Sen. Blunt Rochester pushes for action on Black women’s pay gap
Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester has introduced a Senate resolution recognizing Black Women’s Equal Pay Day to call attention to the stark wage gap that leaves Black women earning just 66 cents for every dollar a White man makes. Citing systemic racism and sexism, the resolution aims to drive intersectional policy reforms that address long-standing economic inequities.
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Afro e-Edition 07-18-2025
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Black Americans Hit Hard as Medical Debt Rule Tossed
BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE — A Trump-appointed federal judge has blocked a key rule that would have removed medical debt from the credit reports of roughly 15 million Americans, dealing a harsh blow to struggling families already burdened by the high cost of health care, particularly Black Americans who carry a disproportionate share of that debt.
Obesity Tied to Diet More Than Declining Activity
BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE — Among African American adults, nearly 48 percent are clinically obese, including 37.1 percent of men and 56.6 percent of women, according to the American Psychological Association. The association has noted that disparities in stable housing, income, education, and access to healthy food and safe places for physical activity all contribute to these disproportionate rates of obesity and related health risks.
National Urban League Declares’ State of Emergency’ for Black America in 2025 Report
BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE — The report also warns of a rise in digital extremism. “During the 2024 election cycle, accounts supporting progressive candidates also saw their accounts blocked and shadow-banned without explanation,” the report documented.
Sen. Blunt Rochester pushes for action on Black women’s pay gap
Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester has introduced a Senate resolution recognizing Black Women’s Equal Pay Day to call attention to the stark wage gap that leaves Black women earning just 66 cents for every dollar a White man makes. Citing systemic racism and sexism, the resolution aims to drive intersectional policy reforms that address long-standing economic inequities.
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Rep. Sewell Announces $25 Million Grant to Help Modernize MAX Transit
sewell.house.gov U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced this week that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) a $25 million grant to modernize public transit in Birmingham and Jefferson County. The grant will be used to construct a new modern maintenance and operations facility — a transformative project critical […]
Broken Promises and Abandoned Buildings Frustrate Residents in One Birmingham Community
By Joseph D. Bryant | jbryant@al.com Frustrated Birmingham residents say an abandoned building in the center of their community stands as a deteriorating monument to years of unkept promises to their neighborhood. Residents of Elyton Village, a public housing community just west of downtown, said their pleas for revitalization remain ignored by housing authority leaders. […]
My Plea During Unprecedented Times
I know this may be a little bit of a different tone for this column but it needs to be said: the city — our nation even — is at a major tipping point. We’re just about a month away from an all-important mayoral election in Birmingham. My focus is not on the candidates because […]
Safety Transportation Tips for Back to School
This time of the year can be both enjoyable and hectic for parents as they enjoy their summer vacation plans whether at home or away but must simultaneously prepare for the opening of another school year in just a matter of weeks. Therefore, it is important that we begin the conversation of how best to […]
“You may come in and hear Frank Sinatra, Usher or Beyonce. Or ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ could be playing. It will be a nice vibe. It will be a nice vibrant place.’’
CHARLES LEWIS, WHO WITH SISTER BRENDA, OPENED THE TOASTED YOLK CAFE, A BREAKFAST, BRUNCH AND LUNCH SPOT IN DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM ON 20TH STREET SOUTH ON MONDAY; BIRMINGHAMTIMES.COM, JULY 14.
5 biggest football questions ahead of SWAC Media Day
by Chris Stevens he SWAC’s annual Football Media Day takes place this week, and ahead of the festivities, we give you our top five questions about Media Day and the 2025 season. 1. Can Jackson State […]
HBCU to get quarter-million-dollar boost from NHL to support hockey program
by HBCU Sports The official start of Tennessee State hockey might be put on hold for now, but the program is receiving financial support from the NHL. TSU will play during the 2026-27 season, “a move made in […]
5 Medical Conditions That May Mimic Alzheimer’s Disease
By Dr. Nicole B. Washington When memory loss strikes in an older adult, Alzheimer’s Disease is often one of the first thoughts that come to mind. While Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, there […]
Top 10 Reasons to Add Green Bananas to Your Diet Today
By Karen Heslop You may have heard about all the ways ripe bananas are great for you, but did you know that green bananas can be healthy, too? That’s because the fruit changes as it ripens. Green […]
Can Going Vegan Help Your Diabetic Nerve Pain?
By Derrick Lane A vegan diet might help people with diabetes-related nerve damage shed weight and find some pain relief, a small pilot study suggests. Vegan diets are free of all animal products, including eggs and […]
Alabama Bill Would Allow Public School Credit for Religious Classes
By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS MONTGOMERY, Ala. — A bill advancing in the Alabama Legislature could soon allow public school students to earn elective credit for religious instruction received off campus during the school day. The measure […]
Black Churches Lead in Safety Awareness as Armed Security Becomes a New Normal
SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — In the face of rising violence at places of worship across the U.S., African American churches—often central pillars in their communities—are taking a leading role in advancing church safety, according […]
Profanity on Banner at Homeless Outreach Booth Sparks Backlash at Birmingham Farmers Market
SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS staff BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A banner displaying profanity at a City of Birmingham-funded homeless outreach booth stirred controversy during the June 7 East Lake Farmers Market at East Lake United Methodist Church. The phrase “No F–kery” was printed […]
‘Love Island’ revives conversation about racial bias and misogynoir in dating
The reality show “Love Island” is under fire for perpetuating racial bias and misogynoir, particularly in its treatment of Black women, who are often overlooked or eliminated early. While “Love Island USA” shows signs of progress, fans say the U.K. version continues to reflect harmful beauty standards rooted in real-world discrimination.
