The Washington Informer - February 1, 2024 by The Washington Informer

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Vol 59 No 16... February 1-7, 2024

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Descendants Reveal The Stories of Their Enslaved, Free Black Ancestors at Tudor Place

The Historic Georgetown Site Unveils Unknown Truths about Enslaved, Free Black Washingtonians By Bousaina Ibrahim WI Contributing Writer

5The newly formed Gallery Place/Chinatown Task Force presented its plan to turn that portion of Downtown, D.C into a nationally renowned tourist attraction and engine of economic development. (Courtesy Photo)

Ann Chinn was invited to the Tudor Place for her daughter’s classmate’s birthday party years ago. When the child’s mother asked if she needed directions to the historic home, Chinn responded, “No, that was our family home.” The mother looked upon her strangely; she didn’t know Chinn is the descendant of a multigenerational legacy of enslaved African women at Tudor Place. For most of her life, Chinn knew she was the descendant of Hannah Pope, one of the enslaved women who lived and worked at Tudor Place, in what is now the Georgetown area of Northwest, D.C. While Chinn explained slavery’s historical significance has long been overlooked, from Feb. 6 until April 21, 5Audor Place descendants (l-r) Rohulamin Quander,

Public Safety and Equity at Center of Gallery Place/Chinatown Development Discussions TUDOR PLACE Page 60 Task Force Meets with Mayor Bowser, D.C. Council Hours after Crime Spree

By Sam P.K.Collins WI Staff Writer Amid questions about whether the Washington Wizards and Washington Capitals will stay at Capital One Arena, the newly formed Gallery Place/ Chinatown Task Force presented its plan to turn that portion of Downtown, D.C into a nationally renowned tourist attraction and engine of economic development. The first part of that plan, dubbed

the Clean & Safe Agenda, is scheduled to launch in February. During a Tuesday morning mayor-council breakfast, task force member Nina Albert told the D.C. Council that, under the Clean & Safe Agenda, the business community, via the Downtown D.C. Business Improvement District, will collaborate with District government agencies around curbing crime and drug throughout Gallery Place/Chinatown. Albert, acting deputy mayor of planning and economic development, co-chairs the task force alongside Jodie McLean of real estate firm EDENS and Deborah Ratner Salzberg of Uplands Real Estate. She told council members that the task force is striving to instill confidence in D.C. residents

and out-of-towners that their visit to Gallery Place/Chinatown will be “safe and predictable.” Safe & Clean Agenda, Albert said, will pave the way for Gallery Place/ Chinatown becoming a premier arts and culture district, starting at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and running south into the National Mall. Later, in response to D.C. Councilmember Brooke Pinto’s request for elaboration on the matter, Albert said institutions, like the National Portrait Gallery, Shakespeare Theater Company, Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, and Ford’s Theatre are exploring the possibility of bringing their attrac-

PUBLIC SAFETY Page 25

DeShan P. Quander-Mosley, Ann Chinn, ZSun-nee Kimball Matema, and Linneall Naylor (Courtesy Photo)

D.C. Government Employees Push Back against Upcoming Telework Policy Changes Public Safety By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

5D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser reduced pre-approved telework for D.C. government employees from two days to one. (Courtesy photo)

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) issued a mayoral order during the earlier part of January that, among other things, reduces weekly pre-approved telework for D.C. government employees from two days to one day. The order, effective March 10, also places the onus on District agency managers to keep in-office staffing levels to at least 50%, while freeing Dis-

Celebrating 59 years. Your credible and trusted source for Black news and information.

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wi hot topics

COMPILED BY STACY M. BROWN, WI SENIOR WRITER; RICHARD ELLIOTT, WI CONTRIBUTING REPORTER

Diverse Excellence Takes Center Stage: Black Nominees Shine at the 96th Academy Awards The recent unveiling of the 2024 Oscar nominations brought forth a notable roster of Black talent among the 96th annual Academy Awards nominees, marking a significant stride for the industry in recognizing diversity within the film industry. Danielle Brooks, Sterling K. Brown, Colman Domingo, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, and D.C. native Jeffrey Wright are among the Black actors grabbing nominations for Hollywood’s most prestigious award. The nod signifies a crucial step towards inclusivity and representation on the grand stage of the Oscars. Set to be broadcast on ABC on March 10, the 2024 Oscar ceremony sets up as a night of celebration, with audiences witnessing a menu that includes Black excellence. Here’s a closer look at the five African Americans nominated for Oscars this year:

Danielle Brooks: Best Actress In A Supporting Role nominee “The Color Purple” Sterling K. Brown: Best Actor In A Supporting Role nominee “American Fiction” Colman Domingo: Best Actor In A Leading Role” nominee “Rustin” Da’Vine Joy Randolph: Best Actress In A Supporting Role nominee “The Holdovers” Jeffrey Wright: Best Actor In A Leading Role nominee “American Fiction”

Federal Jury Orders Donald Trump to Pay $83.3 Million in E. Jean Carroll Case

In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark THE WASHINGTON INFORMER NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published weekly on each Thursday. Periodicals postage paid at Washington, D.C. and additional mailing offices. News and advertising deadline is Monday prior to publication. Announcements must be received two weeks prior to event. Copyright 2016 by The Washington Informer. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send change of addresses to The Washington Informer, 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20032. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee the return of photographs. Subscription rates are $55 per year, two years $70. Papers will be received not more than a week after publication. Make checks payable to: THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E Washington, D.C. 20032 Phone: 202 561-4100 Fax: 202 574-3785 news@washingtoninformer.com www.washingtoninformer.com

PUBLISHER Denise Rolark Barnes STAFF Micha Green, Managing Editor Ron Burke, Advertising/Marketing Director Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor Lafayette Barnes, IV, Editor, WI Bridge DC Austin Cooper, Our House Editor Desmond Barnes, Social Media Stategist ZebraDesigns.net, Design & Layout Mable Neville, Bookkeeper Angie Johnson, Office Mgr./Circulation REPORTERS Kayla Benjamin, (Environmental Justice Reporter) Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, Curtis Knowles, Brenda Siler, Lindiwe Vilakazi, Sarafina Wright, James Wright PHOTOGRAPHERS Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor, Roy Lewis, Jr., Robert R. Roberts, Anthony Tilghman, Abdula Konte, Ja'Mon Jackson

4 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

A federal jury in New York has slammed the twice-impeached and four-times criminally indicted former President Donald Trump with a massive sexual assault and defamation judgment. The panel ruled on Jan. 25 that Trump, whom a judge declared guilty of rape, must pay $83.3 million to E. Jean Carroll, the prominent writer who accused him of sexual assault. The hefty judgment comes on the heels of a previous $5 million sexual abuse and defamation verdict issued against Trump last year. The announcement of the multimillion-dollar award elicited expressions of joy from Carroll, who warmly embraced her legal team at the plaintiff’s table.

Carroll had fought Trump since 2019 when she publicly detailed her allegations against the then-president, who is also facing the possibility of paying hundreds of millions in fines for business fraud. The initial incident, recounted in her book “What Do We Need Men For?” and corroborated by a previous New York jury, involved a decades-old encounter with the Republican presidential frontrunner that was deemed sexual assault. During Trump’s presidency, Carroll accused him of raping her in the mid-1990s in the dressing room of Bergdorf Goodman, further alleging defamation when she came forward years later. Trump consistently denied the accusations. Read more on www.washingtoninformer.com WI

Unseld Jr. Moving To Front Office, Keefe Serving as Interim Coach Wes Unseld Jr., who served as coach of the Washington Wizards since July 2021, will be moving into a front office role from his position as head coach. 5 Brian Keefe "I am grateful to have (Courtesy Photo) served as head coach of the Washington Wizards," Unseld Jr. said in a statement provided by the team. Brian Keefe, previously an assistant coach who has 17 years of total coaching experience, will be serving as the interim coach before beginning an offseason search for the next head coach. In Keefe’s first game as coach, the Wizards beat the lastplace Pistons 118-104. While early in his coaching tenure, Twitter users chimed in that Keefe did a better job of managing lineups in his first games.

Unseld Jr. said he looked forward to working toward “continued progress,” for the Wizards. "After several thoughtful conversations with Wes, we determined together that a change was needed for the benefit of the team," said Michael Winger, president of Monumental Basketball. "Wes embodies the characteristics we value in our organization, and his vast basketball experience will be an asset to the front office as we progress forward toward our long-term goals. We are thankful that he will continue his contributions to our organization and community." During Unseld’s tenure as coach, the team had a 77-130 record. With the shifts in team leadership, it is even more likely that the Wizards will trade star forward Kyle Kuzma and hyper-efficient point guard Tyus Jones before the next season starts. The 7-36 team recently traded for big man Marvin Bagley, who has been performing well above expectations during his new start. It is likely that the Wizards will get a top four draft pick next year. WI

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Events DC, Fannie Mae Team Up for Housing Expo in Ward 8 By James Wright WI Staff Writer

When Teresa Holloman heard about the Events DC Housing Expo set to take place at the R.I.S.E. Demonstration Center on Jan. 27, she didn’t give it a second thought about attending. “I wanted to come to the Expo to get information,” Holloman, 65, said. “I am already a homeowner in the Fort DuPont neighborhood. My home is two-story with two sets of stairs. In my younger years, I could live comfortably in the house with my family, but I am a bit older now. I want to be able to age-inplace. I want to get all the information I can so I can decide what my next move will be.” Holloman was joined by a number of people who attended the event that was co-sponsored by Events DC, the District’s official convention, entertainment and sports authority, and Fannie Mae, a publicly traded, government sponsored company that has emerged as a leading provider of mortgage financing. The expo occurred as the average cost of a single-family home in the District hovers around $615,000, according to a December 2023 post by Relator.com. A January 2024 post on Apartment.com reports the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment is $2,213 monthly.

FANNIE MAE’S PLAN

In 2022, Fannie Mae launched its Equitable Housing Finance Plan. The plan is designed to overcome inequities in the U.S. housing market. The primary goal is to address the key obstacles faced by Black and Latino renters and homeowners due to historic and current racial discrimination in housing. Housing statistics reveal 44% of Black and 51% of Latino consumers own homes compared to 73% of non-Latino White consumers. In raw numbers, which is 4.4 million Black and 4 million Latino homeowners. Katrina Jones, vice president of Racial Equity Strategy & Impact at Fannie Mae, attended the Expo and

participated in a panel. Jones said the Expo aligns with Fannie Mae’s “commitment to facilitate equitable and sustainable access to housing,” and is part of the company’s “ongoing effort to address the needs of residents along their housing journey.” “The event was an opportunity to provide District residents with education, housing counseling resources, and other services and information that will pave the way for residents to become knowledgeable and empowered renters, homebuyers and homeowners,” she said.

