THE NEFERTITI NETWORK

March Madness: The Game Off the Court for Black Student-Athletes

By Sharday Urtarte, Editor-in-Chief Nefertiti Network (WASHINGTON, D.C. – March 25, 2025) – March Madness is here—a time when college basketball dominates the sports world, showcasing the talent and resilience of student-athletes nationwide. But beyond the on-court spectacle, what does this moment mean for Black student-athletes in today’s evolving NCAA landscape? The Changing NCAA Landscape Recent legislative shifts—ranging from changes in NIL policies to the rollback of affirmative action and the dismantling of DEI programs—are reshaping the experience of Black athletes. These policies don’t just impact recruitment; they influence financial opportunities, mental health, and the overall culture of college sports. The…

Re-writing HERstory: A Letter to Black Women

By Lauren Dorvil, MPH, Chief Digital Strategist, Nefertiti Network (WASHINGTON, D.C. – March 4, 2025) – Dear Black Women …  It is evident that our voices are under attack. The past 40 days have been an intense cycle of uncertainty, fear, and emotion. America has found itself in a new but familiar chapter of history, with a political, social, and economic climate that is hostile to urban America—specifically to the overall health and wellness of Black women. Our physical, mental, and emotional health are at risk: from the cost of living, senseless attacks on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and…

Rodericka Applewhaite Redefines Black Media Access at the White House

Written by Jacqueline Shaulis, White House Correspondent, The Nefertiti Network Edited by Sharday Urtarte, White House Corr/espondent, The Nefertiti Network (WASHINGTON, DC – February 12, 2025) – In the halls of the White House, Rodericka Applewhaite reshaped the narrative of Black media representation. In her time as White House Director of Black Media, the first-generation American of Panamanian and Guyanese descent didn’t just open doors—she reimagined the very structure of access, ensuring that Black voices are heard where they once were muted. “We trust outlets to understand the audiences they serve,” Applewhaite explained, her voice steady and assured. This belief…

Not ‘Hard to Read,’ Just Three Steps Ahead: Black Introverted Leaders Share Their Truth

By Jacqueline Shaulis, Chief Investigative Journalist, Nefertiti Network (WASHINGTON, DC – February 10, 2025) “When I walk into a new place of employment, you see my brown face first. When we aren’t saying much, when we have a low-key calm demeanor, we are immediately misunderstood,” reflects Dr. Jeri Bingham, host of the HushLoudly podcast and creator of Black Introvert Week. “They can’t figure us out.” But what others mistake for being “hard to read” is actually calculated observation in action. As Black Introvert Week (February 8-15) kicks off, research is revealing what successful Black introverts have always known: that the…

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Guest Editorial: The Awe of Africa

(ACCRAH, GHANA – April 1, 2025) – I had the incredible honor of visiting the continent of Africa for the very first time. As someone who’s traveled extensively—exploring countries and…

Thursday, April 17: Black Wall Street TWENTY-FIFTH STREET

Come celebrate the legacy of Black Wall Street on 25th Street with music, food, and community support! (BALTIMORE – April 3, 2025) – Welcome to Black Wall Street TWENTY-FIFTH STREET! Join us on Thurs., Apr. 17, 2025, from 5-7:30 pm at Terra Cafe for a night of celebration, networking, and empowerment. This event is a tribute to the historic Black Wall Street and the thriving businesses that line TWENTY-FIFTH STREET today! Come connect with like-minded individuals, support local entrepreneurs, and be inspired by the resilience of the Black community. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be a part of something special. See you there! RSVP…

‘Stand 10 Toes Down’: Maryland’s  Billion Budget Showdown

The Maryland House of Delegates has passed a contentious $67 billion budget for fiscal year 2026, addressing a $3.3 billion deficit through a combination of spending cuts and revenue increases. The budget, which passed with 100 votes in favor, reflects the difficult choices faced by lawmakers in balancing fiscal responsibility with the need to maintain essential services and investments in the state’s future. At the heart of this budget are several key investments that proponents argue are crucial for Maryland’s long-term prosperity. These include continued funding for the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future education initiative, with $65 million in increased local…