AURN News

A Fourth of July cookout for 10 people will cost a record average of $73.82 this year, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. Higher beef prices and continued inflation are making one of America's favorite holiday traditions more expensive. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As the United States marks 250 years since the Declaration of Independence, Frederick Douglass' 1852 speech, "What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?," continues to challenge Americans to confront the nation's founding contradictions and recommit to the promise of freedom for all. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new ADP employment report found private employers added just 98,000 jobs in June, signaling continued weakness in hiring. While small businesses and the education and health services sector posted gains, economists say labor market constraints continue to slow job creation. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On July 2, 1777, Vermont became the first U.S. territory to ban slavery, taking a historic stand while the American Revolution was still underway. The move helped establish an early anti-slavery precedent that would influence future debates over freedom, equality and citizenship. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The U.S. economy added just 57,000 jobs in June, far fewer than economists expected, while April and May payroll gains were revised downward. Economists say the unemployment rate fell in part because more people left the workforce, while Black unemployment remained elevated. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed to a new intraday record Wednesday, continuing a remarkable rally fueled by easing inflation concerns and falling crude oil prices. Investors remain focused on economic indicators as markets look for signs the momentum can continue. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Jackson, known globally as the “King of Pop,” died on June 25, 2009, at age 50. His death sparked worldwide grief and reflection on a groundbreaking legacy that changed music, dance and pop culture forever. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this day in 1969, 14-year-old Vivian Strong was fatally shot by an Omaha police officer while fleeing a vacant apartment where teenagers had gathered. Her death sparked days of unrest and protests in North Omaha, becoming a lasting symbol of the community's demand for accountability and racial justice. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Donald Trump is making a rare visit to Capitol Hill for a closed-door meeting with Senate Republicans who have grown increasingly frustrated with his leadership. The discussion comes amid disagreements over Iran, election legislation and broader concerns about Republican prospects heading into the midterm elections. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Four Republican senators joined Democrats in passing a war powers resolution directing President Donald Trump to withdraw U.S. troops from the conflict with Iran. While the measure does not carry the force of law, it represents a notable bipartisan rebuke as lawmakers continue debating America's role in the ongoing conflict. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Phyllis Wheatley to today's journalists, filmmakers and podcasters, Black media makers have played a critical role in shaping America's story. In this conversation with AURN News, Sarah J. Jackson discusses her new book, A Second Sight: How the Wonder and Vision of Black Mediamakers Push America Toward Freedom, and explains why the contributions of Black storytellers remain essential to understanding the nation's past, present and future. Join the AURN News community for daily updates in your inbox: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

An appeals court has sided with the Trump administration in a dispute over a slavery exhibit at Philadelphia's President's House site. The ruling overturns a previous decision that ordered the National Park Service to restore panels removed from the memorial honoring people enslaved by President George Washington. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Technology shares fell around the world as investors pulled back from some of the market's biggest AI-driven winners. The sell-off highlighted potential vulnerabilities in a sector that has fueled much of the market's recent growth. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was expected to be a centerpiece of President Donald Trump's America 250 celebration. Now, amid peeling paint and algae problems, Trump says vandalism may be to blame after previously pointing the finger at former President Barack Obama. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The latest round of U.S.-Iran negotiations has concluded in Switzerland, with Vice President JD Vance calling the talks a foundation for a final agreement. Despite progress, negotiators still face major challenges involving Iran's nuclear program, the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing regional conflicts. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Award-winning science fiction writer Octavia E. Butler was born on June 22, 1947, in Pasadena, California. Through novels such as "Kindred" and "Parable of the Sower," Butler expanded the boundaries of science fiction and became one of the most influential Black writers in American literature. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

