EDITORIAL

Self-annihilation

Violent crime decreased in 2008, according to the annual "Crime in the United States" report released by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). However, the news on homicides was not very encouraging for African Americans. Almost as many black people as whites became homicide victims in 2008. This was true even though only 12.4 percent of Americans are black, while 74.1 percent are white, according to Census Bureau data. More »

The Banner's next step

America has been suffering in the throes of the greatest economic downturn since the Great Depression of the 1930s. At the same time, the newspaper industry has struggled with revolutionary technological changes that have eroded advertising revenues. It is no wonder that a small weekly publication like the Bay State Banner would be greatly challenged by such circumstances. More »

OPINION

Medicare: Hope, not fear, in health care reform

One of the most effective strategies used by those who are against President Obama and his health care reform initiative has been to spread misinformation and fear about what would happen to Medicare. More »

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Voters should reflect on true meaning of community development

It's telling that Boston's mayoral candidates would hold meetings and forums in places like Freedom House and the Reggie Lewis Track and Athletic Center in Roxbury, as detailed in the Banner's article, "Mayoral hopefuls sling barbs at RCC forums" (Sept. 10, 2009). These places are important because they demonstrate and symbolize the work ethic, commitment and determination for progressive change critical to people of color in our city. More »

ROVING CAMERA

Why do you plan to vote in this year's city election?

It's absolutely important to vote. As minorities in the city of Boston, we need officials that understand and back our needs, and as [one of] many single women in the struggle to improve ourselves, voting is one of the most important things we must do. More »