protests

Local and state officials are saying they stand in solidarity with Cuban protesters facing an economic crisis and shortages of food and medicine.

Some Haitian Americans in the greater Tampa Bay region are concerned about Haiti’s political turmoil and the safety of their loved ones.

The proposal is a compromise between the Legislative Black Caucus and Republicans, and comes after high-profile deaths of Black Americans by law enforcement.

Some activists hope that the verdict will lead to a change in police behavior.

A single Republican, Sen. Jeff Brandes of St. Petersburg, crossed party lines and joining Democrats in voting against the bill.

On April 15, 1971, a group of Black students marched to Tigert Hall with six demands in hand. Then-UF President Stephen C. O'Connell threatened to suspend them all unless they vacated the premises immediately, and the students ended up in jail.

With critics warning that the bill would chill free speech and have a disparately negative impact on Black people, a key Senate committee Friday approved a controversial measure that Republicans argue is needed to crack down on violent protests.

Sen. Darryl Rouson, D-St. Petersburg, said he worries the measure cracks down on dissent — a tenant of American democracy — and does so in a way that would hurt Black and minority voices.

An anti-rioting bill will be voted on by the Florida House Friday, but opponents spoke out against it in Tampa Thursday.

Among them: Where concealed weapons will be permitted, and a new class of laws involving rioting.

COVID-19 will be top of mind as the Florida Legislature begins its 2021 session. These will be the main topics they'll address.

Tens of thousands took to the streets across Russia, sharing photos and videos on social media faster than they could be removed, urging others to join.