NEWS FROM OUR PUBLISHERS

By Kendra BryantSpecial to the AFRO Coppin State University (CSU) hosted its annual ball, “An Ode to Black Excellence,” on May 2 at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront, celebrating 126 years of nurturing potential and transforming lives.  Each year, the ball serves as a time to honor the past, while also drumming up financial support for […]
The post Coppin State University Ball hosts ‘powerful’ night of Black excellence appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Javacia Harris Bowser | The Birmingham Times Visitors to the Birmingham Museum of Art’s presentation of the Monet to Matisse exhibition may be surprised to find works by two Black American artists on display in a show focused on French art. But for Dr. Maggie Crosland, BMA Curator of European Art, including works by […]

Special to The Times TUSCALOOSA, Alabama — Stillman College has announced the appointment of Harold Ingram Jr. as the 12th head coach of its women’s basketball program, elevating a familiar and respected presence within the program to lead the Tigers. He succeeds Jamarra Robinson, who recently resigned from Stillman following one season as head coach […]

By Jennifer Porter GoreWord in Black It was a case most gynecologists wouldn’t touch — literally. Brionna Johnson of Chicago, who was 17 weeks pregnant, had a fibroid tumor on her uterus that weighed 27 pounds. One gynecologist after another told her the growth had to come out, but the only way of doing that […]
The post Chicago ‘Fibroid Slayer’ makes history with biggest case of his career appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Alvin BuyinzaWord in Black Gabrielle Brundidge knew she wanted to be a school guidance counselor since she was a teenager. The idea first came to her while discussing college plans with her guidance counselor, Ms. Garcia, during her senior year at Northview High School in Johns Creek, Ga. “She was Hispanic, and it was […]
The post Black school counselors are a necessity–we don’t have enough appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Abby Haymond | WBRC Judge Andra Sparks celebrated his retirement Saturday night after decades of serving as Birmingham’s presiding judge. Dozens of friends, family, and colleagues packed the Birmingham Crossplex to honor Sparks, who spent 30 years on the bench and 37 years practicing law. “I’ve always said that I’m an ambassador for Birmingham, […]

By Javacia Harris Bowser | The Birmingham Times Birmingham families are in for a special story time and book signing as renowned author and illustrator Christian Robinson visits the Magic City. Robinson will be sharing his new book “Dad” on Saturday, May 16, from 10:30 to 11:30 am, at the downtown central branch of the […]

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore officially launched his 2026 reelection campaign with energetic rallies in Baltimore and Prince George’s County, drawing strong support from community members and local leaders. Joined by Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller and their families, Moore highlighted his administration’s achievements and pledged continued focus on public safety, education and economic growth.
The post Moore kicks off 2026 reelection bid with high-energy rallies and promises to ‘finish the job’ appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Sharif El-MekkiWord in Black During a recent Freedom Friday podcast, our host, Chris Stewart, pointed out that we are living in a time when four, sometimes five, generations are working side by side, exposing fault lines around toughness, trauma, and what “safety” should mean at work. As a proud member of Generation X, I […]
The post Gen X’s grind vs. Gen Z’s boundaries: Who’s right? appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Severe flooding from ongoing heavy rains in Kenya has killed at least 18 people in the past week and affected more than 54,000 households, with widespread damage to infrastructure, displacement from mudslides and warnings of continued rainfall.
The post Kenya’s rainy season turns deadly again, with 18 killed and 54,000 households hit over a week appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Rising costs of living and cultural expectations have increased the number of retirees still supporting young adult children, with 50 percent of parents now supporting a child older than 18.
The post A new reality: Retirement while supporting young adult children or parents appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Many Black retirees rely on Social Security as a primary source of income, but experts say confusion about when to claim benefits and missing documentation can lead to reduced payments or delays.
The post Many retirees rely on Social Security—but confusion and delays can cost them appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

