By Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper
AFRO CEO and Publisher
As a lifelong Marylander, I can’t help but feel a deep, abiding pride in my state. From my earliest memories, Maryland has shaped who I am, how I think and what I believe. While the recent election results were disappointing for many, including myself, I am still incredibly proud to call Maryland home. Vice President Kamala Harris may not have won nationally, but here in Maryland, she garnered over 60 percent of the votes. Her campaign inspired us, breaking barriers for women of color everywhere. Maryland showed up in strong support of her vision for unity, compassion, and progress—a testament to our values and our resilience.
(Courtesy photo)
My Maryland roots run deep. I was born in Baltimore’s historic Provident Hospital and grew up in the heart of West Baltimore. I attended Gwynns Falls Elementary School #60 and Lemmel Junior High when both were relatively new. I still remember the pride of stepping into those schools, with their fresh halls and new opportunities. Prayers (then still allowed in public schools) were woven into the fabric of our school life, a quiet foundation reminding us that there is power in community and faith.
I later attended Frederick Douglass High School, although I initially attended the nearly all-White Western High School. Transferring to Douglass was a pivotal experience; it brought me closer to my own community, where I found strength and solidarity. I went on to Morgan State University, earning a degree in Spanish language education (my first of four degrees from Maryland institutions—only leaving Maryland for my doctorate). It was at Morgan that my lifelong commitment to education, culture and service truly began. This launched me into the first of many careers, including teaching foreign languages in Baltimore City Schools. Maryland’s schools were more than just institutions to me; they were places where my potential was nurtured and my values were strengthened.
For over 50 years, I have been married to the love of my life, a partner who has shared in my journey through Maryland’s communities. Together, we’ve raised our family here, and although none of our children or grandchildren live in Maryland now, we frequently visit them. There’s a special comfort in knowing that Maryland is where our roots remain deeply planted.
This election reminded me why I prefer living in Maryland, where Black leadership is so visible and impactful. From our Governor to our Mayor, from our Attorney General to our new Senator-elect Angela Alsobrooks, Maryland’s most prominent leaders reflect our diversity and values. We also have a Black Speaker of the State House, Black congressmen, Black City Comptroller, several Black City Council members and state legislators. Baltimore even has a Black CEO of City Schools, showing our commitment to inclusive, equitable education for young people. Our state isn’t just a geographical place—it’s an embodiment of progress, pride and purpose.
Maryland’s commitment to freedom is personal for me. I am the CEO of the AFRO-American Newspapers, the oldest Black-owned business in Maryland, and my family has a legacy of freedom fighters. The AFRO, founded by my great-grandfather John H. Murphy, Sr., has been a voice for the African American community since 1892. Throughout its history, the AFRO has advocated for social justice, civil rights and equality, standing as a beacon of hope and resilience. Today, we continue that mission under the name AFRO News, sharing stories that uplift and inspire our community.
My maternal grandparents, Carl Murphy and Vashti Turley Murphy, were civil rights leaders. Carl Murphy was the publisher of the AFRO from 1922 to 1967 and a recipient of the prestigious Spingarn Medal in 1955 for his contributions to civil rights. Vashti Turley Murphy was a co-founder of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., an organization devoted to sisterhood, scholarship and service. They were freedom fighters in every sense, breaking down barriers and advocating for change. My paternal grandfather, Dr. Francis Marion Wood, Baltimore’s first Director of Colored Schools, was a pioneer in the pursuit of equality and educational opportunity. Their legacies remind me daily of the importance of perseverance, courage and faith in a better future.
Vice President Harris may not have won this election, but her historic campaign inspired so many across the country. Her journey to become the first female, Black, and South Asian Vice President reflects the dreams and ambitions of countless Americans, especially in Maryland. As I reflect on my journey, I feel incredibly grateful to live in a state that represents freedom, opportunity, and hope. Maryland is more than my home; it is a place that embodies the values and the dreams I hold dear. It is a state where leadership reflects our diversity and where the fight for equality continues. And in that, I find unshakeable pride. I am, and will always be, proud to be a Marylander.
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