Afro e-Edition 9-4-2026

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Volume 135 No. 5

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SEPTEMBER 5, 2026 - SEPTEMBER 11, 2026

AFRO Photo / Patricia McDougall

His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, 16th Asantehene of Ghana’s Ashanti Kingdom, holds court at the Akwasidae Festival at Bowie State University on Aug. 30, 2026. The Ghanaian King’s visit was part of Millennium Excellence Week America, held to connect members of the African diaspora via cultural events and sessions focused on business and education.

Ghanaian Ashanti King visits D.C., Maryland area for Millennium Excellence Week

By Kendra Bryant Special to the AFRO

His Majesty Asantehene Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II, paramount ruler of Ghana’s Ashanti Kingdom, visited Maryland and Washington,

D.C., as a part of Millennium Excellence Week America, held Aug. 25-30 with a focus on leadership, business and education. His itinerary began Aug. 25, with a lecture on the diaspora at Howard University’s Louis C. Cramton Auditorium. Tutu was accompanied

by the king mother, paramount chiefs, queen mothers and the Paramount Council. The monarch told Howard University students that they and other young people throughout the word “are heirs to a history that contains both extraordinary suffering and

extraordinary achievement.” “You have inherited technological possibilities that earlier generations could scarcely have imagined,” he said. “Within seconds you Continued on A3

The EPA could make it harder to fight polluting data centers As AI development surges, EPA wants to scrap federal public notice-and-comment requirements for some pollution permits By Willy Blackmore Word In Black

Photo courtesy of Eastern Region of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Shown here, Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie (left), former Delta National Chaplain, with Delta’s International President and Chair of Board of Directors, Cheryl W. Turner.

Deltas come together for 55th Eastern Regional Conference From Aug. 27 to Aug. 30 more than 5,000 women of

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (Delta) descended upon Baltimore in their signature

colors of crimson and cream. Read more on A11

afro.com

When news broke that Elon Musk was building a massive AI data center near a historic Black neighborhood in Memphis, the backlash was swift and intense. Activists organized protests, residents packed public hearings to speak out, and environmentalists joined civil rights groups and sued Musk. Now, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) wants to let Musk and other data center developers keep their permit applications for new projects under wraps — even if they might harm air or water quality for local communities. A draft EPA proposal currently under consideration would allow data centers to skip notifying the public when applying for new air pollution permits. It would also exempt developers from a 30-day public comment period before any permit approvals.

Secret permits

If the EPA adopts the proposal, local and state agencies could set pollution standards and issue

The Tri-State Defender / D’Angelo Connell

Shelby County Commissioner Erika Sugarmon (D-Tenn.District 12) expresses concern at an April 30 meeting, noting that turbines used to power the new data center in South Memphis–initially promised as temporary–now seem to be a permanent solution. permits behind closed doors, without public input. That’s bad news for Black communities, which have borne the brunt of the data center construction boom and have used publicly available information to organize opposition. Keri Powell, an attorney who runs the Air Program at the Southern Environmental Law Center, said in a statement that the draft proposal would allow the EPA and potential polluters

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to privately cut deals against the public interest. “Data centers and other industrial sources should not be able to get their air pollution permits in secret,” Powell said. “Communities deserve a chance to weigh in before the government allows a new or expanded industrial facility to increase harmful pollution in the air they breathe.” Continued on A3

A2 The Afro-American September 5, 2026 - September 11, 2026

WHAT’S TRENDING ON AFRO.COM

Jury convicts a man of first-degree murder for the 1996 killing of rap icon Tupac Shakur By Jessica Hill and Jonathan Landrum Jr.

A jury found Duane “Keffe D” Davis guilty of orchestrating the 1996 killing of rap icon Tupac Shakur, finally bringing a measure of resolution to a case that had gripped hip-hop fans and lingered in the public imagination for decades. The 63-year-old Davis was convicted Aug. 31 of a single count of murder with a deadly weapon and could be sentenced to life in prison. The jury deliberated for less than three hours after a weekslong trial in Las Vegas. After the verdict was read, Shakur’s sister, Sekyiwa “Set” Shakur, cried and hugged the prosecutors. Davis’ son covered his face with one hand. Chief Deputy District Attorney Binu Palal told jurors in closing arguments earlier in the day on Aug. 31 that Davis acquired a gun and “went hunting” for Shakur and Death Row Records co-founder Marion “Suge” Knight after the men had beaten up Davis’ nephew earlier that night.

Bizuayehu Tesfaye/Las Vegas Review-Journal via AP, Pool

Duane Davis (right), and his attorney Michael Sanft sit in a courtroom after a jury found Davis guilty of first-degree murder in his trial related to the 1996 killing of rapper Tupac Shakur. “He is responsible of the murder of Tupac Shakur,” Palal said. “Tell him you hear him. Find him guilty.” Prosecutors said that while his story had changed over the years, Davis repeatedly placed himself inside a white Cadillac from which the shots were

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fired. And they said that while he did not pull the trigger, evidence showed he’d called for the gunfire as a powerful gang leader the younger men in the car, including his nephew, were going to listen to. Defense attorney Michael Sanft asked jurors if there was any evidence that Davis had ever called the shots before or after the shooting. The panel of 16 jurors, four of whom are alternates, heard testimony from 24 prosecution witnesses and three defense witnesses over nine days. The prosecution said the state would dismiss a gang enhancement charge due to witness logistics. Prosecutors declined to comment following the verdict, and members of Shakur’s family said they were waiting until sentencing, which is scheduled for October.

The decades-old case has drawn the attention of hip-hop fans and crime experts alike

The trial brought to a head a decades-old case that for years has drawn the attention of hip-hop fans and true crime experts alike. Shakur, who was considered one of the most influential rappers of all time, was in Las Vegas on Sept. 7, 1996, and stopped at a red light when a white Cadillac pulled up beside him, and shots were fired. He died six days later from his wounds. Knight was also wounded but survived.

AP Photo/Frank Wiese

Rapper Tupac Shakur speaks during a voter registration rally in South Central Los Angeles on Aug. 15, 1996, roughly one month before his Sept. 13, 1996 death. For years, nobody had been charged in the rapper’s death until Davis began making public statements, saying he was in the Cadillac and gave the gun to others in the backseat, calling the shooting a retaliation for the earlier beating of his nephew. Davis is the only person still alive among the four men prosecutors say were in the Cadillac. Witnesses described the hostile rivalry between the Los Angeles gang sects Mob Piru and Davis’ Southside Compton Crips leading up to Shakur’s death and how the gangs became affiliated with Knight’s Death Row Records and Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Bad Boy Records.

Defense argued public statements were untrue, and physical evidence was lacking

Sanft, Davis’ attorney, argued there was no physical evidence connecting his client to the shooting. He said the book Davis co-authored and the public statements he made were dramatized bravado designed to make money, not to tell the truth. Throughout the trial, Sanft poked holes in prosecutors’ narrative. He said investigators did not back up the claims made by his client, and he repeatedly pointed out a lack of physical

evidence, such as phone records, that showed Davis was the shot caller. “They have nothing in this case that says that man was here in Las Vegas on Sept. 7, 1996,” Sanft said during his closing argument. In a rebuttal argument, prosecutor Marc DiGiacomo pointed to a scrapbook Davis kept containing articles about Shakur. “This guy’s scrapbooking his murder, for God’s sake,” DiGiacomo told jurors.

Davis’ own words were front and center

Palal held up Davis’ 2019 memoir, “Compton Street Legend,” and played an interview in which Davis encouraged people to buy it to get the “real truth.” Although the book contains a disclaimer saying some facts were changed, prosecutors argued the central account did not. Sanft also turned to his client’s memoir during his closing argument. While reading an excerpt, he said the N-word aloud, prompting people watching in an overflow courtroom to recoil and shake their heads. In multiple interviews, Davis said he handed the gun to the back seat, but in others as well as in his book, Davis wouldn’t say who

pulled the trigger.

Gang and record label rivalries provided the backdrop

While insisting Davis’ words alone were enough to convict him, prosecutors said a gang rivalry helped explain why the shooting happened. Witnesses described the hostile rivalry between the Los Angeles gang sects leading up to Shakur’s death, and how the gangs became affiliated with two rival labels — Mob Piru with Knight’s Death Row Records and the South Side Compton Crips with Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Bad Boy Records. The shooting death of Bad Boy’s the Notorious B.I.G. six months after Shakur came up many times during the trial, with law enforcement witnesses saying Davis was briefly a suspect in that killing before being discounted. That case, which has also been an obsession of hip-hop fans, remains unsolved. This article was originally published by The Associated Press (AP) Landrum Jr. reported from Los Angeles. AP journalists Rio Yamat in Las Vegas and Andrew Dalton in Los Angeles contributed to this report.

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Bizuayehu Tesfaye/Las Vegas Review-Journal via AP, Pool

Friends and family members of rapper Tupac Shakur, including his sister Sekyiwa Shakur (second from left), line up to hug Chief Deputy District Attorney Binu Palal ( right), after a jury found Duane Davis guilty of first-degree murder in his trial related to the 1996 killing of rapper Tupac Shakur, at Clark County District Court Regional Justice Center, Aug. 31, in Las Vegas.

September 5, 2026 - September 11, 2026 The Afro-American A3

EPA Continued from A1 But the EPA says the change is simply meant to cut red tape.

Data center boom

An EPA spokesperson told The New York Times that the proposal would “responsibly speed up permitting, supporting American economic development and energy dominance. Our proposal does not alter emission standards or weaken environmental protections.”

AFRO Photo / Patricia McDougall

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore greets members of the Ghanaian community and other residents attending the Akwasidae Festival 2026 at Bowie State University on Aug. 30, 2026.

Ghana’s King Continued from A1 can connect Accra to Washington, Kumasi with Kinshasa, Lagos with London and Johannesburg with Toronto.” Despite the reach of modern day technology, Tutu emphasized the importance of unity between Africans and African-American culture. “Technological connection is not the same as human unity,” said Tutu. “Unity requires knowledge, trust, discipline and responsibility. Do not allow yourself to define Africa entirely. Do not allow others to define Africa entirely for you. Do not only approach culture through fashion, culture and social media. Heritage requires deeper engagement.” Tutu proposed a partnership between the palace and Howard University to promote what he described as a shared “pursuit of knowledge.” “Let us strengthen the bond between Ghana and the global African diaspora,” he said. “Not merely through ceremonies and declarations, but through scholarship, education, investment, cultural preservation,

service, enterprise, healing and enduring human relationships.” Prince George’s County Executive Aisha N. Braveboy hosted Tutu’s sixth Akwasidae Festival, a sacred royal court ceremony held every six weeks, on Aug. 30 at Bowie State University. The celebration marked the largest Akwasidae Festival in the United States in 161 years. “We are honored to welcome His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II,” said Braveboy in an official statement posted to Instagram. “Hosting this tradition in Prince George’s County strengthens our global relationships and reflects the cultural depth and international connections that continue to elevate our community.” Community leaders, including Gov. Wes Moore and Derrick Johnson, president and CEO of the NAACP, also attended the celebration. “We are here witnessing history,” said Moore during his welcoming speech. “For generations, Akwasidae has brought the Asante peoples together to honor the ancestors, to honor those who came before us, to honor the Golden Stool, and to renew

a sense of unity and togetherness. We’re grateful for your leadership that you’ve shown in the service of peace and education. And we’re grateful for what this moment asks of all of us. A moment that the ancestors fought for, and that they prayed for, and now they are smiling down seeing the realization of their wildest aspirations.” The celebration included performances that included royal traditions such as pageantry, drumming and dancing. Tutu was also presented the governor’s citation honoring his leadership. Ghana’s current population is 35.34 million. According to Neilsberg, the United States is home to approximately 198,320 Ghanaians, representing 0.06 percent of the U.S. population. Maryland has the third-largest Ghanaian population among U.S. states, with many concentrated in Prince George’s and neighboring Montgomery County. “I’m proud that our state is home to over 14,000 people who identify as Ghanaian,” said Moore. “I’m proud that in many ways, Maryland is ‘Little Ghana.’”

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The proposed change would overhaul a 50-year-old rule that requires new industrial facilities like car repair shops, landfills and steel mills — classified as minor polluters — to post a public notice when applying for air pollution permits. It also mandates a 30-day public comment period before any approvals are made or permits issued. The change comes as new data center construction booms, despite becoming a major source of contention with neighboring communities. In many instances, developers want to build gigantic facilities with huge footprints, run with powerful generators that add emissions to areas already struggling with poor air quality.

