands? This is not all on the children.” 

Beckwith believes the problems of violence are greater than just the children. 

“We can’t compromise and discount all of the underlying circumstances that created this atmosphere amongst our juveniles,” explained Beckwith. “If we want to reverse these problems, we can’t ignore the trauma that created it.”

In Sen. Watson’s opening, he stated the plan to reduce crime wasn’t rooted in mass incarceration. However, much of what was offered revolved around policy and policing. But Aziz echoed in his presentation the need for more services to address the psychosocial needs of the youth. He ended his presentation by sharing, “You throw away behaviors. We don’t throw away the people.”

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By Ashley Johnson, CSC-AD, MSW-C

Staying healthy isn’t just about taking care of your physical health. Mental health also plays an important role in our overall well-being. 

Recent studies, including the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health released earlier this year, reveal millions of Americans face mental health and subsequent substance use challenges. In addition, alcohol and drug use is one of the leading causes of preventable illness and premature death nationwide.

We must take steps to promote mental health, prevent substance misuse and provide treatment and support to foster recovery through a holistic, public health approach that ensures everyone can receive accessible, affordable and equitable behavioral healthcare.

Waiving Costs, Focusing on Care

Recovery from substance misuse involves personalized treatment in an appropriate care setting. From one-on-one counseling to intensive outpatient treatment to inpatient residential services, recovery support can be expensive, and the financial burden often deters people from seeking the care they need.

Removing that financial barrier is a crucial step to ensure people connect to appropriate and timely support, and healthcare payers can take a leading role in dismantling this barrier. Healthcare company CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst) has emerged as a trailblazer in this regard, implementing a cost-share waiver for members receiving services through Intensive Outpatient Treatment in the insurer’s Substance Use Disorder Program.

Providers offer treatment based on individual clinical circumstances in a community setting rather than a hospital or residential inpatient program. Patients are not required to be in a care plan to receive support and may be eligible for a waiver of many in-network costs, including copays, coinsurance and deductibles, to help alleviate the financial burden of their recovery and instead focus on getting better.

Accessing the Right Care

In addition to removing financial barriers, it is also essential that those seeking care can find it.

Finding and establishing a relationship with a healthcare provider can be a challenge. Are they in network? Are they accepting new patients? Do they specialize in the services I need? Is this provider someone I can trust, who will be empathetic and compassionate?

In recent years, Maryland has struggled to keep pace with the national average for physicians available for clinical practice. Beyond physicians, the healthcare workforce shortage in the U.S. means there are also fewer nurses, healthcare educators, home health aides and more.

While healthcare organizations are working to address the lack of adequate access to healthcare providers, CareFirst is tackling this issue on multiple fronts in terms of connecting members with behavioral healthcare and substance use disorder treatment.

Within its existing network, CareFirst has identified trusted providers partnering with the healthcare company to expand access to behavioral healthcare services. To ensure members are not lost in the shuffle of waitlists, these providers offer regular updates on patient rosters to ensure CareFirst Care Coordinators can schedule appointments on behalf of members seeking care.

This strategic move ensures that referrals are not blindly directed to unfamiliar facilities but to providers with whom the organization has established relationships, emphasizing the importance of a personalized and informed connection between providers and those seeking treatment. 

The DocTour Will See You Now

On a much more fundamental level, primary care and behavioral health providers play a crucial role in helping their patients get and stay healthy. Understanding this link between primary care and substance use disorder treatment requires proactive steps on the part of everyone—providers, payers and patients. 

CareFirst’s DocTour program aims to integrate behavioral health into primary care providers’ wellness checks. By educating these frontline providers on the significance of behavioral health and equipping them with the tools for proper assessments, CareFirst aims to bridge the gap in understanding and support.

The program’s emphasis on forging relationships between primary care providers, specialists, and behavioral health professionals is a crucial step toward a more integrated and interconnected healthcare system.

Addiction Does Not Discriminate

Like many healthcare conditions, addiction and substance misuse reach every county and neighborhood across the country. Maryland is no different, and my family is no exception.

I have helped loved ones navigate the challenges of addiction and I’ve been with them through the ups and downs of treatment. The path is rarely straightforward, and recovery is hard. It shouldn’t be made harder because people can’t find or afford the support they need.

