Topic: Howard University

Rand Paul: GOP faces long odds in connecting with black voters

Rand Paul, a potential 2016 presidential candidate, said in a speech at Howard University that the Republican party was rooted in the presidency of Abraham Lincoln and efforts to rid the South of oppressive Jim Crow laws.

Focus Election 2012: Ballot initiatives reflect nation's mood

The 174 propositions on state ballots point to evolving opinions on marijuana, same-sex marriage, health care, and more. Do the initiatives show the power of direct democracy or lack of legislative leadership?

Will black voters give Obama what he needs in Southern swing states?

Black voters who do go to the polls are near-certain to vote for Obama. But in Virginia and North Carolina, concern is rising that the black voters who sealed the deal for Obama in 2008 will stay home.

White births in US no longer a majority

White births in the US have been surpassed by racial and ethnic minorities, according to newest Census data.

Tax VOX Can the US tax system be fair?

Two economists, a tax historian, and a philosopher debated what a 'fair' tax code means at an Urban Institute panel this week. 

The Vote White House Correspondents' Dinner: Who's coming?

Kim Kardashian and Lindsay Lohan are the latest celebs to emerge on the list for Washington's annual 'nerd prom,' the White House Correspondents' Dinner. Here's a list of other names.

Susan G. Komen executives: More resignations

Susan G. Komen executives depart in turmoil over a funding flap of Planned Parenthood. At least five Susan G. Komen executives have left.

Opinion: Facebook stalking in the name of affirmative action

Ahead of the Supreme Court hearing on affirmative action, I recall how at Roll Call newspaper, I was told that one of our three interns had to be from a racial minority. Diversity is important, but giving someone an advantage beyond his experience degrades the applicant and the hirer.

Minority students are punished more than whites, US reports. Is it racism?

Black students are more than three times more likely to be suspended from school than white kids, a Department of Education report finds. Secretary Arne Duncan calls it a violation of civil rights.

'Act of Valor': Does Navy SEAL film reveal too many secrets?

'Act of Valor' is a fictional account of a potential terrorist attack on American soil. The film uses 'real-life' active duty US Navy SEALs. Critics warn the film may give away sensitive intel.

Video deepens mystery around ex-FBI agent Bob Levinson, a hostage in Iran

The family of former FBI agent Robert Levinson, missing in Iran since 2007, confirmed today he's being held hostage and released a video provided by his captors.

Former Iran assassin says alleged plot 'makes no sense'

Dawud Salahuddin, an American fugitive in Tehran who carried out 1980 hit near Washington, argues that Iran would not try to kill the Saudi ambassador to the US for fear of provoking war.

Troy Davis supporters gather around the world to protest, mourn

Troy Davis was given a lethal injection Wednesday, despite protests around the world.

Opinion: Studying the Bible in public schools can help US students 'win the future'

A critical study of the Bible as literature can prepare students with the thinking skills needed in the 21st century. As an all-time bestseller, the Bible has had a profound impact on history, literature, and culture. It remains a vital part of American life.

Was Ronald Reagan a good president?

Sunday, Feb. 6, will be the centenary of his birth. Looking at the Ronald Reagan presidency from today, can we get any sense of how he rates in history?

How lawyers plan to defend five Americans held in Pakistan terrorist plot

Lawyers defending five Americans charged with hatching a Pakistan terrorist plot say that police planted the evidence. The five men, they say, were in Pakistan to attend a wedding.

Five Americans arrested in Pakistan were planning 'big attack'

Pakistan police chief says the five Americans arrested were trying to link up with a jihadi group, possibly Al Qaeda, for a "big attack."

Five Americans arrested in Pakistan don't fit typical profile

The five American Muslims arrested came from middle-class homes and were educated and assimilated – unlike other Americans arrested on terrorist-related charges.

Who is Edward Brooke?

Edward Brooke was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor Wednesday. Mr. Brooke was the first African-American elected to the US Senate by popular vote.

US Muslims: young, diverse, striving

A new portrait of Muslim Americans depicts a group that has achieved a great deal, yet struggles for a sense of belonging.

Inauguration signals new era - World War II vet 'knew it would come'

Classic book review: At Canaan's Edge

Martin Luther King Jr. was no saint, but this nuanced biography confirms his many virtues.

Fish “talk” much like primates

Fish hum, grunt, and growl to get their message across

Scientists listen to one deep sea swimmer, seeking new insights on the evolution of communication.

Thurgood Marshall: Civil Rights Champion

For kids: US Supreme Court justice Thurgood Marshall was the first African-American to be appointed to the highest court in the land.