National Urban League President and CEO Marc Morial says rising costs are being driven by policy decisions in Washington, including tariffs and the conflict involving Iran. In an interview with AURN News, Morial argues that voters should pay closer attention to how political decisions affect their economic well-being. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bitcoin has dropped to its lowest level since 2024, marking a dramatic decline from its record highs and adding to concerns about the state of the cryptocurrency market. The downturn comes amid broader economic uncertainty and as Congress delays consideration of major cryptocurrency legislation, including the CLARITY Act. Analysts are closely watching whether the latest selloff signals a temporary correction or a deeper shift in investor sentiment. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A federal judge has struck down a Trump administration immigration policy that affected multiple stages of the legal immigration process, including asylum applications, work permits, green cards and citizenship. The ruling comes as immigrant advocacy groups continue to challenge broader immigration policies affecting communities across the country, including African and Caribbean immigrants. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The U.S. economy added more jobs than expected in May, but the benefits were not evenly distributed. New labor market data shows Black workers continue to experience higher unemployment rates than white workers, while economists point to declining labor force participation and rising long-term unemployment as ongoing concerns. The report highlights persistent disparities that have remained in place for decades. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Prince Rogers Nelson remains one of the most influential artists in music history. From redefining the boundaries of funk, rock, soul and pop to fighting for artistic ownership and creative freedom, Prince left a legacy that continues to inspire generations. As fans mark what would have been his 68th birthday, his music and message remain as powerful as ever. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new report from Citibank finds that racial disparities in income, wealth and business ownership continue to have far-reaching consequences for Black Americans and the broader economy. The analysis shows significant gaps in earnings and family wealth while estimating that closing those disparities could create millions of jobs and generate trillions of dollars in economic activity. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

John Bolton, who served as President Donald Trump's national security adviser, has agreed to plead guilty to a single felony count related to retaining classified national security information. Under the plea agreement, Bolton will pay $2.25 million and could face a sentence ranging from probation to five years in prison. The case centers on diary entries containing top-secret information that prosecutors say he improperly shared while working on his memoir. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A bipartisan coalition in the House of Representatives voted to advance a resolution aimed at limiting President Donald Trump's ability to wage war against Iran without congressional authorization. Supporters argue Congress must reassert its constitutional role in decisions involving military action, while opponents question the measure's practical effect and legal authority. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Peabo Bryson, the Grammy-winning singer known for timeless hits including "If Ever You're in My Arms Again," "Can You Stop the Rain," "Beauty and the Beast" and "A Whole New World," has died at 75. The South Carolina native built a remarkable career across R&B, pop and adult contemporary music, earning acclaim for his solo work and unforgettable duets with artists including Roberta Flack, Regina Belle, Angela Bofill and Celine Dion. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A congressional district created after years of voting rights litigation could be at risk following a Supreme Court decision involving Alabama's congressional maps. Voting rights advocates argue the new map weakens Black voting power and could reduce opportunities for Black voters to elect candidates of their choice ahead of future elections. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A report from the Center for American Progress warns that significant reductions in health research funding and public health staffing could have far-reaching effects. Researchers point to cuts involving NIH grants, maternal health programs and workforce shortages among nurses and social workers as major challenges facing the nation's health infrastructure. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new report from BMO's Real Financial Progress Index finds that dating is becoming increasingly expensive for Americans. The average date now costs nearly $200, while many singles report going on fewer dates and questioning whether the financial investment is worthwhile. Younger generations, in particular, say dating expenses are making it harder to achieve their financial goals. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dexter Wansel, the Philadelphia-born producer, songwriter, arranger and keyboardist whose work helped define the sound of Philadelphia International Records, has died at 75. From producing Teddy Pendergrass' "Love TKO" to creating influential solo albums like "Life on Mars," Wansel's impact stretched across soul, jazz, funk and hip-hop, inspiring artists for decades. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