Through a proactive, holistic approach, we can alleviate, if not eliminate, these barriers, transforming the landscape of behavioral healthcare and making a profound difference in the lives of all around us.

Ashley Johnson, CSC-AD, MSW-C, is the Behavioral Health Project Manager at CareFirst. In her role, she oversees the Substance Use Disorder, Cost-Share Waiver program and works closely with care managers and providers to ensure the people and communities throughout the Mid-Atlantic region have access to affordability and equitable behavioral healthcare. For more information about mental and behavioral health resources, visit carefirst.com/mentalhealth.

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By Megan Sayles,
AFRO Business Writer,
msayles@afro.com

Husband and wife Jon’ll and Matthew Boyd have opened the first Black, family-owned wine company in Maryland. The two created Boyd Cru Wines last spring, after years of sharing and appreciating wine together. 

According to the Association of African American Vintners, less than 1 percent of wineries in the U.S. are Black-owned. The Boyds are hoping they can demonstrate how African Americans can gradually build a wine business from the ground up, as they often lack the capital and land required to enter the industry. 

“There’s a huge economic gap in being able to start a winery as a person of color. Neither myself nor Matthew come from generational wealth,” said Jon’ll Boyd. “We did not have land that was passed down to us. We did not have any family members who were in the wine industry.” 

Marketing professor and researcher Monique Bell said limited capital and distribution challenges are the top two barriers faced by Black wine businesses today. Bell, a Morgan State University alumna, is the author behind “Terroir Noir,” a study analyzing the state of Black winemakers. 

“In both my 2020 and 2023 studies, a clear barrier was financial capital followed by a lack of distribution options. What’s interesting is that the broad label of ‘racism/bias’ is difficult to disentangle from these barriers,” said Bell. “It is difficult, perhaps impossible, to parse out the widespread effects of racism or bias from the barriers of access to funding, bias by distributors and limited industry knowledge.” 

The 2023 report also discovered that 80 percent of wine producers were motivated to start their businesses to change the current condition of the wine industry for the better. The Boyds fall into this category. 

Although they were not familiar with the details of the wine industry, they both had strong examples of entrepreneurship in their families. Jon’ll Boyd hails from a long line of women running hair salons, while Matthew Boyd’s grandfather opened one of the first deli shops in Indianapolis. 

The Boyds spent years researching the wine industry in Maryland, discovering organizations like The Hue Society, which seeks to increase Black representation in the industry. But, it was the COVID-19 pandemic that finally pushed the Boyds to pursue starting a wine business. 

At that time, they noticed a greater focus on supporting Black-owned businesses and diversifying the wine industry. 

“When you don’t have representation, you don’t feel welcomed. It does not feel inclusive. That’s what sparked a fire in us to find a way to step into this industry in a non-traditional way that allows us to build from the ground up,” said Jon’ll Boyd. “Hopefully, we’ll provide an example or motivation to others who are trying to figure out how to get into this industry and don’t have the capital, brick-and-mortar or land.” 

Boyd Cru Wines manufactures and produces all of its wines in a facility based in Poolesville, Md. The Boyds only use grapes grown in Maryland from a single vineyard. They’re involved in every step of the winemaking process, from harvesting the grapes to pressing the wine. 

Currently, Boyd Cru Wines offers three wines, the Living Legacy Red Wine Blend, the Community Vidal Blanc and the Free Spirit Rosé. On the back of each bottle, the Boyds have added recommended moods and moments for when best to enjoy the wine. Boyd Cru Wines’ Living Legacy Red Wine Blend won silver at the Maryland Winemasters Choice Competition this year and their Free Spirit Rosé won gold and best-in-class. 

In 2024, the Boyds hope to open a tasting room, and they are set to release three new wines. The tasting room will not only enable patrons to enjoy wine together, it will also be used as a community space for other local small business owners to promote their products. 

“We didn’t think we could do this, but we have full faith and confidence that we’ll get to where we’re going because we’ve started. That’s what we want to help other businesses do,” said Jon’ll Boyd. “Just like us, people need help finding places where they can get in front of their customers. With our tasting room, we’re able to allow that to be a space where other businesses that don’t have a brick-and-mortar can come and get in front of their audience.” 

