Today's article: America is at a pivotal crossroads, confronting the deep-rooted consequences of political sins—racism, greed, and systemic oppression—that have hindered Black progress and destabilized the nation. The article calls for truth, accountability, and reparations as moral imperatives to heal historical injustices and build a just, equitable future for all.

Today's Afternoon Tea with KBritt, featuring the relaunched Echo on June 18, 2025, shares reports in response to the overcrowding challenges and safety concerns that emerged during a tumultuous Memorial Day weekend. Seaside Heights, NJ, is adopting stricter safety protocols. These measures include revised boardwalk hours and a ban on backpacks to enhance public safety. Concurrently, the tensions between the U.S. and Iran are on the rise, exacerbated by Israeli airstrikes a

Dylan Edmond, affectionately known as "Lady Bird," was recognized as one of the top three contestants in the Miss Runnemede Junior Prom Beauty Contest, celebrating her grace, charm, and connection to her rich heritage, including ties to historical figures like Major Martin Delaney and John Rock. Her achievement highlights the importance of perseverance, self-confidence, and the acknowledgment of accomplishments, as celebrated by The Echo, New Jersey’s oldest Black-owned newsp

The article provides an overview of the candidates for the 2025 New Jersey Governor race, highlighting their backgrounds, achievements, and campaign platforms. It features Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill, former Democratic candidate Ras Baraka, and Republican candidate Jack Ciatteriali, showcasing their unique leadership qualities and visions for the state.

A vibrant summer evening at the Long Branch boardwalk turned tragic on June 13, 2025, as gunfire erupted, leaving one man fatally shot and sparking a homicide investigation. Witnesses described the chaos as a fight escalated into violence, while officials and community members called for change amidst the heartbreak.

Charles B. Rangel, a trailblazing Harlem New York Congressman and founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, served 46 years in the House, championing landmark legislation like the Affordable Care Act. He continued empowering communities through initiatives like the Rangel Infrastructure Workforce Initiative; his funeral was held on June 13, 2025.

The Echo reviews Netflix's One of Those Days and Tyler Perry's Straw, highlighting the former as a culturally relatable comedy featuring Keke Palmer and SZA, and the latter as a raw, emotional drama led by Taraji P. Henson that delves into systemic struggles faced by Black women. While One of Those Days offers humor and nostalgia, Straw delivers a powerful narrative on resilience and justice, making both films must-watches for their unique portrayals of the Black experience.

Pastor Evan Henry and Markeitah Henry made history on the Tamron Hall Show by exchanging vows in its first-ever in-studio wedding, officiated by Tamron Hall and featuring a soulful performance by Gospel singer MAJOR. Their heartfelt journey, from discovering the opportunity on Instagram to a stunning ceremony with a gown by Randy Fenoli, became a beautiful celebration of love, gratitude, and dreams coming true.

This event celebrates the anniversary of Good Hope Baptist Church and honors Pastor Robert Sykes for his leadership and service. Taking place on June 29, 2025, the celebration will feature a special guest, Pastor Dr. Gregory Thomas from Greater Bethel A.M.E. Church in Panama City, Florida. It is a joyous occasion filled with praise, worship, and community fellowship, highlighting the church's legacy and spiritual growth.

The Roots Festival in Philadelphia, a key celebration of Black culture, faced significant organizational challenges, highlighting the need for meticulous planning and robust support to ensure the success of such events. These cultural gatherings are vital for preserving Black heritage, fostering unity, and celebrating traditions, despite the historical and logistical obstacles they often encounter. Echo News TV, LLC remains committed to amplifying Black voices and advocating

Ras Baraka emerges as a key figure in the fight for progressive change, driven by a profound understanding of the systemic racism that has long afflicted New Jersey. His advocacy for reparations underscores a commitment to addressing historical injustices against Black communities, aiming to create a fairer future for all residents. Baraka's leadership is marked by a dedication to uplifting women and children and promoting social and economic justice, fostering family-friendl

Variety News and Happenings

The Black Information Network (BIN) has partnered with The Obama Foundation in a multi-year collaboration to advance youth engagement, promote civic participation, and amplify stories of progress and justice, aligning their shared missions of empowering communities and fostering equity. This initiative will also highlight the Obama Foundation's transformative programs and support the Obama Presidential Center's mission to inspire leadership and sustainable change ahead of its

The Echo, New Jersey's oldest Black-owned newspaper, proudly highlights Mr. Charles Floyd Johnson, a visionary artist and esteemed producer. As co-author of "A Gathering of Voices," he celebrates the resilience of cultural icons who have captivated mainstream America. An Army veteran and Howard University graduate, Johnson's notable works include The Rockford Files, Quantum Leap, Red Tails, and the John Lewis documentary, Get In The Way! His legacy continues to inspire. Born

Echoed News and Updates. Ryan Hinton Jr Saga, Trump's Downsizing The Department of National Security Council Starting the Memorial Day Week End. Vote No on the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," which does some ugly things and More.

NJ Transit train engineers went on strike after CEO Kris Kolluri refused to support pay equity, leaving about 100,000 commuters without rail service. The dispute centers on engineers being paid significantly less than their counterparts in neighboring states, with Kolluri’s stance seen as the main barrier to resolving the crisis. The strike highlights broader issues of fairness and leadership, as workers demand equal pay and respect for their essential roles in New Jersey’s p

Memorial honoring the memory of Mr. Timothy Elijah Ellis-Smith. Rest in power.

A tragic crash on the Taconic Parkway resulted in the deaths of three Monmouth County residents and a North Jersey high school coach, prompting mourning and an investigation. New Jersey's REAL ID rollout has raised concerns about accessibility and fairness, with difficulties in meeting requirements and potential disproportionate effects on vulnerable communities. Additionally, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka's arrest at Delaney Hall during an official inspection has sparked legal and

Soft Power Tactics: The media is a powerful tool for shaping perceptions. Crafted narratives influence how the public views demographic changes, economic opportunities, & social dynamics. Often, these narratives depict significant population shifts & policies as natural or positive, obscuring their true impacts on Black Americans & presenting them as unintended outcomes of political strategies.

The Longwood Writers Workshop, featuring authors Denise Billings, Charles Floyd Johnson, Denise Nicholas, Otto E. Stallworth, Jr., MD, GW Williams, and Hattie Winston, announces their anthology, "A GATHERING OF VOICES," available from Longwood Publishing LLC. This collection offers diverse, introspective stories reflecting the authors' experiences, with a foreword by Phylicia Rashad. It's available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, & their website. The anthology's creation began in