2020 Year in Photos
Who knew when Richmonders rang in the year 2020 that it would be such a year of tumult?
Questions raised about legalizing marijuana and equity
Re: “Coalition pushes Black inclusion in marijuana legalization,” Free Press Dec. 31, 2020-Jan. 2, 2021, edition:
New year, new meat alternatives
With the year of COVID-19 barely behind us, we look forward to the new year and the customary resolutions — reduce personal weight, reduce time on social media and reduce consumption of animal foods.
Woodland Cemetery is a quiet gem of beauty
Nestled between Richmond’s Highland Park neighborhood and the Henrico County boundary lines lies Woodland Cemetery, a quiet, somewhat isolated cemetery that is a gem of a beauty.
Justice Department protests powerful, by Marc H. Morial
The decision in late December not to charge the officers who shot and killed a Black child on sight encapsulates everything that is wrong with the U.S. Department of Justice under the current administration.
We were medical guinea pigs, by Julianne Malveaux
People who don’t know Black history have probably heard more about the Tuskegee syphilis “experiment” in the last month than they have in their whole lives.
Woman power
“If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.” — Margaret Thatcher
Hurry, Jan. 20
We remain disgusted by President Trump and his continued assault on democracy — this time stemming from his refusal to accept the outcome of the November presidential election.
Race car driver is now a knight
Lewis Hamilton, the seven- time Formula One racing champion, is now a “Sir” as well.
Oklahoma begins Tulsa race massacre centennial remembrance
Oklahoma began a centennial remembrance Jan. 1 of a once- thriving African-American neighborhood in Tulsa decimated by deadly white violence that has received growing recognition during America’s reckoning over police brutality and racial violence.
Bianca Smith is first Black female coach with MLB franchise
Bianca Smith is blazing a new trail in professional baseball.
Denver Broncos Hall of Fame running back Floyd Little dies
Dynamic running back Floyd Little, among the most revered athletes in the annals of Syracuse University and the Denver Broncos, died Friday, Jan. 1, 2021.
Derrick Henry rushes into NFL record books
Derrick Henry has joined one of the NFL’s most pres- tigious fraternities—the 2,000 yard club.
Washington Football Team headed to NFL playoffs
A record of seven wins and nine losses isn’t very good, but it’s good enough.
Heisman winner DeVonta Smith has made his way into the history books
For many decades, it seemed wide receivers need not apply for the Heisman Trophy. Then along came DeVonta Smith to change attitudes.
Federal stimulus bill eliminates $1.3B in HBCU debt
In 2012, Virginia Union University was awarded a $17 million federal loan as it began development of a combination conference center and residence hall.
VUU receives $6M grant from Dominion Energy; names new trustees
Virginia Union University has been awarded a $6 million grant from Dominion Energy to enable the school to beef up its offerings in science, technology, engineering and math and improve its campus.
VLBC retains strength with special election victories
The Virginia Legislative Black Caucus gained two new members Tuesday night as the result of special elections to fill vacant seats in the House of Delegates.
GRTC, union stalled on new contract for drivers
An unexpected impasse has developed in contract talks between GRTC and its unionized drivers that is creating friction and blocking approval of a new three-year contract to replace the one that expired Sept. 30.
City could have saved $8M on 2 new schools
The new vice chairman of the Richmond School Board wants to end what he sees as overspending on new school buildings.