Megan Sayles is a Report For America corps member.

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By Tashi McQueen,
AFRO Political Writer,
tmcqueen@afro.com

The City of Greenbelt, Md., announced that Councilmember Ric Gordon (D-At-Large) suddenly died on Nov. 26 at 41 years old.

“The sudden passing of Ric Gordon is a great loss to the Greenbelt community, Prince George’s County, and the State of Maryland,” said Greenbelt Mayor Emmett V. Jordan (D-Md.), in a public statement.“Ric Gordon was very passionate about Greenbelt, politics and his important role as a council member. He will be missed tremendously.”

Gordon was a Prince George’s County native, dedicated to his community through activism as an active member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and Prince Hall Freemason of Warren Lodge #8. He lived in the Franklin Park Community in Greenbelt West with his Pomeranian named Nix.

“Our community has lost a dedicated public servant, and we are collectively mourning this deeply felt loss,” said Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) via X ,formerly known as Twitter. “Councilmember Gordon was not only a valued member of the Greenbelt City Council but also a cherished member of the Prince George’s County community. We will remember him for his commitment to making Greenbelt a better place for all.”

Gordon was the first Greenbelt councilmember and first African American to serve as State Chair of the Young Municipal Leaders under the Maryland Municipal League. His historic accomplishments were cited by U.S. Rep. Glenn Ivey (D-Md.-04) who also took to social media to acknowledge Gordon’s life.

“Words can’t express my shock and sadness over the passing of Councilman Ric Gordon,” said U.S. Rep. Glenn Ivey (D-Md.-04) via X, formerly known as Twitter. “He loved this community, and his kind spirit lives on through all of us who knew him.”

The cause of death is currently unknown. No further information has been released yet.

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By Tashi McQueen,
AFRO Political Writer,
tmcqueen@afro.com

Gov. Wes Moore recently delivered good news for union workers throughout Maryland.

On Nov. 17, Moore and Secretary of State Susan C. Lee joined numerous union workers at the Maryland Transportation Administration (MTA) Eastern Bus Division in East Baltimore to announce and sign a workforce development executive order. The order became effective immediately.

“I am proud that I will sign an executive order authorizing the use of Project Labor Agreements (PLA) and Community Benefit Agreements for large-scale public works projects,” said Moore. “This executive order will help ensure critical public works and infrastructure projects are done both on time and on budget. It means we are going to save taxpayer dollars.”

“This executive order will help to ensure that we’re building opportunities for strong careers and pathways other than a four-year college degree and ensure that we benefit from the millions of dollars in new federal investments. Those projects will be built by union hands,” continued Moore.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, PLAs are joint pre-hire bargaining agreements between unions and contractors, establishing employment terms and conditions for construction projects.

The order permits a state government unit to require PLAs and community benefits agreements for projects where the state’s commitment is at least $20 million, though executive units are not required to use PLAs.

The order also requires that PLAs include a diversity plan.

“PLA projects must also include diversity and outreach plans to ensure that disadvantaged communities can gain access to employment and also access to contracts,” said Moore.

In 2022, about 13 percent of working Marylanders are represented by unions according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Black people are more likely to join a union than other ethnic and racial groups countrywide.

Moore announced that the Department of Transportation has already identified nine projects as candidates for PLAs, including the Baltimore Red Line, projects at the BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport and the MTA Eastern Bus Division facility.

Work, wages and wealth are a prime focus of his administration.

“The infrastructure challenges in the next decade will be complex. These jobs won’t be easy,” said Greg Ackerman, president of the Baltimore-D.C. Metro Building Trades Council, at the signing. “Which is why we have to come together and be sure that our force is adequately trained. We have to commit to building infrastructure that our kids and grandkids will be proud of 10 years from now.”

The Baltimore-D.C. Metro Building Trades Council represents 28 local unions and more than 30,000 members.

Comptroller Brooke Lierman said state procurement is a crucial economic driver in Maryland.

