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Maryland Governor Wes Moore has announced his intention to seek reelection, explicitly stating he will not run for president of the United States. Moore highlighted his administration's accomplishments, including historic reductions in Baltimore's violent crime, securing funding to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge, and passing a balanced budget that makes Maryland's tax structure fairer for working families. In his reelection announcement, Moore emphasized his goals to improve public schools, end childhood poverty, and make Maryland more affordable, while also criticizing former President Trump's policies. Moore identified his potential challengers, including John Myrick, Ed Hale, and possibly former Governor Larry Hogan, who has hinted at running in the 2026 election cycle.

This letter to the editor expresses disappointment that President Trump's administration has failed to deliver on campaign promises to improve conditions for working families. The author argues that workers deserve fair wages, safe conditions, healthcare, retirement security, and union rights. The letter claims that instead of helping working families, the administration has cut funding for essential services like education and healthcare while giving tax breaks to the wealthy. The writer concludes by calling for collective action through protests, unionization, and political engagement to fight for workers' rights.

Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA (TPUSA), rose from an unknown Chicago activist to become a central figure in Donald Trump's MAGA movement before his recent death. Kirk developed close personal relationships with the Trump family, serving as a bridge to young Republicans and helping shape both Trump's 2016 and 2024 presidential campaigns. His organization grew to include 3,500 high schools and colleges, generating $85 million last year, while Kirk himself gained significant influence in vetting administration appointees for Trump's second term. Following his shooting death, the White House reacted with profound grief, with President Trump ordering flags at half-staff and family members expressing personal loss.

The article reports on the identification of 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, a white man from Salt Lake City, as the suspect in the assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. Despite initial speculation that the killer might be from "the radical left" or an immigrant, Robinson reportedly comes from a conservative background and his father, a law enforcement officer, helped convince him to surrender. Investigators recovered a rifle with cryptically engraved bullet casings, and Utah Governor Spencer Cox described the killing as "an attack on the American experiment." The assassination has raised concerns about security at political events and sparked discussions about political violence, with various politicians speaking out against violence regardless of political differences.

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) has released "Forward Together: The Black Policy Playbook for an Equitable America," a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at dismantling systemic barriers to racial equity in the United States. Published in 2025 and authored by Jonathan Cox and his team from the CBCF's Center for Policy Analysis and Research, the playbook outlines strategies to address disparities in wealth, health, education, and criminal justice. The recommendations include investments in affordable housing, voting rights protections, universal healthcare access, and support for Black-owned businesses, arguing that equity is not just morally imperative but necessary for national prosperity. The CBCF plans to highlight the playbook at its Annual Legislative Conference in September 2025, with an emphasis on accountability and transforming these recommendations into measurable outcomes.

The Kresge Foundation has announced plans to relocate its headquarters from Troy to Detroit's Marygrove Conservancy campus while committing $180 million to improve the Livernois-McNichols corridor in Northwest Detroit. The five-year investment will focus on stabilizing housing, promoting homeownership, enhancing public spaces, and revitalizing commercial areas in the Fitzgerald, Bagley, University District, and Martin Park neighborhoods. The foundation will construct a 70,000-square-foot headquarters using $130 million in bonds rather than drawing from its $4 billion endowment, with completion expected by 2028 for its 130 employees. This move represents a return to Detroit for the foundation, which originally operated downtown before relocating to Troy in 1950.

The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which has been the foundation of U.S.-Africa trade relations since 2000, faces possible expiration on September 30 with diminishing chances for extension. Supporters including African ambassadors and U.S. business organizations continue advocating for the trade pact's renewal through various channels. Dr. Bob Wekesa from the African Centre for the Study of the United States has outlined three potential scenarios for AGOA's future in an AllAfrica guest column. Madagascar's Ambassador to the United States, Solo Andry Lantosoa Rakotomalala, has warned that AGOA's expiration threatens millions in investments and hundreds of thousands of livelihoods across both Africa and the United States.

A controversial billboard in Montgomery, Alabama displaying racist blackface imagery alongside Trump's "Make America Great Again" slogan has sparked significant backlash in the community. The display, funded through the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts and created by the artist group For Freedoms, was intended to generate dialogue before an exhibit commemorating the 60th anniversary of Bloody Sunday but instead caused anger and pain. Mayor Steven L. Reed quickly ordered the billboard's removal, calling it a politicized distortion of sacred history, which exposed tensions between city leadership and the museum board who claimed the billboard was erected without their approval. The incident has prompted opposing responses from the Southern Poverty Law Center, which supported the mayor's decision, and the National Coalition Against Censorship, which condemned the removal as government overreach.

