african americans

Juneteenth National Independence Day is a federal holiday in the United States. It is celebrated annually on June 19 to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States. And as happens each year, several local events commemorate the day. WEMU's Caroline MacGregor was joined by the President of the NAACP Ann Arbor branch, Andre' Watson, to talk about what is going on locally, but more importantly, what this day means to residents in Washtenaw County.

Friday marks the start of celebrations and remembrances that will continue throughout the weekend as the community observes Juneteenth. WEMU’s Ana Longoria reports.

Washtenaw County officials are holding a flag-raising ceremony to usher in Juneteenth celebrations. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the story.

A new report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation ranks Michigan worst in the Midwest for overall child well-being. Colin Jackson has more.

The third annual Ann Arbor Black Film Festival (A2BFF) takes place June 5-7. This year’s festival is poised to be bigger and more impactful cultural event than ever, with 21 visiting filmmakers and guests, featuring over 11 hours of content from 31 Black creatives across 11 states and nine countries. WEMU’s Caroline MacGregor talked with two of the featured filmmakers, Yehuda Sharim and Michael Soenen, and Festival Director Chris Anderson about the event.

The African American Cultural and Historical Museum of Washtenaw County (AACHM) has been making strides in its efforts to rehabilitate and transform Woodlawn Cemetery in Ypsilanti Township, the only known African American graveyard in Washtenaw County. AACHM Board Chair Dr. Debby Covington joined Lee Van Roth to talk about the progress already made on the project and what else is planned.

Community advocates are raising awareness as part of Black Maternal Health Week to lower the mortality rate of Black mothers.WEMU’s Ana Longoria reports.

Scientists from Terracon are currently at a historic African American graveyard in Ypsilanti. They are conducting a non-invasive geophysical survey as part of a key step in restoring the site. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the story.

Testimonials are pouring in to remember Melvin Parson. The founder of We The People Opportunity Farm in Ypsilanti passed away on Thursday. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

More than half a century after his death, the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. continue to shape movements around the world. At the center of his message was a radical idea — that real strength is found not in retaliation, but in restraint. That was a message given—and received—loud and clear when Dr. King made his visit to Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan campus. As we approach the end of Black History Month, WEMU’s John Stockwell takes a closer look at Dr. King’s message and the enduring power of nonviolence.