NEWS FROM OUR PUBLISHERS

By Brittany Decker | WVTM KultureCity, a Birmingham-born nonprofit, has purchased the historic Powell Avenue Steam Plant for $11 million, with plans to transform it into a sensory-inclusive hub by 2027. Walking past the Powell Avenue Steam Plant today, one hears echoes rather than engines, with rusted steel beams stretching high and soot-stained brick walls […]

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.
The post The silence on Superman’s citizenship: Why hasn’t Clark Kent been deported? appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Black Restaurant Week returns to Baltimore, spotlighting Black-owned culinary businesses and driving visibility, community ties, and growth. The Empanada Lady’s success reflects its power to amplify local talent.
The post Black Restaurant Week returns to Baltimore for 5th year of food and culture appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

While certain security measures are necessary, excessive or obsessive behavior related to protecting personal and financial information can be a sign of paranoia and mental health issues, and seeking therapy options is a good first step.
The post Are Your Financial Security Habits Sensible or Extreme? appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

NBA legend Carmelo Anthony returned to Baltimore to announce a citywide cultural initiative that honors his legacy while empowering local youth through storytelling, mentorship and community programming. Centered on an upcoming exhibit at the Enoch Pratt Free Library, the project aims to inspire the next generation by celebrating Baltimore’s resilience and potential.
The post Carmelo Anthony comes home with a legacy-fueled vision for Baltimore appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Barnett Wright | The Birmingham Times Nearly 40 candidates officially qualified to run for Mayor and City Council seats in Birmingham’s municipal elections, set for Aug. 26, after qualifying ended at 5 p.m. Friday, July 11 A total of 38 hopefuls filed papers at the Jefferson County Probate Court Office for the election, including […]

By Chanda Temple | For The Birmingham Times One month after deciding to leave her banking job of 16 years to start a new career in information technology (IT), Fatimah Jackson was diagnosed with breast cancer. In denial, thinking the doctors had gotten it wrong, she sought second, third, and fourth opinions. Six months later, […]

Over nearly 50 years, Penumbra Theatre in Saint Paul, Minn. has evolved from a pioneering Black arts institution into a national leader in racial healing and artistic excellence. Meanwhile, Tacoma Urban Performing Arts Center empowers Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) youth with classical arts training that builds confidence, discipline and cultural pride.
The post Building confidence and change through theatre appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

California and 18 other states have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration for illegally sharing personal health data with ICE, claiming it will lead to noncitizens and their family members refusing to enroll in emergency Medicaid.
The post California Leads Coalition in Lawsuit Against Trump for Illegal Health Data Sharing appeared first on Black Voice News.

Dr. Raegan McDonald-Mosely is a practicing OBGYN and abortion provider. This week, she discusses the new abortion landscape.
The post “We Can’t Wait”: Lessons from the New Abortion Landscape appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Black churches have long supported youth through education, mentorship, and leadership opportunities, but changing generational dynamics and declining attendance—especially post-pandemic—pose new challenges. At Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Washington, D.C., Rev. Brian Woolfolk is working to revitalize youth programs and reengage the next generation through a holistic approach combining spiritual growth, community service, and digital outreach.
The post Black churches strive to reignite youth engagement amid shifting generational ties appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

The Westside Map Coalition is opposing Baltimore County’s proposed 2-2-5 redistricting plan, arguing it fractures Woodlawn and dilutes Black voting power. They’ve proposed an alternative “Woodlawn Approach” map, which they say better reflects census data and complies with the Voting Rights Act.
The post Baltimore County redistricting plan faces opposition from Woodlawn coalition appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

BMORENews.com honored founder Doni Glover for his 60th birthday with a benefit celebrating Black media and community. The event recognized media pioneers with an award ceremony for the Joe Manns Black Wall Street Honorees. Keynote speakers included Dawn Moore, first lady of Maryland, and Wanda Draper, former executive director of the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. Guests enjoyed musical performances, soul food and heartfelt reflections.
The post BMORENews celebrates founder Doni Glover’s 60th birthday, honors Baltimore media trailblazers  appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Free State Justice, a Black-led Maryland nonprofit providing legal aid to LGBTQ+ individuals, has lost over $300,000 in grant funding, threatening its ability to serve clients facing discrimination, criminal records, and legal barriers. Despite the setback, Executive Director Phillip Westry remains hopeful that community support and alternative funding can sustain their life-changing work for some of Maryland’s most marginalized residents.
The post Maryland nonprofit offering legal aid to LGBTQ+ community loses more than $300,000 in grant funding  appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Baltimore native Shelley Jordon, 71, makes her filmmaking debut with “Colored Footprints,” a documentary chronicling the enduring 50-year friendship of 17 women from north and northwest Baltimore. Set to premiere July 19 at Morgan State University, the film highlights their shared experiences of family, love, loss and cultural legacy, offering a heartfelt tribute to sisterhood and the spirit of Baltimore.
The post Shelley Jordon debuts documentary honoring 50 years of friendship appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

