The Daily Drum brings you a powerful conversation about resilience, community, and the rising tide of hate crimes in America.
We’re shining the spotlight on Urban Reads, a Black-owned bookstore in Baltimore that has become a vital hub for education, empowerment, and connection. But in recent months, the store and its owner have come under attack.
From racist remarks to direct threats, what began as a mission to uplift the community has become a battleground for justice and safety.
Tonight, we’re joined by Tia Hamilton, the founder and owner of Urban Reads, to hear her story firsthand.
What You Need to Know: Hate Crimes in the U.S. (2025)
- Nearly 12,000 hate crime incidents have been reported so far this year, a slight increase over 2024.
- Race-based bias is behind more than 60% of these cases.
- Anti-Black incidents account for the majority of that figure.
- Religious-based hate crimes make up about 20% of reported cases.
- Sexual orientation bias accounts for approximately 15% of incidents.
Key Questions We’re Exploring Tonight:
- What inspired Tia Hamilton to open Urban Reads in Baltimore?
- How does the bookstore serve the community beyond selling books?
- Why are Black-owned, culturally-rooted spaces so crucial today?
- What acts of hate has Urban Reads endured—and how is the community standing up?
Join the Conversation
Use the hashtags #TheDailyDrum and #SupportBlackBookstores on social media to share your thoughts and stand in solidarity with Urban Reads.