THE EXPO

Julie Carter, an employee at Fannie Mae, served as the facilitator for the workshop “Renting and Buying.” The purpose of the workshop was to look at the pros and cons of renting and buying in the District and how to be successful at both. “What is the credit score needed to buy a house,” Carter asked the audience. After a brief discussion and a visual presentation, Carter revealed a credit score of 620 was needed to get a normal mortgage loan. Susie McClannahan, senior manager for the Fair Housing Project for the Equal Justice Center. McClannahan told the audience that residents have the right to live in rental housing without the threat of discrimination. “It does not matter what your source of income is, you have a right to rental housing,” she said, mainly referring to housing vouchers. “How you pay your rent does not matter. But I will say that voucher discrimination is rampant.” William Carver said he was happy to attend the Expo. He and his girlfriend are looking to move from Delaware to the District and he attended the event to see what is being offered. “We are looking at both renting and buying opportunities,” Carver, 30, said. “We are picky. We will be moving here next year, and we want to find the best place for us.” WI @JamesWrightJr10

5 Media personality Guy Lambert moderates a panel at the Events DC Housing Expo on Jan. 27 with Brenda Harrison, Hermond Palmer, and Tamara Newman as participants. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

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black facts

FEB. 1 - 7, 2024

SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

2007 – Tony Dungy becomes the first African American head coach to win the Super Bowl when his Indianapolis Colts defeat the Chicago Bears in Super Bowl XLI.

FEB. 5

1934 – Baseball legend Hank Aaron is born in Mobile, Alabama. 1972 – Bob Douglas, "the father of Black professional basketball," becomes the first African American elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame. 1990 – Barack Obama becomes the first Black elected to Head Harvard's Law Review. 1994 – Avowed white supremacist Byron de la Beckwith is convicted of murdering civil rights activist Medgar Evers in 1963.

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1902 – African American writer and social activist Langston Hughes is born in Joplin, Missouri. 1960 – The Greensboro sit-in, an act of nonviolent protest against a segregated lunch counter in Greensboro, N.C., begins. 1965 – Alabama officials arrest 700 Blacks as they demonstrate against the state's voter registration requirements in Selma. 1976 – President Gerald Ford officially designates February as Black History Month in the United States.

FEB. 2

1990 – South African President F. W. de Klerk lifts a 30-year ban on leading anti-apartheid group the African National Congress. 2009 – Eric Holder becomes the first Black person to be confirmed as United States attorney general.

1933 – Walter E. Fauntroy, longtime former delegate to the U.S. Congress and former pastor of the New Bethel Baptist Church in the District, is born in D.C. 1945 – Reggae music icon Bob Marley is born in Jamaica's Saint Ann Parish. 1993 – Tennis great Arthur Ashe dies in New York City from AIDS-related pneumonia at age 49.

FEB. 7

1887 – Famed pianist Eubie Blake is born in Baltimore. 1965 – Comedian and actor Chris Rock is born in Andrews, South Carolina. 1991 – Jean-Bertrand Aristide takes the oath of office as Haiti's first democratically elected president. WI

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FEB. 3

1920 – The Negro National League, one of several organized Black baseball leagues, is founded. 1989 – Bill White is named president of Major League Baseball's National League, becoming the first Black to head a major professional sports league. 1956 – Autherine Lucy enrolls as a graduate student at the University of Alabama, becoming the first African American ever admitted to a white public school or university in the state.

FEB. 4

1913 – Rosa Parks, the "first lady of civil rights," is born in Tuskegee, Alabama. 2006 – NFL great Warren Moon becomes the first Black quarterback inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

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CVS Columbia Heights Closure Generates Unease

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

For many years, Luz Onofre loved going to the Columbia Heights CVS to buy the products she needed and to get her medication. Onofre noticed that within the past two years, young people would come into the store and “do things they shouldn’t” but nevertheless she continued to be a consistent, loyal customer. When she found out last month that the store would be closing in a few weeks, she was sad. “I am very, very concerned,” said Onofre, who lives in a senior facility steps away from the store, on Jan. 28. “Don’t close this store. This is where I shop. I go to the pharmacy here.” In addition to the CVS Columbia Heights store, company officials revealed on Jan. 26 that three CVS operations located in Target stores in the District will close in the near future.

THE CLOSINGS

The company made it official about the Columbia Heights CVS’s closure on Jan. 23. “We’ve made the difficult decision to close our store at 3031 14th Street NW in Columbia Heights on Feb. 29,” a news release said. “All prescriptions will be transferred to the nearby CVS Pharmacy at 1755 Columbia Road NW to ensure patients have uninterrupted access to pharmacy care. Patients can always choose to fill their prescriptions at any CVS Pharmacy, or the pharmacy of their choice, if an-

5CVS will shutter some D.C. operations within a month, including the Columbia Heights location, which will officially close Feb. 29 (WI File Photo/Ja’Mon Jackson)

other is more convenient.” Officials said employees of the affected store are being offered comparable roles in the company. The news release reported factors influencing the closing were local market dynamics, population shifts, a community’s store density and ensuring there are other geographic access points to meet the needs of the community are considered when shuttering a store is being looked at. “We will have more than 50 CVS locations remaining in Washington, D.C. and will continue to provide the community with outstanding service at these locations,” the statement said. The statement mentioned nothing about retail theft or shoplifting which has been linked to the store. However, Hassan Lewis, a Columbia Heights resident, didn’t hesitate to say that theft was the cause of the store’s demise. “This store closing is not good,” Lewis, 63, said. “The losses that are in that store make no sense. You must protect your property. The people in the store need to be more responsible, the customers and the staff.” A visit inside the Columbia Heights CVS store reveals rows of empty metal shelves. Very few items are in the refrigerated units. The candy aisle near the cash registers is bare. Behind the registers are a full offering of diapers, however. There is soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, air fresheners, and laundry products available to customers, but they are behind a glass

casing and can only be accessed by a key. The security guard or cashiers must open the glass casings for customers to get their items. The pharmacy is fully staffed, with staffers waiting to serve customers. Stanley Mayes is a long-time Ward 1 resident and political leader. Though he is not a resident of Columbia Heights, he comes to the store when he shops at the nearby Target. Mayes said it is his opinion that the “rampant theft” undermined the store. “When I was young, theft and shoplifting were not tolerated,” Mayes, 74, said. “If you got caught doing those things, you were locked up. The store manager called the police. Now, I don’t think that is the case. I think a lot of kids do it because they know they can get away with it.” The CVS pharmacies in the 1515 New York Avenue., NE, 4500 Wisconsin Avenue NW and 7828 Georgia Avenue NW Targets are closing on Feb. 29, March 7 and March 14, respectively. “The closures are part of our plan to realign our national retail footprint and reduce store and pharmacy density and are based on our evaluation of population changes, consumer buying patterns, and future health needs to ensure we have the right pharmacy format in the right locations for patients,” a representative for CVS said in an emailed statement. WI @JamesWrightJr10

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Angela Davis Calls for a Unified Liberation Druing Palestine Week in D.C. By Bousaina Ibrahim WI Contributing Writer

Three blocks from Busboys and Poets on 14th Street and V, an overflow of supporters stood outside in the chilling Tuesday night, listening to renowned world activist and scholar Dr. Angela Davis’s words on Palestine’s freedom and the ongoing genocide in Gaza. The event, days before Davis’s 80th birthday on Jan. 26, was part of the restaurant chain’s Palestine Week, starting Jan. 18 till Jan. 25. The week-long series included dialogues with Palestinian authors, poets, and community organizers showcasing their culture, history, music, and resistance to the Israeli occupation. Read Jarrar, was accompanied by his two children. He said it's important his children connect with their

heritage and see the solidarity shown to Palestine. “I want my children to have a connection with their homeland, and to think about our people back home who do not have the access and privilege we have here in D.C. We have a responsibility to speak up,” said Jarrar. Andy Shallal, owner of Busboys and Poets, began the discussion with Davis querying the Black Liberation movement and its historical link to the Palestinian struggle. Davis herself received letters from Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails offering their solidarity when she was on trial in 1970. In Davis’ words, the liberation of Black people was the liberation of all people. “For virtually all of my political life, Palestine was always key to recognizing the globality of our strug-

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gles,” said Davis. She challenged the U.S.’ definition of democracy, and particularly as it relates to Americans with Palestinians. “Those of us who want to see democracy in the U.S., should really stand with our comrades and friends in Palestine to fight for justice for all.” Davis told the crowd about her visit to Palestine, and said she was amazed by the strong desire for knowledge in the young Palestinians. Education was so valued that even under the worst crises, Palestinians continued to learn. “They create schools in cafes and universities in restaurants”, and she knew this was necessary to bring back to America’s liberation struggle. The event was livestreamed on Facebook and Youtube. One of the attendees said his friends in Gaza

5 Andy Shallal and Angela Davis on Jan. 23 during the restaurant chain’s Palestine Week. (Bousaina Ibrahim/The Washington Informer)

were tuned into the discussion. He asked Davis what she could offer to their dying hope during the war, and she referenced Mariame Kaba’s definition of hope, who argued that “hope is a discipline.”