New economic data and analysis from the National Urban League and the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies suggest that Black Americans may already be facing recession-level challenges. The report highlights rising unemployment, shrinking economic opportunities and concerns about policy changes that advocates say disproportionately affect Black workers and entrepreneurs. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Donald Trump announced that Bill Pulte, the current director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency and chairman of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, will serve as acting director of national intelligence. The appointment places Pulte in charge of the nation's 18 intelligence agencies following the departure of Tulsi Gabbard. Critics have questioned the move because of Pulte's lack of national security experience, while supporters point to his leadership roles in housing finance. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A recent CNN poll shows widespread dissatisfaction with economic conditions in the United States, with many Americans citing the cost of living and rising expenses as their biggest financial challenges. The survey also found growing concern about the nation's economic outlook and the gap between higher- and lower-income households. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ronald LaPread, a founding member and bassist of the Commodores, has died at 75. LaPread helped shape the group's signature sound and contributed to some of its biggest hits, including "Easy," "Brick House," "Three Times a Lady," "Still" and the Grammy-winning "Nightshift." Tributes have poured in from former bandmates, including Lionel Richie. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pride Month is more than a celebration. It traces its roots to the Stonewall Uprising of 1969, when LGBTQ people fought back against police raids, discrimination and criminalization. This episode explores the history of Pride and the legacy of activists who helped advance the movement for equality and liberation. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A concert series connected to celebrations marking America's 250th birthday is facing growing controversy after several scheduled performers publicly withdrew. Organizers have announced that President Donald Trump will headline the opening ceremony of the Great American State Fair as questions continue about the event's ties to the Trump administration. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oil prices rose nearly 4% Monday as negotiations between the United States and Iran encountered new challenges. Concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, military activity involving Israel and Lebanon, and uncertainty over regional stability are contributing to renewed volatility in energy markets. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Louisiana lawmakers approved a new congressional map that eliminates one of the state's two majority-Black districts following the Supreme Court's decision in Louisiana v. Callais. The move is expected to reshape the state's political landscape and fuel continued legal challenges over voting rights and representation. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Retirement account balances fell during the first quarter of 2026 as market volatility weighed on investors. Despite the decline, Fidelity reports that savings rates reached record highs and many Americans increased their retirement contributions. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The United States and Iran are nearing a potential agreement that would extend a ceasefire, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and launch a new round of nuclear negotiations. While the framework is in place, final approval remains uncertain as both sides weigh the political and economic implications. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On May 29, 1973, Tom Bradley was elected the first African American mayor of Los Angeles, defeating incumbent Mayor Sam Yorty in a landmark victory. His election helped reshape Black political leadership nationally and launched a two-decade tenure as the city's longest-serving mayor. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new national Ipsos report shows growing economic and political frustration among women of color. Concerns about the cost of living, health care expenses and a lack of trust in government are shaping how many view the nation's future and their place in the political process. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

New federal data showed inflation continued rising in April, with the Personal Consumption Expenditures price index climbing 0.4% during the month. The report also showed a decline in personal income, adding to concerns about the direction of the U.S. economy. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Born on May 28, 1934, in Detroit, Betty Shabazz became a prominent educator and civil rights advocate whose life was forever tied to Malcolm X and the broader fight for Black empowerment and equality. After Malcolm X’s assassination, she continued her work through education and public advocacy. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A federal judge in Washington handed the Trump administration a temporary legal victory tied to proposed changes involving voter registration lists and mail ballots. Civil rights organizations argue the effort could create confusion and barriers for voters, while election reviews continue to reject widespread voter fraud claims tied to mail voting. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

South Carolina Republicans fell short in an effort to eliminate the state’s only majority-Black congressional district, preserving the seat held by Rep. Jim Clyburn. The failed vote came despite pressure from President Donald Trump and sparked sharp criticism from Clyburn over voting rights and the Constitution. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Inflation continues to strain household budgets, but a new Pew Research Center report found that paychecks generally kept pace with rising prices over the long term. The analysis showed inflation-adjusted buying power increased between 11% and 22% between 1999 and 2025. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, the groundbreaking lyricist of TLC, was born on May 27, 1971, in Philadelphia. From chart-topping hits like “Waterfalls” and “No Scrubs” to her unforgettable style and advocacy for safe sex awareness, Left Eye left a lasting impact on music and culture before her death in 2002 at age 30. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Texas politics saw major shakeups Tuesday as longtime Congressman Al Green lost his seat in a runoff reshaped by redistricting while Attorney General Ken Paxton secured the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate. Paxton now heads into the general election facing Texas state Rep. James Talarico. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A federal court handed Black voters in Alabama a major victory by blocking a congressional map critics say would weaken Black political representation. The ruling preserves Alabama’s majority-Black congressional district as the legal battle heads toward another possible Supreme Court fight. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Researchers say the healthiest amount of sleep may fall between 6.4 and 7.8 hours a night, according to a new study published in Nature. The study also found that too little or too much sleep may be linked to increased health risks, including depression, diabetes and a higher risk of death. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.