A series of violent incidents, including the shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University and a mass shooting at Evergreen High School in Colorado, have reignited discussions about gun violence and political tensions in America. These events prompted heated exchanges in the U.S. House between Democrats calling for gun legislation and Republicans opposing them. The article contextualizes these incidents alongside other political violence, including the assassination of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and the attempted assassination of President Trump in 2024. With 16,000 gun violence deaths in 2024 (excluding suicides) and increasing mass shootings since the federal assault weapons ban expired in 2004, the article highlights the polarized reactions to these tragedies and the difficulty in finding legislative solutions.

Multiple Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) including Spelman, Clark Atlanta, Southern University A&M College, Bethune Cookman, Alabama State, Virginia State, and Hampton University have implemented lockdowns or canceled classes due to credible threats. These security measures were enacted just one day after Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at Utah Valley University, with the suspect still at large. Civil rights leaders including Reverend William Barber, Congresswoman Alma Adams, and Reverend Al Sharpton have expressed concern about the situation, with Barber noting the "dangerous moment in our nation." This incident follows a pattern of threats against HBCUs, similar to the bomb threats that occurred during Black History Month in 2022, which prompted FBI training for these institutions.

Dr. Olumuyiwa Bamgbade, an anesthesiologist who established the Salem Anesthesia Pain Clinic in British Columbia, was acquitted of false sexual assault allegations made by multiple patients after years of legal battles. Despite overwhelming evidence supporting his innocence, including witness testimonies and revelations about the accusers' criminal histories, Dr. Bamgbade faced severe personal and professional consequences due to what he describes as systemic bias in Canada's justice system. The article details how Canadian authorities allegedly mishandled evidence, conducted aggressive police actions against him, and perpetuated media campaigns that damaged his reputation. Dr. Bamgbade, who has worked as a physician across four countries and runs a clinic that serves Medicare patients without out-of-pocket costs, attributes his treatment to racial discrimination against Black professionals in Canada.

South Sudan has repatriated Jesus Munoz-Gutierrez, a Mexican national, back to Mexico after he was deported from the United States to South Sudan in July. Munoz-Gutierrez, who had a conviction for second-degree murder and a life sentence, was one of eight deportees sent to South Sudan, where six others still remain in custody. The repatriation was coordinated between South Sudan's foreign ministry and the Mexican Embassy in Ethiopia, following diplomatic protocols and international law. This case is part of a controversial U.S. practice of deporting migrants to third countries, which has faced opposition from rights groups and legal challenges, though the Supreme Court allowed swift removals to continue in June.

of "Women in Congress Drive Bipartisan Cooperation Across Party Lines" Female lawmakers in Congress are increasingly forming bipartisan coalitions to advance important legislation despite the typically divided political landscape. Recent examples include Republican and Democratic women working together on initiatives to make the House more accommodating for new mothers, pushing to release Jeffrey Epstein case files against party leadership, and collaborating on a resolution for expanded screening of Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS), which can cause pregnancy complications. Though women make up only 28 percent of Congress, these cross-party collaborations demonstrate how female legislators are willing to set aside political differences to address issues they care about, often related to maternal health, transparency, and accountability.

The article discusses the aftermath of conservative activist Charlie Kirk's shooting death at age 31 during a university debate in Utah. Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was known for his provocative conservative Christian views on issues including gun rights, abortion, and transgender rights, which drew both fervent supporters and vocal critics on college campuses nationwide. His sudden violent death has sparked discussions about political violence, with individuals across the political spectrum condemning the shooting while acknowledging their disagreements with his positions. The article explores Kirk's legacy through interviews with supporters who valued his promotion of traditional values and critics who found his debate style and views harmful, particularly to LGBTQ+ communities.

The assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a Utah university has sent shockwaves through the US political landscape, prompting heightened security measures nationwide. President Trump's security team relocated his 9/11 commemoration speech and increased precautions for his planned baseball game attendance at Yankee Stadium. Multiple universities, particularly Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), have faced lockdowns following anonymous threats, while political figures across the spectrum have canceled events or enhanced their personal security arrangements. As authorities continue searching for Kirk's killer, the incident has intensified concerns about political violence, leading to precautionary measures at numerous institutions including the Democratic National Committee headquarters and the US Naval Academy.