“I think in so many ways, Palestinians have provided hope to the entire world. And it is our responsibility to generate hope for the struggle for a free Palestine,” said Davis. WI

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10 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 3.85 x 5.5 in

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The seventh annual “Know Thyself Book Fair" takes place this year amid ongoing attempts by GOP lawmakers and some white parents to prevent U.S. students from learning about how African Americans persevered in a racial caste system. Several Black authors, including Dr. Nubia Kai, will bring to light that history during the book fair, scheduled to take place on Sat., Feb. 6 at Thurgood Marshall Center for Service and Heritage in Northwest, D.C. At the book fair, Kai, an award-winning playwright, poet and novelist, will present and sell copies of her 2016 novel, “I Spread My Wings and Fly.” This work, a decade in the making, describes in great detail the history of Maroon resistance in southern Louisiana. While much scholarship about marronage, through which enslaved Africans escaped captivity and preserved their Afro-indigenous culture in their independently formed communities, focuses on the Caribbean and South America, Kai said that she has set out to highlight similar movements that took place in the U.S throughout the antebellum period. She described it as part of her effort to inspire, and motivate, young people who are inundated with negative images and messages about their self-worth. “It’s so important when children know that their ancestors fought, resisted and formed independent communities right here in the U.S.,” Kai told The Informer. “That inclination [for resistance[ is already in them naturally. You’re trying to make them understand that when they see what our ancestors did, they know we can do it again. We see it in the natural expression of our arts and our collective consciousness. The youth are so intelligent.” Kai counts among several dozen authors of various ages who will present and sell literary

works during the Know Thyself Book Fair. This event, sponsored by the Woodson Banneker Jackson-Bey Div. 330 of the Universal Negro Im p r ov e m e n t Association-African Communities League and Heritage Gallery, will 5 The seventh annual “Know Thyself Book Fair.” provide a platform for Black self-published authors across right foot. For her, it’s a matter of various genres, including history, not only preserving the legacy of poetry, art, prose, and children’s Marcus Mosiah Garvey and Amy literature. Ashwood Garvey, but familiarQueen Laureen Butler, presi- izing community members with dent of Woodson Banneker Jack- those living among them who’ve son Bey Div. 330, called the an- created significant literary works. nual book fair an opportunity to “We want to emphasize that start Black History Month on the when you see these Black authors who wrote these books, you can do the same thing,” said Butler, a retired teacher with nearly 40 years of classroom experience. She organized the event with her husband and fellow Div. 330 Education Committee chair Charles Butler. “We [also] encourage any kind of reading. We want people to be aware. There are so many adults who don’t know our history. We want to perpetuate that and increase the love and necessity of reading. It’s not acting white, it’s acting African.” Mr. Butler echoed his wife’s sentiments, telling The Informer that the book fair builds upon other Div. 330 educational projects focused on connecting young people to highly esteemed community elders. At some school districts counter attempts to teach Black history, Butler said it’s incumbent upon independent Black-led institutions to provide that space. “Our children can’t learn in a hostile environment,” said Butler, who’s also a retired educator with 40 years of experience. “It has to be full of caring and love and

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PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY Prince George’s County Political Updates By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

SURVIVORS OF GUN VIOLENCE SUMMIT HOSTED AT LIBRARY OF CONGRESS

The Jan. 26 Survivors of Gun Violence Summit brought together survivors, researchers, advocates and community leaders to discuss solutions and serve as a call to action regarding gun violence in the community. The symposium sought to elevate survivor-centric advocacy, data-driven solutions, community empowerment and a collaborative approach between the different organizations and leaders present. “It was important to bring together stakeholders to support survivors of gun violence in their advocacy to prevent tragedies of losing loved ones to senseless

shootings,” said Congressman Glenn Ivey (D- District 4). “Having science-based research and federal grants resources as part of that solution will be a cornerstone of the emerging strategies we look to deploy to attack this problem on the local, state, and federal level.” Some of the participating organizations included the White House Office on Gun Violence Prevention, Everytown for Gun Safety, MOMS Demand Action, the Community Justice Action Fund, and the University of Maryland Violence Reduction Center. County Council Chair Jolene Ivey (D- District 5) also participated in the summit. “I think we all know that we have too many guns. We have too much access to guns”, said Council Chair Ivey during an interview on Jan. 28 when asked about what is harming public safety in Prince

5Panelists from the Gun Violence Summit (Left to Right): Dr. Tyreese McAllister, Professor Bianca Bersani, Lindsay Nichols, Prince George’s County Council Chair Jolene Ivey (D- District 5), Congressman Glen Ivey (D- District 4) and moderator Dr. Joseph Richardson. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

George’s and the DMV at large. “Without federal help, it’s hard to address this. Even where we have legal guns, they can be stolen or sold and become illegal.” She also noted that ghost guns, which are unregistered and don’t have serial numbers, remain an issue to address.

ANNAPOLIS ROUNDUP: GOV. MOORE INTROUDCES 16-BILL PACKAGE, MORE NEW LEGISLATION

Now that legislators have set-

5Advocates for the One Fair Wage Act have been talking with service workers across Maryland and discussing their issues in restaurants. (Courtesy Photo/One Fair Wage Campaign)

12 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

tled in for the 2024 session, more of their proposed bills are available online for review by engaged citizens and lobbyists alike. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) announced his 16-bill package on Jan. 24, including legislation to create a center on data-driven gun violence prevention, incentivize new housing construction and improving transparency in Maryland’s permitting and licensing processes. “This legislative agenda marks the next chapter in our work to leave no one behind. This year, we remain laser-focused on the issues that matter most to Marylanders — with 16 bills centered on making Maryland safer, making Maryland more affordable, making Maryland more competitive, and continuing to make Maryland the state that serves,” said Moore in a statement. State education officials went to the Ways and Means Committee to call for their full support for the Blueprint for Education’s proposals. Superintendent Carey Wright, who had success in raising Mississippi’s literacy rate, is planning to bring the science of reading method to all of Maryland’s counties. One Fair Wage aims to raise Maryland’s tipped minimum wage from $3.63 plus tips, to a $15 hourly wage with tips as a bonus. This legislation is sponsored by Prince George’s County Del-

egates Adrian Boafo (D- District 23) and Veronica Turner (D- District 26) and 44 total Delegates are listed as sponsors. Maryland Meals for Achievement, which would provide free meals to students in Maryland public schools, is another bill that is coming back up this year. The bill is sponsored by Del. Jessica Feldmark (D- District 12A) and Sen. Shelly Hettleman (D- District 11) and the first hearing is on Jan. 31. “The grab-and-go option has shown success among our middle and high schools, and in elementary schools where it’s been tested we have seen a 30% increase in participation,” said No Kid Hungry Maryland Director Ayesha Holmes. “Grab-and-go options will also help reduce food waste, by allowing for children to take what they want, instead of serving a pre-made tray. This model requires fewer morning staff, and allows schools to run more efficiently.” Senator Dawn Gile (D- District 33) is introducing a bill to limit the resale price of tickets. This would make ticketed music significantly more accessible at live venues such as FedEx Field and the Filmore. We previously covered Gov. Wes Moore’s legislative priorities and the Maryland Meals for Achievement program. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Prince George’s County Local Updates By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

GOV. MOORE VISITS CHEVERLY’S HOSPITAL HILL

Overlooking Washington, D.C. from a tall hill that formerly hosted Prince George’s Hospital Center is the proposed site for a new downtown core for Cheverly, Maryland. On Jan. 24, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) visited Hospital Hill with a major announcement: $7.5 million in state investments, an increase from the previous amount of $5 million. “This was a time when we had to invest in the big ideas, and the things that could have not just lasting impact, but truly generational, intangible impact in communities,” said Governor Moore. “This is one of these projects. It’s not just about economic development. This is community building.” The new funding will support ongoing preservation, design, and pre-development efforts to transform the site into a modern, mixed-use community asset to effectively serve as a downtown district for Cheverly and help to grow the suburban town with increased density. When completed, the Hospital

Hill redevelopment project will span 26 acres and more than 1,000 housing units, including 40,000 square feet of retail and entertainment options, a public square and space for a grocery store, a dog park, and a new hotel. For UrbanAtlantic, who is leading the redevelopment project, the goal is to eventually increase access to local transit such as Cheverly Metro station and eventually link the site to regional bike trails. “We did get a little more than we expected,” said UrbanAtlantic’s Managing Director of Public-Private Partnerships Caroline Kenney after Moore announced the funding increase. “This actually allows us now to go to the private finance markets and say, ‘Hey, there’s clearly the level of public support for this project that’s needed.'” For more information on the Hospital Hill site, read more here. WI

BELTSVILLE EMERGENCY SERVICES TEMPORARILY RELOCATED, VOLUNTEERS REMAINING

Due to safety and health con-

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

5 Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Housing Secretary Jake Day, and others visited a proposed redevelopment site in Cheverly. In a welcome surprise, Moore announced a 50% increase in state funding for the site. (Courtesy Photo/Office of Gov. Wes Moore)

cerns cited by the Prince George’s County Fire Department, staff are being relocated to neighboring fire stations. The volunteer firefighters, who are remaining at the building, have noted to expect longer response times for emergencies. Fire Chief Tiffany Green said that she received a complaint from a career firefighter about unsafe working conditions last month. “One of my primary responsibilities is to ensure the safety of our personnel,” said Green during the public meeting held at the

firehouse. “The jobs that our firefighters and paramedics do, both career and volunteer, are very dangerous.” During that meeting, members of the public expressed shock at the sudden change and expressed concern for the health and safety of the volunteers as well. “To our knowledge, nothing has changed,” said an anonymous volunteer firefighter during an interview. “We’re still in the building. I believe there would be significant resistance if she tried to relocate the volunteers from the building.” He cited the building’s problems, including electrical and air quality issues, as fixable and the result of human error. A review of the building will be conducted over the next several weeks and the building is expected to be up to code by July 1, 2024. For more information about the Beltsville Volunteer Fire Department, read more here. WI

LOCAL GROUPS STEP UP TO PROVIDE RESOURCES FOR UNHOUSED PRINCE GEORGIANS 5The volunteer firefighters will remain at Beltsville Fire Department while the salaried staff will be transferred to neighboring departments due to health and safety concerns. (Anthony Tilghman/ Washington Informer)

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

Amid dealing with winter’s cold weather, some local groups

are spreading resources to help those in need and raising awareness about the prevalence of the unhoused population in Prince George’s. Andre Gore, executive director of 1441 Incorporated, said that he believes homelessness is a silent issue and one that is getting worse. His organization distributes food, clothing and other resources every Wednesday at Adelphi’s University Boulevard for the County’s homeless population. Last week, he partnered with the Salvation Army and the Prince George’s County Police Department during their resource event. “It’s been a serious issue,” he said. “It’s a lot of us out here that are unhoused, or needing services. We’re falling short along the way.” A 2021 study indicated that Prince George’s had the fourth highest homelessness rate in the state, and the combined effects of the pandemic, housing costs, and inflation have undoubtedly worsened these statistics. “Our homeless community has really been struggling. I think everyone knows our high housing costs, as we border D.C.” said County Councilmember Wanika Fisher (D- District 2) during an aired interview. WI

FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 13

BUSINESS ir efs By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

GWUL TO HONOR GOV. WES MOORE

Maryland Governor Wes Moore will be the recipient of the Greater Washington Urban League (GWUL) Leadership Impact Award at the organization’s 2024 Gala that will take place at the Ronald Reagan Building in Northwest in the District, on Friday, March 15 at 6:30 p.m. The theme of the program is “Honoring Those with Courage Under Fire.” In addition to Moore, CNN Legal Analyst and Anchor Laura Coates will be noted as the Fireside Chat Host and DC Justice Lab Founder and Executive Director Patrice Sulton will receive the GWUL Champi-

on of Justice Award. Chris Turner will get the GWUL Community Impact Award. Members of the Scotland community in Montgomery County, Maryland will receive the Community Resilience Award. GWUL President George Lambert will be saluted for his 10 years of service to the organization and the late former president Maudine Cooper will be feted for her contributions. There will be a silent auction, live entertainment and an afterparty sponsored by the young professional auxiliary, the Thursday Network. For more information call 202265-8200. WI

