Go-go elite Rare Essence, continues to draw audiences to its live performances of Washington, D.C.’s homegrown sound delivered in the band’s signature style.
Credit: AFRO Photo/ J. Pamela Stills
Category: ENTERTAINMENT
Rare Essence, D.C.’s legendary go-go band, proves they still have the magic touch
Beloved ‘Cosby Show’ star Malcolm-Jamal Warner dies tragically at 54
Fans across the globe took to social media to mourn the tragic death of actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who reportedly drowned while vacationing with family in Costa Rica. Best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on “The Cosby Show,” Warner was widely celebrated for helping redefine the portrayal of Black middle-class life on television.
Paris unveils mural of Josephine Baker to honor her legacy
A new mural honoring Josephine Baker has been unveiled in northeast Paris, celebrating the legendary entertainer’s legacy as a performer, World War II spy, and civil rights activist. Painted by artist FKDL, the mural is part of a street art festival and serves as a tribute to Baker’s enduring spirit of freedom, resistance, and cultural impact, fifty years after her death.
Charlene Hyman, Baltimore fashion icon, remembered for global impact and creative legacy
Charlene Hyman, pioneering Baltimore fashion designer and founder of Hyman and Hyman Fashion Designers, died on June 20 at age 68. Celebrated for her glamorous couture, international acclaim and mentorship within the fashion community, Hyman left an enduring legacy of creativity, compassion, and trailblazing artistry that touched both runways and hearts.
‘Love Island’ revives conversation about racial bias and misogynoir in dating
The reality show “Love Island” is under fire for perpetuating racial bias and misogynoir, particularly in its treatment of Black women, who are often overlooked or eliminated early. While “Love Island USA” shows signs of progress, fans say the U.K. version continues to reflect harmful beauty standards rooted in real-world discrimination.
Black Restaurant Week returns to Baltimore for 5th year of food and culture
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.
Building confidence and change through theatre
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.
Shelley Jordon debuts documentary honoring 50 years of friendship
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.
Ousted Librarian of Congress tapped by Mellon Foundation
Carla Hayden, the former Librarian of Congress ousted under the 47TH presidential administration, has been named a senior fellow at the Mellon Foundation, where she will advise on advancing public knowledge through libraries and archives. Her appointment marks a return to cultural leadership amid growing national debates over censorship, federal funding cuts, and access to information.
AFRAM 2025 offers star studded line up and fun for the whole family
The AFRAM Festival, a celebration of African-American culture, returned to Baltimore on June 21-22, featuring international artists such as Amerie, Patti LaBelle, Juvenile and Teedra Moses, and offering fun, food, and more for the whole family.
Baltimore’s A Taste of Summer to offer community and culinary adventure
Baltimore’s “A Taste of Summer” Long Table Dinner Series, founded by Nailah Queen and James Dickey, uses food, fashion and fellowship to celebrate community, culture and local entrepreneurship. With a vibrant outdoor dining experience and spotlight on Black and minority-owned culinary talent, the event transforms a shared meal into a powerful symbol of connection and creativity.
‘Trailblazer:’ Carol Moseley Braun reflects on legacy, loss and leadership during Enoch Pratt event
Former U.S. Sen. Carol Moseley Braun reflected on her historic career, personal struggles, and lasting legacy during a June 30 conversation at Baltimore’s Enoch Pratt Free Library, where she discussed her new memoir “Trailblazer.” Sharing lessons on resilience, faith, and public service, Moseley Braun offered an unfiltered look at the triumphs and pain behind her groundbreaking journey as the first Black woman in the U.S. Senate.