A year after Trump announced a $100-per-person surcharge for foreign visitors at national parks, questions remain about enforcement, alongside removed MLK Day and Juneteenth fee-free days and a Trump portrait now replacing a photo contest winner on the America the Beautiful pass. Contributing writer Anya Armentrout breaks down what’s changed.
National

A space for national news pertaining to African Americans
Black Business Pioneer, Creator of Popular Cosmetics Products, Johnson Dies at 99
George E. Johnson, whose Johnson Products Company became the first Black-owned business listed on the American Stock Exchange, has died at 99. David Snelling reports on a life that reshaped the Black hair care industry.
Supreme Court strikes down birthright citizenship order
The Supreme Court struck down Trump’s executive order ending birthright citizenship in a 6-3 ruling, with Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson warning of a “greater threat” in Clarence Thomas’ dissent. Contributing writer Clint Combs reports on the reaction from civil rights leaders, immigrant advocates and first-time voters.
After the Ruling: How Trump’s Struck-Down Tariffs Impact Black-Owned Businesses
A Supreme Court ruling struck down Trump’s IEEPA tariffs, triggering an estimated $130 to $175 billion in potential refunds, while Black-owned businesses absorbed disproportionate damage with 52% reporting a decline in sales.
Automatic draft registration raises questions among young Americans
s the federal government moves toward automatically registering men ages 18 to 25 for the Selective Service, young Americans are expressing confusion, concern and questions about government authority, privacy and what it means to have no say in the process.
Milwaukee mother says former teacher aided teen in unauthorized departures from home
A Milwaukee teacher investigation is underway after allegations a teacher helped a teen leave home without parental consent.
Black press nears 200 years of telling our stories
Black Press Week celebrates 199 years of Black journalism and the enduring legacy of independent media serving Black communities across America.
Two legacy Black Newspapers close, citing financial pressures
Black newspapers closing in Portland and Richmond highlight the growing financial challenges facing Black media as advertising revenue declines.
Civil Rights TV Launches in Selma as 24/7 Network Dedicated to Civil Rights History and Equity
The Civil Rights TV launch debuts a 24-hour network streaming from Selma, dedicated to civil rights history, education and global equity dialogue.
Jesse Jackson Dies at 84, Leaving a Legacy That Redefined American Politics and Black Political Power
Jesse Jackson civil rights leader and founder of Operation PUSH has died at 84. His activism and presidential campaigns reshaped American politics and Black political participation.
Lives lost, communities harmed: The human cost of ICE
The death of Keith Porter Jr., a U.S. citizen shot by an off-duty ICE agent, has intensified calls for accountability and transparency in ICE operations.
Nigerian Americans question U.S. Christmas strikes
Nigerian American voices question the Trump administration’s justification for Christmas Day airstrikes in Nigeria, warning the conflict is far more complex than described.
Black farmers lead the fight for food justice
Houston Black farmers are leading food justice efforts by addressing food deserts, growing fresh produce, and building community-based solutions rooted in equity and self-reliance.
In 2025 Black Culture Claimed Ownership Not Permission
Across platforms, Black pop culture in 2025 resisted dilution. Virality lost its grip. Ownership replaced access. Community replaced clicks. The work did not ask to be understood. It stood where it was.
Bombs Before Dawn: Trump’s Illegal War on Venezuela Sparks National Outrage
Protesters gathered at the White House to oppose the U.S. bombing of Venezuela, calling it an illegal war carried out without congressional approval or evidence of an imminent threat.
The Best Things to Happen to Black People in 2025
The best things to happen to Black people in 2025 showcase excellence, progress, and joy across culture, sports, education, and community.
Black America’s Cultural Giants Lost in 2025
The losses came steadily in 2025 as Black America mourned artists, activists, athletes, and cultural leaders whose work shaped history and community across generations.
Isiah Whitlock Jr., ‘The Wire’ icon and beloved character actor, remembered at 71
Isiah Whitlock Jr., the veteran actor best known for his role as Clay Davis on The Wire, has died at 71, leaving a lasting legacy in Black television and film.
Proposed Netflix–Warner Bros. deal raises concerns for Black filmmakers
Black film students are expressing concern that media consolidation could limit access, opportunity, and creative freedom for emerging Black filmmakers.
Miami Vacations Have Something for Everyone
This Miami travel guide explores where to eat, stay, and play for both sophisticated travelers and those seeking adventure, from fine dining and boutique hotels to nightlife and cultural experiences.
