July 2025

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Carla Hayden, the recently fired librarian of Congress, attends an event in March 2025 in Washington. Shannon Finney/Getty Images by Alex H. Poole, Drexel University Carla Hayden, the 14th librarian of Congress, who has held the position since 2016, received an unexpected email on May 8, 2025. “Carla, on behalf of President Donald J. Trump, I am writing to inform you that your position as the Librarian of Congress is terminated effective immediately. Thank you for your service,” wrote Trent Morse, deputy director of presidential personnel at the White House. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later

By Stacy M. Brown Black Press USA Senior National Correspondent As the Trump administration moves to eliminate key diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) protections at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Democratic Congressman David Scott of Georgia has introduced legislation aimed at safeguarding the future of Black farmers and reversing decades of systemic discrimination. On July 17, Scott, a senior member of the House Agriculture Committee, introduced the Black Farmers and Socially Disadvantaged Farmers Increased Market Share Act of 2025. Illinois Democratic Congressman Jonathan Jackson, also a member of the committee,

Turner Brings Strategic Vision, Proven Leadership, and Deep Commitment to Brotherhood Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. recently elected David Turner as the organization’s 37th International President during the 2025 Conclave held in Tampa, Florida. A results-driven leader with an unmatched record of fraternity service, Turner assumes the helm of one of the world’s preeminent Black Greek-letter organizations, bringing a forward-thinking plan centered on strategic execution, financial diversification, operational excellence, and technological advancement. The esteemed fraternal and socio-economic leader brings to the presidency a distinguished record of community activism and

While elite universities and accelerator programs continue to overlook grassroots founders, three local entrepreneurs have stepped up to create what mainstream institutions never prioritized: culturally grounded, community-owned business schools designed specifically for Detroiters. Racheal Allen, Ebony Cochran, and Jessie Hayes are not in the business of waiting on permission to educate, train, and empower. They’re building infrastructure—on their terms—for the entrepreneurs this city has long ignored. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Black women are the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the country. In Detroit, they lead one

By Jehan Gibson-Crump For most people, conversations about death are not easy to have. That uneasiness leads to a failure to plan. That failure to plan becomes a one-way ticket to probate. “Probate” generally refers to the process through which a deceased person’s property is distributed. Property can mean a home, a vehicle, a business, financial accounts and more. Probate is necessary when someone passes away with property in their name alone, with no joint owner or living beneficiary. Probate Court is the court that handles this process,

By Jehan Gibson-Crump A common misconception is that estate planning only applies to death. This could not be further from the truth. A proper estate plan determines what will happen with your assets if you pass away and who will be responsible for carrying out those wishes. It also puts measures in place to determine who will manage your affairs if you are unable, whether it is on a temporary or permanent basis. This is done through Healthcare Powers of Attorney and Financial Powers of Attorney. If done

COLUMBUS, OH — Who’s Who In Black Columbus is proud to announce that Derrick R. Clay, President and CEO of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, will author the introduction for the 19th edition of the annual publication. A respected civic and business leader, Clay brings decades of experience in public affairs, economic development, and strategic leadership. His message will open a publication that honors Black excellence and showcases individuals shaping the future of Columbus. “Derrick Clay represents the leadership, innovation and commitment to equity that aligns with our mission,”

Former U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. is taking initial steps toward a possible return to Congress. On Monday, Jackson announced the formation of an exploratory committee as he considers a bid for Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District seat in the 2026 election. The move follows a push by former U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush and other local leaders who have encouraged him to re-enter public office. “As part of the Jesse Jackson Jr. for Congress 2026 Exploratory effort, it is my intention to secure a place on the ballot by authorizing

Ron Clark Academy's Dr. Valerie Camille Jones Ford joins the National Teachers Hall of Fame as the second Atlanta inductee, fourth from Georgia. Dr. Valerie Camille Jones Ford, Head of the Mathematics Department at Atlanta's Ron Clark Academy (RCA), is set to be inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame (NTHF) as part of its 2025 class. Dr. Jones Ford is the second educator from Atlanta and the fourth from Georgia to be inducted into the National Teachers Hall of Fame. “It is a tremendous honor to stand

Columbus, OH – Who’s Who In Black Columbus is proud to announce that U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award in its upcoming 2025 edition. This honor recognizes Beatty’s exceptional legacy of leadership, public service, and lifelong advocacy for civil rights and equity. “It’s an honor to be recognized by Who’s Who In Black Columbus with this prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, alongside so many brilliant Black changemakers in our community,” said Congresswoman Beatty. “I’m grateful for the recognition of my commitment and passion for the