Appreciation for Social Workers Is on the Rise: S.W.A.G. Awards Recognizes Their Hard Work, Impact
THE HONOREES AT THE S.W.A.G. AWARDS, March 22, at the Sheraton Hotel Station Square. (Photo by J.L. Martello) If you can believe it, the annual Social Worker Appreciation of Greatness Awards, better known as the S.W.A.G. Awards, already has its date set for its 2026 event—March 7. It will be the sixth iteration of the S.W.A.G. Awards, which honors Pittsburgh's individuals, most of whom are Black, in the often-forgotten field of social work. It's best to mark the date on the calendar because the attendance for the event continues
April Ryan, Black Press Saluted at 2025 White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner
This year, the White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) dinner looked much different. Without the presence of the President of the United States, an accomplished comedian, or the traditional crowd of politicians and celebrities, the evening instead became a nationally televised celebration of free speech. The black-tie event was also a recognition of the benefit of diversity, a tribute to trailblazing journalists, and a major shout-out and acknowledgment to Black Press USA’s Washington Bureau Chief and White House Senior Correspondent, April Ryan. The event took place under the shadow
Meet the Atlanta Business League’s CEO Awards Luncheon Chair, Bank of America’s Al McRae
Each year, the Atlanta Business League's (ABL) CEO Awards Luncheon shines a spotlight on business leaders who are driving innovation, creating jobs, and making a lasting impact on the economic landscape of Atlanta. As Chair, Al McRae will play a pivotal role in guiding the event's vision and execution. His leadership ensures that the luncheon not only honors outstanding accomplishments but also provides an inspiring platform for emerging entrepreneurs and professionals. The 2025 CEO event will be helmed by Al McRae, Private Bank Diverse Segments Executive President, Bank of America Atlanta. As President of Bank of America, Atlanta,
Juliana Stratton Secures Key Endorsement from Illinois Governor in U.S. Senate Bid
Standing on the South Side of Chicago, where she was born, raised, and still resides, Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton made it official: she’s running to succeed retiring U.S. Senator Dick Durbin — and she’s doing so with two major endorsements already in hand. Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker formally endorsed Stratton's Senate candidacy at a rally on Friday. Speaking of Stratton as "one of Illinois’ fiercest fighters for working families," Pritzker cited Stratton's integrity, pragmatism, and dedication. “At this perilous moment in Washington, Juliana’s fighting spirit and dedication to
Judge Noah Hood’s Appointment Cements True Detroit Representation on Michigan’s Supreme Court
A new chapter for Michigan’s justice system is unfolding, and this one speaks directly to Detroit’s heart. Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the appointment of Judge Noah Hood to the Michigan Supreme Court, strengthening a legacy of Black leadership and hometown excellence at the highest level of state law. This appointment is more than a milestone—it is a statement. With Hood’s swearing in, the Michigan Supreme Court now holds two proud Detroiters, Justice Kyra Harris Bolden and Judge Noah Hood, both representing the deep, unshakable roots of Black excellence
Mercer University to Confer Honorary Degree to Zelma Redding
Mercer University will confer an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree to Zelma Redding, Macon civic leader, entrepreneur, founder and president of the Otis Redding Foundation. After Otis Redding’s passing in 1967, as a young mother raising three small children, Zelma Redding earned her high school equivalency degree, enrolled in business classes and mastered the music business while keeping her husband’s legacy in the forefront. She eventually opened multiple successful businesses. “I am deeply honored and would like to thank President Underwood and the Trustees for presenting me this amazing
‘You Must Speak Truth to Power’: A candid conversation with Ben Crump
Attorney Ben Crump outside the Hennepin County Government Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota (Photo Credit: Lorie Shaull). By James Bridgeforth, Ph.D. and Alexander Efird, Special to The Chicago Defender Introduction: The Battle for Justice Has a Voice — And It’s Ben Crump In a nation teetering on the edge of moral confusion and political regression, there are few voices who thunder with the clarity, conviction, and courage of Attorney Ben Crump. Called “Black America’s Attorney General,” Crump has carved out a legacy not just in courtrooms, but in the collective conscience of
Georgia State Senator Jason Esteves Launches Campaign for Governor of Georgia [Video]
On Tuesday, April 22, Georgia State Senator Jason Esteves (D) launched his campaign to become the next Governor of Georgia. Before representing Georgia families in the State Senate, Sen. Jason Esteves worked as a public school teacher and later served on the Board of Education for Atlanta Public Schools for nearly a decade, leading the board as chair for four years. Under his leadership, Atlanta Public Schools achieved record-breaking graduation rates and provided over $100 million in staff pay increases and stipends. In the State Senate, Jason led
Yusef Bunchy Shakur Named First Black Executive Director of Michigan Roundtable
The same neighborhood that once branded Yusef Bunchy Shakur a menace is now the place that calls him “doctor.” Because a community watched a man rebuild what disinvestment tried to erase. From the streets of Zone 8 to the seat of executive leadership, Dr. Shakur’s journey defies every statistic meant to define Black boys from Detroit. The Michigan Roundtable for Just Communities—founded during a time when folks wouldn’t even sit across a table with someone who didn’t worship like them—has named him its new executive director. For the
Chicago State Names Bobby Rome II as First-Ever Head Football Coach
Chicago State University makes history by appointing Bobby Rome II as its first head football coach (Photo Credit: Lanette Warbington). In a bold and historic move, Chicago State University has officially entered the world of Division I football. The university named Bobby Rome II as the first head coach in program history, signaling its commitment to bringing NCAA Division I football to the city. Rome, fresh off a nomination for HBCU Coach of the Year in 2024, brings a track record of high performance and program-building experience that CSU