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Lonnie G. Bunch III’s Legacy: How One Historian Changed History
After Lonnie Bunch III announced his retirement from the Smithsonian Tuesday, The Root is taking a deep dive into the legacy he will leave behind.
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The Fascinating and Tragic Story of Soul Singer Otis Redding
Otis Redding, known as the "King of Soul," tragically died at 26. His fascinating story is the subject of an upcoming biopic. Meanwhile, here's his story
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MacKenzie Scott’s HBCU Giving Has Crossed $1 Billion and She’s Not Slowing Down
A $42 million gift to Elizabeth City State University pushes the billionaire's total HBCU giving past $1 billion — and shows no signs of letting up.
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Morgan Freeman on Acting, Retirement and the One Star Whose Career He Envies
He might be a film icon, but even Morgan Freeman compares himself to other stars, and in a recent Rolling Stone interview, he admitted he is a little envious of Denzel Washington's action career.
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From MVPs to Rookies: The Black Quarterbacks Leading Every Kind of NFL Team in 2026
Nearly half the league now starts a Black quarterback — from two-time MVPs to first-year starters fighting for their jobs. Here's where all 15 stand entering 2026.
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National Guardsman in DC Pulls Loaded Weapon During Dispute About Hair Length: What We Know
A heated argument over military grooming standards reportedly escalated when a Georgia Guardsman allegedly pulled his loaded service weapon on another officer.
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‘Martin,’ ‘Moesha’ and Other 90s Black Shows That Don’t Need a Reboot
From "A Different World" to "Living Single," these classic sitcoms captured Black joy, family and friendship perfectly the first time around—no do-over required.
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Ciara and Russell Wilson and More Black Hollywood Couples With Big Families
With Ciara and Russell Wilson announcing their fifth child, let's take a look at other Black celeb couples who have big, happy families, too!
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Why Thousands of Affordable Housing Units Sit Vacant While Millions Remain Unhoused
Despite the government building four million affordable units, the poorest in the U.S. still can't afford the rent, forcing them into homelessness.
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Inside a Growing Crisis For Disabled Students in D.C. Public Schools
A string of lawsuits, criminal cases and federal findings raises urgent questions about how DCPS protects students with disabilities.