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🏛️ Alabama’s Anti-DEI Law Faces Scrutiny as Universities Rework Religion and Culture Curriculum
By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Alabama’s Senate Bill 129, now state law, is sparking legal challenges and cultural tension across public universities as it bans Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) offices and restricts classroom […]
Actor Who Filed $260M Lawsuit Against Tyler Perry Speaks Out for the First Time
BlackNews.com Nationwide — Derek Dixon, the actor who filed a $260 million sexual harassment lawsuit against Tyler Perry, is speaking out for the first time about his experience and why he decided to take legal action. […]
Iconic DC staple Ben’s Chili Bowl to close temporarily for renovations
Ben’s Chili Bowl is temporarily closing its historic U Street location in Washington, D.C., for the first time in over 60 years to undergo essential repairs and renovations. During construction, the beloved eatery will continue serving customers from a nearby pop-up location starting July 17.
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Walter P. Carter Institute launches civic leadership program to empower Baltimore’s future changemakers
The Walter P. Carter Institute of Leadership and Service has launched its first major initiative, the Community Leadership and Empowerment Program (CLEP), a free 10-week course designed to cultivate Baltimore’s next generation of grassroots leaders. Rooted in the legacy of civil rights icon Walter P. Carter, the program equips participants with tools in civic engagement, advocacy and public service to help them lead meaningful change in their communities
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More than 20 states sue White House administration over frozen after-school and summer funding
Over 20 states have sued the Trump administration for freezing billions in federally approved funding for after-school and summer programs that serve 1.4 million children, disproportionately affecting low-income and rural communities. As schools prepare to reopen, organizations like the Boys & Girls Club and YMCA warn of potential closures and layoffs if the funds aren’t released within weeks, leaving families with few affordable childcare alternatives.
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Trayon White defies the odds, regains Ward 8 D.C. Council seat
Trayon White reclaimed his Ward 8 D.C. Council seat in a narrow victory during the July 15 special election, overcoming a crowded field, limited funding, and ongoing federal scrutiny. Despite losing, rival Sheila Bunn and others in the community emphasized unity moving forward, urging collaboration to address urgent issues like public safety, mental health, and economic equity.
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The silence on Superman’s citizenship: Why hasn’t Clark Kent been deported?
In a sharp and satirical commentary, Harold A. Carter Jr. questions why Superman—an undocumented alien from the planet Krypton—has never faced deportation, especially under strict U.S. immigration policies. Drawing parallels between superhero mythology and real-world immigration debates, the piece challenges America’s selective enforcement of “the American Way” and critiques racial and political hypocrisy in defining belonging.
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WATCH: April Albright of Black Voters Matter on the John Lewis National Day of Action 7/17
On Thursday, July 17, local and national organizers will highlight the legacy of late Civil Rights leader and former Congressman John Lewis on the fifth annual John Lewis National Day of Action. With more than 1,600 events scheduled nationwide, GoodTroubleLivesOn.org says it will respond to the attacks posed on civil and human rights by the […]
After Partial Court Victory, Marilyn Mosby Still Fighting to Clear Her Name
BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE — Mosby, who served two terms as Baltimore’s top prosecutor, has repeatedly insisted the case was politically motivated. She had also argued that seizing nearly all her Florida condo was excessive given the nature of her offenses.
Black and Missing: Baltimore woman found, but her disappearance highlighted ongoing national crisis
Alayia Berry, a 21-year-old Baltimore woman, was found at a local hospital after a massive search effort, having gone missing on July 10 under mysterious circumstances.
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From Eggs to Hotels, Prices Soar as Inflation Redefines Daily Life
BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE — It’s so bad in America that a foreign news organization dug into the pricey details. The Times of London reported that inflation, which began accelerating in 2021, has left American consumers grappling with the most persistent cost increases in decades.
Trump and Texas Republicans Plot Changes in Congressional Districts to Keep Control of Congress After 2026
BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE — Proposed cuts to health care, tariff policy changes, inflation, a record number of farms going bankrupt and cuts to federal jobs are all likely to be factors in whether or not voters will turn Republicans out of power in Congress.
Opportunity interrupted: The crisis of Job Corps suspension and the need for community-rooted support
By Kanika Cousine In underserved communities across America, opportunity is not just a path to success but a lifeline. For countless at-risk youth, access to vocational training, stable housing and mentorship can mean the difference between building a future and falling through the cracks. Many young people enter programs like Job Corps because they already […]
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We Outside! For the 3rd Annual Inglewood Music Festival
The City of Inglewood presented the 3rd Annual Inglewood Music Festival. The Independence Day Celebration of live music, food, and fun was held on Saturday, July 5, 2025, from 11:00 am-6:00 pm.
The first African American 6 year old kid to win a PGA Golf Tournament Meet Yaqub Ibrahim
Yaqub’s story began at just three years old, when he first held a golf club. Today, at age six, he’s heading to compete against the world’s best young junior golfers—but the financial demands are great and increasing daily. His GoFundMe campaign supports airfare, accommodations, meals, transportation, and tournament fees. Yaqub and his family were welcomed to center stage at the 5th Annual Legacy Ladies Golf Tournament, held at Porter Valley Country Club, June 30, 2025. Mrs. Jackie Castillo, Executive Director of Legacy Ladies, praised the young athlete’s extraordinary talent, perseverance, and humility. She said. “Yaqub is more than a young golfer—he’s a symbol of what happens when talent meets opportunity and is wrapped in love.”
