Ben Jealous reflects on celebrating Black music at Andrew Jackson’s former plantation during Juneteenth, confronting the painful contradictions of American history while honoring the resilience, creativity,...
Before Memorial Day became a national observance, Black communities in Norfolk and Portsmouth honored fallen soldiers through “Decoration Day,” preserving the legacy of Civil War veterans...
As Black History Month marks 100 years of national commemoration in 2026, the legacy of Carter G. Woodson and ASALH reminds the nation that Black history...
Every year from December 26 to January 1, families light the kinara, reflect on the seven principles of Kwanzaa, and recommit to values — from unity...
The 17th Annual WPA Garden Heritage Celebration at Norfolk Botanical Garden honors the 220 African-American workers who began the garden's creation in 1938, featuring keynote speaker...
Dr. John E. Warren urges the Black community to unite and act “in spite of” modern challenges, drawing inspiration from civil rights history to safeguard rights...
Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch III defends the institution’s independence after President Trump ordered oversight of museum programming, including African-American history exhibits. Scholars and curators warn that...
Chesapeake has renamed Old Courtyard Park in honor of Judge Eileen A. Olds, the city’s first African-American woman judge and a nationally recognized legal leader who...
The Virginia Museum of History & Culture’s new exhibition, Un/Bound: Free Black Virginians, 1619–1865, sheds light on the untold stories of Black freedom, resilience, and community...
At 100 years old, Coach Horace S. Savage Jr. is more than a sportsman—he’s a Portsmouth icon whose legacy of leadership, education, and excellence deserves a...
The Digital Download is a weekly column dedicated to exploring the power, promise, and impact of technology in our everyday lives, written by Delegate Cliff Hayes, an experienced technology leader and public servant.
The column aims to educate, inform, and empower readers with insight into how digital tools, innovations, and trends are shaping our communities, policies, and futures.
From artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to broadband access and smart devices, Digital Download breaks down complex tech topics in an accessible way for all.
