Coat and food drive serves up hope and holiday cheer
By Patricia McDougall
On Dec. 21 Piano Keys Restaurant and Lounge and Dicko Foundation hosted a coat drive and dinner for those in need at McPherson Square in Washington, D.C. More than 100 coats, gloves and care packages were donated by Good Samaritans across the District. A food station served hot food including soup, rice, chicken and more to the many people who were in attendance. Volunteers also drove around and gave out emergency thermal tents to individuals sleeping on the street or in parks.
Dickson Adionser, CEO of the Dicko Foundation, started his organization in 2018. He always knew he had to do something to help others who are less fortunate. During the COVID-19 crisis, he ventured out to set up food stations as his DJ played music. Whether it be a pandemic or a cold winter season, Adionser is always happy to help, as his goal is to ease the hardships felt in dark times.
Jordan Miller (left); Trinette Young; Dickson Adionser, CEO of the Dicko Foundation;
Piano Keys Co-Owner Debra McDowney, Sebrina Field and LaToshka Castle participate in a food and coat giveaway ahead of Christmas.
Janice Murphy (left), Nova Cosmotionz and Antona Bailey volunteer at Dicko Foundation’s coat and food drive at McPherson Square in Washington D.C.
Dicko Foundation CEO Dickson Adionser (center) encourages those in need while handing out coats and a hot meal.
Coats, blankets and care packages are put on display for those in need.
Thermal tents are given away on a chilly December day.
Volunteers keep the spirit of giving alive as they hand out meals at McPherson Square in Washington D.C.
John “DJ Big John” Royster helps usher in the Christmas spirit with popular tunes.
Above: Shanice Tarver (left) and Nicole Wong hand out soup to those in need of coats and a hot meal.
AFRO Photos / Patricia McDougall
AFRO reporters share the impact of their work in 2024
As 2024 comes to a close, AFRO’s reporters are reflecting on the work that made the greatest impact on their lives and the community. From investigative pieces to profiles and election coverage, read below to see how the AFRO staff writers, freelancers and editors fared in 2024.
Aryiana Griffin AFRO Staff Writer
As 2024 comes to a close, I am grateful for the fantastic opportunity to write on the local and national level. Baltimore and Washington, D.C., are full of great individuals constantly pushing the needle to change their communities for the greater good. In these uncertain times, the abundance of positive news– often stemming from the community– has been a beacon of hope.
My coverage in Baltimore spanned a diverse range of events. This year I covered the opening of the Enoch Pratt Library’s community pantry in Southeast Baltimore; an initiative to start a double dutch team in Matthew Henson Community; Wes Muhammad becoming the youngest student at Coppin State at just 14-years-old and Baltimore’s 25th annual Comic Con. I was proud to cover various events throughout the year for Maryland’s Senator- Elect Angela Alsobrooks, Mayor Brandon M. Scott and Governor Wes Moore.
In D.C. I had the opportunity to cover the announcement of the opening of the Go-Go Museum and Cafe, a place dedicated to the official music of Washington D.C. I also thoroughly enjoyed speaking to bookworms at the 24th annual National Book Festival. Representing the AFRO out of town was a highlight of my year, with diverse events such as the National Association of Black Journalists panel with Vice President Kamala Harris in Philadelphia, my second Culture Con in New York, and a 5k walk to raise awareness for Breast Cancer in Los Angeles. Each event was a learning experience, bringing a unique perspective and a wealth of stories to share and I am inspired by the personal growth these experiences have brought.
In August, the company took a team trip to the land that afforded the birth of the AFRO. To step foot on the land and learn the history of the publication’s beginnings was a unique privilege.
The impact of the AFRO is profound and tangible; I have been deeply moved by the countless inspiring stories shared by readers at events, stories that underscore the publication’s rich history spanning over 130 years. I was also able to make some personal history as well because this year I won my first award for reporting with the AFRO at the Maryland, Delaware, DC (MDDC) Press Association’s Editorial and Advertising contest. Though 2024 was full of twists and turns, I look forward to what 2025 holds.
Megan Sayles
AFRO Staff Writer
This year was a busy year for news, with local and national elections, the tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March and international conflicts. It was also a year for me to step outside of the business beat a little and report on other important issues in our community. One of the stories I was most proud of came recently. Conversations about immigration were topof-mind during the presidential election, but many centered on LatinX communities. Following the former president’s win, I spoke to African immigrants about their concerns as the president-elect plans to finish the border wall, limit legal immigration and execute the largest deportation in American history. Some of the people I spoke with even gave insight into why African citizens may have backed the president-elect.
Another story that really touched me was on suicide prevention. This topic is of course a heavy but critical one, as suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. and around the world. It has also long been a taboo topic in the Black community. Dionne C. Monsanto, a native of New York, bravely and candidly spoke to me about her 15-year-old daughter, Siwe, who died by suicide 13 years ago. One of the things Monsanto continued to emphasize as she shared her story was the importance of accepting the duality of life. Though her daughter died by suicide she said it did not mean she couldn’t live a happy life.
