Rev. Stephanie Atkins, a prolific author, founder of Rho Alpha Tau Christian Writers Fraternity & Sorority, and now president of its Lambda Chapter, uses her creativity to empower, educate, encourage, and entertain, while advocating for social justice and racial equality.
Category: Word In Black
As L.A. burns, Asheville is still recovering from Hurricane Helene
Hurricane Helene has left residents of Asheville, North Carolina facing a reality of grieving and rebuilding, with faith leaders providing support and resources to help them rebuild.
After schools burn, what happens to Black students?
Wildfires in Altadena and Los Angeles have caused significant destruction, impacting Black communities and disrupting education, with students facing challenges such as learning loss, displacement, and limited access to resources and federal aid.
Black Vote Black Power: The Blackest confirmation hearing
Scott Turner’s confirmation hearing for Secretary of Housing and Urban Development reveals his lack of commitment to fair and affordable housing, and his willingness to support Trump’s controversial policies.
Four tips on addressing racism in schools
Recent incidents of racial harassment in schools and the president elect’s re-election have intensified concerns among Black parents about their children’s safety and well-being on campus, prompting them to seek guidance and resources to advocate for educational equity.
How a Miami teen could topple Florida’s gas empire
Six Miami-Dade County residents are suing the Florida Public Service Commission for violating state law by continuing to approve plans heavily reliant on natural gas, which is contributing to climate change and infringing on their fundamental right to a stable climate.
Nine books for students to look out for in 2025
Nine upcoming books for Black K-12 students are set to be published in 2025, featuring diverse narratives that celebrate culture, history, and personal growth, empowering students to see themselves reflected and represented in literature.
New schizophrenia drug may have milder side effects
The FDA has approved the first new drug in decades to treat chronic schizophrenia, which is effective and has fewer side effects than existing treatments, and could be beneficial to the Black community, where the rate of schizophrenia diagnoses is estimated to be up to five times higher than in the White community.
How to make report cards less stressful for students
Teachers can make report card time a positive and supportive experience for Black students by encouraging open and affirming conversations, setting realistic and personalized goals, providing access to resources and support networks, and fostering a positive growth mindset.
Here are the medical appointments you need to make in 2025
This year, individuals should schedule a variety of medical appointments, including a primary care visit, reproductive care screenings, dental visits, immunizations, and mental health screenings, to ensure optimal health and well-being.
Not all insurrections are equal
The debate over what to call the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol continues, with some calling it an insurrection and others a legitimate political discourse, while acknowledging the history of Black rebellions and insurrections in the U.S.
An AFRO spotlight on excellence: Former special projects editor Rev. Dorothy S. Boulware steps into new role as faith writer
Rev. Dorothy S. Boulware, former AFRO special projects editor and managing editor, is now the faith writer for Word in Black, where she draws on her experiences as a pastor and author to write about faith and religion.