A4 The Afro-American September 5, 2026 - September 11, 2026

REMEMBERING 9/11

The Day America Will Never Forget

NYPD officers say memories of 9/11 never truly left By Megan Sayles AFRO Staff Writer msayles@afro.com For Ret. New York Police Department (NYPD) Sergeant Gregory Green, Sept. 11 is a day he spent years trying not to remember. He doesn’t watch the annual reading of the names of those killed in the terrorist attacks. He doesn’t attend the ceremonies. Even 25 years later, Green said, the memories are still too painful. He knows that his name could have been among those read aloud. “I have nothing but love for the families and the sacrifice of the ones who died, but it’s so emotional for me,” said Green. “Every year I try to, but I just can’t. ‘Tough guy’ me can do all of this stuff, but when any of that comes on, I turn into a little punk. I can’t watch it only because I know my name could have been called.” For years, Green, a Brooklyn native who spent 28 years with the NYPD, rarely talked about what we saw that day. Then, 20 years later, his son sent him a video Green had never seen before—footage of his father using a bullhorn to urge people away as a building collapsed. Watching it, Green said, brought everything back. Green had been scheduled to work that afternoon, but on the morning of Sept. 11 he was in Coney Island helping with the primary election. When he heard that a plane had struck the World Trade Center, he headed to the NYPD command a few blocks away from the polling place. His lieutenant told him to suit up and gather eight other officers to head to the World Trade Center. Green called his wife to tell her he was headed to Manhattan to respond to what they believed was a plane crash at the time. He—and the rest of the world—would soon discover it was much more. A coordinated terrorist attack was unfolding in multiple cities around the country. American Airlines Flight 11, American Airlines Flight 77, United Airlines Flight 93 and United

Photo courtesy of City of Glenarden

Ret. New York Police Department (NYPD) Sgt. Gregory Green is a survivor of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Green was approaching the World Trade Center when the first tower collapsed.

Glenarden, Md. Police Chief Scott Henderson is a survivor of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Henderson was a police sergeant for the New York Police Department (NYPD) when the tragedy took place.

Airlines Flight 175 were all hijacked with innocent passengers on board. Ultimately, Flight 77 exploded upon impact with the western side of the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. at 9:37 a.m. Flight 93 crashed at 10:03 a.m. in a field in Pennsylvania, after a violent revolt against the terrorists took the hijacked plane off target. But the first hints of danger came from New York. Flight 11 struck the North Tower at 8:46 a.m. As people looked on and news stations began to tune in, Flight 175 flew into the South Tower at 9:03 a.m. “I remember one of the cops said, ‘We’re going to have a lot of overtime, man,’” said Green. “As we got closer, I said, ‘I think this is different guys. This isn’t going to be easy.’ I remember saying a prayer and asking God that we would all get back home safely from this.” After exiting the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel, Green and his team were directed to a muster location before being assigned to evacuating people from One World Trade Center. As they drove down Park Row toward the towers, debris began falling. Green told the driver to turn their vehicle around. “By the time he flipped the van around, I said, ‘Go,” and the white smoke was just coming,” said Green.

“The building was going down.” While fleeing, Green noticed an elderly woman who appeared to be in her late 80s walking with a cane and seemingly unaware of the danger around her. He ordered the driver to stop and jumped out. The woman initially appeared frightened by Green’s attempt to grab her. Just after he identified himself as a police officer and told her to hold onto him, the dust cloud reached them. Once it passed, Green helped the woman back to her building before returning to his team. After the second tower collapsed, Green’s assignment changed from helping evacuate people to searching the wreckage for human remains. He and the other officers sifted through the pile and transported body parts to a temporary morgue. He worked from that morning until roughly 4 a.m. the next day. But while Green was working at Ground Zero, his family had no idea whether he was alive. Green’s cell phone stopped working, leaving his wife with little information beyond knowing that her husband had gone to the World Trade Center. His family spent the day crying in front of the television, not knowing what happened to him. It wasn’t until around 9 p.m. that Green was

Photo courtesy of Gregory Green

AP Photo/Jim Collins

The south tower collapses as smoke billows from both towers of the World Trade Center, in New York, Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2001. In one of the most horrifying attacks ever against the United States, terrorists crashed two airliners into the World Trade Center in a deadly series of blows that brought down the twin 110-story towers. able to find another officer with a working Nextel phone who then called his wife on a landline to tell her that he was safe. As the city rebuilt, Green was assigned to Ground Zero and other recovery locations for roughly six months. In the early days of his assignment, he encountered a former colleague who was working on the mayor’s detail. The colleague gave Green a black mask that members of the detail were using.

Nia Gilliam speaks on aviation journey after 9/11 By D. Kevin McNeir Special to the AFRO On Sept. 11, 2001, Nia Gilliam, the only Black female pilot at her airline, was seated in the cockpit of Delta Connection Flight 6214. With the captain at her side, she prepared to take off from Newark Airport. Gilliam recalls it feeling like any other day and how grateful she was to be living the dream that she’d had since she was 10 years old. “Flying wasn’t just something I’d wanted to do,” Gilliam writes in her recently published memoir, “Cleared for Takeoff.” “It was something I talked about, fantasized about, read about, and wrote about. I breathed it. And in time it became who I was.” Gilliam, currently on a nationwide book tour and a frequently requested speaker, said while it’s been 25 years since the 9/11 tragedy, it wasn’t until 2015 that she was first able to talk about her experiences on that fateful day in an interview. “After having watched a plane slam into the side of the World Trade Center, seeing enormous plumes of smoke rise from both towers, and then being told that we’d been cleared for takeoff, I followed orders and did my job,” Gilliam said. “But my spirit was broken. After we landed in Boston, I didn’t want to ever get on an airplane again.” Gilliam said she’d been so severely traumatized that instead of catching a return flight home, she hitchhiked from Boston back to her hometown,

Photo Courtesy Storehouse Voices

Nia Gilliam shares her journey of fulfilling a lifelong dream to fly and how she rediscovered her passion in the face of the 9/11 tragedy and other forms of adversity in her recently published memoir, “Cleared for Takeoff.” Chicago, Illinois. “Back then, being a pilot was the kind of job where mental health was never discussed,” Gilliam said. “You just didn’t mention flying and mental health awareness in the same sentence as it raised a red flag for your employer. So, I had to carry what I’d experienced with me for a long time until eventually I had to see a therapist.” Gilliam said as the years passed and

Public Domain / U.S. Air Force

Leroy W. Homer Jr., first officer of United Airlines Flight 93, was among those killed on Sept. 11, 2001, when the hijacked plane crashed near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. His legacy continues to inspire efforts to increase opportunities for young people from underrepresented communities in aviation. people paused to remember the events which transpired on 9/11 and to honor the thousands who had been injured or died, she could not muster the strength to revisit that day. “I didn’t have to watch videos about what happened on Sept. 11,” Gilliam said. “I had seen it all with my own eyes. But now, I am finally

fine again. I feel safe.” Shortly after 9/11, Gilliam, while still a pilot, learned she was pregnant. So, not only was she seen as an anomaly because of being a woman – a Black woman at that – but she also bore the distinction of being the first pregnant pilot her airline had ever employed. “There was no such thing as maternity leave nor were there uniforms that would fit as my pregnancy continued,” Gilliam said. “Eventually, I just felt tired – tired of being the first or being the only one.” Fortunately, or perhaps better stated, prophetically, Gilliam met a young woman who was working with the Coast Guard in 2016, who wanted to transition to working as a pilot. The two women hit it off and began to share their stories. They decided to bring women from their own business communities together as a means of encouragement and support. Eventually, those conversations led to the formation of Sisters of the Skies (SOS) which officially became a nonprofit corporation on Nov. 8, 2017. Since then, the organization has taken off, establishing itself as a nationally recognized entity focused on increasing the number of women of color pilots in professional decks in both military and commercial aviation. To date, SOS has given over $1 million in scholarships, provided discovery flights to hundreds of young women, and launched a mentorship program that continues to grow for pilots going through flight training.

Green replaced the thin paper mask he had been wearing with the heavier mask. He now looks back on that mask as a lifeline–especially as he’s watched fellow officers become sick and die from illnesses related to exposure to the disaster sites. “I just thank God,” said Green. “I believe I was saved for some reason or another so I just try to continue doing good work.” Read more on AFRO.com

Lest we forget: Remembering United 93’s Black co-pilot Leroy W. Homer Jr.

Although their numbers were small, there were other Black men and women pilots who were called into duty on 9/11. Sadly, some, like Leroy Wilton Homer Jr., the first officer (co-pilot) of United Airlines Flight 93, lost their lives on that tragic day, doing what they loved most – flying. Homer, born in Plainview, N.Y., Aug. 27, 1965, started his career as a fighter pilot for the armed forces after graduating from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1987. He served as a C-141 pilot, flying missions in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Following active duty, he continued his service in the Air Force Reserve and joined United Airlines as a commercial pilot in 1995. Homer died at the age of 36 when his hijacked airplane crashed in a field near Shanksville, Penn. He was honored posthumously with awards from CORE, SCLC and others for the heroic steps he took along with other crewmembers and passengers to prevent the plane from reaching its intended target, presumably in Washington, D.C. He was also presented with the Congressional Gold Medal and an honorary membership in the Tuskegee Airmen. He was survived by his wife and daughter, Melodie and Laurel Homer, respectively. His wife later established the Leroy W. Homer Jr. Foundation in efforts to help youth from underrepresented communities learn more about aviation and to pursue their interests in the industry. See more on AFRO.com

The opinions on this page are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the AFRO. Send letters to The Afro-American ∙ 233 E. Redwood Street, Suite 600G Baltimore, MD 21202 or fax to 1-877-570-9297 or e-mail to editor@afro.com

September 5, 2026 - September 11, 2026 The Afro-American A5

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A6 The Afro-American September 5, 2026 - September 11, 2026

REMEMBERING 9/11

The Day America Will Never Forget

9/11 first responders reflect on the fight for health protections By Victoria Mejicanos AFRO Staff Writer vmejicanos@afro.com More than two decades after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001 first responders are still living with health issues connected to the rescue, recovery and cleanup that followed. Thousands of firefighters, police officers, other emergency personnel and even correctional officers spent months working in the toxic debris left behind after passenger planes slammed into the tallest buildings of the World Trade Center complex, the Pentagon and in Shanksville, Pa. Though they bravely showed up for the nation, the favor was not returned as first responders began developing chronic disease over time. Tyson Jones and Elias Husamudeen were among the corrections officers who responded in New York and eventually advocated in the nation’s capital for legislation to help those sickened with an array of diseases. Both described it as a long and arduous process. Husamudeen said it was a struggle for authorities to acknowledge that there were toxins in the air and water, and health and financial support came long after. Today, the World Trade Center Health Program provides medical monitoring and treatment at no cost for 9/11-related conditions. The program was created through the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010, after former President Obama signed it into law in 2011. The program has been extended to 2090 after continued

Tyson Jones

Mark Mack (left) a member of the Correction Officers Benevolent Association (COBA) stands next to Tyson Jones in front of the Capitol in 2019 after advocating for an extension to the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act. advocacy from first responders. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the program currently serves 125,000 Sept. 11 responders and survivors from the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon, Shanksville, Pa., and other related sites. James Zadroga was a New York cop who, according to information released by his attorneys, “served more than 450 hours at Ground Zero during rescue and cleanup operations.”A chronic cough soon developed, followed by breathing trouble, acid reflux and frequent headaches. “In 2002, James reported his injury to the NYPD, but his claim was denied. He continued to report for duty, but within months was bedridden and reliant on an oxygen tank to breathe. Despite the continued deterioration of his health, doctors were unable to effectively diagnose

or treat his condition,” say Barasch and McGarry attorneys, who took on Zadroga’s case. “While he eventually did qualify for disability pension payments, the loss of income led to financial strains. In 2003, he was finally diagnosed with Black Lung Disease. He passed away in 2006 at the age of 34, leaving behind a 4-year-old daughter.” In the moments, hours and days after the attacks, more than just police, firefighters and EMS personnel responded. Hundreds of emergency service workers and officers from Riker’s Island responded immediately to the attacks. Husamudeen said correctional officers played a key, but often overlooked role. At the time, they were some of the only first responders who did not lose communication with each other. This made it possible for them to set up

Courtesy of Elias Husamudeen

Elias Husamudeen advocates for the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act on Capitol Hill. and lead operations at a temporary morgue at Bellevue Hospital and aid with cleanup in the months that followed. Husamudeen didn’t need much convincing when it came to advocating for the bill. “It wasn’t a hard stretch to get involved because eventually, my guys started getting sick,” he said. “We started losing active members who served down at the morgue and who served at the cleanup spot.” For Jones, it was a matter of being visible and acting in solidarity. “It was important that Washington, D.C., see members–especially members of color–participating in that fight, and it was constant,” said Jones. “It was a very long, drawnout battle. We had to keep knocking on doors, having conversations with

people, telling our stories, getting them just to see and understand some of the things that we’ve gone through.” Both men described watching friends succumb to their injuries over the decades. Jones described a fellow advocate who had a stroke and has been in a coma for a month. Husamudeen simply said, “Unfortunately, every time I turn around, there is a funeral.” Jones said that although the country is at a point where younger people may not remember the attacks, it is still important to educate them on what happened that clear, beautiful Tuesday morning. “I would ask the newer generations to take a look at these things, because history is really, really important,” he said For Husamudeen, who is Muslim, the Sept. 11 attacks carried personal fears for his family as anti-Muslim sentiment spread immediately afterward. Still, he hopes the younger generation understands the sacrifice of first responders and that Americans from many backgrounds responded together in a moment of crisis. “America is genuinely what they call ‘the melting pot,’” said Husamudeen. “We have Muslims and Christians and Jews and every other nationality that makes this country work.” Even after years of advocacy and seeing federal protections strengthened, Husamudeen said the work will not end. ‘It’s going to be an ongoing fight,” he said. “People like myself and others, we may be okay today, and not okay tomorrow.”