5 Regina Norman and Raymond Coates are past participants of the Dream Grant Pitch Program. (Courtesy photo/Mayor Bowser Facebook)

PRO-BUSINESS PROGRAMS

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and the D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development are encouraging District entrepre-

neurs to apply for two programs designed to support local businesses: the Aspire Incubator Program and Dream Grant Pitch Program. “We want entrepreneurs to thrive here, create jobs here, and provide services here because when local businesses win, our city wins,” said Bowser. “D.C. is a fantastic place to do business, and we want to make starting and growing a business more accessible to more people; that’s what these grants help us do.” Applications for the programs are available until March 1. The Incubator Program, which has awarded about $750,000 over the past three years, allows entrepreneurs to have access to a comprehensive range of resources, including mentorship, guidance, and educational training to help turn their business ideas into reality. The Dream Grant Pitch Program provides financial and technical assistance to entrepreneurs from Wards 7 and 8 and provides a platform for them to develop skills needed to run a successful business; over the past three years, local entrepreneurs have received approximately $1.5 million from the program. For more information about both programs and the application process, please visit the department website or contact inno.ed@dc.gov. WI

L. Schwalb said on Jan. 26 that Clean Team Janitorial Service, Inc., will pay more than $260,000 to janitorial workers and the District to resolve allegations that the company underpaid workers from 2020 to 2023. Under the terms of a settlement agreement with the Office of the Attorney General (OAG), the Clean Team will pay $220,561 in unpaid wages and damages to 33 workers who were paid less than they were legally owed. Clean Team will be required to pay $40,000 in penalties to the District and must submit to monitoring by OAG for the next two years. “The Office of the Attorney General is committed to ensuring that D.C. workers receive the wages and benefits they are legally entitled to and that they are rightfully earned,” Schwalb said. “District businesses must comply with the law and compete on a level playing field. When employers shortchange their employees, they not only harm their workers, but they also gain an unfair competitive advantage over other businesses that are playing by the rules. Our office will continue to hold businesses who cheat fully accountable.” Clean Team cooperated with OAG’s investigation and is now paying its workers the correct level of wages and benefits. WI

CLEAN TEAM SETTLEMENT

ANNUAL MEETING

D.C. Attorney General Brian

14 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

The Washington DC Econom-

BRIEFS Page 15

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Prince George’s County Business Updates By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

UPPER MARLBORO’S CALVERT BREWING COMPANY CLOSING SOON

Following eight successful years, the Calvert Brewing Company at 15850 Commerce Court in Upper Marlboro plans to shut down after the first quarter of 2024 ends. This is the first such closure of the year, and follows the 2023 sales of DuClaw Brewing and Flying Dog Brewing along with the closing of the Guiness Brewery last June. David Iannucci of the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation expressed disappointment in the closure and cited the poor visibility of the brewery despite its location along

a major highway. “They had a great operation, worked hard, but their location in an industrial park without Route 301 signage was a tough challenge to overcome,” said Ianucci. He also said that the EDC would gladly work with them to find them a better location in the County. WI

The property measures in at 160,623 square feet and is located across the street from the 1 million-square-foot Mall at Prince George’s. Tenants at Metro Shops currently include Bob’s Discount Furniture, Staples, LA Fitness, Citibank and Dunkin’ Donuts. WI

ic Partnership will hold its 2024 Annual Meeting at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in the District in Northwest on March 15 from 12-1:30 p.m. The event is set to attract over 700 leaders, visionaries, and stakeholders to celebrate economic development and highlight the impacts, accomplishments, and future of the city. For more information, contact 202-661-8670. WI

GO-GO MUSEUM & CAFÉ GALA

JLL CAPITAL MARKETS FINANCES $18.4 MILLION RETAIL CENTER PURCHASE

JLL Capital Markets arranged an $18.4 million loan on Jan. 26 to finance the acquisition of Metro Shops, a retail center located in Hyattsville at 2900 Belcrest Center Drive.

BRIEFS from Page 14

5 Metro shops in Hyattsville. (Courtesy photo)

BUSINESS

The Go-Go Museum & Café has announced that an inaugural class of leaders, such as D.C. Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie (I-At Large) and former District first lady Cora Masters Barry, who have shaped the District’s cultural landscape will be recognized at a gala and cham-

pagne toast on Feb. 18. The event will take place from 8 p.m.-12:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn National Mall, located at 550 C Street., SW. The evening will include live music, an awards presentation, and a toast that will take place at midnight, four years from when DC Law 23-71 designated Go-Go as the District’s official music. Other honorees include drummer William Julius “JuJu” House, “Mother of Go-Go” Margarine Neal, Big Tony aka Tony Fisher of the Trouble Funk band, music promoters Darryll Brooks and Carol Kirkendall, musician Frank Sirius, music preservationist Sojin Kim, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and entertainment law attorney John Mercer. All proceeds of the event will go to the fundraising efforts of the Go-Go Museum located in the Anacostia neighborhood of Ward 8. WI @JamesWrightJr10

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FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 15

NATIONAL

3Greene County Democrat Co-Publisher John Zippert, NNPA Chairman and Westside Gazette Publisher Bobby R. Henry Sr., NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis and Carol Zippert during the NNPA 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award Gala. (Courtesy Photo/Screenshot)

Empowering in 2024: NNPA Conference Concludes with Praise, Prominent Sessions, Invigorating Outlook By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) concluded its 2024 annual Mid-Winter Training Conference on Jan. 27 at the B Ocean Resort and Hotel in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where publishers, editors, sponsors, partners, and visitors shared four days of workshops and fellowship that promise to strengthen the iconic Black Press of America as it heads toward its bicentennial. Representing 250 African American-owned newspapers and media companies in the United States, the NNPA’s theme for this year’s conference was “Empowering in 2024: The Black Press, The Black Vote, and Black America.” The conference provided attendees with valuable insights into performance-driven tools and methodologies aimed at expanding and monetizing their businesses. Work-

shops, presentations, and discussions featured prominent figures from various fields, making it a comprehensive and enriching experience for participants. Reflecting on the conference, NNPA Chairman and Westside Gazette Publisher Bobby R. Henry Sr., said he’s expecting bigger and better things for the Black Press. “As the Chairman of our beloved association, hosting the NNPA members—the Black Press of America—in Florida’s Broward County in Fort Lauderdale was a true honor,” Henry stated. “In these challenging times, the Black Press confronted bigotry and hatred, understanding the need for collective action. The Westside Gazette and the NNPA, through the NNPA’s National Town Hall Meeting, aimed to reaffirm the historic bond between Blacks and Jews in America, rooted in the shared struggle for civil rights and freedom.” Henry emphasized the importance of re-engaging and strength-

KBEC Group, Inc.'s dba Ora's Place is applying for a Certificate of Need to establish an adult day health program and a home health agency in the District of Columbia. A Letter of Intent will be filed with the District of Columbia State Health Planning and Development Agency (SHPDA). The facility will be located at 3230 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, Suite 200, Washington DC 20020 in Ward 8. For additional information contact the SHPDA at 202-442-5875. 16 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

ening the significant relationship between Blacks and Jews, noting, “Remembering we marched together, fought together, and died together for civil rights.” NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis added that the NNPA, members of the Anti-Defamation League, and others organized a Town Hall, which took place on Jan. 24 and included U.S. Reps. Deborah Wasserman Schultz and Sheila Cheflius-McCormick, ADL Senior Vice President National Affairs Max Sevillia, and professor emeritus of the Department of Psychology at Florida International University, Dr. Marvin Dunn. The highly-anticipated event took place at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center in Ft. Lauderdale, and Chavis and others noted that they planned the Town Hall well before Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack in Israel. “We knew that, with the rise of anti-semitism, and with the rise of hatred in America, particularly against Black people in America, we needed to do something,” Chavis proclaimed. The Holocaust Museum of Southern Florida sponsored a lively reception one day after the Town Hall. During the conference, Carolyn Fox, the managing editor of the Tampa Bay Times, discussed “Revenue Generating Strategies in the Publishing Digital Age” in a public session. The fireside chat between Chavis and Stephanie Childes, vice president of Diageo, explored “Harnessing the power of community, the Black Press, and inclusive corporations,” which the popular

“We knew that, with the rise of anti-semitism, and with the rise of hatred in America, particularly against Black people in America, we needed to do something,” Chavis proclaimed.

spirits company reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Black Press of America and educating all on responsible drinking. Pfizer Rare Disease conducted a lunch talk on “Sickle Cell and ATTR-CM” while another panel emphasized “The Black and Brown Vote.” Google News Initiative led a discussion on “The Power of Audience to Generate Revenue,” and Hyundai sponsored a breakfast and informational session, including a film pre-

sentation and a panel discussion. An energetic Millennial Panel on “Digital Creative Storytelling” included Lafayette Barnes of the Bridge newspaper, Micha Green of The Washington Informer, NNPA social media correspondents DaNiesha Bell and Dawn Montgomery, and New York Beacon Publisher Ashley Smith. Niele Anderson, the founder, and CEO of PLB Media Inc., hosted a “Scaling- Moving from Print to Digital” session discussing the importance of being relevant and profitable in a digital world and riding the 2024 election revenue wave. The PGA TOUR demonstrated its commitment to education by providing two $5,000 scholarships for HBCU students, Jasmin Ball and Victoria Gisel Montanet. The NNPA 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award Gala went to Greene County (Alabama) Democrat publishers Carol and John Zippert. “The Black Press are storytellers,” Carol Zippert said in accepting the award. “We tell our own story, and if we don’t, folk are gonna tell it the way they want. If the lion told the story, it would be different from the hunter’s story.” Chavis praised the conference as one of the best of his 10-plus year tenure. Publishers also took the opportunity to salute retiring NNPA executive administrator Claudette Perry, whose massive workload includes organizing NNPA conferences and conventions, with a standing ovation during the association’s board meeting. WI @StacyBrownMedia

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Bus lane enforcement begins January 29

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If you are illegally driving, parked or stopped in dedicated bus lanes after this date you will receive a $100 fine. DC Bus lanes are lanes marked by red paint and signage that are meant for Metrobuses only. Automated cameras mounted on Metrobuses will take photos and videos of vehicles driving, parked or stopped in bus lanes and send the evidence to the District for issuing tickets to violators.