The Rev. Dr. Marie Phillips Braxton, a devoted educator, faith leader and longtime AFRO shareholder and Board member, has passed away after a lengthy illness.
The post An announcement of the passing of the Rev. Dr. Marie Phillips Braxton appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Combining past, present and future, Eric Waddell’s vision is about more than harmony. It’s about reconnecting young people to a legacy built in Baltimore’s choir lofts. Hundreds of singers are pushing back, one rehearsal at a time.
The post 500 voices, one mission: Reviving Baltimore’s gospel sound appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary of independence, legal scholar Gloria J. Browne-Marshall is leading an effort to establish July 5 as “Martyrs Day,” a national day to honor those who died fighting for justice, equality and civil rights. The initiative ties the nation’s founding ideals to its ongoing struggles, encouraging reflection, education and continued civic engagement.
The post Inaugural Martyrs Day as part of America’s 250th anniversary appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Maternal sepsis is the second leading cause of maternal mortality in the US, and early detection and treatment is critical to prevent deadly outcomes, especially in rural communities where maternity care deserts are increasing.
The post Early detection of maternal sepsis is critical for survival appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Karsonya Wise Whitehead, president of The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), reflects on America’s founding through a Black historical lens, emphasizing centuries of resistance, contributions and ongoing struggles for freedom, equality and inclusion in the nation’s promise.
The post Week One: America’s birth, our nation appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Pras Michel has begun serving a 14-year federal prison sentence after being convicted on charges tied to illegal foreign political contributions and acting as an unregistered agent.
The post Fugees rapper Pras reports to prison to begin 14-year sentence appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Residents and leaders in Baltimore’s Arcadia neighborhood gathered for an Associated Black Charities Community Convo to discuss connectivity, housing affordability and partnerships with Morgan State University, highlighting both the area’s strengths and ongoing challenges.
The post ABC’s Arcadia Community Convo explores broad range of issues appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Joseph D. Bryant | jbryant@al.com Downtown Birmingham will be filled with the colors of pink and green this week as more than 6,000 women gather for days of camaraderie, celebration and community service. Members of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority began their southeastern regional conference on Wednesday. The gathering brings together 122 college and […]

Compiled From Online Reports On Friday, Gov. Kay Ivey issued a proclamation calling the Alabama Legislature into a special session starting May 4 at 4 p.m. The focus of the session is strictly on setting up special primary elections if the state’s ongoing legal battle over voting maps shifts in its favor. In a statement, […]

A $500,000 federal grant appropriated by U.S. Rep. Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.-07) will support vocational training opportunities for 50 Baltimore residents at the National Center on Institutions and Alternatives. The 17-week program offers hands-on instruction in skilled trades designed to help returning citizens secure employment and reduce recidivism.
The post Mfume secures $500k grant to expand job training for returning citizens appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Morgan State University’s Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Alpha Gamma Chapter celebrated 100 years with its Centennial Gala on April 25 at Student Center Ballrooms. Honorary speakers included Frances “Toni” Draper, CEO and publisher of the AFRO-American Newspaper; Rosie Allen-Herring, first vice president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; and Thelma Daley, 16th national president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
The post Morgan State’s Delta Sigma Theta chapter marks 100 years of sisterhood and service appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Baltimore Corps’ Emerging Leaders Fellowship is now open for recent HBCU graduates. Gain public service experience with a $51,500 salary and benefits. Apply by June 21!
The post HBCU fellowship applications now open appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Mia Watkins | For the Birmingham Times The Walter Howlett Club of the A.G. Gaston Boys & Girls Club may be a place for recreation for local children, but it is also on the cutting edge of science and technology education. As the club celebrates its 60th anniversary, CEO Andre McFadden said it is […]

The Birmingham Times U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) will be coming to Birmingham in Monday, May 4, for a rescheduled town hall with Blueprint Alabama. “I’m excited to return to Alabama, because the people of Alabama are no strangers to confronting the kind of moral moment America is in right now,” said Senator Booker. “In […]

Dr. Karsonya “Kaye” Wise Whitehead, leader of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) strongly condemns the recent Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) decision in the Louisiana v. Callais case. As the premier Black heritage and learned society, ASALH and its leadership knows this is yet another marker in the ongoing fight to secure and protect our vote—a struggle against disenfranchisement that we have been engaged in since the early 1800s.
The post ASALH issues statement on evisceration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Family and friends are mourning the death of professional football player Monte Coleman. The former Washington linebacker died at age 68.
The post Monte Coleman, 3-time Super Bowl champ, dies at age 68 appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

The post Howard Theatre highlights ‘Best of The Apollo Sophisticated Settings — Lifestyle — May 01, 2026 appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

The post Afro e-edition 05_01_2026 appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, newly appointed chair of the Baltimore Metropolitan Council, highlights transit and infrastructure as key priorities for the region.
The post Scott sets transit, infrastructure agenda as new BMC chair  appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

The D.C. Council is reviewing Mayor Bowser’s $1.1B deficit budget, with hearings through May 12 and a first vote expected June 9. Advocates raise concerns on proposed cuts to child care subsidies and the Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund.
The post D.C. budget hearings advance amid budget cut concerns appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

by SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS RALEIGH, N.C. — Saint Augustine’s University, a 159-year-old historically Black university in Raleigh, North Carolina, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, calling it a strategic step to restructure the institution’s […]

By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS  NATIONAL — Most Americans know they should get seven to nine hours of sleep each night. What far fewer people know is that Black Americans are being systematically robbed of that […]

By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS NATIONAL — For millions of Americans who have wanted the benefits of GLP-1 weight loss medications but could not manage the injections or high costs, a new option is now available […]