SPONSORED CONTENT

A Century of Black History: ASALH Brings Its 111th Annual Conference to Norfolk SPONSORED CONTENT For more than a century, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) has worked to ensure that Black history is not simply remembered, but researched, taught, preserved and passed from one generation to the next. This September, that mission takes on renewed significance.

From September 23–27, 2026, historians, educators, students, community leaders, authors, researchers and advocates from across the country will gather in Norfolk, Virginia, for ASALH’s 111th Annual Meeting and Conference. This year’s theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” recognizes a remarkable milestone in the movement to establish Black history as an essential part of the American story. The conference comes 100 years after ASALH founder Dr. Carter G. Woodson launched Negro History Week in 1926—an observance that would eventually grow into what millions now celebrate as Black History Month. But the 2026 conference is about more than looking backward.

It is also about asking what the preservation and teaching of Black history will require in the years ahead. History, Memory and the Power of Storytelling

Founded in 1915 by Woodson and others, ASALH has spent more than a century advancing the study and appreciation of African American history. The organization describes its mission as creating and disseminating knowledge about Black history while connecting scholarship with the broader public. That connection between history and community remains at the heart of the annual conference.

The 2026 gathering will explore the importance of storytelling, memory and history while examining both the successes and challenges involved in institutionalizing the teaching and commemoration of the Black experience.

Those conversations carry particular weight at a time when communities across the nation are debating how American history should be taught, which books should be available to students and how the experiences of African Americans should be represented in classrooms and public institutions. ASALH’s answer has remained remarkably consistent across generations: Black history deserves to be researched, documented, taught and preserved. More Than a Conference

The annual gathering has grown into one of the nation’s important convenings focused on the history and culture of people of African descent.

More than 1,000 participants traditionally come together for an experience that extends beyond academic presentations. Conference programming includes scholarly sessions, professional workshops, plenaries, a film festival and other presentations examining Black history, life and culture.

The diversity of participants is equally important. Educators and scholars share space with students, community builders, business professionals and people who simply understand the importance of knowing the history that shaped their families and communities. That creates opportunities not only to learn, but also to connect across generations and disciplines.

For emerging scholars and students, the conference provides an opportunity to encounter new research and engage established voices in the field. For educators, it offers scholarship and perspectives that can strengthen the teaching of African American history. For community organizations and professionals, it provides a national network committed to preserving stories that might otherwise be overlooked. And for families and individuals, it reinforces something Woodson understood generations ago: knowing our history can shape how we understand ourselves and our possibilities. The Next Century Begins Now

The centennial of Black history commemorations provides an opportunity to celebrate extraordinary progress. What began as Negro History Week has become part of American culture and has inspired Black history observances around the world. Yet anniversaries are not only occasions for celebration. They are opportunities for recommitment. The question facing this generation is not simply what happened during the past century. It is what we will preserve, teach and build during the next one.

In Norfolk this September, ASALH will bring together people committed to answering that question.

One hundred years after Woodson helped create a national movement for the recognition of Black history, his work continues—and the responsibility for carrying it forward belongs to all of us. The ASALH 111th Annual Meeting and Conference takes place September 23–27, 2026, in Norfolk, Virginia. Learn more about conference programming, registration and participation at the official ASALH conference website.

September 5, 2026 - September 11, 2026 The Afro-American A7

Older Black adults face disproportionate overdose risk despite statewide decline By Victoria Mejicanos AFRO Staff Writer vmejicanos@afro.com Although overdose deaths have significantly decreased in Maryland, adults 55 and older experience the highest rates of death related to opioid use, according to available state data, with Black men four times more likely to die of an overdose death than their White counterparts. “When people think about overdose in Baltimore, they think about Penn North, but when overdose deaths happen, people are dying at home,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott in an interview with the AFRO. “Older Black men are dying at home— and that’s something we shouldn’t accept.” Advocates and leaders say reaching older adults requires meeting seniors where they are, such as churches and senior living facilities, which leads to sustained trust within a community that has been historically excluded from resources. “Our response to overdoses is not simply about city government,” said Scott. “It’s about a whole community approach. There are so many

Courtesy photo

Marcus Webster is the program manager for the Maryland Office of Overdose Response and a longtime advocate in the substance use and recovery space. community partners that have been doing great work and we have to help them expand it. But we also have to continue to tear down the stigma related to overdoses in our community so that people understand that people do not have to die.” LeadingAge Maryland is

an association of 150 nonprofit aging services providers. They run the Energize, Quality of Life, Uplift, Integrate, and Promote, or EQUIP, program bringing harm reduction naloxone training, low barrier access to treatment and peer recovery specialists across

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senior living homes in West Baltimore. According to Michelle Dubé, grant project coordinator at LeadingAge Maryland, it can be difficult to balance multiple medications or deal with duplicate prescriptions as a senior citizen with limited education or training. “Something as simple as older adults not understanding their medications and how the pharmacy works, can cause issues,” Dubé said. “A lot of the medicines they may be taking–and the new ones that they’re prescribed– can overlap, it’s hard to fish through that if you don’t have that background, education or training.” Data shared with the AFRO by LeadingAge Maryland revealed that prior to EQUIP training, less than half of residents and staff had heard of naloxone. After training, 100 percent of residents reported better understanding of opioids, and 100 percent of residents reported feeling more comfortable recognizing and responding to an overdose. Marcus Webster, the program manager for the Maryland Office of Overdose Response, said at both the

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rates decrease, there is still a disparity among older Black Continued on A8

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A8 The Afro-American September 5, 2026 - September 11, 2026

NAVIGATING SENIOR LIVING:

Cost, culture and care shape difficult choices By Victoria Mejicanos Special to the AFRO vmejicanos@afro.com As costs rise and people age, families face difficult decisions about long-term care, including whether seniors continue to age at home. Although senior living can prevent isolation, finances and cultural expectations can make the transition difficult. Experts who spoke with the AFRO say that planning and a clear understanding of options can make the transition easier.

What is the difference between senior living, assisted living and a nursing home?

Dr. Donna Benton, the director of the USC Family Caregiver Support Center (FCSC), said it’s important to know the different senior living options such as independent senior living communities, assisted living and nursing homes. Benton explained that independent living is essentially age-restricted housing that offers socialization, community and security. Independent living communities are usually for people who do not require around-the-clock medical care or daily assistance to enjoy a full life. The set up allows senior citizens to live in a community with others that are in the same

age group, with activities geared towards senior citizens. Assisted living is a step above. “When you get to assisted living, that’s usually because someone needs some level of care that can’t be provided by the usual family or friends. They want a consistent way of having somebody who can help them monitor their health,” said Benton, who described assisted living as an in-between phase before someone is nursing home eligible. Nursing homes are the highest form of care, often becoming necessary after hospitalization or when more intensive medical care is needed. According to a news analysis by the Associated Press and CNHI, “Black people are underrepresented in residential care communities nationally by nearly 50 [percent].” The analysis noted that they are underrepresented in assisted living facilities, but overrepresented in nursing homes. Benton also noted that assisted living and nursing homes are often built outside Black neighborhoods, meaning a resident may have to move to an entirely new community.

Costs

While prices vary depending on location and needs of seniors, according to A Place for Mom, a company that helps families find senior living options, the national median cost of assisted living is $5,419 per month, with Maryland being above the median at $6,690. Aside from costs, earlier parts of the application process can also be tiring for potential residents, said Paige Hayes, director of Caritas House Assisted Living. “It is a barrier,” said Hayes. “I try to fill out what I can, but for the most part, it is information that the family should know as it relates to the resident. It’s a lot about their income and things like that. I answer what I can, but it is a very cumbersome, lengthy process.” Caritas House is a part of Catholic Charities’ offerings for low-income seniors. Hayes said income eligibility is a frequent source of confusion. Many seniors receive both Social Security and other benefits, such as those from the Department of Veterans Affairs, which can push them over Medicaid’s asset limits. Families often question why they must forgo benefits they earned to qualify for assistance, but Hayes

noted those rules are set by Medicaid—not facilities like Caritas House.

Stigma and misconceptions

Cost and paperwork are only part of the challenge when it comes to housing options for senior citizens. Cultural stigma and misconceptions about senior living can also make the transition difficult for many families. Benton noted that in communities of color, there is an expectation to care for the elderly as long as possible. “When you look at Black, Brown communities and Asian communities, there’s more of an expectation that you are going to care for your relative …there’s not even a thought to placement,” said Benton, noting that there’s “a lot of shame and guilt associated with [that decision].” Additionally, she noted how stories of abuse and neglect in senior living communities can influence placement decisions. There’s also an added layer of anxiety for members of the Black community, who Benton said have possibly experienced a lifetime of discrimination. “You don’t need to, in your older years, move into something that’s going to be even worse for your quality of life and abusive,” said Benton. “There is a lot of fear … . People are really afraid of abuse and neglect.”

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them is the change and being able to come from living on your own to feeling like they’re in a community,” said Evans. “Sometimes it takes a little while for them to adapt, some a little bit longer. But for the most part, once they’re here, they start to make friends and start to socialize, and that’s the biggest advantage of living in a senior development.” Diamond Moore, the resident services compliance coordinator of Senior Communities at Catholic Charities Senior Services, said that seniors transitioning from living on their own to independent living communities for seniors sometimes struggle to abide by rules that are often for the general health and safety of other residents. “I think a lot of times, seniors have a misconception that this is their home, but there are certain things that are not going to be feasible or acceptable in senior housing,” said Moore. Hayes said another common misconception is that senior living facilities provide one-on-one care as part of standard services. In reality, communities can offer 24-hour supervision, but individualized constant care is not included and must be typically arranged and paid for privately by the families.

Solutions and planning ahead All experts interviewed by

the AFRO said the most important step families can take is having conversations about living arrangements early, before a crisis forces decisions. Evans shared that it’s important to include empathy and care when approaching conversations about senior living options with the elders in their families. “People take for granted their feelings, and saying ‘it’s time’ is the first mistake,” said Evans. She said rather than presenting it as a loss, it is better to present it as a chance to improve quality of life. Benton noted that families should know these transitions don’t always have to be permanent. She explained that short-term stays, such as after hospitalization, can provide time to plan next steps, with residents returning home with the proper support in place. She compared choosing the right facility to buying a car, adding that visiting the different options ahead of time and looking at staffing, researching who owns the facility and the ratings of the facilities can help families make more informed decisions about where their loved ones should live. Ultimately, although disparities can make the transition into senior living difficult, with the proper research, planning and empathetic conversations with their loved ones, families can make the process more manageable.

Overdose Continued from A7

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For Kia Evans, a property manager of Senior Communities at Catholic Charities Senior Services, it’s difficult to get seniors into the homes initially because of the downsizing and period of transition that is required. “The biggest challenge for

Photo courtesy of Nappy.co

As costs rise and care needs increase, families face difficult decisions about whether older adults should remain at home or transition into senior living.

adults, and programs need continued sustainable funding. “What draws us together is a common goal,” said Webster. “The ultimate goal is to prevent loss of life, and that’s what doesn’t discriminate, and we’re only going to be able to do that if we’re continuing to speak to the issues while overdoses are down.”

Unsplash/Olga Delawrence

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September 5, 2026 - September 11, 2026 The Afro-American A9

BALTIMORE AREA

Photo courtesy of Arena Players

Arena Players is the oldest continuously-operating African-American community theater in the country. After over 70 seasons, the Baltimore theater is undergoing a revamp.