Tashi McQueen AFRO Staff Writer
This year I reported on a range of state, national and local politics, elections and community events. The following reflections highlight just a few of the many stories I was proud to help tell.
In September, I reported on parents advocating for the passage of two kid online safety bills in the U.S. House of Representatives. Parents for Online Safe Spaces (ParentsSOS) is an advocacy group of parents whose children have died as a result of harmful online content. I’ve heard throughout the years how unregulated social media can be damaging to anyone, let alone a child, but between hearing the parents’ stories, research and reading the legislation–my mind was truly opened to the dangers.
This story was an important one to tell. I hope further regulations are enforced for social media platforms that engage with young people.
I was also able to report on the state of K-12 Science, Technology, Math and Science (STEM) opportunities throughout the U.S. With the ever-evolving technological world we live in, a solid base of STEM education could be crucial for the success of the next generation of professionals.
On Dec. 3, I was honored to attend and report on Baltimore City Mayor Brandon M. Scott (D) being sworn in for his second term. It marked the first time in 20 years that a Baltimore City mayor had
been elected and it was a beautiful celebration of Black culture. From the opening performance of the Connexion African Dance Team to the beautiful rendition of the Black National Anthem “Lift Every Voice and Sing” from the Morgan State University (MSU) Choir, I was in awe.
Overall, I was proud to represent the AFRO this year and I look forward to doing so in the future.
Mekhi Abbott AFRO Freelance Writer
“American hero and baseball giant Willie Mays dies at age 93”
First and foremost, this was my first story on the front cover of the AFRO. Baseball was the very first sport that I participated in, so I have been familiar with Willie Mays my whole life. His impact on American culture cannot simply be quantified in one story, but I am glad that I was able to pay some homage to how many lives this legend touched. Mays’ baseball journey was one that you see in movies, except he really lived it. Mays’ journey from the Negro Leagues to becoming one of Major League Baseball’s finest players was truly unique. Also, I think I got some very strong comments for this story, including Kevin Blackistone, who works for ESPN and is a columnist for the Washington Post.
“The Four Step Brothers: Tapping into greatness through dance”
Outside of baseball, tap dance was actually one of the first extracurricular activities that I participated in as a young child. My mom attributes tap dance to helping me overcome my shyness and embrace my outward personality. So when I was assigned the story, I was already excited. It was fun while researching this story, learning about the impact that the Four Step Brothers had on American culture as a whole. They worked with legends such as Duke Ellington and James Brown. After the story was published, the last member to join the crew, Tony Criner, actually reached out to me to let me know that I did a good job.
“The Baylor Project: A story of love, music and partnership Prior to being reached out to by their agent/publicist, I had no clue who or what The Baylor Project was. However, this is still my favorite interview and one of my favorite stories that I have done so far. The energy from the Baylors was extremely infectious, and doing the story did not feel like work at all. Everyone has heard of musicians who are siblings or maybe even couples that collaborate to create music, like Jay Z and Beyoncé, but this was my first time hearing about a couple that solely made songs together. They often say don’t mix business with pleasure, but it seems like the Baylors are doing both at a very high level.
Ericka Alston Buck
AFRO Freelance Writer
As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on a journey that has been as unpredictable as it has been rewarding. Writing for the AFRO-American Newspaper has given me a front-row seat to the vibrant heartbeat of our city, covering everything from arts and culture to grand openings, and yes, even the poignant task of announcing the passing of beloved figures. Yet, it’s my role as the voice behind the “Single in the City” column that has truly shaped this year into something unforgettable.
This year has taught me the power of pivoting under pressure. Whether it’s crafting an in-depth feature on a new exhibit or capturing the essence of a dazzling premiere, I’ve learned to produce meaningful work on tight deadlines. The thrill of diving headfirst into a story, extracting its heart and delivering it with precision has honed my skills and made me a better writer.
I’ve grown not just in technique but in presence. It’s humbling and exhilarating to be recognized at events, greeted by people who’ve read my pieces or taken my advice. “Thank you for writing that—it’s exactly what I needed to hear,” someone told me at a local gallery opening. Moments like those remind me of why I love what I do. Whether it’s offering dating advice to those navigating the joys and challenges of singlehood or shining a light on the people and places that make our city special, I’ve found a way to connect with my readers that feels personal and impactful.
This connection has extended beyond the page. At premieres and openings, the excitement is palpable when someone sees me jotting notes or snapping photos. “Make sure you get my name in there,” a guest teased me at a recent gala. Even behind the scenes, the respect from our city’s most respected venues and the people running them is evident. Invitations to cover exclusive events often come with the remark, “We hope you’ll review this.” Knowing that my words are trusted to represent their work is a responsibility I cherish. Looking ahead, I’m filled with optimism and excitement. While I’ll continue to bring you the latest on arts, culture and the happenings of our city, my focus on Single in the City remains unwavering. There’s something timeless about exploring what it means to be single, to date and to find oneself in the process. It’s a story that never ends, and I’m still living it—still single, still writing and still thriving.
