(BALTIMORE – June 27, 2025)—Ashburton stood tall this past Saturday to honor a true giant in Baltimore’s Black history. Herbert “Herb” Brown, a centenarian, veteran, entrepreneur, and architect of political progress, was celebrated by unveiling a street bearing his name. Renaming a block to Herb Brown Way marked more than a tribute. It marked a legacy. Mr. Brown served his country in World War II before returning home to serve his people. He made history as the founder of Mondawmin Travel Agency, the first full-service Black-owned travel business in Maryland. At a time when Black travelers faced roadblocks and redlining, his agency became a symbol of access, dignity, and economic strength. Mondawmin Mall had just two Black-owned businesses back then. He was one of them. His impact extended far beyond the travel industry. Mr. Brown was appointed to several key city and state leadership bodies, including the Baltimore City Liquor Board, the Board of Zoning Appeals, the Maryland Tourism Task Force, the U.S. International Tourism Task Force, and the Council for Equal Business Opportunity. His behind-the-scenes organizing helped pave the way for a new era of Black political leadership in Baltimore and throughout Maryland. Saturday’s dedication brought together over 100 people, including elected officials, civic leaders, longtime friends, and members of the city’s most influential political networks. Among those in attendance were Council Vice President Sharon Green Middleton, Judge Askew Gatewood Jr., Delegates Scott Phillips, Sandy Rosenberg, Malcolm Ruff, developer Theo Rodgers, and former mayors Kurt Schmoke, Sheila Dixon, and Catherine Pugh. Governor Wes Moore also recently visited Mr. Brown, offering gratitude from the highest state leadership level. His son Kevin Brown shared that that moment left Mr. Brown beaming. Members of the historic Vanguard Political Organization were also present to pay tribute. Vanguard played a central role in shaping Black political power in Baltimore during the second half of the 20th century. Herb Brown was part of that movement. His often quiet and consistent work helped uplift others and build the foundation for progress. His great-niece, Chezia Cager, spoke to the larger meaning of the moment. This wasn’t just about one man. It was about honoring a generation that helped change the course of the city’s history. She reminded the crowd that these stories must be told while our elders are here to hear them. The unveiling of Herb Brown Way is more than a symbolic act. It is a living, permanent acknowledgment of a man who helped build the civic and economic infrastructure for Black Baltimore to thrive. At BMORENews, we believe in giving our legends their flowers now. Herb Brown, we salute you. Thank you for opening doors and creating a path for so many to walk through.

You may have missed

Advertisement

Political Roundtable on the next Doni Glover Show, 5.15.24 (9 am EST)

(BALTIMORE – May 15, 2024) – Join us for a political roundtable on yesterday’s election results on the Emmy-nominated Doni Glover Show on Wednesday, May 15, 2024. Guests include Byron Deese, Andy Pierre, and Richard Elliott. The Doni Glover Show, hosted by the award-winning BMORENews.com publisher, streams LIVE Monday through Friday at 9 a.m. EST on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Twitter.

ANGELA ALSOBROOKS WINS MARYLAND DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

(GREENBELT, MD – May 15, 2024) – Angela Alsobrooks made history, overcoming steep odds with a grassroots-powered campaign to win the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate. The following are her remarks as prepared for delivery. Alsobrooks said, “Thank you to the captain of Team Maryland, Governor Wes Moore.  Let’s give it up Senator Van Hollen and the other tremendous leaders who believed in us. You’ve been tremendous partners to me in this campaign and I am so grateful for your guidance, support, and friendship.  I had an opportunity to speak with Congressman David Trone. We are united in our focus…

Alsobrooks, Scott, Cohen are Victors in Democratic Primary

(BALTIMORE – May 15, 2024) – Congratulations to Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott and the new Democratic City Council President-nominee Zeke Cohen. While the mayor retains his seat, Cohen will (upon winning in November) be taking the place of President Nick Mosby. Shannon Sneed placed second and Mosby came in last place. Surely, this election was taxing in every possible way for Mosby. Sheila Dixon came close at one point in the count last night, but as the number of precincts reporting increased, Scott’s lead expanded. This was her third attempt at reclaiming City Hall. Despite a laundry list of issues,…

The New Life Mental Health Summit is set for June 6th

“Restoring hope and healing to the community” The New Life Mental Health Summit 102 Saint Paul Street Baltimore, MD 21202 Thursday, June 6, 2024 9 am to 1 pm Join us at The New Life Recovery Summit to engage in meaningful discussions, network with industry leaders, and contribute to the advancement of mental health services in Maryland. Overview: The New Life Recovery Summit is a premier event aimed at addressing the state of mental health in Maryland. Hosted by New Life Recovery Center, this summit serves as a platform to present a state-of-the-art facility to potential referral sources, individuals with…