Arena Players begins major renovation Shown here, Shajuan Finney (left), of Finn Design House; Larian Finney, executive producer of Baltimore MET Gala; Shelonda Stokes, president of Downtown Partnership of Baltimore; designer Jody Davis, of Jody Davis Designs, and Kevin Scott, owner of Benedetto Haberdashery.

Baltimore MET Gala celebrates five years of fashion, art, cuisine and culture By Ericka Alston Buck Special to the AFRO Feathers, furs, trains, sequins and unapologetic glamour filled The Hall at Live! Casino and Hotel Maryland Aug. 29 as the Baltimore MET Gala (BMG) celebrated its fifth anniversary with “Mahogany: A Tribute to Diana Ross.” Every era of Diana seemed to find its way onto that runway, with nods to the polished glamour of The Supremes, the high-fashion fantasy of “Mahogany,” the free-flowing drama of Ross in the 1970s and the largerthan-life diva who made enormous hair, sequins, feathers and unapologetic Continued on A10

Lee and Wesley

Darin Atwater displays his craft on piano in public for the first time since having major hand surgery.

Baltimore Baby Fund heads to voters in November By Megan Sayles AFRO Staff Writer msayles@afro.com This November, Baltimore City voters will decide whether to create a new fund intended to strengthen the economic stability of families with newborns. Spearheaded by the Maryland Child Alliance, the Baltimore Baby Fund is described as an “anti-poverty movement” that would provide financial support to newborns and their parents. Under the proposed charter amendment, the fund would be included in the city’s budget and receive an annual allocation of $0.03 for every $100 in taxable property value across Baltimore. “The Baltimore Baby Fund is a way to create support for families when they need it most. We all know it’s expensive to have a baby,” said Julia Ellis, co-founder of the Baltimore Baby Fund Movement. “We all hope that this is one more tool in families’ toolkits to support their families and help their

Nappy.com / alyssasieb

children be the best they can be.” Getting the Baltimore Baby Fund on the ballot is the culmination of several years of work by the Maryland Child Alliance, a grassroots advocacy organization formed by public school teachers. The initiative was previously known as the Baltimore Baby Bonus and launched in 2023. It sought to amend the Baltimore City Charter to not only create a fund but also mandate onetime $1,000 cash payments to eligible families.

After pushback and litigation from the Mayor’s Office and the Baltimore City Council, the Maryland Supreme Court deemed the proposal unconstitutional, ruling that the $1,000 payments could not be required through a charter amendment. As a result, it ultimately did not make the 2024 ballot. Rather than stop its work, the Maryland Child Alliance regrouped and devised the Baltimore Baby Fund in 2024. The revised proposal creates the fund but leaves its implementation and

disbursement process to the mayor and city council. This time around, Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott made his support for the initiative known, issuing a joint statement with the campaign’s leader on Aug. 14. “Mayor Scott has always been supportive of the policy ideas driving the Baltimore Baby Fund campaign and, now with the necessary adjustments made in the 2026 version, is eager to move it forward,” read the joint statement. Scott views the fund as a natural progression of his guaranteed income pilot known as the Baltimore Young Families Success Fund, which provided monthly payments of $1,000 to 200 parents between the ages of 18 and 24 from August 2022 to August 2024. “Mayor Scott and the Baltimore Baby Fund campaign look forward to working together in the months ahead to earn voters’ support and, Continued on A10

By Ericka Alston Buck Special to the AFRO For more than seven decades, generations of Baltimore actors, directors, playwrights and audiences have passed through Arena Players, a theater born at a time when Black performers had few places where they could fully tell their own stories. Now, one of Baltimore’s most enduring cultural institutions is preparing for perhaps its biggest transformation yet. On Aug. 24, contractors officially entered Arena Players’ longtime home at 801 McCulloh St. to begin the first phase of a multimillion-dollar renovation designed to modernize the historic theater while positioning it to serve another generation of artists and audiences. Founded in 1953, Arena Players is recognized as the nation’s oldest continuously operating African-American community theater. Created by a small group of Black actors seeking opportunities beyond the stereotypical roles routinely available to them during segregation, the company eventually established its permanent home in Baltimore’s Seton Hill community. Arena Players has occupied its McCulloh Street building since 1961 and purchased it in 1969. That history makes the renovation particularly significant. The theater has not undergone a comprehensive renovation since the 1970s, although improvements were made to its second and third floors in 1981 and 1982. Some of its current seats were acquired decades ago from Baltimore’s former Morris A. Mechanic Theatre, a building that itself has since been demolished. Phase one carries a current price tag of approximately $8.47 million and will completely remake the theater’s first floor. Plans include a new stage, new lighting and technology, a redesigned lobby, improved accessibility and larger, more comfortable seating. The theater’s capacity is

2

Past 7 days

expected to shift from roughly 300 to about 275 seats as part of the redesign. The project goes well beyond aesthetics. The auditorium floor will be re-sloped to make navigating the theater easier, particularly for patrons using wheelchairs. Significant ADA accessibility improvements are planned, along with improvements to the building envelope and a more efficient HVAC system. The lobby will gain additional windows, creating a more visible connection between Arena Players and the surrounding neighborhood. The idea is to allow people passing along McCulloh Street to see activity inside a theater that has long functioned as a community gathering place as much as a performance venue. Behind the scenes, an existing open fly space stretching between floors will be closed. That change is expected to reduce heating and cooling loss, improve acoustics and create additional usable space on the upper floors. Better acoustics could also expand Arena Players’ ability to host musicians and other performances beyond traditional theater. For a largely volunteer run organization with an annual operating budget of less than $300,000, those efficiencies matter. Arena Players has long been charged with producing at least six plays annually while providing year-round youth programming for more than 60 young people. The theater also provides opportunities for new playwrights and emerging performers. The renovation has been years in the making. Arena Players secured a major boost in 2023 when U.S. Sens. Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and U.S. Rep. Kweisi Mfume helped secure $4 million in federal funding for the project. State investment has also played a substantial role, including earlier Maryland capital bond funding and additional support in the FY2027 budget. Continued on A10

72 2026 Total as of 9/2

A10 The Afro-American September 5, 2026 - September 11, 2026

Gala

Sean Thomas Taylor (left), designer for the House of Taylor Ro.; Kiri Alston, the 2026 face of the Baltimore MET Gala and Felicia Wilson, designer for MsFeeTheMadam, share a moment at the 2026 Baltimore MET Gala.

Executive Producer Derrick Chase (left) and Sheree Chase arrive in style.

an homage to the evolution of the BMG, reflecting on the gala’s growth since its 2022 debut. The evening also had another surprise. Composer, conductor and pianist Darin Atwater performed a live medley of Diana Ross’ music, marking his first performance since having a second hand surgery– this time, a cervical fusion UCL– just a few months ago in April 2026. When told that his performance was flawless, Atwater said, “ That means, everything to me, I’ve worked so hard to get back.” As Atwater played, Kiri Alston, the 2026 face of the Baltimore MET Gala, walked the runway. Alston is no stranger to BMG, having modeled in previous years. This year she was selected as the face of the fifth-anniversary campaign. She was styled and designed by the creative team of Alter Ego by MsFeeTheMadam and

Taylor Ron’ette, of Taylor Ro.

including events like the Baltimore MET Gala. “We celebrate community, we celebrate culture and we celebrate impact,” Draper said. “We look for occasions like the Met Gala so we can lift that up for the community.” As the night went on, visual artist Demont “Peekaso” Pinder received the IMPACT Culture Award for a body of work that has made him one of the recognizable figures in Baltimore’s visual arts community. His influence extends beyond creating art to bringing greater attention to the city’s artists and creative culture. The Art ICON Award went to Nancy Blackwell, founder and owner of Quid Nunc Art Gallery. Blackwell doesn’t simply display art; she creates opportunities for artists to be seen. That role was visible throughout the gala, where she also curated Statement 2026, placing Baltimore-area

artists and live painting inside the experience. Kevin Scott, owner of Benedetto Haberdashery, received the Fashion ICON Award. Scott’s journey from selling suits out of the trunk of his car to establishing Benedetto as a destination for luxury menswear and personal styling is a Baltimore entrepreneurial story in itself. Baltimore artist Brandon “Bleecasso” Lee received the Unsung ICON Award, recognizing a creative whose work and influence deserve a larger spotlight. Food earned its place among the arts as well. Ashlee Mack and Adeirdra Campbell, owners of Yeiboh Kitchen, received the Culinary ICON Award. Their Maryland Avenue restaurant blends American and Southern influences with Asian and Caribbean flavors and was voted Best Brunch in Baltimore Magazine’s 2026 Readers’ Poll. The gala’s commitment to community impact was represented by Choo Smith Youth Empowerment Inc., the 2026 beneficiary. Founded by Baltimore native and former Harlem Globetrotter Charles “Choo” Smith, the organization uses mentorship, education, workforce development and sportsbased programming to create opportunities for young people and families, extending Smith’s impact well beyond the basketball court. Together, the honorees and the work represented by this year’s beneficiary,

Private and philanthropic supporters include the Abell Foundation, Maryland State Arts Council, Middendorf

Foundation and France-Merrick Foundation. Michaela Gramelis, project manager and fundraising

consultant for the renovation, said Arena Players had already secured $5.6 million in government funding before she joined the effort last year. Her work has focused on helping close the remaining gap so the organization could complete the renovation it envisioned rather than simply settling for what existing funds could cover. That support, she said, reflects growing recognition of what Arena Players has contributed to Baltimore. As a small, primarily volunteer organization, Gramelis said, Arena Players has not always had the capacity to promote its own accomplishments to the philanthropic community. Once its needs were put before funders, however, support followed. The investment could have a measurable impact. Maryland’s 2026 capital-project documents estimate that Arena Players currently serves about 3,120 audience members annually and projects that figure could rise to approximately 4,440 following completion of the project. For Baltimore, that means the renovation represents more than better seats and new lights.

Arena Players has historically been a place where Black performers could experiment, learn and work when other stages offered few opportunities. Its history includes artists such as Tony Award-winning actor André De Shields, while its Youtheatre program has spent decades introducing Baltimore children to acting, dance, music and production. Catherine Orange, Arena Players’ operations manager and Youtheatre director, has been part of that history since 1972. Orange said the first phase is expected to take approximately seven months, with hopes of returning to the building around April 2027 and resuming performances shortly afterward. Board Chairman Larry Young, the former Maryland senator who has led the board for seven years, described the renovation as something the theater could no longer postpone. “We’re going to be second to none in terms of everything we need in that theater, and we’re excited about it,” Young said. Phase one is only the beginning.

Continued from A9 glamour part of her visual language. The designers didn’t simply send clothes down the runway; they interpreted an icon. Some looks whispered the Diana reference while others practically screamed it. There were dramatic silhouettes, unexpected details, bold tailoring and pieces designed for one purpose: to make an entrance. At the end of the night it was clear–Baltimore understood the assignment. Five years in, the gala has become more than a fashionable night out. It is a platform where Baltimore’s designers, artists, culinary creators and cultural leaders occupy the same space and where guests become part of the creativity. For first-time attendee Jonelle Eppes the experience left her wondering what she had been missing. “I couldn’t believe I had missed this for the past four years,” she said. “It was incredible. From the fashion and atmosphere to all of the creativity in the room, I kept wondering how I hadn’t experienced it before. I definitely won’t miss another one.” The space, curated and transformed by Shajuan Finney of The Finn Design House, set the tone, creating an immersive backdrop for the Purple Carpet, art, food and runway experiences.

‘Mahogany’ comes to life The program opened with

Renovation Continued from A9

Honoring Baltimore’s culture keepers

Next came the 2026 Culture Awards, giving some of the evening’s biggest flowers to people already doing the work of shaping Baltimore culture. Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, chairman and publisher of AFRO News, was recognized for the newspaper’s longstanding role in documenting Black life, culture and achievement, with the Media ICON Award. Draper reflected on the legacy of her great-grandfather, AFRO founder John H. Murphy Sr., who launched the publication with $200 in venture capital from his wife, Martha Elizabeth Howard Murphy. More than a century later, Draper said that mission continues through the AFRO’s coverage of the people, institutions and cultural moments shaping Black communities,

A Plan to Reconnect Communities

WEST BALTIMORE UNITED Stay informed. See the ideas. Share your thoughts. The Baltimore City Department of Transportation (BCDOT) and the Maryland Transit Administration have been listening to the community’s ideas for reconnecting West Baltimore. Based on your feedback, we created early ideas to improve the area around the “Highway to Nowhere.” Join us on Thursday, September 10, from 6:00 P.M.–9:00 P.M. at the Poppleton Recreation Center to see the ideas and share what you think.