As I close the book on this year, I do so with immense gratitude—for the readers who trust me, the people who share their stories and the community that embraces my work. Here’s to another year of growth, connection and storytelling. I can’t wait to see what’s next.
D. Kevin McNeir AFRO Freelance writer
Since 1827, the Black Press has pleaded ‘our own cause’ – as a reporter for the AFRO, I proudly continue in that tradition.
I was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan during the 1960s. And like many African Americans, both of my parents migrated from the South in search of better education, better housing, better job
opportunities and higher wages and an environment that was free of Jim Crow attitudes and laws. Detroit, also known as “Motown,” was an idyllic place for a little Black boy like me who believed, as my fifth grade English teacher often said, that “words can paint pictures.”
I’ve always known that writing was my destiny and despite my efforts to occasionally venture off the path, over the last year I have been invited to continue along my quest with a superb team of other writers, editors and staff at the AFRO
Here in the Greater Washington Area, in 2024, I was able to sit down with Black women who are mentoring young girls interested in careers as EMTs and firefighters. I conversed with young Black fathers who, lacking positive role models in their lives, are now looking to older Black men who are showing them that there’s more to being a father than just providing genetic material.
I have engaged with leaders in the arts who have broken glass ceilings as producers, directors and lead actors who are inspiring today’s youth to do the hard work today so they, too, can achieve their dreams of stardom on the world’s stages tomorrow.
I have listened to the fears of Black men who somehow survived prostate cancer, and the concerns of Black members of the LGBTQ community who are using their collective voices to vote for policies and people who support their right to live without persecution.
I have observed the excitement of youth who voted for the first time in 2024, many of whom became involved in political activism because of women like Kamala Harris and Angela Alsobrooks.
The beliefs, lifestyles and backgrounds of members of the Black community remain just as diverse as the many hues of our skin. We are not monolithic in character. And since 1827 with “Freedom’s Journal,” the Black press has shared the good news – stories rarely told by mainstream publications – that reflect the best of our Blackness.
So, as we prepare for 2025, I am encouraged by that hit song from the late 70s: “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now!”
Ashlee Banks
AFRO Freelance writer
As a Congressional reporter for the AFRO, I find fulfillment in shedding light on critical issues such as immigration, reproductive rights and police brutality. My passion for storytelling is deeply rooted in the belief that every narrative has the power to inspire change. Covering immigration allows me to amplify the experiences of marginalized communities, revealing the resilience and contributions of immigrants who enrich our society. In exploring reproductive rights, I strive to highlight the intersectionality of race and gender, emphasizing how policies disproportionately affect Black women and their families. This work not only informs but also empowers our audience to advocate for their rights and the rights of others. Furthermore, addressing police brutality enables me to document the urgent calls for justice and accountability that resonate within the Black community. Each article I write serves as a testament to the struggles and triumphs of those often overlooked, fostering a deeper understanding of these complex issues. Connecting with members of Congress is crucial for fostering dialogue, advocating for the needs of constituents and ensuring that diverse voices are represented in the legislative process. By representing the voices and stories that matter, I contribute to a larger narrative that champions equity and justice, making my role as a journalist not just a job, but a vital part of the movement for social change.
Alexis Taylor
AFRO Managing Editor
As 2024 comes to a close, I feel many emotions, but most of all I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Though this year was a trying one, each and every time the going got tough, there were mentors with their sage words of wisdom to help me along the way. There were also community leaders like Haki Ammi, keeping me on track with community and legislative events, and Rev. Dorothy S. Boulware, Denise Dorsey and Ama Brown, who all spoke life to me at times where the weight of it all tried to suffocate the joys of being a part of one of the greatest publications to ever print– Black or White.
This year, I was able to curate more than 50 editions of the AFRO American Newspapers. I will be forever grateful. From contentious political elections to maternal health pieces, the topics covered put on record where we are as a people in 2024 and as a culture.
Without question, some of the most poignant moments of the year came in March, when one of the last survivors of the Tulsa Race Massacre gave me an interview after a Sunday service at Empowerment Temple. At 109 years old, Ms. Viola Ford Fletcher is still seeking justice for the trauma visited upon her family in Greenwood, Okla. in 1921.
In the same month, I once again had my passion for the Black Press renewed– in the National Press Club, no less– as NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin Chavis breathed fresh fire into every Black reporter, editor, publisher and attendee in the room.
The moments where I was able to share space and shake hands with living history – not just read about it– reminded me of why, for some reason, I’ve been called into this profession.
I want to say thank you to everyone who sent a story idea, gave a tip or trusted the AFRO to break their news. I want to thank Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, Lenora Howze, and every member of the amazing AFRO team for trusting me to lead the editorial department.
We have done great things in 2024 and I look forward to the work to be done in 2025!