By Andrea Stevens
AFRO Staff Writer
astevens@afro.com
The AFRO-American Newspapers will host its annual High Tea on Friday, April 26, at Martin’s West, celebrating community organizations that have shaped Baltimore for generations. Doors open at noon, with the program beginning at 1 p.m.—an hour earlier than in previous years due to rising attendance.
Since its launch in 2017, the AFRO High Tea has grown from 200 attendees to nearly 1,000, evolving into a cherished tradition in the Baltimore community.
“We started this event to celebrate the women who kept the AFRO going—who often don’t get the recognition they deserve,” said Diane Hocker, the AFRO’s director of community relations. “It’s become something that people truly look forward to every spring.”
This year’s tea will honor 10 historic organizations:
- Alpha Wives of Baltimore
- Baltimore Kappa Silhouettes
- DuBois Circle
- Girl Friends Inc.
- Greater Baltimore Section, National Council of Negro Women
- Jack and Jill of America Inc., Baltimore City Chapter
- Links Inc., Baltimore City Chapter
- Philomathians
- United Way of Central Maryland
- Women’s Civic and Cooperative League
These organizations have served the community for 75 years or more. Dozens of other groups will also receive honorable mentions in recognition of their ongoing impact. The event is part of the AFRO’s broader commitment to uplifting institutions that reflect resilience, leadership and service.
The presenting sponsor is United Way of Central Maryland, which is marking its 100th anniversary. Other event supporters include Associated Black Charities, Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE), Greater Baltimore Medical Center (GBMC) and Wylie Funeral Home. United Way representatives will share brief remarks during the program, which will be emceed by WBAL anchor Janine Donaldson.
Guests will be treated to an afternoon of elegance, entertainment and fellowship. The program features live music, a spoken word performance, a fashion show, photo booths and boutique vendors. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed in stylish hats and attire to match the festive atmosphere.
City and state leaders are expected to attend, including Mayor Brandon Scott, Comptroller Bill Henry, Baltimore City Schools CEO Dr. Sonja Santelises, and Congressman Kweisi Mfume. Their presence highlights the event’s growing significance as both a social and civic gathering.
“They don’t want a lot of programming—they want to reconnect, take pictures, fellowship, eat, shop and show off their fashion. You have to give them what they want,” Hocker added.
The annual tea was first envisioned during planning for the AFRO’s 125th anniversary, as a way to ensure women’s contributions to the paper and the wider community were acknowledged. Since then, it has become one of the publication’s signature events, with each year highlighting a different theme of empowerment, recognition and celebration.
Organizers are optimistic that this year’s gathering will be one of the most memorable yet. As spring blooms, the AFRO High Tea offers a chance to reflect on legacy, honor trailblazers and inspire continued service within the community.
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