We know we say this every year, but a lot went down in 2025, y’all. From the devastating wildfires in California to the joyful celebration of Black style and culture at the Met Gala, the year was packed with amazing highs and devastating lows. Fortunately, photographers were there to capture every incredible moment.
Suggested Reading
As we prepare to close the books on 2025, we’re looking back at some of the most stunning Black images of the year.
Howard Students Protest National Guard Deployment in D.C.
In August 2025, President Donald Trump deployed the National Guard in the nation’s capital. The troops were positioned around monuments and Metro stations to deter crime. Many of the city’s residents were against the move, including Howard University students who staged a walkout in protest.
California Wildfires
One of the biggest headlines of the year was that of the deadly wildfires that wreaked havoc on Altadena, California, a community with a thriving middle-class Black community. Here, 6-year-old Lainey Simmons, whose family lost their home of 45 years in the fire, sets up at a food giveaway for survivors.
Cowboy Carter Tour
Beyoncé had everyone wearing denim and cowboy boots in 2025 as she hit the road for her “Cowboy Carter” tour, a 32-stop string of shows across the United States and Europe. Here, fans in London strike a pose in their finest Western wear for the show.
Detroit Elects Its First Female Mayor
Detroit elected its first female mayor in 2025. In January 2026, Mary Sheffield will be sworn in to succeed Mayor Mike Duggan, who is launching his bid to run for the state’s governor in 2026.
“Where Them Fans At?”
In 2025, 803 Fresh had everyone asking, “Where them fans at?” as his song, “Boots on the Ground” became a viral sensation. Social media exploded with videos of people doing the popular line dance at cookouts, parties and wedding receptions everywhere.
Super Bowl Halftime Show
Rapper Kendrick Lamar put on a show for the ages as the headliner for the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show. With help from guests like Serena Williams, Samuel L. Jackson and SZA, he performed a medley of some of his biggest hits.
Inauguration Day Protests
Not everyone celebrated President Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025 – the same day as the federal holiday honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Protestors took to the streets around the country to demonstrate against a second Trump term.
The Met Gala
The 2025 Met Gala theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” was a celebration of Black fashion and culture. The night brought out some of the most stylish Black celebs, including Rihanna, Colman Domingo and Teyanna Taylor. There was even an a cappella gospel choir.
Barbara Rose Johns Statue
In December 2025, a statue was unveiled of Barbara Rose Johns, a young civil rights activist who at just 16 years old led a walkout of her segregated high school in 1951. Johns’ statue replaced a long-standing statue of Confederate general Robert E. Lee at the United States Capitol.
The Diddy Trial
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ trial was one of the biggest news stories of the year. Crowds gathered outside the courthouse daily throughout the high-profile trial.
Fashion Forward
Cardi B was just one of celebs we had on our fashion radar in 2025. From The Met Gala to Paris Fashion Week, the rapper showed out on almost every red carpet she hit this year.
A Night of Angels
The angels took the stage for the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in October. One of the highlights of the night was model Jasmine Tookes who debuted her adorable baby bump on the runway.
Black Excellence
The Root celebrated an amazing year of Black excellence at our 2025 The Root 100 Gala at Gotham Hall in New York City. Some of the most influential Black Americans in politics, sports, media, and more joined our new publisher, Ashley Allison, at the fabulous fête.
Straight From 
Sign up for our free daily newsletter.