For more information visit: ddot.dc.gov/clearlanesprogram WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

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Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger Withdraw from ECOWAS

The military juntas in West African nations Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger on Sunday, Jan. 28, jointly announced their immediate withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). In a joint statement broadcast on state television in all three nations, 5 Supporters of Capt. Ibrahim Traoré, military leader of Burkina Faso, protest the juntas accused the regional economic bloc of imposing inhumane sanctions aimed at reversing recent coups in their respective countries, against France and the West African regional bloc known as ECOWAS in the according to AFRICANEWS.com. The joint statement asserted that the decision to withdraw was made streets of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, in complete sovereignty, alleging that ECOWAS had deviated from the Oct. 4, 2022. (Courtesy Photo/Africa News) ideals of its founding fathers and Pan-Africanism after nearly 50 years of existence. The juntas contended that ECOWAS, influenced by foreign powers, had become a threat to its member states and their populations. ECOWAS, established in 1975 to promote economic integration in member states, is considered West Africa's top political and regional authority. The bloc has faced challenges in recent years as it strives to address coup incidents in the region and ensure the equitable distribution of natural resources. The juntas did not provide details on how the withdrawal process would unfold, and neither has ECOWAS for the time being. The regional bloc, which recognizes only democratic governments, has faced previous challenges to its authority, with its regional court ruling last year that juntas lack the power to act on behalf of their nations in place of elected governments. This announcement follows a series of events that heightened political tensions in West Africa, including a coup in Niger last year. The three nations -- Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger -- have recently formed a security alliance and severed military ties with France and other European nations, turning to Russia for support. The joint statement criticized ECOWAS for failing to assist the countries in addressing "existential" threats like terrorism, a common reason cited by their militaries for the coups. The juntas argued that ECOWAS sanctions, instead of improving their situations, have further weakened populations already affected by years of violence. The development adds a new layer of complexity to the evolving political landscape in West Africa. WI

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Jamaica Agriculture Minister to Provide More Scholarships for Students

In a bid to meet the demands of a changing agricultural sector, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining will be rolling out more scholarships for agricultural students this year across several key areas. Jamaica Agriculture Minister Floyd Green made the disclosure while speaking at 5 Jamaica Agriculture Minister Floyd the College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE) during day one of their Green speaking at the College of AgriculFounders’ Weekend on Friday, Jan. 26, according to Jamaica Information Services ture, Science and Education (CASE) on (JIS). Friday, Jan. 26. Green said he has given a directive for his team to analyze “where we are seeing tremendous gaps in our educational system in relation to our programmes that we are building out, what talent pool do we need in the next two, three or five years and to draft some scholarships around that.” “So, you will see later this year that we will outline a whole raft of new scholarships to fill some of those gaps that we have picked up in relation to the training needed to move agriculture forward,” he stated. Furthermore, Green said the ministry has recognized the critical role it plays in helping students to acquire the practical knowledge and experience in their relevant field of study. “As such, we look at different modalities including internships at the ministry for our students here at CASE where you’re exposed to areas and activities such as our extension services, inspection and field visits,” he explained. Green added that this initiative is also being expanded, and that the ministry will be doing more to offer assistance for students to study in the areas that it deems important. WI

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Promoting Heart Health for Children Submitted by AmeriHealth Caritas DC Every body part has an essential purpose, but one organ is especially important as it pumps blood throughout the body. This organ is the heart. The heart beats continuously, working 24 hours a day. It pumps blood through the circulatory system, supplying oxygen and nutrients while removing carbon dioxide and other wastes. Because of this, it’s critical to maintain a healthy lifestyle from an early age and take steps to lower your chances of heart disease. This February, celebrate American Heart Month by learning how you can promote heart health for children and create healthy habits that will last a lifetime and keep their hearts pumping for years to come.

HEART DISEASE BASICS

Heart disease refers to several conditions that affect the heart.1 Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease. It is caused by plaque buildup in the walls of the arteries that supply blood to the heart.2 Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the United States.3 Fortunately, heart disease can be prevented or treated with healthy lifestyle choices.

HEART DISEASE RISK

Several factors can increase your risk of heart disease, including high blood pressure, unhealthy blood cholesterol levels, diabetes, obesity, and family history. Although heart disease can affect anyone, heart disease risk factors and diagnoses are more common among ethnic minorities, including Hispanic/ Latino, Black, and Asian American individuals.4

PROMOTING HEART HEALTH

The consequences of heart disease often don't show up until someone is well into adulthood, but early prevention is key. Re-

search shows that heart health is well below what it should be in both adults and children, and it declines with age beginning from as early as ages 2 to 5 years.5 Taking charge of your child’s heart health by developing healthy habits now will help benefit them later in life. Here are ways to promote heart health in your children: • Encourage healthy eating habits. • Avoid drinks with high amounts of sugar. • Keep them moving with daily physical activity. • Stick to a bedtime routine and ensure regular sleep hours. • Educate them on the risks of smoking and drinking alcohol. • Limit screen time. • Talk openly about mental health and get assistance if your child shows signs of distress. • Visit your primary care rovider for annual well-child visits. Through some small lifestyle changes, you can make a big difference in preventing heart disease in your child’s future. Take a stand now and celebrate American Heart Month by prioritizing a healthier life for the whole family. Your heart is worth it.

US Adults and Children Using the American Heart Association’s New ‘Life’s Essential 8’ Metrics: Prevalence Estimates From the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2013 Through 2018,” American Heart Association Journals, June 29, 2022, https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/ full/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.122.060911 All images are used under license for illustrative purposes only. Any individual depicted is a model

#BestMe

Join our MOVEment! AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia (DC) offers fitness classes through the Active&Fit program. With Active&Fit, you can join live virtual classes, watch workout videos on your own time, and even get a gym membership. Like all of AmeriHealth Caritas DC’s benefits, there is no cost for enrollees to participate in this program. Check out these resources to start your journey. Fit at home: Active&Fit offers daily classes you can join on Facebook or YouTube. Workout videos: Active&Fit members can visit www. activeandfit.com to access more than 2,500 free workout videos.

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Sources: 1. “Heart Disease,” Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20353118 2. “Coronary Artery Disease (CAD),” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/ coronary_ad.htm 3. “Heart Disease Facts,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/ facts.htm 4. “How Race and Ethnicity Impact Heart Disease,” Cleveland Clinic, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/ articles/23051-ethnicity-and-heart-disease#:~:text=Black%20women%20 are%20more%20likely,to%20 have%20coronary%20artery%20disease 5. Donald M. Lloyd-Jones et al., “Status of Cardiovascular Health in

Find us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/amerihealthdc. / Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/amerihealthcaritasdc. / Find us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/amerihealthcaritasdc. WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 19

HEALTH National Minority Quality Forum Works to Rectify Deadly Cancer Disparities

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

Increasing evidence of research reveals that Black Americans are exposed to greater environmental and health risks within miles of their communities in comparison to their white counterparts. To combat these growing rates, The National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) held a summit in Washington, D.C., presenting a comprehensive report to the White House Cancer Moonshot program on environmental disparities in predominantly Black and minority communities. The latest NMQF report calls attention to two striking realities. First, historically marginalized populations often reside and work in

environmentally toxic environments where elements in the air, water, and soil elevate their risk for cancer. Additionally, public policy has consistently denied these communities access to the best modern cancer care while simultaneously elevating the risk for cancer through exposure to hazardous waste. NMQF President and Chief Executive Officer Gary A. Puckrein, shared that roughly 60% of Black Americans live in a community with one or more abandoned waste sites. Further, three of the five largest commercial hazardous waste landfills are located predominantly in African American and Latinx communities. “Communities marginalized by lower economic status and envi-

5 National Minority Quality Forum President and CEO Dr. Gary Puckrein speaking at the White House. (Courtesy photo/ NMQF)

ronmental exposure are slow to see the benefits of progressive cancer developments. Stats reveal Blacks have the highest diagnosis rates and shorter survival rates of most cancers,” said Puckrein. Speakers of the NMQF summit echoed President Joe Biden’s call to action in emphasizing the imperative need to carry out the vision of the Cancer Moonshot program, a White House initiative created to reduce cancer deaths across the country. NMQF identified Flint, Michigan as the initial location to commence this research and report, serving as a blueprint for the research and approach to resolving these issues across the country.

THE CONSEQUENCES OF ENVIRONMENTAL INJUSTICES IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

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20 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

Throughout Washington, D.C., marginalized communities east of the Anacostia River are disproportionately impacted by climate change, facing issues including a lack of green spaces, increased flooding, and poor air quality. Similar to other parts of the country, District residents also face a host of health implications due to environmental injustices in the city’s most underserved areas. Last October of 2023, District Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb court ordered the Potomac Electric Power Company (PEPCO) to pay over $57 million in an environmen-

tal settlement to rectify allegations of discharging toxic chemicals into the city’s waterways and land over decades. The agreement demanded Pepco to dedicate roughly $47 million to cleaning up the Anacostia River for years of hazardous pollution, as well as contamination at its Benning Road and Buzzard Point facilities, while also investigating the historical and current environmental impacts of their District-wide system of transformer vaults. In accordance with the NMQF’s findings, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is found to operate, own, or subsidize roughly 18,158 properties that are reportedly located within one mile of an abandoned hazardous waste site, also known as a superfund site. The majority of these tenants also happen to be households of color. According to a 2014 Office of Planning report, “Ward 5 holds roughly one-half of the city’s total supply of industrial land,” and those numbers have not changed by too far of a margin. The environmental impacts weigh heavily on residents causing pollution and environmental degradation due to emissions, resource consumption and waste generation. Ward 5, housing a population of 88,965 persons, contains a 46% African American population rate, and roughly 20% population of non-White, minority residents. Brenda Lee Richardson, an eco-feminist and coordinator for

the Anacostia Parks & Community Collaborative, has found these inequities to be the result of intersecting economic, cultural, and environmental factors created by failed public policy with resources inaccessible to far too many Americans. “The health disparities east of the river are alarmingly high. Here, it just continues to escalate and it's like who's paying attention to heart attacks. [In terms of] cancer, we've got the highest rate of breast cancer in the entire city. So, we know that it's associated with pollution,” Lee Richardson told the Informer. Lee Richardson often refers to the residents of her community as the most “disfavored” sector of the District, as she has grown tired of people determining the fate of east of the river residents by deeming them “vulnerable and marginalized.” She emphasized the collective effort needed to improve the landscape of the city’s residents who are most impacted by environmental disparities. “I think the challenge is getting the different agencies, universities, nonprofits, environmental groups, to all collaborate on the same page instead of working in silos,” Lee Richardson said. “The Department of Health should always be at the table. The Department of Mental Health should be at the table, MPD should be at the table when you're talking about these environmental justice issues, because it impacts the very essence of who we are as residents of the District of Columbia.” WI

