AURN News

Bitcoin posted gains this week as markets responded to reports of a possible agreement between the United States and Iran. Investors appear encouraged by signs that tensions could ease, helping drive the cryptocurrency above $66,000. While Bitcoin remains below its record high, the latest rally reflects renewed optimism as markets watch developments in the region. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new Emerson College poll offers a snapshot of Black political sentiment heading into the 2026 midterm elections. Rising unemployment, workforce declines among Black women and concerns about inflation are fueling frustration, while many voters continue to closely watch developments surrounding voting rights and the economy. The question now is whether that frustration will translate into turnout at the ballot box. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Voters in Washington, D.C., are choosing a new mayor for the first time in more than a decade, but the election has taken on national significance. President Trump has warned that a victory by progressive candidate Janeese Lewis George could prompt efforts to place the city under greater federal control. Legal experts say dismantling D.C.'s home rule would require congressional action, but the issue has become a central topic in the campaign. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Donald Trump declared that the war with Iran is over following the announcement of a new peace framework. While negotiators are preparing for a formal signing ceremony, officials on both sides say critical issues — including Iran's nuclear program — remain unresolved. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Henry Ossian Flipper made history on June 14, 1877, when he became the first African American to graduate from the United States Military Academy at West Point. His achievement came despite years of isolation and racism and remains a powerful symbol of perseverance and breaking barriers. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Heavyweight fighter Josh Hokit is facing backlash after making a false claim about former first lady Michelle Obama during a post-fight interview at UFC Freedom 250 on the White House lawn. Critics, including former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III, condemned the remarks, while UFC CEO Dana White said he opposed the comments. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

National Urban League President and CEO Marc Morial is sounding the alarm over rising Black unemployment, which he says has climbed significantly over the past two years. Morial argues that federal workforce cuts and anti-DEI policies have contributed to growing economic challenges facing Black Americans. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On June 12, 1991, Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls captured their first NBA championship by defeating the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals. The victory marked the beginning of a dynasty that would produce six titles in the 1990s and cement Jordan's legacy as one of the greatest athletes of all time. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Inflation hit a three-year high as energy, gasoline and food prices continued to rise, according to new Department of Labor data. The latest numbers underscore the financial pressures many Americans face as the cost of everyday necessities remains elevated. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Floyd Norman, Disney's first Black animator, will receive an Honorary Oscar at the 2026 Governors Awards. Over a 65-year career, Norman helped shape some of animation's most beloved films while opening doors for generations of Black artists in the industry. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Marcus Garvey, one of the most influential figures in Black history and the founder of the Universal Negro Improvement Association, died on June 10, 1940, at age 52. His message of Black pride, economic empowerment and global African solidarity would go on to inspire generations of activists, religious leaders and civil rights advocates. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new CNBC survey found that 51% of Americans believe the American Dream is no longer achievable. Financial stability, homeownership and happiness remain key components of that dream, but many Americans say rising costs and economic pressures are making it harder to reach. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A federal judge in Boston ruled that the Trump administration lacked the authority to impose a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas, finding that only Congress can levy such a tax. The decision could have major implications for technology companies, hospitals and universities that rely on highly skilled foreign workers. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