Paramount Skydance is reportedly preparing a bid to acquire the entire Warner Brothers Discovery business, leading to a surge in both companies' stock prices. This potential acquisition would combine major media assets including CNN, HBO, CBS, and film studios responsible for franchises like Barbie and Harry Potter. The deal represents further consolidation in the US media industry as companies adapt to the streaming era while facing increased scrutiny from the Trump administration. The potential offer comes shortly after Paramount Skydance's own $8 billion merger was completed, and is backed by significant financial resources from the Ellison family.

A proposed $5 billion data center campus called Brightseat Tech Park at the former Landover Mall site in Prince George's County has sparked significant community opposition due to potential environmental and health concerns. The hyperscale project by Lerner Enterprises would include five facilities spanning 4.1 million square feet and consuming up to 820 megawatts of power. Residents and organizers held a rally outside the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission on September 10 to voice their objections, citing concerns about increased energy consumption, air pollution, and water usage. Critics argue that while such facilities may offer economic benefits, the environmental and community impacts, particularly on marginalized populations, are too severe to justify the project.

Conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at an open-air speaking event at Utah Valley University in Utah, despite having security personnel present who responded immediately following the attack. The shooter fired from a rooftop of a nearby building during the event, which was attended by approximately 3,000 people and had six police officers working security. Security experts have raised questions about the adequacy of safety measures for the outdoor venue, noting that standard indoor security protocols like bag checks and magnetometers weren't utilized, and suggesting that drone surveillance might have helped detect the rooftop threat. Kirk, who had previously reported receiving death threats, was shot in the neck, an area typically not protected by bulletproof vests.

Former Michigan State Senator Adam Hollier announced he's dropping out of the 13th Congressional District race to instead run for Michigan Secretary of State, as revealed in an interview on the Eastside Community Network's Black Detroit Democracy Podcast. Hollier emphasized his goal of protecting voter rights and expanding Michigan's elections, citing his military background and legislative experience as qualifications that distinguish him from other candidates. He discussed his stance on several contentious issues, including declining to call Israel's actions in Gaza a genocide and not committing to refuse corporate PAC money. Hollier previously received over $4 million from AIPAC's United Democracy Project during his 2022 Congressional run against Rep. Shri Thanedar.

Former Detroit mayoral candidate Saunteel Jenkins has endorsed City Council President Mary Sheffield in the upcoming mayoral election, despite their previous contentious primary battle. The endorsement took place at Cody High School beside a tree planted to honor Jenkins' brother who was killed by gun violence, highlighting both candidates' shared commitment to reducing gun violence through youth investment. Jenkins cited Sheffield's potential to become Detroit's first woman mayor, her commitment to public safety, and dedication to education as key reasons for the endorsement. Despite Sheffield expressing interest in having Jenkins join her administration should she win the November 4 election against Rev. Solomon Kinloch Jr., Jenkins indicated she's not currently interested in a cabinet position, stating she's enjoying her free time.

Belarus has released 52 political prisoners as part of a deal with the Trump administration, though over 1,000 remain detained. In exchange, the US is easing sanctions on Belarusian airline Belavia, allowing it to purchase airplane parts. The release comes amid joint Belarus-Russia military exercises that have prompted Poland to close its border with Belarus and Latvia to restrict its airspace. This prisoner release is part of Belarus's efforts to rebuild economic ties with the US after facing Western sanctions for its connection to Russia's war in Ukraine.

The FBI is offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to the identification and arrest of the gunman who fatally shot conservative influencer Charlie Kirk during a speaking event at Utah Valley University. Investigators have released security camera images of a "college age" person of interest and recovered the suspected weapon, a Mauser .30-06 bolt action rifle, along with physical evidence including a palm print. The shooting occurred on Wednesday when Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA, was addressing approximately 3,000 people during an event titled "Prove Me Wrong" and was struck in the neck by a single shot. While Utah Governor Spencer Cox has called it a "political assassination," authorities have not yet determined a motive for the shooting.

