ARKANSAS
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A leader of the Ku Klux Klan who also calls himself a Christian pastor said he isn’t sure Black people can be saved or go to heaven — and yes, people are outraged.
In a resurfaced interview, the Arkansas‑based figure claimed the Bible doesn’t really address Black people, sparking backlash and a larger conversation about racism, religion and how extremist ideas still circulate today.
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West Ninth Street in Little Rock — a once‑vibrant historic Black business and cultural corridor — is starting to see new energy and optimism as community leaders and preservation efforts push to revive its legacy.
After decades of decline following mid‑20th‑century urban renewal and freeway construction, groups are working to honor the street’s rich heritage, including cultural programming and restoration projects that connect the past with future possibilities.
Event Reported: December 23rd, 2025
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The African American Coalition of Arkansas honored local leaders and awarded scholarships at its annual Douglass‑Lincoln Luncheon.
The event celebrated community achievement, highlighted leadership across the state, and supported students pursuing higher education by recognizing academic excellence and dedication to service.
Event Reported: December 16th, 2025
JANUARY 2026
APRIL 2026
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University of Arizona Professor Files Discrimination Lawsuit Following Internal Audit
A University of Arizona African American Studies professor has filed a discrimination lawsuit against the university following an internal audit, alleging unfair treatment related to his academic role and the institution’s practices. The legal action raises questions about workplace equity, university accountability and how internal investigations may affect faculty members; the allegations and the university’s response will be central to the case’s outcome.
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Long-Abandoned African American Cemetery Rediscovered in Hot Springs
A long-forgotten African American cemetery dating to the early 1900s has been rediscovered in Hot Springs, Arkansas, by researcher Lana Pierce. Known as Park Hill Cemetery, the site was established to provide a dignified burial place for Black residents but fell into disrepair after only a few years of operation; researchers are now documenting its history and burial sites to help preserve the stories of those laid to rest there.
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Video Shows Arkansas State Trooper Punching Black Woman During Traffic Stop
Newly released video shows an Arkansas state trooper punching a Black woman during a traffic stop, raising questions about the use of force by law enforcement. The footage has drawn attention to the encounter and the treatment of Black motorists during police stops, highlighting ongoing concerns about accountability and police conduct.
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100 Black Men of America Launches Northwest Arkansas Chapter
The national nonprofit 100 Black Men of America is expanding its reach with a new chapter in Northwest Arkansas, bringing its mission of mentorship, education and community service to the region. The organization focuses on empowering young people through leadership development, academic support and career guidance, helping prepare the next generation for success.
August 2026
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Arkansas State University Names Its First Black Chancellor
Dr. Calvin White Jr. has been appointed the first African American chancellor of Arkansas State University, marking a historic milestone for the institution. A first-generation college graduate and historian specializing in the African American experience in the Arkansas and Mississippi Delta, White previously served as the university’s provost and executive vice chancellor before becoming interim chancellor in July 2026. He says he plans to build on the university’s academic growth and expand opportunities for students and the broader community.