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HEALTH

Report Reveals White House Medical Unit’s ‘Obscene Lack of Control’ Over Control Medications During Trump Administration By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

According to a report issued by the Department of Defense, drugs were just as prevalent in the White House under former President Donald Trump as they are in a pharmacy. Reportedly, investigators found “an obscene lack of control over the handling of controlled medications” while the twice-impeached and four-times indicted Trump occupied the Oval Office. The Department of Defense Office Inspector General’s investigation reveals a disturbing lack of oversight over the distribution of controlled medications within the White House Medical Unit (WHMU) during Trump’s presidency. According to the report, while Trump served as president, the distribution of prescription medications, including controlled substances, went to ineligible White House staff. Based on 70 interviews with staffers employed between 2009 and 2018 and prescription records from 2017 to 2019, the investigation sheds light on the issue’s magnitude. The WHMU, responsible for managing the medical needs of White House personnel, was found to have “severe and systemic problems” under the Trump administration. The report revealed that the unit dispensed non-emergency-controlled medications, such as Ambien and Provigil,

Martínez-López said the aim is to ensure better control and compliance with pharmacy safety standards within the White House Medical Unit. without properly verifying the patient’s identity. Additionally, overthe-counter medications were left in open bins for patient retrieval and use, posing potential safety risks. A significant concern highlighted in the investigation is the White House Medical Unit’s preference for brand-name drugs over generic equivalents when ordering controlled substances from the Walter Reed Medical Center in Maryland. The report states that over three years, the unit spent an estimated $46,500 on brand-name Ambien, 174 times more expensive than the generic equivalent. The investigation further pointed out that the WHMU officials claimed to keep pharmaceutical records for only two years, limiting investigators’ access to records from 2017 to 2019. The report recommends developing a pharmaceutical oversight plan for the

WHMU to address these issues. In response to the findings, the Department of Defense said it has concurred with all recommendations outlined in the report. Lester Martínez-López, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs, issued a memo attached to the report, emphasizing the need for the Director of the Defense Health Agency, in coordination with the WHMU Director, to develop policies and procedures for: managing controlled and non-controlled medications; covering procurement; storage; inventory; prescribing; dispensing; and disposal. Martínez-López said the aim is to ensure better control and compliance with pharmacy safety standards within the White House Medical Unit. WI

5 A report issued by the Department of Defense revealed an “obscene lack of control,” in handling controlled substances. (Courtesy Photo)

You earned your Social Security. Learn how to maximize it. You work hard and pay into Social Security for your future. So it’s only fair for you to get the money you’ve earned. If politicians don’t take action in the next 10 years to save Social Security, your Social Security could be cut by 20%, an average of $4,000 a year. AARP is urging Congress to find a solution to protect and save Social Security, so you get the money you earned.

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FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 21

OUR

EARTH

Weather Whiplash: T-Shirt Temps in January By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter Some days, it’s easy to tell who checks the weather before getting dressed for the day and who does not. In the District, Jan. 26 was one such day. As temperatures soared up to a record-breaking 80 degrees and record high humidity to match, some people could be spotted wearing— or carrying—heavy winter jackets while others had donned shorts and tank tops. “I wore sweats and a hoodie, and it definitely was not the right thing to wear,” said Badi Cross, a senior at Howard University. “I went outside and I was like, it's hot as hell out here.” The confusion of sartorial choices on Friday reflected a rollercoaster week of weather in the District: just a week prior, a major snowstorm hit the city, accompanied by days of below-freezing temperatures. Cross, who came to the District from Portland, Oregon, said he

rarely checks the weather and was caught off guard. “I was sweating by the time I got to campus,” he said of his five-minute walk from home. Even indoors, things were different. Joy Lawson, director of the Young Women’s Entrepreneurship Program at Elizabeth Seton High School, told the Informer she had to turn on the air conditioning unit in her classroom. “It was an odd day in January,” Lawson, 30, said.

ANOTHER SHATTERED HEAT RECORD

Since the start of documentation in 1872, D.C. has never before reached 80 degrees earlier than mid-February, and even that has only happened four times in over 150 years. Most years, the first 80-degree day hits in March or April. The previous mark for the hottest day in January was 79 degrees, which happened on the same date in 1950. The Washington Post’s Martin Weil looked into his paper’s

5 Fog in Rockville Cemetery Jan. 25. (John Brighenti via Flickr)

archives last week to find the frontpage, above-the-fold story about the event. The original author apparently recommended children take note of the date, writing “you’ll boast of it when you’re old.” More recently, unseasonable temperature spikes during winter have become more common in the region. In the 50 years between 1873 and 1923, the District hit 70 degrees 17 times during December, January or February. Between 1973 and 2023, DC crossed that threshold 44 times during winter months. That’s because gasses from burning fossil fuels are trapping heat inside our atmosphere, making the whole planet hotter. On average, D.C.’s winters have gotten 3.6 degrees warmer since 1970, according to data from Climate Central. Climate change causes baseline temperatures to rise, and it also makes temperature spikes like the one on Jan. 26 more likely to occur. “It feels like I’m not going to have a very good planet to raise my kids on,” Cross, the Howard senior, said. “I was kind of happy it was warm—I definitely am not a fan of the cold. But I was also like ‘it's definitely not supposed to be like this today.’”

WARM, HUMID AIR + COLD AIR = FOG 5 Diners near Chinatown sit outside with no coats in sight long after the sun had set on Jan. 26. (Kayla Benjamin/The Washington Informer)

22 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

Another record-breaking weather event occurred last week when dense fog blanketed a huge swath of the U.S., causing more “dense fog advi-

sories” to be issued nationwide than on any other day since documentation started in 2005. The fog broke that record on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings this week, with each day having more advisories than the last. The DMV saw heavy fog roll in Thursday night and stay through Friday morning, with commuting drivers facing very low visibility. Washingtonians who didn’t have to get behind the wheel posted dozens of beautiful, sometimes eerie, photos of D.C.’s monuments, bridges and other iconic places shrouded in mist. It’s no coincidence that the fog moved in just before the District got weirdly warm. When humid warm air flows over colder air near the ground (which was still chilly from the snow and ice) it creates the perfect conditions for what’s called “advection fog.” “When you have a cold front and a warm front meeting, you have that cold, denser air that's flushing underneath the warmer air,” said Dr. Osinachi Ajoku, a researcher and assistant professor of atmospheric science at Howard University. “Usually, when those two air masses meet, you have a lot of moisture and

convection that happens.” Another factor that affects fog formation is pollution, because the tiny water droplets that create the ground-level clouds can only form when sticking to particles in the air, Ajoku said. That means that in a far-reaching fog event like last week’s, areas near pollution sources like busy freeways or power plants tend to experience denser fog than places with cleaner air. Those pollution sources are disproportionately located near Black and low-income communities, as a result of redlining and other racist policies. It’s not clear yet how climate change and milder winters might impact these fog events. Researchers are still learning whether a warmer world will cause more clouds to form close to the ground or fewer, or whether those clouds will be more or less likely to become thick enough to make it hard for us to see. “One of the toughest things to predict in our field is actually the formation of clouds,” Ajoku said. “I think this will be a future topic of research going forward, specifically in the wintertime.” WI

The Informer's Our Earth page turns 1 year old this fall. We want to know what you think and what we can do better in year 2! Please let us know with this 3-minute survey.

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OUR EARTH

WHAT ON (OUR) EARTH IS GOING ON?

DMV Green News Updates

WIND POWER COMPANY PULLS OUT OF DEAL WITH MARYLAND

Citing “challenging market conditions,” offshore wind company Ørsted decided Jan. 25 to withdraw from an agreement to sell power to Maryland from a planned wind farm near Ocean City. The company still plans to build the wind farm in federal waters despite opting out of its deal

3 A wind farm off the coast of Rhode Island. (Photo by Dennis Schroeder / National Renewable Energy Lab)

BIDEN ADMINISTRATION PAUSES LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS EXPORTS

Climate and environmental justice advocates got a win last week as the Biden-Harris administration announced it would temporarily suspend approvals for new liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. LNG is a fossil fuel made by fracking natural gas and then cooling it so it becomes liquid, making it possible to transport on roads, rails and ships. The Department of Energy said it will use the time to update the economic and environmental analyses that determine whether an application gets authorized. A factsheet from the White House said that the current analyses are about five years old. According to a celebratory press release from the Sierra Club, all the proposed and under construction gas export projects would have produced emissions equivalent to more than 550 new coalfired power plants. Environmental justice advocates, particularly in frontline communities polluted by fossil fuel operations, have spent decades pushing for the U.S. to reduce new fracking projects built to sell LNG to other countries. WI

E B R ATIN

It’s been a good couple of months for electric vehicles in the D.C. area. Late last year, the District joined Virginia and Maryland in finalizing regulations that require all new cars registered in D.C. after 2035 to produce zero greenhouse gas emissions. The new rule won’t apply to used cars, so gas vehicles will still be on the road for a long time after it goes into effect, DCist’s Jacob Fenston reported last month. The requirements, which allow hybrid plug-in cars as well as fully electric battery-powered cars, will start kicking in with 2027 models. Additionally, the DMV took home some hefty chunks of change from the federal government’s nationwide efforts to promote electric vehicle adoption. The Environmental Protection Agency announced early in January that Fairfax County and Montgomery County school districts would receive millions in grants to purchase electric school buses (both D.C. and Baltimore, along with 11 Virginia school districts, got funding from the same program in 2022). Just a few days later, the Federal Highway Administration announced it would give the Maryland Clean Energy Center $15 million to build 58 electric vehicle charging stations in low- and moderate-income communities across the state. WI

with the Maryland Public Service Commission, Aman Azar reported for Inside Climate News. The arrangement included a limit on how much Ørsted could charge for its power, and the company said that the price point— agreed upon in 2019—would no longer be enough to support the project’s development. The decision presents a major challenge for Maryland’s 2035 target for achieving 100% clean energy. One other company, U.S. Wind, currently has a project in the works in Maryland, and it could potentially increase its generation to account for some of the difference, the Baltimore Sun’s Christine Condon reported. WI

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FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 23

EDUCATION Dr. Ibram X. Kendi Presents New Book at Jefferson Middle School Academy

3 Author Dr. Ibram X. Kendi spoke with students at Jefferson Middle School about his experience as a writer, the writing process and more on Jan. 24. (Marckell Williams/ The Washington Informer)

