Editorials

Marc H. Morial introduces the Urban Civil Rights Museum opening in Harlem, part of the Urban League Empowerment Center. More than a historical archive, it aims to inspire civic engagement, reminding visitors that civil rights struggles continue today and that ordinary people drive extraordinary change through voting, organizing, and community building.

From Hakeem Jeffries, poised to become the first Black speaker, to Georgia Governor-elect Keisha Lance Bottoms, Black political power reshapes Congress, statehouses, and the South.

Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis reflects on election night gains for women, Black, Native American and Muslim candidates while warning against division and fear-based politics

Black women powered historic 2026 midterm wins, electing Keisha Lance Bottoms as the first Black woman governor, Stacey Plaskett to the Virgin Islands governorship, and Julianna Stratton to the Senate. Higher Heights CEO Glynda C. Carr highlights their organizing, turnout and the ongoing work of sustaining and investing in Black women's political power.

Former Flint Mayor Karen Weaver says Black voters, crucial to Abdul El-Sayed’s Michigan Senate bid, are questioning what Democrats have delivered in return for decades of loyalty. Citing Flint’s unresolved water crisis and feelings of being taken for granted, she demands specific plans and accountability rather than assumed support on Election Day.

Nonprofit hospitals enjoy tax exemptions while some pay executives millions and still send struggling patients to collections.

David W. Marshall contrasts the late Congressman Elijah Cummings’ genuine community leadership with Senator Bernie Moreno’s exclusionary rhetoric, which demands Christian belief as a Senate qualification.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine now says the death penalty’s moral justification no longer exists, aligning with bipartisan repeal legislation, former lawmakers, and faith leaders. Yet House Speaker Matt Huffman keeps the bill stalled in committee. Ben Jealous examines deterrence research, wrongful convictions, staggering costs, and asks whether Ohio deserves an honest legislative debate and vote.

Julianne Malveaux contrasts a D.C. mayoral candidate's rat czar pledge with the conservative Project 2025's methodical preparation, asking where Democrats' equivalent governing agenda is. She argues progressives need concrete plans with budgets, timelines, and accountability on affordability, racial wealth gaps, and housing rather than vague opposition to Trump or symbolic political victories.

Dr. E. Faye Williams urges voters to reject the negativity, lies, and bigotry dominating this election season and instead support candidates who genuinely care about constituents.