“We know that when we spend our tax dollars through state procurements. We have to do it in a way that is not just erecting and building structures but is creating communities and jobs that are family-supported,” said Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman at the signing. “That’s why we have to be working with our brothers and sisters in labor.”

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By Megan Sayles,
AFRO Business reporter,
msayles@afro.com

JPMorgan Chase announced a $5.3 million investment to expand career opportunities for high school students in Maryland,  Washington, D.C. and Virginia on Nov. 30. The funds will be used to support TalentReady,  an initiative of the Greater Washington Partnership (GWP) and Education Strategy Group (ESG) that prepares young people for in-demand careers and postsecondary opportunities. 

This investment marks the second phase of the initiative, which was created in 2018. The first focused on information technology careers. Now, the program will expand to include additional pathways, like healthcare, determined by local labor market data. 

“We have to act as a region to ensure that we’ve created the right pathways for young people to take advantage of the opportunities in not only the jobs of the future but the jobs that exist today,” said Nadine Duplessy Kearns, JPMorgan Chase’s vice president and program officer for global philanthropy in Greater Washington. “We have a responsibility to ensure that all stakeholders, whether they be school systems, employers, the corporate sector or the nonprofit community, are singularly-minded and focused on creating opportunities for young people to step into the jobs that will help our communities thrive.” 

JPMorgan Chase’s investment will support students in Baltimore; Fairfax County, Va.; Montgomery County, Md.; Prince George’s County, Md.; and Washington, D.C. 

Through TalentReady, ESG and GWP will collaborate with the secondary and higher education school systems in those districts, as well as regional employers, to provide greater access to postsecondary opportunities, high-value credentials and professional experiences. 

“A high school diploma will not be enough in Baltimore City and in the D.C. region to obtain jobs that pay well enough to support a family. We’re aiming toward a continued pathway where you obtain a credential beyond a high school diploma,” said Matt Gandal, president and CEO of ESG. “In many cases in this initiative, we’ll be helping support more advanced and college-level courses in industry-recognized credentials that can be earned while the students are still in high school.” 

GWP is using the funds to support the Employer Signaling System (ESS), which bridges the gap between the classroom and the workplace. Employers are able to report on the latest knowledge, skills, abilities and credentials needed for in-demand careers, while educators leverage the insights to inform their curriculum. 

“Through our TalentReady work, we’re continuing to strengthen the ESS, our innovative process and tool that combines labor market data with feedback from employers and educators to paint a comprehensive picture of the region’s workforce landscape,” said Kathy Hollinger, CEO at GWP. “We know conversations about talent pipelines can occur in silos, with various stakeholder groups in discussions amongst themselves, but not always to one another. The ESS serves as the connector between these groups — educators, employers, and more — allowing them all to speak in common language about talent needs and skills gaps.”

During the first phase of TalentReady, Baltimore City Public Schools (BCPS) worked to increase the number of students entering computer science and cyber networking career technical education (CTE) pathways. According to Gandal, ESG discovered that students from certain ZIP codes did not have access to these programs. 

“It turned out that in certain geographies in Baltimore City, there were only some students who were getting access to programs that led to credentials that opened the door to well-paying jobs,” said Gandal. “If you moved to a different part of the city, you found those schools did not have any of those programs. All the students were being ushered into pathways that I would argue led to dead ends.” 

Robin Perry, CTE instructor for CISCO Cybersecurity at Mergenthaler Vocational-Technical High School, said TalentReady has enabled her school to partner with organizations that specialize in exposing underserved students to careers in cybersecurity. 

She thinks this investment is particularly important because it focuses on jobs that are readily available in the region.

“Skilled workers are needed in every industry but especially in cybersecurity. This generation was raised on technology,” Perry. “The ability for students to enhance a skill they already have, teaching them theory and practical applications within and outside of the classroom using real and virtual environments to review, expose and solve real-world problems, prepares them for greater things—things that can change their entire family. That’s the kind of program our school should support.”

Megan Sayles is a Report For America corps member.

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By Matt Brown,
The Associated Press

BOSTON (AP) — The American legal system is facing a crisis of trust in communities around the country, with people of all races and across the political spectrum.