Students Embrace Anti-Racist Ideals Reading, and Writing Process During Event By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer Dr. Ibram X. Kendi’s latest book, a middle school-level reworking of Zora Neale Hurston’s “Barracoon: The Story of the ‘Last Cargo’” introduces young people to Cudjo Lewis, one of the last survivors of the Middle Passage who Hurston interviewed during

the early 20th century. Hurston unsuccessfully attempted to get “Barracoon” published, due to the preservation of Lewis’ language in the manuscript and her depiction of Africans’ involvement in the slave trade. Amistad Press published the book in 2018 -- nearly 60 years after her death. In explaining why he chose to adapt Hurston’s posthumously re-

leased work, Kendi called it quite possibly one of the best tools for countering ahistorical narratives about the African-American experience. More importantly, he added, this adaptation drives home the point that African-American history started in Africa, not in bondage in the U.S.. “‘Barracoon’ allows young people to realize that we identify as Af-

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rican Americans, Black Americans or Black people, but ultimately we’re African people,” Kendi told The Informer. “Many African Americans do not want to connect themselves and their personal histories to Africa because they were told a lie about Africa being a wasteland,” he continued. “This story shows them that Cudjo and others experience Alabama and don’t want to be here and they named their own town Africatown.” On Jan. 24, Kendi appeared before more than 300 students, faculty and staff members at Jefferson Middle School Academy in Southwest. The event, coordinated by award-winning Jefferson librarian K.C. Boyd and local nonprofit An Open Book Foundation, allowed students to learn more about Kendi’s professional journey and gather his thoughts about contemporary issues. Guests included Washington Teachers’ Union president Jacqueline Pogue-Lyons. The program opened with seventh grader Aden Vasquez’s introduction of Kendi. Soon after, Boyd, along with eighth graders Sanaa Wilson and Jide George, engaged Kendi in dialogue on stage. Kendi, Boyd, Sanaa and Jide sat around a coffee table showcasing copies of Kendi’s “Barracoon” adaptation, the middle school-level adaptation of his 2016 book, “Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America,” and his 2022 book “Good Night Racism.” Topics the quartet discussed included how Kendi overcame GOP

legislators’ mention of his book, “Antiracist Baby,” during the Ketanji Brown Jackson confirmation hearings, the development of his interests in African-American history and internalized racism, and “Barracoon’s” emphasis on Lewis' speech, which is an infusion of English and African languages. To some students’ amazement, Kendi revealed that writing children's books takes him anywhere between six months and two years, while he dedicates anywhere between a year and four years to completing his adult-level works. At the end of the program, students later received copies of “Barracoon.” Kendi in turn received a collection of letters from sixth graders who, after reading the middle school version of “Stamped,” had much to say about their experiences with racism. The event evoked a bevy of feelings among Jefferson students. Jide, 13, told The Informer that learning about Kendi’s writing process inspired him to increase his focus as he works to achieve his goals of becoming an NBA player and doctor. “I learned that if you want to succeed, you have to work hard for it,” Jide said. “Sometimes writing gets annoying but when I’m silent and locked in, I can write creatively and it makes me feel different from everyone else,” he continued. “It makes me change how I act and how I speak. It helps my mindset get stronger.” For Sanaa, the key takeaways

EDUCATION Page 25

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PUBLIC SAFETY from Page 1 tions out into the streets. “If Monumental Sports doesn’t stay, we have a runway in which we can continue to develop plans,” Albert said on Tuesday at Clyde’s American Restaurant and Bar on 7th Street, where the breakfast took place. “That site becomes one site. The bookend is the FBI site and the anchor of the convention center,” she continued. “The theaters here make this area akin to a theater district. Focusing on Gallery Place first makes sense and it feeds the pivot of leading into tourism as part of our future economic diversity strategy..”

A CRIME SPREE AND QUESTIONS ABOUT SECURE D.C.’S RACIAL BLOWBACK

The Safe & Clean Agenda is launching as the D.C. Council prepares for its first vote on the Secure D.C. Omnibus Act. This initiative also comes amid an incremental decrease in crime around Gallery Place/Chinatown, according to data compiled by the Met-

EDUCATION from Page 24 from Kendi’s visit were his journey as an author and the historical development of systems that diminish Black pride. “It was informative to hear Dr. Kendi’s thoughts about the writing process,” Sanaa said. I read his book about anti-racism and learned what systems were created. It helps me as a young person to not internalize the wrong ideas.” Aden, a self-described avid reader, called Kendi’s appearance, and the messages in his books, a call to action for young people. “It feels great to know that someone else who is Black is going through these problems and can identify why the higher ranks are looking down on Black people,” Aden told The Informer. Over the last 12 years, Kendi wrote 15 books, nine of which became New York Times best sellers. He currently serves as the Andrew W. Mellon professor in the humanities at Boston University (BU), director of the BU Center for Antiracist Research, contributing writer for The Atlantic and CBS News racial justice contributor. Kendi’s visit counts among

ropolitan Police Department (MPD). As of Jan. 29, violent crime dropped by 88% from the figure recorded at the same time during the previous year. MPD also saw a decline in robberies, property crime, and burglary in Gallery Place/Chinatown. The department recorded similar declines in all crime categories, including assault with a deadly weapon, property crime, and motor vehicle theft, within a 30day period. There have also been no homicides or incidents of sex abuse reported in the area so far this year. Theft, however, experienced a nearly 20% year-todate increase. For many, this, in part, indicates a problem that continues to affect Gallery Place/Chinatown and other District neighborhoods. Shortly before the mayor-council breakfast, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, Lindsey Appiah, deputy mayor for public safety and justice, and MPD Executive Assistant Chief Jeffery Carroll, visited the Old Council Chambers on Fourth Street in Northwest to answer questions about a crime spree more than 160 events An Open Book Foundation plans to host at and for schools in the D.C. metropolitan area this academic year. Future D.C. events include Hena Khan’s visit to Friendship Southeast Academy on Feb. 6. On Feb. 15, students from Phelps Architecture, Construction, and Engineering High School in Northeast will visit Planet Word Museum in Northwest to meet Tony Keith , Jr.,who’s showcasing his first book, “How the Boogeyman Became a Poet.” Heidi Powell, co-founder and executive director of An Open Book Foundation, told The Informer that Kendi’s visit to Jefferson, along with several other events, help fulfill the foundation’s mission of nurturing a lifelong love of reading within District-area youths. “We look for authors who can speak about their own lived experiences and share their content with students,” Powell said. “Dr. Kendi resonates with students. We want to find the right books for students and get them excited by connecting them with the creators. It gets them really interested in reading.” WI @SamPKCollins

that started less than a mile from Gallery Place/Chinatown a day prior. On Monday evening, MPD responded to a shooting on the 900 block of K Street in Northwest. That incident left one person in critical condition. The alleged perpetrator, Carroll said, entered the victim’s vehicle, shot them and fled soon after. Their victim walked out of their car and collapsed. More than an hour later, MPD reported to the 1000 block of 3rd Street in Northeast where the same suspect unsuccessfully attempted a carjacking. That suspect, Carroll said, soon after ran over to 3rd Street and N Street in Northeast where he held a gun up to two people, fatally shot one of them, and took their Chrysler 200. The Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD) later found the Chrysler 200 abandoned in Takoma Park, Maryland. Carroll said that, after committing another carjacking, the suspect ordered a rideshare vehicle, a Nissan Rogue, which he also carjacked. At 3am on Tuesday, the suspect, driving

EDUCATION

5 D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and Lindsey Appiah, deputy mayor for public safety and justice announced in October 2023 legislation aimed at reducing crime in the District. (WI File Photo/Ja'Mon Jackson)

the Nissan Rogue, reportedly pulled up alongside an MPD cruiser on DC295 near Blue Plains and shot the cruiser once before driving away. PGPD later encountered the suspect in New Carrollton, Maryland where officers shot and killed him.

Carroll told The Informer that MPD, in conjunction with PGPD and other law enforcement agencies, worked throughout the night to track the suspect, whose name as of Tuesday

PUBLIC SAFETY Page 60

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH

MIMI’S MUSINGS: AFRICAN AMERICANS IN THE ARTS

This February Let’s Honor Black Artists Contribution to all American Culture

Week 1: And the Award Goes To… By Micha Green WI Managing Editor Happy Black History Month! If you’re like me, you don’t need the first of February to arrive in order

to shout the James Brown 1968 tune, “Say it Loud– I’m Black and I’m Proud,” or acknowledge the influence of African American artists on society. However, in joining the nationwide celebration of Black history and

culture, The Washington Informer will use each week of February to highlight Black arts and honor African American creatives’ contribution to arts and culture worldwide. This year, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), the creators of Black History Month, is focusing on “African Americans and the Arts,” for its 2024 theme. Through interviews with local artists, historians and research, Washington Informer reporters will explore how African American artists have historically contributed to the arts and American culture as a whole. The influence of Black creativity can be seen at the core of American arts and culture— even politics. Historically, Black artists have proven to be the pulse that keeps the heart of America beating. From the performing arts such as music, theatre, and dance, to visual arts, and literature, The Washington Informer will relay stories that reveal how Black art was not solely used as a source of entertainment, but a form of protest, power and a means of promoting peace and revolution. Even as white artists stole and cap-

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italized off of African American artists, the power of Black art prevailed. Black artists, through the creation of musical genres, artistic styles, fashion trends, and creative movements, have proven over centuries the strength, resilience, beauty and boldness of Black artistry. This first week of February, we dive into the deep history of Black artists and their contributions to the fabric of this country and examine how African American creatives continue to influence culture today. Under this

week’s subtheme, “And the Award Goes to,” this week, The Informer is particularly highlighting, award-winning, trailblazing Black artists. Although African American history is important 365 days a year, tap into celebrating the greatness of Black artists this February. Dive into the history of some of your favorite African American artists and artivists (artist activists), learn from and be inspired by them, and honor their legacies by furthering their mission toward a stronger nation and world. WI

CELEBRATING AFRICAN AMERICANS IN THE ARTS @WASHINFORMER

FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 27

BLACK HISTORY MONTH Washington Gas Celebrates Black History Month Washington Gas is honored to celebrate Black History Month and each week during February 2024 we will profile one of our employees and what Black History means to them. Black History Month Profile #1

Celebrating African Americans and the Arts Showcases the Power and Worldwide Influence Black Artists Possess Locally Trained Artists Talk Black Artists Impact On All Aspects of Culture By Micha Green and Jada Ingleton Managing Editor and WI Intern

Tracye D. Funn, Manager Corporate Contributions I believe the celebration, reflection and legacy of Afro-Americans should be recognized year-round and not just in February and I make every effort to always honor my ancestors. Both of my parents were educators, having taught a combined 101 years. They instilled in me a sense of pride about my race and our accomplishments despite cultural, political, social, and economic challenges. My father, Carlton A. Funn, Sr., was particularly concerned that his students did not have that pride due to a lack of curriculum. While teaching a history class to Alexandria seventh graders in 1957 — three years after the U.S. Supreme Court outlawed public school segregation, he was shocked to see the school system using a dated and racially offensive textbook on Virginia history. It depicted slaves as cheerful and docile. It was also the same book the Alexandria school system had used when he was a student. He complained to the principal but was ordered not to make waves.

