Ed Dwight going to space 60 years after (almost) becoming first Black astronaut
Ed Dwight Jr. was rejected by NASA in the 1960s, but will now head toward the stars as part of Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin space tourist program.
Arts
New film shares personal letters of Venerable Augustus Tolton
CHICAGO — A new documentary on Venerable Augustus Tolton features personal letters from the pioneering Black Catholic priest, to be shared publicly for the first time upon the film’s release in June. A private screening of “Tolton Speaks: The Life and Letters of Fr. Augustus Tolton” was held in February
Review: Donyale Luna doc gives due to Black Catholic fashion pioneer
An HBO Max film released in the fall showcases the nation's first Black supermodel, a troubled and triumphant Detroit-born force who broke barriers.
St. Sabina Catholic Church unveils anti-gun violence sculpture in Chicago
The life-size bronze designed by Timothy P. Schmalz depicts a weeping Jesus over the lifeless body of a slain Black youth.
Sean 'Diddy' Combs homes raided in federal sex trafficking probe
The Catholic-raised Black business mogul has been the subject of several recent sex assault lawsuits and resigned from his media company in November.
Review: 'A Symphony of Tiny Lights' illuminates Dr. John H. Francis, eco-justice pioneer
A new short doc on a planet-walking environmental activist—who once considered the monastery—does right by its subject and his love for the earth.
Documentary short on Bessie Stringfield, famed Black motorcyclist, premiering at AmDocs
The 23-minute feature covers one of America's most unique Black Catholic women, known for her cross-country rides during the height of Jim Crow.
Mary Lou Williams events this week in Chicago to be led by Deanna Witkowski
The scholar and musician from the University of Pittsburgh will give a lecture and concert on consecutive dates at Loyola University Chicago.
Review: 'Cabrini' strikes the right notes of nun's missions to America
Samantha Smith says the new Catholic flick is worth a watch, with strong acting and a compelling American story with an Italian twist.
Review: 'The Chosen' season 4 brings light, darkness, and a few oddities in between
The latest binge masterpiece is in theaters for now and packs quite a punch—though those looking for strict historical accuracy ought seek another.
Review: 'Bob Marley: One Love' is a passionate telling of musical greatness
Samantha Smith says a new biopic on the Jamaican reggae superstar handles his gravity well and benefits from a strong supporting cast.
XULA student arrested in fatal Mardi Gras hit-and-run involving Grammy-winning musician
Jeremy E. Lindsey, 21, was booked for vehicular homicide and hit-and-run driving Tuesday morning after allegedly striking Kerry "Fatman" Hunter.
Kobe Bryant statue unveiled at Lakers arena
The 19-foot bronze sculpture of the Hall of Famer and 18-time All-Star joins those of other Laker legends outside Crypto.com Arena.
Maurice Hines, Tony-nominated tap dancer and Broadway star, dead at 80
The New York native found fame as a duo with his brother Gregory, later going solo and developing into a playwright and director.
Allison 'Tootie' Montana, famed Mardi Gras Indian, to be honored in New Orleans
The Black Catholic culture-bearer helmed the Black Masking tradition for more than 50 years until his death in 2005 at the age of 82.
2024 Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series to help fund rebuild of Black Catholic settlement
The annual Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series, now in its third year, will be held over two weekends at the ruins of Fort Mose in St. Augustine, Florida.