For many, recent protests against police brutality called attention to longstanding discrepancies in the administration of justice. For others, criticism of perceived conflicts of interest in the judiciary, as well as aspersions cast by former President Donald Trump and others on the independence of judges and law enforcement, have further damaged faith in the rule of law among broad swaths of the public.

Yet many Black attorneys understood the disparate impact the legal system can have on different communities long before the 2020 protests following the murder of George Floyd at the hands of police. Many pursued legal careers and entered that same system to improve it, with some rising to one of its most influential roles, the top enforcement official: attorney general.

There is a record number of Black attorneys general, seven in total, serving today. Two Black attorneys, Eric Holder and Loretta Lynch, have served as U.S. attorney general. And the vice president, Kamala  Harris, was the first Black woman elected attorney general in California.

In that same moment of increased representation, the U.S. is gripped by intense debates regarding justice, race and democracy. Black prosecutors have emerged as central figures litigating those issues, highlighting the achievements and limits of Black communal efforts to reform the justice system.

The Associated Press spoke with six sitting Black attorneys general about their views on racial equity, public safety, police accountability and protecting democratic institutions. While their worldviews and strategies sometimes clash, the group felt united in a mission to better a system they all agreed too often failed the people it’s meant to serve.

A spokesperson for Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron, a Republican, did not respond to multiple requests for an interview.

All interviewed attorneys general are Democrats. Each attorney general discussed how their backgrounds informed their approach to the law.

“I loved math, and I thought I was going to become an accountant. Clearly, that went a different direction as life happened,” said Andrea Campbell, the attorney general of Massachusetts. She soon began a career providing legal aid in her community because “most of my childhood was entangled with the criminal legal system.”

Anthony Brown and Kwame Raoul learned from their fathers, who were both physicians and Caribbean immigrants. Raoul, now the attorney general of Illinois, said he learned “to never forget where you came from and never forget the struggles that others go through.”

Brown’s father drew satisfaction from knowing that he made a difference in people’s lives and taught him the importance of public service. “I saw that every day as a kid growing up,” said Brown, a retired army colonel now serving as attorney general of Maryland.

Letitia James, the New York attorney general, said she came from “humble beginnings” and was “shaped by those who know struggle, pain, loss, but also perseverance.” Aaron Ford, the attorney general of Nevada, attributed his achievements “because the government helped in a time of need to get to my next level.”

And Keith Ellison, the attorney general of Minnesota, was raised on stories of his grandparents organizing Black voters in Louisiana at the height of Jim Crow, when they endured bomb threats and a burned cross at their home.

“That’s who raised me. Because of that, I have a sensitivity to people who are being punished for trying to do the right thing. And that’s what we dedicate our work to. And there’s a lot more to it,” Ellison said.

On reducing disparities in the criminal justice system

The American criminal justice system is plagued with well-documented inequality and racial disparities at every level. And while an outsized portion of defendants are people of color, prosecutors are mostly White. Many Black prosecutors entered the legal profession to bring the perspective of communities most impacted by the system into its decision-making processes.

“If we are in these roles, I think people expect, and rightfully so, that we will take on criminal legal reform, that we will take out bias that exists in criminal or civil prosecutions, that we will focus on communities of color and do it in such a way that recognizes those communities are often overpoliced and under-protected,” Campbell said.

Efforts at reforming the justice system have been mixed. The disparity between Black and White rates of incarceration dropped by 40 percent between 2000 and 2020, according to a September 2022 report by the Council on Criminal Justice. But while the number of people incarcerated overall across that period slightly fell, policing and sentencing policies vary by state, leading to divergent realities across regions.

Brown has made reducing Maryland’s high rate of Black male incarceration his “number one strategy priority.” Maryland has the highest percentage of Black people incarcerated of any state, though Southeastern states like Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi have higher total populations.

He created a civil rights division in his office and obtained greater powers from Maryland’s general assembly to prosecute police-involved killings and bring such cases under civil rights law.

Both Brown and Campbell said that such reform efforts were in pursuit of both improving equity and law enforcement.

Better prison conditions and fairer justice systems, Campbell argued, reduce issues like recidivism and promote trust in the justice system overall.

“You can have accountability while also improving the conditions of confinement,” Campbell said.