Author: NNPA

Baltimore’s historic drop in youth homicides and gun violence is the result of intentional investments in Black-led organizations, youth arts programs, recreation centers and public spaces, not chance. Drawing from her work with Creative Nomads, Kayenecha Daugherty argues that art, community-based leadership and equitable funding are proven public-safety strategies—and warns that recent gains are fragile without sustained support.
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The death of Richard Smallwood, the legendary gospel composer and musician whose work reshaped Black church worship, on Dec. 30 at age 77, has prompted tributes across congregations and the music world. Best known for “Total Praise” and other modern hymns, Smallwood blended classical training with gospel tradition, leaving a lasting spiritual and musical legacy that continues to resonate across denominations and generations.
The post Richard Smallwood: ‘I’m looking forward to singing with you in heaven’ appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

The arrest and transfer of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to a U.S. federal court sparked widespread protests across the United States and abroad, with demonstrators questioning the legality and consequences of the 47th U.S. president’s action. As Maduro appeared under heavy guard in Manhattan, rallies erupted from New York to Bogotá and Caracas, drawing condemnation from global leaders and deepening international tensions over U.S. intervention and international law.
The post From Washington to Bogotá, protests grow as Maduro faces US judge appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Barnett Wright | The Birmingham Times Jefferson County announced preliminary estimates that show more than $400 million in economic development projects during 2025 including nearly 900 jobs and an average hourly wage of $30.60, according to figures provided by Jeff Traywick, economic development advisor for the Jefferson County Commission. The projects, worth $401,492,499 and […]

BY ALI SWENSON and LAURAN NEERGAARD | Associated Press WASHINGTON — The U.S. took the unprecedented step Monday of cutting the number of vaccines it recommends for every child — a move that leading medical groups said would undermine protections against a half-dozen diseases. The change is effective immediately, meaning that the U.S. Centers for […]