As electricity prices continue to rise, Maryland residents can now apply for the Customer Relief Fund, a one-time assistance grant funded by Exelon to support low- to moderate-income households. The $19 million initiative offers up to $750 in relief per eligible BGE customer and is being distributed through local nonprofit organizations.
The post Marylanders can now apply for one-time utility grants as electricity costs spike  appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Sen. Tim Scott praised the new federal tax law as a win for American families, but critics argue it overwhelmingly benefits the wealthy while threatening healthcare, housing, and education programs vital to Black communities. Analysts warn the law will worsen inequality, accelerate gentrification through expanded Opportunity Zones, and leave millions—including Black families—more vulnerable as social safety nets are dismantled.
The post Sen. Tim Scott is wrong – new tax law fuels inequality, strips healthcare and displaces Black communities appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Happy Nappy Day + Poets in the Park returns July 13, transforming Gwynn Oak Park into a vibrant celebration of natural beauty, hip-hop and community.
The post Baltimore’s Happy Nappy Day celebrates culture and creativity appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Two years after Greenbelt, Md., was selected for the FBI’s new headquarters, the White House administration reversed course, announcing plans to keep the agency in D.C., prompting strong opposition from Maryland leaders.
The post FBI HQ move to Greenbelt reversed as D.C. site is chosen instead appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

U.S. President Donald Trump’s surprise praise of Liberian President Joseph Boakai’s English sparked backlash in Liberia, where English is the official language. While some Liberians and officials interpreted Trump’s words as a compliment, others saw them as patronizing and disrespectful, especially in light of recent U.S. aid cuts to the country. The exchange reignited concerns about how African leaders are perceived on the global stage and raised questions about the future of Liberia-U.S. relations.
The post Many Liberians take offense after US leader praises their president’s English appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Dean Kremer pitched seven shutout innings and the Orioles’ offense delivered 12 hits to secure a 5-2 win over the Marlins on July 11. Key contributions came from Ryan O’Hearn, Ramon Laureano, and Jordan Westburg as Baltimore continued its post-May surge.
The post Orioles ride good offense and Kremer’s arm to win series opener against the Miami Marlins appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

birminghamal.gov The Negro Southern League Museum (NSLM), in partnership with the City of Birmingham and the Center for Negro League Baseball Research (CNLBR), proudly announces the unveiling of a new exhibit honoring the life and legacy of Alabama native and baseball legend Willie Mays. The exhibit unveiling will take place during a special ceremony at […]

freedomprep.org Freedom Preparatory Academy, a public charter school located in Birmingham’s historic Titusville community will host an upcoming Freedom West Community Tour, Thursday, July 17 through Saturday, July 19. This three-day initiative supports area businesses in the western section of Greater Birmingham, engages local families, and promotes the power of public education. The tour also […]

The only two black college players to make Sam Herder’s Preseason FCS Preview Central for Hero Sports’ list of the 30 best returning wide receivers in 2025 FCS football are both at defending SWAC and […]

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. hosted its 57th National Convention in Washington, D.C., drawing more than 20,000 members to the city where it was founded in 1913. The five-day event celebrated over 111 years of sisterhood, scholarship and service, and featured public meetings, civic engagement and educational forums focused on issues impacting the Black community.
The post Delta Sigma Theta Sorority returns to D.C. for 57th National Convention appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Mayor Muriel Bowser has signed emergency legislation expanding D.C.’s youth curfew to address rising juvenile crime, allowing earlier curfews in designated zones and extending coverage to 17-year-olds. The measure equips police with more flexibility and aims to prevent disturbances in high-traffic areas while supporting youth safety and engagement.
The post Mayor Bowser expands youth curfew with an eye to public safety  appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

A mass overdose in West Baltimore affected around 25 people, highlighting the strain Baltimore’s opioid crisis places on emergency services. Community leaders are calling for lasting solutions rather than temporary fixes.
The post Mass overdose in West Baltimore hospitalizes 25, sparks citywide response appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.