AT THE MEETING YOU CAN: LEARN how community ideas could help your neighborhood or business.

SEE ways to make walking and public transit easier and safer.

EXPLORE ways to celebrate local history and create more opportunities for the community.

PUBLIC MEETING SEPTEMBER 10, 2026

THURSDAY, 6:00 P.M.-9:00 P.M. POPPLETON RECREATION CENTER 1049 W. Saratoga St., Baltimore, MD 21223 PLEASE PLAN TO ARRIVE ON TIME. A short presentation kicks off promptly to introduce the concepts* *Late arrivals are welcome

CAN’T ATTEND IN PERSON? To join this meeting virtually: • WebEx Link: bit.ly/4wOgOwk • Access code: 2348 062 3074 • Password: jGAyS9Zyf36 LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED. ACCESSIBLE BY CITYLINK BUSES: LocalLink 80 and CityLink Navy. GET RESOURCES. We’ve invited team members from the City of Baltimore and community organizations to share related information and resources with you.

SCAN THE QR CODE For more information on the West Baltimore United project, visit the website: bit.ly/4uvSXkU

Accommodations needed? We value inclusion and access for all meeting participants! If you require accommodations, please contact us at least 48 hours prior to the meeting at Transportation@baltimorecity.gov or 410-361-9720

Baby Fund Continued from A9

if the initiative passes, outline a program that gives Baltimore’s babies and families the strongest possible start,” the joint statement continued. The ballot initiative has also drawn support from community members, like Crystal Parker. A Rosemont resident, mother and grandmother, Parker believes the fund can especially benefit parents who experience adverse social determinants of health. According to the Baltimore Neighborhood Indicators Alliance, 25.5 percent of children live below the poverty line in

Photo courtesy of Crystal Parker

Crystal Parker is a West Baltimore resident and a supporter of the Baltimore Baby Fund, which will head to the ballot this November. The fund would provide financial support to families with newborns if approved by voters. the city, with the greatest percentages in predominantly Black neighborhoods such

demonstrated just how broad the definition of culture and community impact can, and should, be.

Future work is planned for the second and third floors, which currently contain dressing rooms, bathrooms, a dance studio, music room and spaces used for youth instruction. The largely open third floor could eventually become another performance and gathering space. Infrastructural work being completed during phase one is designed to make those later renovations possible without tearing into the newly completed first floor. The entire multi-phase renovation is expected to exceed $12 million, according to Orange. When the doors reopen, longtime theatergoers will still be walking into the Arena Players they remember but with a more comfortable, accessible and technically capable theater around them. New audiences will encounter a historic Black cultural institution equipped to compete for performers, productions and patrons in a modern arts landscape. For a theater created in 1953 because Black artists needed a stage of their own, that may be the most important part of the renovation: Arena Players is not simply preserving its past-it is building a stage for its future.

Five years and still elevating

Produced by LaRian Finney of The Finn Group and Derrick Chase of Chase Executive Holdings, BMG has welcomed more than 4,000 guests and showcased more than 100 designers, artists and culinary professionals over five years. For Finney, reaching the five-year mark reflects the collective effort behind the gala and sets the stage for its continued growth. “Year five has been the ultimate team effort,” Finney said. “I am thankful to the BMG team, the designers and models, the artists and the culinary curators for their commitment to excellence and great execution. This was my favorite BMG, and I look forward to strengthening more corporate and group collaborations for 2027.” This year’s signature experiences included Statement 2026, A Taste of the MET and The Runway. And when it came to the runway, the designers understood the assignment, too. Curated by Lana Rae of It’s Lana Rae, the fashion experience featured Bruklin Bespoke, Corjor International, Kavin Todd Fashion, Stanlion, Be Made, Shop The Runway and Shicka by Melike. See more on AFRO.com

as Oldtown, Middle East, Upton and Druid Heights. “It will show them that someone cares,” said Parker. “It takes away that extra step of trying to navigate and worry about some basic needs, and it helps them feel like they have a good start.” If approved, Parker emphasized that the city must make a concerted effort to ensure families across Baltimore know about the fund and can access it, regardless of where they live. “A lot of times when something is put out, zip codes don’t get the information equally,” said Parker. “We have to make sure we are campaigning around this information and access and eliminating all barriers.”

A11 The Afro-American September 5, 2026 - September 11, 2026

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. concludes 55th Eastern Regional Conference with Baltimore Honors By Kendra Bryant Special to the AFRO Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (Delta) closed out its 55th Eastern Regional Conference with the Aug. 30 Baltimore Honors ceremony, which recognized the work of community leaders, at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor. Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, who serves as president and general secretary of the National Council of Churches, was one of several awardees at the Baltimore Honors. McKenzie, national chaplain emerita of the sorority, was recognized for her 40 years of service to the organization in that role. “You carried us through moments when our nation was hurting, when our communities were grieving and when individual sorors needed the assurance that somebody was calling their name before God you’re there,” said Cheryl W. Turner, international president of Delta Sigma Theta, of McKenzie. “May this honor represent the generation of women whose faith has been strengthened because of you.” The conference brought thousands of Delta women to Charm City from Aug. 27 to Aug. 30 to learn, fellowship, network and handle sorority business. It was preceded by the organization’s Aug. 26 Impact Day, which focused on maternal and children health crises. McKenzie is the granddaughter of Vashti Turley Murphy, one of the 22 founders of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She shares cousins, nieces and daughters who are a part of the Delta legacy, including her cousin, Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, AFRO publisher and CEO. McKenzie was presented with the Living Legacy Award by Eastern Regional Director Marie-Carmel Durandisse Pressley, along with a stole commemorating her time as chaplain. “It seemed like only yesterday when the telephone call came with the invitation to be the national chaplain,” said McKenzie. “God and I had a conversation and the Lord said, it was you who was invited to the temple, so you are the one who has to go.” The ceremony was hosted by Rev. Gwendolyn Boyd, who served as the sorority’s 22nd national president from 2000 to 2004. In total, 28 chapter presidents were in attendance. Award recipients were selected by members of Delta’s board under the sorority’s Five-Point Programmatic Thrust, which includes economic development, educational development, international awareness and involvement, physical and mental health and political awareness and involvement. Recipients included Esther Armstrong, founder of Sankofa Children’s Museum of African Cultures and Ernestine Jones Jolivet, an advocate for Alzheimer’s disease awareness and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Jolivet founded the Pythias A. and Virginia I. Jones African American Community Forum on Memory Loss with her sister, former Maryland Sen. Verna Jones Rodwell after their parents were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. “God took our family’s pain, turned it into a purpose and then gave us a plan,” said Jolivet. “That began our journey with

Photo courtesy of the Eastern Region of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Baltimore Honors award recipients include Robert Turner, pastor of Empowerment Temple A.M.E. Church (left); Esther Armstrong, founder of Sankofa Children’s Museum of African Cultures; (Delta) Ernestine Jones Jolivet, brain and mental health advocate; Sen. Antonio (D-District 40); (Delta) Vashti Murphy McKenzie, president and general secretary of the National Council of Churches of Christ; and Dr. Anthony Jenkins, Coppin State University president.

Photo courtesy of BMORE News / Doni Glover

The women of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. gather for the 55th Eastern Regional Conference inside of the Baltimore Convention Center. physical and mental health awareness.” Jolivet encouraged attendees to learn more about warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease and local organizations and programs available to provide assistance to caregivers. Other honorees, all members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., included Maryland Sen. Antonio Hayes (D- District 40) for economic development; Robert Turner, pastor of Empowerment Temple A.M.E Church, for political awareness and involvement; and Dr. Anthony Jenkins, president of Coppin State University, for educational advancement.

“For the young man who grew up on the south side of Washington, D.C., one of four children, raised by a single mother … there were a lot of people who counted me out, naysayers and cynical people,” said Jenkins. “There were also a lot of people who counted out Coppin State University.” Today, Coppin State University is Greater Baltimore’s fastest-growing college with enrollment of 1,500 freshmen in fall 2026. The university is also the No. 1 historically Black college and university (HBCU) for male enrollment growth and retention. “When people say that they’re giving up

Photo courtesy of BMORE News / Doni Glover

Chrissy Thornton, president and CEO of Associated Black Charities, shares a moment with Baltimore County Councilman Julian Jones (D-District 4) and Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, AFRO Publisher and CEO.

AFRO Photo / Kendra Bryant

Jina Pierre (left) is overwhelmed by the support and love shown at the community baby shower. Shown here, Pierre, with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. member Stephanie Ransom. on something, I don’t know what they’re talking about,” said Jenkins. “As long as I have my faculty, staff, students and incredible organizations like Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. standing behind me and Coppin, the sky is the limit.” The awards were sponsored by Baltimore Alumnae Chapter, Baltimore County Alumnae Chapter and Baltimore Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

AFRO Photo / Kendra Bryant Photo courtesy of the Eastern Region of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, walks to the podium to receive the Living Legacy Award at the Baltimore Honors on Aug. 30.

Nayda Dutchin (left), Gen Leake and Katrina Cousins, team members of ShareBaby, a local diaper bank, partner with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for their Impact Day in Baltimore.

To purchase this digital photo page or photos contact editor@afro.com

September 5, 2026 - September 11, 2026 The Afro-American A12

WASHINGTON AREA

Prince George’s parents voice school transportation concerns at County Council listening session By Dr. Deborah Bailey AFRO Contributing Editor

AP Photo

Rev. Al Sharpton, founder of the National Action Network, makes his way from the Lincoln Memorial to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial on the 63rd anniversary of the 1963 March on Washington.

March on Washington anniversary draws calls to defend the vote By D. Kevin McNeir Special to the AFRO While the crowd paled in comparison to the record number of Americans who, in 1963, heeded the call of the “Drum Major for Peace” in support of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, those who attended the 63rd anniversary of the historic civil rights protest on Aug. 28, were anything but quiet. Hosted by the National Action Network and the Drum Major Institute, under the leadership of the Rev. Al Sharpton and Martin Luther King III, respectively, this year’s march served as a clarion call for Americans to

“We may get tired but we cannot rest. Not if we hope to progress as a nation.” — Marc Morial, NUL President and CEO defend voting rights, protect civil rights and advance economic justice. In addition to Sharpton and King, other leaders from some of the nation’s most influential civil rights, faith and labor organizations, as well as several elected officials hammered home the message that while voting rights have recently come

under attack, citizens must not give up. National Urban League President/CEO Marc Morial spoke with the AFRO on the eve of the event and provided his insights on what’s at stake. “We’re here to issue a call to action so people understand that they must cast their vote in the midterms

if they want to see things change from the direction in which America is headed,” Morial said. “The pain, suffering, stagnant economy, low job growth and the rise in unemployment, including 600,000 Black women, are all related to the 2024 election. It’s not the business cycle that caused these problems – it’s the choices made by the 47th president. “In 1963, we were making demands to the entire nation. But today we’re facing a deliberate assault on our civil rights by an administration that has attacked and is threatening all of the gains we made 63 years ago.” Continued on A13

Widespread frustration regarding the PGCPS transportation crisis reached a boiling point during a recent summer listening session conducted by the Prince George’s County Council. During the Aug. 26 summer listening session hosted by Prince George’s County chair Krystal Oriadha (District 7) and Vice Chair Eric C. Olsen (District 3), several parents, grandparents and community members used the open-mic agenda session to express concern over school system buses that left 10,000 students

without transportation on the first day of school, Aug. 25. Thousands of students remained without transportation to and from school throughout the week. Prince George’s County resident Taylor McCullom came to Chillum’s Rollingcrest Community Center to voice her concern over the PGCPS transportation system. “10,000 children without transportation to school in Prince George’s County. But somehow this isn’t the Council’s issue or responsibility?” asked McCollum, commenting on the transportation Continued on A13

Photo courtesy of Prince George’s County Council

Prince George’s County Council Vice Chair Eric C. Olsen and Chair Krystal Oriadha address residents at an Aug. 25 county-wide listening session. Several residents expressed concern over transportation problems plaguing the county’s public schools throughout the first week of school.