The First Annual "Seasoned" Senior Prom was held at the Fourth District Senior Resource Center on September 6, 2025, attracting over 75 guests for an evening of fine dining, music, and dancing. The event featured performances by Larry Streaty with the B-3 Four Band and DJ John Phillips of Golden Voice Productions, creating a nostalgic atmosphere where attendees could reconnect and make new memories. A highlight of the celebration was the King and Queen Coronation Ceremony, where Beverly J. Henry and Nolon Childress were crowned by Superior Court Judge Rod Shelton after competing alongside Naomi Bea and Alford Clairborne. The successful event, which raised funds and awareness for the Center, was made possible through the support of various contributors to the Fourth District Seniors Resource Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Dr. John E. Warren argues that Congress should introduce legislation to remove Robert F. Kennedy Jr. from his position as Secretary of Health and Human Services without President Trump's approval, citing him as a danger to healthcare. Warren suggests using the Discharge Petition mechanism, which would require 218 signatures to force a full House vote, similar to the process used for the Epstein papers. He emphasizes that Kennedy's actions at the CDC are harmful, especially considering the 1.2 million COVID-19 deaths in the US and the proven effectiveness of vaccines. Warren calls on Democrats to introduce similar legislation for all of Trump's actions that violate the Constitution, urging voters to replace representatives who fail to uphold their oath of office.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is experiencing significant disruption following President Trump's dismissal of Director Dr. Susan Monarez, which triggered mass resignations among senior leadership. The agency has been further destabilized by the permanent layoff of 600 employees and the cancellation of hundreds of millions in grants to state and local health departments. These changes have particularly impacted divisions focused on health issues disproportionately affecting Black Americans, including HIV prevention, chronic disease, and environmental safety. The CDC is now led by Jim O'Neill, a venture capitalist with no medical background, raising concerns about the agency's commitment to science-based decision-making and the potential consequences for vulnerable populations.

The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) has relaunched a global news series examining the transatlantic slave trade and its modern implications, with this installment focusing on environmental racism. Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., NNPA president and CEO, coined the term "environmental racism" decades ago to describe the deliberate targeting of minority communities for toxic facilities and their exclusion from environmental policymaking. The article highlights how environmental racism represents a continuation of historical oppression of Black Americans, with studies showing that people of color face significantly higher exposure to air pollutants and related health issues. Despite evidence of these disparities, Trump administration policies have reduced environmental enforcement efforts, particularly in civil rights cases, while environmental organizations continue to lack diversity in leadership positions.

Donald Trump consistently criticizes cities with large minority populations as dangerous despite crime reduction in many areas, most notably Washington, D.C., which recorded the nation's highest murder rate in 2023 at 39 per 100,000 residents. Meanwhile, several Republican-led states including Louisiana, New Mexico, Alabama, Tennessee, and Arkansas have murder rates exceeding 9 per 100,000 residents, yet receive little criticism from Trump. This pattern suggests a political strategy of targeting urban areas with significant Black and Latino populations while ignoring similar or worse crime statistics in Republican strongholds. Critics argue this represents a deliberate scapegoating of minority communities, as data shows states like Illinois (containing Chicago) have lower murder rates than many Republican-governed states that Trump rarely mentions.

James Charles Evers, born in 1922 in Mississippi, was a civil rights leader who fought against racial discrimination and became the first Black mayor of Fayette, Mississippi in 1969 after his brother Medgar's assassination. The United Black Front (UBF), formed in 1968, was a coalition of 50 Black Power organizations that advocated for ending white oppression and gaining political and economic influence, but dissolved in the early 1970s despite its initial power. Godwin Ajala, a Nigerian-born lawyer working as a security guard at the World Trade Center while studying for the New York Bar Exam, heroically helped evacuate thousands from Two World Trade Center during the September 11, 2001 attacks, sacrificing his life at age 33.

Charles Johnson of San Diego, a U.S. Army veteran and retired San Diego Gas & Electric manager, passed away on August 25, 2025, at the age of 84. Born in La Jolla in 1940, Johnson was a dedicated member of the 31st Street Seventh-day Adventist Church and enjoyed a 38-year career before retirement. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mary Caroline, three daughters, seven grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and extended family, while his daughter Tangela Carol and his parents preceded him in death. A Celebration of Life was held on September 8, 2025, at his church followed by interment at Greenwood Cemetery with military honors.

James Carter Sr., born in 1933 in Sedalia, Missouri, passed away on August 9, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to both family and country. After graduating from Hubbard High School in 1951, he served 20 years in the U.S. Navy, during which he married his wife Lemille in 1956, beginning a remarkable 69-year marriage that included raising six children. Following his military retirement in 1972, Carter worked an additional 26 years as a firefighter-paramedic and security guard with General Dynamics in San Diego, where he settled with his family. He was known for his cooking skills, love of the Kansas City Chiefs, and is survived by his wife, most of his children, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family members.