(BALTIMORE, MD – June 8, 2026) — BMORENews.com will host “Chaos or Community? A Political Conversation on Power, Policy & the Future of Baltimore” on Thursday, June 11, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center.
The forum will bring together candidates, community leaders, media professionals, and residents for an open conversation about some of the most pressing issues facing Baltimore today.
Following a legislative session in Annapolis that produced major changes in voting rights, juvenile justice, housing policy, and discussions surrounding reparations, the event will examine what those decisions mean for Baltimore neighborhoods and families.
Meet the Panel
This conversation will be guided by a distinguished panel representing law, radio, television, and print journalism — professionals who have spent decades informing, challenging, and advocating for Baltimore communities.
Tonya Bana, Esq., brings the weight of the law to the table. Attorney Bana has been on the front lines of community advocacy, standing shoulder to shoulder with residents to challenge powerful institutions and demand accountability. Her legal expertise and commitment to justice make her a formidable voice in conversations about public policy and community empowerment.
Jason Rodriguez is a longtime Radio One professional and one of Baltimore’s most trusted voices in Black media. Rodriguez has used his platform consistently to uplift, inform, and advocate for the community. He brings credibility, energy, and an ear always tuned to the concerns of everyday Baltimoreans.
John Rydell has covered Maryland politics as well as anyone in the business. A veteran journalist with decades of experience, Rydell has earned a reputation for getting the story right and asking the questions that powerful people would rather avoid. He brings institutional knowledge and a reporter’s instinct for accountability.
Marc Clarke is a seasoned media personality whose career has spanned multiple markets while remaining deeply connected to Baltimore. Through television, radio, and public engagement, Clarke has built a reputation for thoughtful commentary and meaningful dialogue. He brings both polish and purpose to the conversation.
Together, this panel represents exactly the kind of multidisciplinary perspective needed at a time when Baltimore residents are seeking answers about public safety, education, housing, political representation, and economic opportunity.
Four Critical Races. One Conversation.
The forum will spotlight candidates competing in four important races that will help shape Baltimore’s future:
- Sheriff of Baltimore City
- State Senate – 41st District
- House of Delegates – 40th District
- House of Delegates – 45th District
Residents will have an opportunity to hear directly from candidates about their priorities, leadership philosophies, and vision for Baltimore.
The Issues
The discussion will focus on four major categories affecting Black communities across the city:
Education & Youth
Who controls the future of our children? The conversation will explore education policy, Baltimore Collegiate, school governance, and the role families and communities should play in shaping educational outcomes.
Housing & Economic Opportunity
Panelists and candidates will discuss housing affordability, appraisal bias, wealth creation, homeownership, and the impact of Baltimore City Bill 25-0066 on neighborhood development and community stability.
Political Power & Representation
The forum will examine the Maryland Voting Rights Act and broader questions of civic engagement, voter participation, and the extent to which current reforms strengthen political representation in communities that have historically been overlooked.
Justice, Accountability & Repair
Topics will include juvenile justice reforms, second-chance opportunities following the Clean Slate Act’s failure, public safety, and ongoing conversations about reparations and what meaningful repair should look like in Baltimore.
“This is not a lecture. This is a conversation,” organizers said. “The goal is to bring residents, candidates, and community leaders together to discuss where Baltimore is headed and what it will take to build stronger, healthier neighborhoods.”
Special thanks to Dr. Al Hathaway and the Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center for hosting this important community dialogue.
Event Information
Chaos or Community? A Political Conversation on Power, Policy & the Future of Baltimore
Date: Thursday, June 11, 2026
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center
RSVP:
https://chaosorcommunity.eventbrite.com
For additional information, contact BMORENews.com.