Some D.C. residents say 250th anniversary events are more disruption than celebration By Myla S. Roundy

under the impression that their government doesn’t work for them, that adults do not listen to them. We wanted to change that narrative.” The AFRO asked Felder if his office will take into account and use youth input from the event in the future. “I will say that as a fairly young council member–not too much older than they are–I was once in their shoes. I think about some of the things that I heard today, and that really drives my work,” said Felder. “The information that was provided today will go into shaping

Some Washington, D.C., residents say they have come to expect disruptions to their daily lives — commuting to work, running errands and even enjoying a quiet home — as events continue in celebration of the country’s 250th birthday. Still, they want the city and U.S. government to do more to make their lives easier. Multiple large-scale events taking place this summer on and near the National Mall, including the Great American State Fair, the UFC fight and, most recently, the Grand Prix in association with Freedom 250, brought attendees from all across the country, which disturbed plans of those who live or work in the nation’s capital. Allison Richardson, a D.C. resident of nine years, said she has experienced flight disruptions like no other this summer. The worst, she said, was near the Fourth of July. While visiting family in Michigan, she was informed all flights were cancelled

Continued on A13

Continued on A13

Gene A. Lambey

Ward 7 Councilmember Wendell Felder hosted a youth town hall event to engage with the youth of Wards 7 and 8 on community issues and how to improve them.

Ward 7 Councilmember Felder hosts youth town hall event By Gene A. Lambey Special to the AFRO Washington, D.C.’s Ward 7 Councilmember Wendell Felder held a youth town hall event at the Boys and Girls Club at 4103 Benning Road NE. The event drew roughly 100 attendees, with youths ranging from elementary to high school and college students making up a third of the crowd. The purpose of the event was to get youth engagement from Ward 7 and Ward 8 to hear what matters to them the most as the new school year starts up. The moderator for the event, Councilman Felder’s

Chief of Staff Dr. Delia Houseal, asked the youth and the attendees questions for their discussion tables on what issues needed to be addressed. Topics included transportation, career opportunities, safety, housing and health care. Youth attendees also wanted to discuss a push for career opportunities and development. “It is no better feeling than to have a group of young folks wrapping up the summer, going into the school year and sharing some of the things that are important to them,” said Felder. “Today was so important because oftentimes our young folks are

Myla S. Roundy/HU News Service

The Freedom 250 Grand Prix takes place on Aug. 22 and 23 near the National Mall.

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September 5, 2026 - September 11, 2026 The Afro-American A13

250th Anniversary Continued from A12 when she was supposed to return to D.C. “I had to completely reroute my plans,” Richardson said, causing her to end her trip two days earlier than planned. “The airline did not contact us and tell us that there would not be any flights. … I was told by someone who works on the Hill.” Freedom 250 flyovers caused that disruption. Flights in and out of Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport were suspended on July 3 and 4 for the actual event and rehearsals. Living downtown, disruptions from large-scale events are quite common, said Thomas Lee, commissioner of the Advisory Neighborhood Commission 2C03, which represents residents in Penn Quarter and near the National Mall. He compares some of them to the same disturbances that occur during protests, festivals and even presidential inaugurations. “People just know to monitor [and] figure out when the games or concerts will occur. And if they need to exit the building or come home, … they take those things into account,” Lee said, who lives a block away from the Capital One Arena. On Saturday, Aug. 22, the first day of the Grand Prix, at least 15 Metro Bus routes were impacted and on detour, according to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). For these routes, the earliest detour alert began on Aug. 1 and the latest is expected to extend to Sept. 15. On average, these 15 routes have over 53,000 people board each day of the week, according to the most recent data available from WMATA. WMATA declined an interview to explain how it is navigating changes brought on by Freedom 250 events and instead referred to a press release outlining service information and bus detours in anticipation of the Grand Prix. The transit system also recommended customers use Metro Pulse for real-time information. The National Mall Coalition, a D.C.based nonprofit, is dedicated to amplifying the public’s voice in decision-making centered around the National Mall. Chair of the board, Judy Scott Feldman, Ph.D, has studied the city’s architecture and history for over 30 years. Scott Feldman acknowledges that the Mall is used as a place of celebration and camaraderie, but she doesn’t see how these events fit into a celebratory narrative. “Explain to me how a car race represents the national interest and how it celebrates our 250th anniversary, or how a

Photo courtesy of Prince George’s County Council Myla S. Roundy/HU News Service

A sign details the near month-long bus route changes due to the Freedom 250 Grand Prix at the bus stop at 11th and G Streets Northwest. wrestling or fight match represents [us],” she said. Richardson, who works in financial technology and lives in Capitol Hill, said that in preparation for disruptions caused by the Grand Prix, her job gave employees the option to work from home for the latter half of the week. She accepted the offer. Growing up, Lee lived a mile and a half away from the location which hosted the annual Grand Prix in Quebec, Canada. He remembers how loud it was even with the distance. “You could definitely hear it — as if there was a drag race down the block,” he said. In preparation for the event, Lee purchased 1,000 earplugs to distribute to the 10 buildings within his single-member district. “If you’re bothered by noise, try to escape downtown,” Lee said he told his neighbors. “Escape the city if you can; take a day trip. Don’t hang around downtown.” Lee said he paid $65 for the earplugs, an approved purchase by the Office of Advisory Neighborhood Commissions, due to him fulfilling a need that was not addressed by the city. However, due to the road closures, the package was not able to be delivered before the event and Lee could not distribute them to residents. He said he will be returning the earplugs. Richardson and Lee both said communication is one of the top issues. Although large-scale events may be inevitable due to the nature of the city, more can be done to keep the dDistrict informed, they said. Lee said he appreciates notices from places including the Executive Office of the Mayor and WMATA, but those resources are limited because individuals have to opt in personally to receive them.

He also said the notices are sometimes confusing to understand. “It’s just a big long list of street names, and it’s hard to see quickly,” he said. He wants to see more visual maps that are color-coded and easy to understand at a glance. Scott Feldman said the best bet to see change that is truly in the public interest is for entities, including Congress and the National Park Service, to step in and hold the presidential administration accountable. “But that’s not happening,” she said. “We’re really at a loss and people can protest [but] the strongest thing we have right now is lawsuits, because the last refuge of the law is to go to the courts.” A spokesperson for the National Park Service declined an interview but issued a statement to HU News Service. “The National Mall is both a nationally significant civic space and a valued public park for D.C. residents, and we recognize that large-scale events can create temporary impacts on access, pedestrian activity, park operations and landscaping,” said the statement. “Throughout Freedom 250 activities, partners have worked closely with the National Park Service to minimize those impacts.” Representatives from the Executive Office of the Mayor or Freedom 250 did not respond to multiple requests for comment. Myla S. Roundy is a reporter for HUNewsService.com and the managing editor of The Hilltop at Howard University. This article was originally published by Howard News Service.

resident from Ward 7, attended the event to hear the youth engagement as well as a word from Councilman Felder. She emphasized on the importance of youth gaining practical career experience. “I am glad to see the young people who sit on the shoulders of others,” said Morgan. “As far as education is concerned, all children are not college-bound. We need to have programs so that when they finish school, they have training. This is what we need. That’s the only way we’re going to survive as Black people.” Additionally, Morgan stated the importance of educating D.C. youth on the country’s history as well as understanding the voting process.

“We need to look at what is going on in this country. We need to educate our children about voting and so forth. The first time they ever had a [presidential election] vote in this city was in 1964. I went out to vote,” said Morgan. “They need to bring cursive back into the schools because these children cannot read the document that freed my great-great grandparents. They can’t read it ‘cause they took those things out.” Morgan said she would like to see more youth town hall meetings from Councilman Felder.

Youth Town Hall Continued from A12 my youth legislative priorities and our budget priorities.” Khalil Lyons, a 2027 rising senior at IDEA Public Charter School, spoke to the AFRO on Councilman Felder’s town hall event and what he would like to see from the incoming mayor. “I think it was a great opportunity for us to be active in our community,” said Lyons. “Ward 7 and Ward 8 are the two wards that are in survival mode. There are a lot of things going on in these wards that need to be seen out there. Shoutout Mute the Violence DC. Support the youth.” Barbara D. Morgan, a 93-year old

Read more on AFRO.com

Prince George’s County resident and parent Taylor McCullom addresses County Council members on Aug. 25 at a listening session held at Chillum’s Rollingcrest Community Center. McCullom and other parents expressed frustration about transportation problems plaguing the county’s public school system.

County Council listening session Continued from A12 problems plaguing more than 13 percent of the county’s 131,000 students on the first day of school. Problems started when thousands of students still had not been assigned bus routes by the first day of school. By the end of the week, thousands still didn’t have assigned routes, making parents or guardians responsible for getting children to school. Some were not picked up at all, and many more who were picked up arrived home hours later than scheduled. McCollum and other parents told council members the PGCPS transportation problems are not new. “Last school year wasn’t amazing either,” McCollum continued. “My daughter’s bus wouldn’t show up at all some days. Working-class parents can’t afford a system that is broken like this.” McCollum told AFRO News that she eventually pulled her child out of public school due to transportation conflicts with PGCPS. “We are losing people who would normally drive these school buses,” said Angela Frazier, who also spoke during the Chillum County Council listening session. She said that she has witnessed long-standing transportation problems with PGCPS that extend throughout the year. Oriadha admitted the County Council has sought to hold PGCPS accountable for school transportation problems on numerous occasions. “This is an issue that the council has really pushed the school system on,” she said, adding that the council has consistently asked, “What’s their status, what are they doing to recruit more bus drivers, do they have alternate plans?” Oriadha said PGCPS “is

dealing with a few issues” regarding the school transportation system, including applicants’ ability to pass background checks, and competition from other higher-paying school and municipal systems for drivers. “This has been a top priority for us that we bring up every single budget cycle, that we bring up throughout the year at hearings,” Oriadha said. Oriadha explained to constituents gathered at the listening session that while the county council approves PGCPS’ budget, council control over specific operational issues is limited. “We do not have the authority to do line-item amendments. When it comes to the school system, we can make recommendations, we can push, we can advocate, but only the school board can ‘line-item’ decide how to spend the money,” she said. PGCPS Superintendent Shawn Joseph accepted responsibility for the transportation snafus that disrupted the start of school across the county. He also admitted the transportation problem has plagued the system for numerous years. A new transportation app called Chipmunk contributed to a backlog in creating bus routes for all PGCPS students by the first day of school. A PGCPS team worked through the weekend to ensure every student’s bus route was identified. But Joseph could not guarantee all transportation issues would be resolved by early September. Additional steps are needed to ensure student bus routes are appropriately assigned. “This wasn’t just an app problem,” Joseph said, at PGCPS’s first board meeting of the 2026-2027 school year held Thursday, Aug. 27. “It was a leadership failure, and I’ll own that,”

March on Washington Continued from A12 Morial said Blacks must be diligent, remain hopeful and never forget that our civil rights are never guaranteed. “Some Black people feel betrayed, others are dejected. They thought the fight was over after we elected a Black president and saw so many Blacks elected as mayors or as members of Congress. Today’s younger generation didn’t have to fight like we did. They’ve been able to walk through doors that we helped to open and tear down,” he said. “Those who know history, remember the backlash Blacks endured after Reconstruction,” he continued. “We’re facing similar challenges again. And as we’ve done before, we will face these challenges together and devise a new set of strategies. We may get tired but we cannot rest. Not if we hope to progress as a nation.”

Black youth have their say

Young African Americans showed up in admirable numbers for the march – some waving signs, others holding large banners or sporting college gear. But all were eager to share their thoughts and express their optimism. Three youth from New Orleans, visiting a colleague in Baltimore, agreed that it’s time for today’s leaders to make room for them at the table and allow them to contribute their views, skills, and to help shape the future. “I’m here to support democracy and to let our leaders know that we want to participate in the fight for equal rights and to ensure that our voting rights are not stripped away. The world would be a better place if young people were encouraged to engage with our elders,” said Zion Crawford, 17. History Ecclesiastes, 17, said he’s tired of feeling like his opinions don’t matter.

“It’s hard to be heard when so many people think young people don’t care about serious matters, but we do – I do,” he said. “A lot of my friends are already looking at the future, plotting out paths to success and following the examples of successful, older people. People often forget – we are the future.” Derwin Joseph, 25, said he was excited to participate in his first march. He’s concerned about the divisions in America. “I hate to admit that it does feel like we’re moving backwards and not forward,” he said. “Racism is certainly alive and well. It’s way too loud so no one is listening to each other. Some Blacks who have made it don’t seem interested in being part of this movement. But we need everybody. This is serious.” As for the trio’s Baltimore-based friend, she said she attended the march because of that inner voice within her.

AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib

Demonstrators listen to speakers during the March on Washington, near the Lincoln Memorial, Aug. 28, in Washington, D.C. “My spirit told me I needed to be here and I trust my spirit,” said Mekaiya Burton, 22. “The Black community needs to be more willing to help one another – to show real love and concern. The kind of support that I’ve heard older people call southern hospitality.” Lauren Thomas, 18, a freshman at Howard University, and a member of

Howard’s NAN youth chapter, said she, along with about a dozen classmates, came out to defend the vote. “I am here to use my voice and to be an advocate for others who could not get here,” Thomas said. “I plan to major in political science and want to be a lawyer one day. So this is good practice and experience for the kinds of things I’ll be doing one day.”