FISA Section 702, one of the government's most powerful foreign intelligence tools, is set to expire as lawmakers remain deadlocked over its reauthorization. Supporters warn that a lapse could create significant gaps in intelligence collection and national security operations. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Stacey King, a member of the Chicago Bulls' first three NBA championship teams and a beloved longtime broadcaster, has died at 59. King spent decades connected to the Bulls organization, first as a player and later as one of the franchise's most recognizable voices. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Wichita student Ta'Liyah Lewis has been crowned Miss Kansas' Teen 2026. During her year representing the state, Lewis plans to focus on mental health awareness and suicide prevention while engaging with communities across Kansas. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A legal battle is underway over President Donald Trump's plan to host a UFC event at the White House. Two Washington-area residents have filed a federal lawsuit seeking to block the event, arguing it violates federal rules and bypassed required approvals and environmental reviews. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Donald Trump walked out of a Meet the Press interview after calling host Kristen Welker “crooked or stupid” during a tense exchange over the 2020 election and California politics. The confrontation has renewed attention on Trump's history of clashes with Black female journalists. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The global airline industry is bracing for a major financial hit as rising fuel costs tied to the war involving the United States, Israel and Iran threaten profitability. Industry leaders say jet fuel prices could surge 70% year over year, adding billions in costs and potentially driving up airfares for travelers. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Qween Jean made Tony Awards history as the first openly transgender person to win a Tony, earning Best Costume Design of a Musical for “Cats: The Jellicle Ball.” The activist and designer used her acceptance speech to celebrate queer and trans communities while helping the production cap off a successful night on Broadway. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bitcoin has dropped to its lowest level since 2024, marking a dramatic decline from its record highs and adding to concerns about the state of the cryptocurrency market. The downturn comes amid broader economic uncertainty and as Congress delays consideration of major cryptocurrency legislation, including the CLARITY Act. Analysts are closely watching whether the latest selloff signals a temporary correction or a deeper shift in investor sentiment. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A federal judge has struck down a Trump administration immigration policy that affected multiple stages of the legal immigration process, including asylum applications, work permits, green cards and citizenship. The ruling comes as immigrant advocacy groups continue to challenge broader immigration policies affecting communities across the country, including African and Caribbean immigrants. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The U.S. economy added more jobs than expected in May, but the benefits were not evenly distributed. New labor market data shows Black workers continue to experience higher unemployment rates than white workers, while economists point to declining labor force participation and rising long-term unemployment as ongoing concerns. The report highlights persistent disparities that have remained in place for decades. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Prince Rogers Nelson remains one of the most influential artists in music history. From redefining the boundaries of funk, rock, soul and pop to fighting for artistic ownership and creative freedom, Prince left a legacy that continues to inspire generations. As fans mark what would have been his 68th birthday, his music and message remain as powerful as ever. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new report from Citibank finds that racial disparities in income, wealth and business ownership continue to have far-reaching consequences for Black Americans and the broader economy. The analysis shows significant gaps in earnings and family wealth while estimating that closing those disparities could create millions of jobs and generate trillions of dollars in economic activity. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

John Bolton, who served as President Donald Trump's national security adviser, has agreed to plead guilty to a single felony count related to retaining classified national security information. Under the plea agreement, Bolton will pay $2.25 million and could face a sentence ranging from probation to five years in prison. The case centers on diary entries containing top-secret information that prosecutors say he improperly shared while working on his memoir. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A bipartisan coalition in the House of Representatives voted to advance a resolution aimed at limiting President Donald Trump's ability to wage war against Iran without congressional authorization. Supporters argue Congress must reassert its constitutional role in decisions involving military action, while opponents question the measure's practical effect and legal authority. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Peabo Bryson, the Grammy-winning singer known for timeless hits including "If Ever You're in My Arms Again," "Can You Stop the Rain," "Beauty and the Beast" and "A Whole New World," has died at 75. The South Carolina native built a remarkable career across R&B, pop and adult contemporary music, earning acclaim for his solo work and unforgettable duets with artists including Roberta Flack, Regina Belle, Angela Bofill and Celine Dion. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A congressional district created after years of voting rights litigation could be at risk following a Supreme Court decision involving Alabama's congressional maps. Voting rights advocates argue the new map weakens Black voting power and could reduce opportunities for Black voters to elect candidates of their choice ahead of future elections. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A report from the Center for American Progress warns that significant reductions in health research funding and public health staffing could have far-reaching effects. Researchers point to cuts involving NIH grants, maternal health programs and workforce shortages among nurses and social workers as major challenges facing the nation's health infrastructure. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new report from BMO's Real Financial Progress Index finds that dating is becoming increasingly expensive for Americans. The average date now costs nearly $200, while many singles report going on fewer dates and questioning whether the financial investment is worthwhile. Younger generations, in particular, say dating expenses are making it harder to achieve their financial goals. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

