Violence & Health Equity: A new Violence Policy Center report says Black Americans made up 52.2% of U.S. homicide victims in 2024 while representing 13.7% of the population, with eight in 10 killings involving guns; Alabama ranks among the states with the highest Black homicide victimization rates. Community Support: Tuscaloosa’s New Heights Foundation received a $75,000 Boost Giving gift to expand wraparound services for students and families, including health care, mental health support, and food assistance. Reproductive Health Access: U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen met with fertility doctors and advocates about the Right to IVF Act, aiming to treat infertility as a covered health need and expand access through insurance and public programs. Local Health & Safety: The Greater Birmingham Humane Society sued to stop a $2 billion AI data center in Birmingham, alleging rushed approvals could harm thousands of pets. Cancer Leadership: Monica L. Baskin, Ph.D., becomes the first Black woman to lead VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, an NCI-designated center focused on prevention and health equity. Alabama Policy Watch: Alabama’s Insurance Department named Mary-Coleman M. Roberts as Chief PBM Regulatory Counsel to strengthen the state’s pharmacy benefit manager oversight.