A14 The Afro-American September 5, 2026 - September 11, 2026

Voting rights takes centerstage at 2026 March on Washington By AFRO Staff The 63rd anniversary of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom took place on Aug. 28. Decades ago the demonstration of 250,000 was instrumental in growing public support for the passage of both the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting Rights Act. This year, National Action Network (NAN) and the Drum Major Institute hosted the event, with a focus on the fight to protect voting rights. Organizers welcomed a few thousand attendees to honor the legacy

of King and the original marchers, while also calling attention to King’s unrealized dream of true “full and equal citizenship.” Speakers for the day included Rev. Al Sharpton, founder of NAN, National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial and other national leaders. After gathering at the Lincoln Memorial, protestors marched to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, led by the martyred activist’s descendants, Sharpton and others who continue the fight for civil and human rights.

AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson

Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley (left), president and chief executive officer of the National Council of Negro Women; Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s granddaughter Yolanda Renee King (second from left) and her parents, Martin Luther King III (back) and Arndrea Waters King, president of the Drum Major Institute, join Rev. Al Sharpton, Spike Lee and other activists as they walk from the Lincoln Memorial to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial during the March on Washington, Aug. 28, 2026. AFRO Photo/ Ronald Christian

Brittany Centeno (left), Darius Green and Sravya G. stand in solidarity.

AFRO Photo/ Ronald Christian AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta

AFRO Photo/ Ronald Christian

Shown here, Jay (left) and Jax Briley.

Martin Luther King III, speaks during the March on Washington rally at the Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall, Aug. 28, 2026, in Washington, D.C.

Howard students Bethany Tiruneh (left) and Olivia Carter represent the Howard Univesity Section of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and the National Council of Negro Women.

AFRO Photo/ Ronald Christian

Noble Roderick Adams (left), Noble Adams and Les Walker Sr. serve refreshments to marchers.

AFRO Photo/ Ronald Christian

Sophie Mohamed (left), Christina Astrid Sime, Lindsay Johnson and Kennedy Ross, represent the many volunteers on hand to assist event staff and protestors.

AFRO Photo/ Ronald Christian

Victoria Paul, with Lawyers Committed for Civil Rights Under Law, attends the 2026 March on Washington with a message.

AFRO Photo/ Ronald Christian

Volunteer Linda Fennell (right) engages protesters, such as Rommel Sandino, of Common Cause.

AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais

Workers install bulletproof glass around the podium at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington ahead of the anniversary of the March on Washington, Aug. 27, 2026.

AFRO Photo/ Ronald Christian

The crowd moves toward the spot where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech in front of the Lincoln Memorial during the 1963 March on Washington.

To purchase this digital photo page or photos contact editor@afro.com

documents, including plans and designs for tap installation, dewatering, recharge of pipelines, and emergency repairs based on inspection findings. The firm must be capable of preparing bidready contract documents, including plans, specifications, cost estimates, schedules, and other supporting materials—necessary for the procurement of construction contractor services 5, related to - September 11, 2026 September 2026 planned water system rehabilitation and replacements. 5. Expertise in developing inventory and geographical information system (GIS) layers and databases for water assets to document asset location and inspection findings, and any pipe rehabilitations based on findings. 6. Expertise and capacity to provide permanent monitoring systems for watermains, including installation, operation, maintenance of advance event notification, and management of the Acoustic Fiber Optic (AFO) in water mains to manage real time wire breaks and alerts in order to avoid any catastrophic breaks on the water mains. 7. Experience in public relations & outreach, permitting requirements & processing, coordination & compliance with Federal, State and Local regulations and agencies during all project phases. 8. Experience in developing and managing an overall contract team with both and Women Business Enterprises. Effective immediately, The Afro American Newspapers will require prepayment for Minority publication of all legal notices Payment will be

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REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL - PROJECT NO. 1422 WATER MAIN CONDITION ASSESSMENT, ANALYSIS AND LONG TERM MONITORING The City of Baltimore Office of Engineering and Construction (OEC) has been authorized to request the Office of Boards and Commissions (OBC) to advertise Project 1422 for the selected services for the City of Baltimore from qualified Engineering firms. The City intends to select the services of one (1) firm for a period of five (5) years, with options to extend for five (5) additional one (1) year terms at the City’s discretion, for an initial fee not to exceed $14,000,000 for the selected firm. The Office of Engineering and Construction (OEC) reserves the right to have a second interview with eligible consulting firms. DPW encourages all contracting firms that have the experience and capacity to work on this scope to submit their proposals. All firms must demonstrate and document their capacity and resources to deliver the required services on time. Projects must comply with the 2006 edition of “The Specifications for Materials, Highways, Bridges, Utilities and Incidental Structures” and the latest technical specifications provided by DPW. City personnel will utilize the City of Baltimore Guidelines for the Performance Evaluation of Design Consultants and Construction Contractors for this contract/project. Should you have any questions regarding the scope of the Project, please contact Mr. Harpreet Singh at (410) 396-0009 or by e-mail at Harpreet.Singh@baltimorecity.gov Introduction The City of Baltimore’s Department of Public Works (DPW) is seeking an engineering firm specializing in water pipeline condition assessment, remaining service life analysis, and long-term monitoring for watermains in the Baltimore Metropolitan area. These transmission and distribution mains consist mostly of Pre-stressed Concrete Cylinder Pipe (PCCP), Reinforced Concrete Cylinder Pipe (RCCP), ferrous mains (e.g. cast iron, ductile iron, and steel pipes), and raw water brick / bedrock / concrete supply tunnels. While the focus of the project will be on mains larger than 20 inches in diameter, the City may seek services for small diameter mains if needed. The City is taking a more strategic approach—one that goes beyond technical solutions to also consider operations, long-term financial planning, and affordability for residents. Through this contract, DPW seeks a multidisciplinary engineering program management team to assist with: 1. Planning and performing condition assessments using various inservice and out-of-service tools. 2. Managing day-to-day program tasks and supporting coordination with the Bureau of Water and Wastewater. 3. Providing strategic planning for recommended rehabilitation, ongoing maintenance, and asset replacement, and leveraging expertise in regulatory compliance, workforce and capital planning, and system performance. The selected team will work as an extension of DPW staff and must bring both technical and operational tools and expertise. DPW reserves the right to adjust the scope based on cost, consultant qualifications, schedule, M/WBE participation, and overall performance. The firms / teams interested in providing these services must demonstrate and document experience in the following: 1. Expertise and capacity to provide condition assessment and inspection of watermains 20 inches in diameter and greater, utilizing manned resources for visual and sounding inspection, and multi-sensor tools designed to operate effectively under various operating conditions, including under pressurized conditions, such as Smartball for leak detection and Pipediver, Robotics, Pipewalker for electromagnetic inspections of the PCCP, and Pipediver Ultra for metallic mains, and / or comparative technologies from other vendors such as Hydromax, Insight, and PICA. The firm must also have experience with forensics, pipe wall thickness and remaining useful life analysis of pipelines, and disinfection and chlorination of water mains based on AWWA standards in order to avoid any contamination of the potable water system following inspections. 2. Expertise and capacity to provide condition assessment and inspection of City’s raw water supply tunnels (using multi sensor specialized Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) that bring water to Treatment plants covering long distances upwards of 10 miles, to map and identify any issues such as rockfall, cracks, debris, etc. 3. Expertise and experience in Risk-Based Prioritization / Reprioritization to consolidate all inspection findings into a risk framework to identify high-priority assets for maintenance or capital improvements. This includes assigning criticality, assessing operational impacts, and supporting CIP/O&M decision-making. 4. Expertise and capacity to develop expedited construction-ready documents, including plans and designs for tap installation, dewatering, recharge of pipelines, and emergency repairs based on inspection findings. The firm must be capable of preparing bidready contract documents, including plans, specifications, cost estimates, schedules, and other supporting materials—necessary for the procurement of construction contractor services related to planned water system rehabilitation and replacements. 5. Expertise in developing inventory and geographical information system (GIS) layers and databases for water assets to document asset location and inspection findings, and any pipe rehabilitations based on findings. 6. Expertise and capacity to provide permanent monitoring systems for watermains, including installation, operation, maintenance of advance event notification, and management of the Acoustic Fiber Optic (AFO) in water mains to manage real time wire breaks and alerts in order to avoid any catastrophic breaks on the water mains. 7. Experience in public relations & outreach, permitting requirements & processing, coordination & compliance with Federal, State and Local regulations and agencies during all project phases. 8. Experience in developing and managing an overall contract team with both Minority and Women Business Enterprises. Given that a significant portion of the work involves field activities related to the condition assessment of large-diameter water pipes, DPW requires firms to propose teams with the necessary expertise and capacity to perform highly specialized inspection, assessment, and analysis services as required by the project scope. Key Personnel The key personnel shall include but not be limited to the following. •

Project Manager: The Project Manager shall serve as the primary point of contact and lead for all programmatic activities under this contract. This individual must possess a minimum of five

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Project Manager: The Project Manager shall serve as the primary point of contact and lead for all programmatic activities under this contract. This individual must possess a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in managing programs, capital improvement initiatives, and strategic planning efforts within a public water and/or wastewater utility. The Project Manager must hold a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field from an ABET-accredited college or university. A Professional Engineer (P.E.) license in the State of Maryland is required. The Project Manager must be capable of coordinating with all stakeholders to ensure that work is completed in accordance with project specifications, schedule, and budget. Senior Project Engineer: Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field from an ABET-accredited college or university, with experience in water and/or wastewater utility inspection and/ or rehabilitation operations. Experience preparing concept design proposals and managing inspection contracts is preferred. Must be capable of coordinating with all stakeholders to ensure that work is completed in accordance with project specifications. Data Manager: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field from an ABET-accredited college or university, and a minimum of five (5) years of experience organizing, managing, and analyzing complex datasets. Experience with data trend analysis and working with GIS platforms such as Esri ArcGIS Pro is required.

Submittal Process Each Firm responding to this Request for Proposal (RFP) Project #1422 is required to complete and submit an original Standard Federal Form (SF) 255 unless otherwise specified in this RFP. Provide one (1) original submittal, along with five (5) additional copies to the Office of Boards and Commissions at 4 South Frederick Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 on or prior to the due date by NOON Friday November 6, 2026. Submittals will not be accepted after the due date (NOON) and cannot be emailed. The Federal Standard Form (SF) 255 cannot be supplemented with additional pages, or additional information such as graphs, photographs, organization chart, etc. All such information should be incorporated into the appropriate pages. Applications should not be bound; simply stapled in the upper left-hand corner. Cover sheets should not be included. Inclusion and/or submittal of additional material may result in the applicant being disqualified from consideration for this project. Firms interested in submitting a proposal for this Project, shall address a “Letter of Interest” to the Office of Boards and Commissions, or you may email: OBC.consultants@baltimorecity.gov. Letters of Interest will be utilized to assist small minority and women business enterprises in identifying potential teaming partners and should be submitted within five (5) days of the date of the project’s advertisement. The Letter of Interest must provide the name and number of your firms contact person. Failure to submit a “Letter of Interest” will not disqualify a firm submitting a proposal for the project. Only individual firms (including, for example, individuals, sole proprietorships, corporations, limited liability companies, limited liability partnerships, and general partnerships) or formal Joint Venture (JV) may apply. Two firms may not apply jointly unless they have formed a joint venture. COSTS OF RFP RESPONSE There will be no payment or compensation provided to firms who desire to participate in any part of the submission. All expenses related to the preparation of a response, including additional requested information, interviews, and any other necessary information, will be the sole responsibility of the firm. The City, its staff, or its representatives will not be responsible for reimbursing any costs or expenses incurred as a result of providing a submission to this RFP. MBE/WBE Requirements – Mayor’s Office (SMBA&D) It is the policy of the City of Baltimore Mayor’s Office of Small and Minority Business Advocacy & Development (SMBA&D) to promote equal business opportunity in the City’s contracting process. Pursuant to Article 5, Subtitle 28 of Baltimore City Code (2000 Edition) – Minority and Women’s Business Program, Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) participation goals apply to this contract. The MBE goal is 7 % The WBE goal is 3 % Both the proposed Minority and Women’s Business Enterprise firms must be named and identified as an MBE or WBE within Item 6 of the Standard Form (SF) 255 in the spaces provided for identifying outside key consultants/associates anticipated for utilization for this project. Any submittals that do not include the proper MBE/WBE (in some instances DBE) participation will be disapproved for further consideration for this project. Verifying Certification Each firm submitting a SF 255 for consideration for a project is responsible for verifying that all MBEs and WBEs to be utilized on the project are certified by the SMBA&D prior to submitting the proposal. A directory of certified MBEs and WBEs is available from SMBA&D. Since changes to the directory occur daily, firms submitting SF 255s should call SMBA&D at (410) 396-3818 to verify certification, expiration dates and services that the MBE or WBE is certified to provide.