New economic data and analysis from the National Urban League and the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies suggest that Black Americans may already be facing recession-level challenges. The report highlights rising unemployment, shrinking economic opportunities and concerns about policy changes that advocates say disproportionately affect Black workers and entrepreneurs. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Donald Trump announced that Bill Pulte, the current director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency and chairman of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, will serve as acting director of national intelligence. The appointment places Pulte in charge of the nation's 18 intelligence agencies following the departure of Tulsi Gabbard. Critics have questioned the move because of Pulte's lack of national security experience, while supporters point to his leadership roles in housing finance. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A recent CNN poll shows widespread dissatisfaction with economic conditions in the United States, with many Americans citing the cost of living and rising expenses as their biggest financial challenges. The survey also found growing concern about the nation's economic outlook and the gap between higher- and lower-income households. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pride Month is more than a celebration. It traces its roots to the Stonewall Uprising of 1969, when LGBTQ people fought back against police raids, discrimination and criminalization. This episode explores the history of Pride and the legacy of activists who helped advance the movement for equality and liberation. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A concert series connected to celebrations marking America's 250th birthday is facing growing controversy after several scheduled performers publicly withdrew. Organizers have announced that President Donald Trump will headline the opening ceremony of the Great American State Fair as questions continue about the event's ties to the Trump administration. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oil prices rose nearly 4% Monday as negotiations between the United States and Iran encountered new challenges. Concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, military activity involving Israel and Lebanon, and uncertainty over regional stability are contributing to renewed volatility in energy markets. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Louisiana lawmakers approved a new congressional map that eliminates one of the state's two majority-Black districts following the Supreme Court's decision in Louisiana v. Callais. The move is expected to reshape the state's political landscape and fuel continued legal challenges over voting rights and representation. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Retirement account balances fell during the first quarter of 2026 as market volatility weighed on investors. Despite the decline, Fidelity reports that savings rates reached record highs and many Americans increased their retirement contributions. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The United States and Iran are nearing a potential agreement that would extend a ceasefire, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and launch a new round of nuclear negotiations. While the framework is in place, final approval remains uncertain as both sides weigh the political and economic implications. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A new national Ipsos report shows growing economic and political frustration among women of color. Concerns about the cost of living, health care expenses and a lack of trust in government are shaping how many view the nation's future and their place in the political process. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

New federal data showed inflation continued rising in April, with the Personal Consumption Expenditures price index climbing 0.4% during the month. The report also showed a decline in personal income, adding to concerns about the direction of the U.S. economy. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A federal judge in Washington handed the Trump administration a temporary legal victory tied to proposed changes involving voter registration lists and mail ballots. Civil rights organizations argue the effort could create confusion and barriers for voters, while election reviews continue to reject widespread voter fraud claims tied to mail voting. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

South Carolina Republicans fell short in an effort to eliminate the state's only majority-Black congressional district, preserving the seat held by Rep. Jim Clyburn. The failed vote came despite pressure from President Donald Trump and sparked sharp criticism from Clyburn over voting rights and the Constitution. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Inflation continues to strain household budgets, but a new Pew Research Center report found that paychecks generally kept pace with rising prices over the long term. The analysis showed inflation-adjusted buying power increased between 11% and 22% between 1999 and 2025. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, the groundbreaking lyricist of TLC, was born on May 27, 1971, in Philadelphia. From chart-topping hits like “Waterfalls” and “No Scrubs” to her unforgettable style and advocacy for safe sex awareness, Left Eye left a lasting impact on music and culture before her death in 2002 at age 30. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Texas politics saw major shakeups Tuesday as longtime Congressman Al Green lost his seat in a runoff reshaped by redistricting while Attorney General Ken Paxton secured the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate. Paxton now heads into the general election facing Texas state Rep. James Talarico. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A federal court handed Black voters in Alabama a major victory by blocking a congressional map critics say would weaken Black political representation. The ruling preserves Alabama's majority-Black congressional district as the legal battle heads toward another possible Supreme Court fight. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Researchers say the healthiest amount of sleep may fall between 6.4 and 7.8 hours a night, according to a new study published in Nature. The study also found that too little or too much sleep may be linked to increased health risks, including depression, diabetes and a higher risk of death. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Freedman's State Park in Maryland tells the story of Enoch George Howard and his family, who went from slavery to becoming major landowners in Montgomery County after the Civil War. The new park highlights Black history, resilience and the fight for freedom across generations. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.