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vendors. The Local Hiring Law applies to every contract for more than $300,000 made by the City, or on its behalf, with any person. It also applies to every agreement authorizing assistance valued at more than $5,000,000 to a City-subsidized project. Please visit www.oedworks. com for details on the requirements of the law. Additional Information Any firm submitting a SF255 in response to the RFP that fails to comply with the requirements of Article 5, Subtitle 28 of Baltimore City Code when executing a contract is subject to the following penalties: suspension of a contract; withholding of funds; nullification of contract based on material breach; disqualification as a consultant from eligibility to provide services to the City for a period not to exceed 2 years; and payment for damages incurred by the City. A resume for each person listed as key personnel and/or specialist, including those from MBE and WBE must be shown on the page provided within the application. Please be advised that for the purpose of reviewing price proposals and invoices, the City of Baltimore defines a principal of a firm as follows: A principal is any individual owning 5% or more of the outstanding stock of an entity, a partner of a partnership, a 5% or more shareholder of a sub-chapter ‘S’ Corporation, or an individual owner. Out-of-State Corporations must identify their corporate resident agent within the application. Firms providing a SF255 in response to this RFP who do not follow the guidelines within this RFP including being prequalified, meeting SMBA&D goals at the time of the submittal due date will be deemed nonresponsive. Failure to follow any of the guidelines of this advertisement will cause disqualification of the submittal. and will disqualify the entire team for further participation in the project. Deena Joyce, Executive Secretary Chief, Office of Boards and Commissions Issue of: 9/4/2026 The Afro-American The Baltimore Sun The Baltimore Times The Daily Record eMaryland Marketplace CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC MEETING FOR TR 24303 W. North Avenue Pedestrian Project To educate the community and receive public comments on the repair and restoration of the aging infrastructure within the commercial corridor. The scope of work for rehabilitation includes but is not limited to sidewalk reconstruction, curb and gutter repairs, adding an updating existing streetlights, traffic signal upgrades, and landscaping. Resurfacing and restriping the roadway to increase pedestrian safety. The scope of work will start at 500 block of W. North Avenue at Mt. Royal Avenue to the 3200 block of W. North Avenue at Hilton Street. The meeting will take place on Thursday, September 24, 2026 6:00-7:30 PM Enoch Pratt Free Library Walbrook Branch 3203 North Avenue Baltimore, Md. 21216 WebEx Info www.bmore.webex.com/bmore/j. php?MTID=mdbeb0aa881e5f47540b4acb412473bca Meeting number (access code): 2333 845 4278 Meeting password: Pyc7uzpSs57 If you have any questions, comments, or need special accommodations, please contact via mail Department of Transportation. 417 E. Fayette St., 5th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202 Email: DOTEngagement@baltimorecity.gov, Subject: W. North Avenue Or by leaving a voicemail at: 443-984-3144 Accommodation requests should be received by September 8, 2026. Receive regular updates via Facebook, at Baltimore City Department of Transportation’s project website www.streetsofbaltimore.com, on Instagram @BmoreCityDOT, or on “X” formerly known as Twitter at @ BmoreCityDOT. Berke Attila Interim Director Baltimore City Department of Transportation City of Baltimore Department of Finance Bureau of Procurement

Non-Affiliation A firm submitting a proposal may not use an MBE or WBE to meet a contract goal if: The firm has a financial interest in the MBE or WBE The firm has an interest in the ownership or control of the MBE or WBE The firm is significantly involved in the operation of the MBE or WBE (Article 5, Subtitle 28-41).

Sealed proposals addressed to the Board of Estimates of Baltimore will be Received until, but not later than 11:00 am local time on the following dates for the stated requirements.

Insurance Requirements The consultant selected for the award of this project shall provide professional liability, auto liability, and general liability and workers’ compensation insurances as required by the City of Baltimore.

ENTIRE SOLICITATION CAN BE VIEWED AND DOWNLOADED BY VISITING THE WEBSITE: cityservices.baltimorecity.gov/suppliers/ bid-opportunities

Local Hiring Law Article 5, Subtitle 27 of the Baltimore City Code, as amended (the “Local Hiring Law”) and its rules and regulations apply to contracts and agreements executed by the City on or after the Local Hiring Law’s effective date of December 23, 2013, which is applicable to all

October 7, 2026 • Decals and Striping for City Vehicles and Equipment- RFQ000848

A16 The Afro-American September 5, 2026 - September 11, 2026

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Effective immediately, The Afro AmericanNewspapers will require prepayment for publication of all legal notices. Payment will be accepted in the form of checks, credit card or money order. Any returned checks will be subject to a $25.00 processing fee and may result in the suspension of any future advertising at our discretion.

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LEGAL NOTICES

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LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2026ADM000574 NIKO ESTEP, JR Name of Decedent KATHRYN ALI ALI & LOCKWOOD LLP 501 H STREET NE, SUITE 200 WASHINGTON, DC 20002 Name and Adress of Attorney

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2026ADM000791 LEONARD JOHNSON Name of Decedent JOHNNY M. RIDDICK, ESQUIRE 505 CAPITOL COURT, NE, SUITE 100 WASHINGTON, DC 20002 Name and Adress of Attorney

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2026ADM000804 JOHNNIE MACK VILLINES Name of Decedent IZU I AHAGHOTU, ESQUIRE 3724 12TH STREET, NE WASHINGTON, DC 20017 Name and Adress of Attorney

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION 2026FEP000111 December 2, 2025 Date of Death JANE R. L. ROBISON aka JANE ROBINSON LEVANT ROBISON Name of Decedent

Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs JEANETTE HILLIARD, whose address is 2329 KIRBY DRIVE, TEMPLE HILLS, MARYLAND 20748 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LEONARD JOHNSON who died on NOVEMBER 17, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before FEBRUARY 28, 2027 Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before FEBRUARY 28, 2027 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: AUGUST 28, 2026 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Law Washington Reporter AFRO American Newspapers

Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs PRISCILLA E. VILLINES, whose address is 3100 24TH STREET, NE, WASHINGTON, DC 20018 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOHNNIE MACK VILLINES who died on APRIL 27, 2021 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before FEBRUARY 28, 2027 Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before FEBRUARY 28, 2027 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: AUGUST 28, 2026 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Law Washington Reporter AFRO American Newspapers

JEANETTE HILLIARD Personal Representative

PRISCILLA E. VILLINES Personal Representative

Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs AUTUMN DRAYTON, whose address is 1900 HALF STREET SW #255, WASHINGTON, DC 20024 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of NIKO ESTEP, JR who died on NOVEMBER 3, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before DECEMBER 5, 2026 Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before DECEMBER 5, 2026 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: JUNE, 5, 2026 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Law Washington Reporter AFRO American Newspapers AUTUMN DRAYTON Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 08.21, 08.28, 09.04.26

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2026ADM000862 MANSOOR HUSSAIN AWAN aka MANSOOR AWAN Name of Decedent Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs EWELINA AWAN, whose address is 2123 CALIFORNIA ST., NW, A1, WASHINGTON, DC 20008 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MANSOOR HUSSAIN AWAN aka MANSOOR AWAN who died on APRIL 23, 2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before MARCH 04, 2027 Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before MARCH 04, 2027 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: SEPTEMBER 04, 2026 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: AFRO American Newspapers EWELINA AWAN Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 09.04, 09.11, 09.18.26

TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 08.28, 09.04, 09.11.26

TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 08.28, 09.04, 09.11.26

Date of first publication: August 21, 2026 Name of newspaper, and/or periodical: AFRO-American PATRICIA L. YOUNG Personal Reperesenative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 8/21, 8/28, 9/04/26

BALTIMORE CLASSIFIEDS CONTINUED LEGAL NOTICES City of Baltimore Department of Finance Bureau of Procurement Sealed proposals addressed to the Board of Estimates of Baltimore will be Received until, but not later than 11:00 am local time on the following dates for the stated requirements. September 16, 2026 • Snow Removal Services- RFQ-000858 ENTIRE SOLICITATION CAN BE VIEWED AND DOWNLOADED BY VISITING THE WEBSITE: cityservices.baltimorecity.gov/suppliers/ bid-opportunities

CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PUBLIC NOTICE In an effort to share an update with the community on the upcoming project, a community meeting will be held. TR19303 Park Heights Ave Rehabilitation from W Strathmore Ave to W Rogers Ave. Join us to review the semi-final design of a project that will include repaving the road and rebuilding the road base underneath, rebuilding curbs, gutters, and sidewalks, upgrading pedestrian ramps so they meet ADA standards, upgrading the traffic signals, adding curb extensions and bus bulbs, installing new high-visibility crosswalks, pavement makings and signage, improving the storm drains, adding green space and trees.

PUBLIC MEETING FOR

Park Heights Ave Rehabilitation from W Strathmore Ave to W Rogers Ave CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PUBLIC NOTICE In an effort to share an update with the community on the upcoming project, a community meeting will be held. Johnston Square Roadway Improvements on Preston St and Biddle St between Guilford Ave and Eden St. Join us to discuss desired improvements, including ADA-compliant pedestrian ramps, sidewalks, and driveways, bike network inclusivity and connectivity, signal upgrades, enhanced crosswalks, street amenities, drainage and stormwater management, and lighting upgrades.

PUBLIC MEETING FOR Johnston Square Roadway Improvements Tuesday, September 29, 2026 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM The Hammond at Greenmount Park Meeting Room 1100 Greenmount Ave, Baltimore, MD 21202 Virtually: HTTPS://REBRAND.LY/EUG9D74 Meeting access code: 2338 681 8754, Meeting password: diMEsJBm773 By phone: 408-418-9388

STAY INTOUCH WITH THE AFRO

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS PATRICIA L. YOUNG whose address is 3605 28TH STREET, NE, WASHINGTON, DC 20018 was appointed personal representative of the estate of JANE R. L. ROBISON aka JANE ROBINSON LEVANT ROBISON, deceased, by the ORPHANS COURT/ REGISTER OF WILLS Court for MONTGOMERY County, State of MARYLAND, on APRIL 22, 2026. Service of process may be made upon VICKEY A. WRIGHT-SMITH, 1629 K ST., NW, WDC 20003 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property: 2818 27TH STREET, NE, WASHINGTON, DC 20018. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills for the District of Columbia, Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

If you have any questions, comments, or need special accommodation, please contact via mail: Jakey Zabawa, Community Engagement Liaison Districts 5, 10, and 12 Department of Transportation, 417 E Fayette St, 5th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202 Email: DOTEngagement@baltimorecity.gov, Subject: Accommodation Johnson Square Or by leaving a voicemail at: 443-984-3144 Accommodation requests should be received by Tuesday, September 15, 2026 Comments on the semi-final design should be received by Tuesday, October 13, 2026 Receive regular updates via Facebook, at the Baltimore City Department of Transportation’s project website www.streetsofbaltimore.com, on Instagram @BmoreCityDOT or on X, formally known as Twitter, @BmoreCityDOT.

Berke Attila, ACTING DIRECTOR Baltimore City Department of Transportation

Wednesday, September 23, 2026 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM Please note new meeting time JCC of Greater Baltimore - Park Heights 5700 Park Heights Ave, Baltimore, MD 21215 Identification required for building entry Virtually: HTTPS://REBRAND.LY/6XG8O8A Meeting access code: 2342 232 7102, Meeting password: pnQpphE6u54 By phone: 408-418-9388 If you have any questions, comments, or need special accommodation, please contact via mail: Jakey Zabawa, Community Engagement Liaison Districts 5, 10, and 12 Department of Transportation, 417 E Fayette St, 5th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202 Email: DOTEngagement@baltimorecity.gov, Subject: Accommodation Park Heights Ave Or by leaving a voicemail at: 443-984-3144 Accommodation requests should be received by Wednesday, September 9, 2026 More information can be found at the Park Heights Ave Rehabilitation Streets of Baltimore page: https://streetsofbaltimore.com/parkheightsave Comments on the semi-final design should be received by Wednesday, October 7, 2026 Receive regular updates via Facebook, at the Baltimore City Department of Transportation’s project website www.streetsofbaltimore.com, on Instagram @BmoreCityDOT or on X, formally known as Twitter, @BmoreCityDOT.

Berke Attila, ACTING DIRECTOR Baltimore City Department of Transportation