Black art has shaped American culture since enslaved Africans arrived on U.S. soil more than 400 years ago. From music, dance, theatre literature, or visual arts, African Americans have been trailblazers in the arts and created works that have shaped American culture as a whole, all the while, serving as a form of protest, empowerment, strength and resilience. This February, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), the creators of Black History Month,

chose “African Americans and the Arts,” as the 2024 theme, in order to celebrate Black artists contributions to American culture. “Artists shift culture. Artists make us confront the reality of our connectedness,” said native Washingtonian theater-maker, teaching artist, and artivist, Chelsea Dee, creator of the Free Black Chesapeake Experience Kailasa Aqeel, lead singer of the D.C.-based band Black Folks Don’t Swim, emphasized Black art has shaped American culture, but noted racist systems have worked to diminish Black narratives and

THE ARTS Page 29

Instead, he acted and founded the National International Cultural Exhibit (NICE) in the 1960s, a travelling collection of pamphlets, books, artifacts, and teaching resources. It was shown more than 500 times in 13 states and included 287 tables and 1,500 display boards. The collection is now permanently included as part of the Alexandria Black History Museum collection. I was always most proud when Dad lectured at every school I attended – from elementary to Hampton University, my alma mater. Today, the internet provides a wealth of learning opportunities, and there are games that help teach us about our heritage. Sadly, there are those who seek to diminish our contributions and prevent the next generation from not only learning about their ancestry but depriving them of their legacy. I remain diligent by joining organizations that help bridge the gap for cultural exchange and I volunteer and serve in spaces that help address diversity and build inclusivity. I am fortunate to support organizations in both my professional career and personal life that bring voice to the call to promote awareness, human dignity, and cultural understanding – the 3 teaching mantras incorporated in the NICE curriculum. I have held leadership positions in philanthropy, community outreach, supplier diversity, and advocacy and all have been opportunities to reinforce what my Dad taught me. I encourage individuals and societies collectively to learn about each other, respect the differences and acknowledge and appreciate who we are and our cultural contributions.

5 From Negro Spirituals to hip hop today, Black art has historically been critical to sharing African American narratives and shaping American culture, with African American artists also serving as outspoken freedom fighters. Artists such as Harry Belafonte, classically trained singer, Coretta Scott King, wife of civil rights leader the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and D.C. native and legendary bandleader Duke Ellington, shifted culture through their activism. (Courtesy Photo, Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, G. Marshall Wilson, 1956)

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH THE ARTS from Page 28 erase their power. “Not only have white people historically recognized then worked to capitalize on Black art and voices, from the transatlantic slave trade to today, they’ve bought and sold our art for their own gain,” Aqeel told The Informer. “However, the beauty of Black art and culture is that you can never silence it or hide its true power.” While they were stripped of their drums and traditional instruments, enslaved Africans and their descendants held strong to the spirit of their arts and adapted their own flare, which can be heard in the cadence and sound of Negro Spirituals. “Black people who were brought to the U.S. through the transatlantic slave trade brought with them traditions of communal music-making,” said Brown University’s Charrise Barron, assistant professor of African Studies and Music in a 2022 article. Post slavery, and by the 1920s, with the emergence of The Harlem Renaissance, Black creative expression was electric through New York City and spreading across the U.S. and internationally. “The New Negro” began to navigate self-expression and societal issues through their own lens. Prior to and after the Harlem Renaissance, African American art chronicled movements and showcased the brilliance, beauty and boldness of Black culture. In 1973, shortly after the beginning of Black Arts Movement— which featured theatre, poetry and new styles of visual art and literature— a couple of teenagers threw a back-to-school party in their apartment in the Bronx, New York. The party, featuring

disc jockey Kool Herc producing beats would unknowingly change the face of music thereafter and birth hip hop. The widespread cultural impact of hip-hop, which celebrated 50 years in 2023, is much like the influence of the Black arts as a whole. From the rhythmic beats and rap flow to the trendsetting looks and fashions that branched with its origin, hip hop, like much of Black art, has influenced people and cultures worldwide. D.C. native Samantha Figgins, of the groundbreaking Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, established in 1958, told The Informer, that the company’s founder always believed in engaging audiences by allowing them to see themselves, and igniting action to promote a stronger society. “Mr. Ailey, one of his favorite things to say was, ‘We are supposed to be holding up a mirror to society, showing the world an image of themselves,’” Figgins said Artivists such as Chelsea Dee note that acknowledging Black artists' contributions, helps society better under African Americans influence on art historically and to today. “The country owes its continued existence to the work, love, and struggle of Black artists. We hold space for history and the future in our art,” said Chelsea Dee, who works with students and artists across the nation through her work and artivism. “In this country, Black artists give us back our collective power to imagine, to dream, to see beyond this present time. In 2024, we are in need of that imagination work.” Read more on washingtoninformer.com WI

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AND THE AWARD GOES TO: RECOGNIZING BLACK AWARD SHOWS

Celebrating Black Excellence: A Journey through African American-Focused Award Shows By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

African American-focused award shows have been pivotal in recognizing and celebrating Black excellence across various artistic domains. From the pioneering NAACP Image Awards to the vibrant BET Awards, these ceremonies have become crucial platforms for acknowledging outstanding achievements within the Black community. “No matter what anybody says, I’ve learned to stay true to my voice, stay true to my audience, not chase people’s opinion. I know my audience and who I’m writing for, and staying on that track has brought me to this place,” multiaward winning filmmaker and arts mogul Tyler Perry told BET leading up to the 2020 NAACP Image Awards. Black award shows offer a sacred space for African American artists to not only be celebrated by their own, but use the honor to speak candidly to their people. “We’ve been floating this country on credit for centuries, and we’re done watching and waiting while this invention called whiteness uses and abuses us, burying Black people out of sight and out of mind while extracting our culture, our dollars, our entertainment like oil – black gold,” actor Jesse Williams of Grey’s Anatomy told a BET Awards crowd in June 2016 when accepting the “Humanitarian Award.” Audiences are left with memorable moments with Black award shows and honors. The one-time Motown 25th anniversary television program is when Michael Jackson first mystified audiences with the moonwalk. The 2003 BET Awards Jackson joined James Brown on stage, with the King of Pop honoring the King of Soul, in a legendary performance. Below are some of the Black award shows that have offered a stage to honor, celebrate and empower African American artists. The NAACP Image Awards,

inaugurated in 1967, remain committed to honoring exceptional performances in film, television, theater, music, and literature by Black individuals. Although the awards ceremony gained a primetime television spot in 1996, it wasn't until 2007 that network or cable television broadcast the show live. The Soul Train Awards emerged in 1987, thanks to the vision of Don Cornelius, founder of the iconic music showcase program “Soul Train.” The show focused on recognizing top Black performers in the entertainment and music industries and has stood the test of time, celebrating over thirty years of excellence, and still shining a spotlight on Black entertainers. In 1991, The Source magazine stepped into the arena by initiating awards on the set of the show Yo! MTV Raps. What started as an informal recognition of achievements in the rap industry, The Source Awards eventually evolved into a full-fledged production by 1994, albeit with a relatively short run until 2004. The endeavor aimed to honor those contributing to a genre fighting for respect and recognition. The BET Awards, launched by the Black Entertainment Television Network in 2001, marked another milestone in celebrating the achievements of Black individuals in entertainment. With performances by music artists, the BET Awards have continued for over two decades. The Black Reel Awards, hosted by the Foundation for the Augmentation of African Americans in Film (FAAAF), took its first steps in 2000 in Washington, D.C. Recognizing excellence within the African diaspora in the global film industry, the awards initially had online presentations before transitioning to live shows in 2002. As the oldest cinema-exclusive awards ceremony for African Americans, the Black Reel Awards have maintained prestige, with category winners receiving the coveted Black Reel statuette.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

The Grio Awards Annually, TheGrio Awards recognize icons, leaders, and legends whose influence has impacted the Black community and culture. The awards showcase excellence in various fields such as film, music, comedy, television, sports, philanthropy, business, fashion, social and environmental justice, education, and cultural innovation. This event pays homage to history makers, change agents, and artists who shape and inspire Black culture. WI @StacyBrownMedia

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5 The NAACP Image Awards is one of the longstanding African American-focused award shows used to celebrate Black artists and changemakers. (Courtesy Photo)

FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 31

BLACK HISTORY MONTH AND THE AWARD GOES TO: A BARRIER-BREAKING ACTRESS

The Queen of Sugar Hill: ReShonda Tate Illuminates Hattie McDaniel’s Journey in a Tale of Resilience and Triumph By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

20 24

5 ReShonda Tate takes readers on a journey through the life of Hattie McDaniel. (Courtesy Photo)

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ReShonda Tate takes readers on a captivating journey through the life of Hattie McDaniel. In her latest work, “The Queen of Sugar Hill,” Tate, a seasoned author and managing editor of the Defender Network in Houston, presents a mesmerizing fictional portrait of the trailblazing actress, the first Black person to win an Academy Award for her iconic role as Mammy in the classic film “Gone With the Wind.” “It is fiction based on fact,” Tate exclaimed of her extraordinary 55th novel. As McDaniel graced the stage in 1940 to claim her historic victory for Best Supporting Actress, tears of joy streamed down her face, believing that the moment would be the pinnacle of her career. Little did she know the triumph on that stage would be followed by a series of challenges that would test her resilience and determination. The months that followed were plagued by what became known as the “Oscar curse.” Despite her achievements, Tate reveals how McDaniel struggled to find work in an industry that couldn’t see beyond the stereotypical character of Mammy. Caught between two worlds— Black and white—she faced rejection from both sides. “Whites saw only the character she portrayed, while the Black community resented the demeaning portrayal,” Tate noted. Amidst the adversity, McDaniel persisted in her fight to pave the way for other Black actors. Beyond the glitz and glamor of Hollywood, she devoted herself to supporting war efforts, combating housing

THE ARTS

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discrimination, and navigating the complexities of four failed marriages. “The Queen of Sugar Hill” brings McDaniel’s powerful story to life, capturing her unwavering passion for ambition, love, sex, family, friendship, and equality. ReShonda Tate crafts an unforgettable novel that delves into the essence of resilience, dedication, and determination—illuminating what it truly takes to pursue dreams, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles. In this narrative, Tate explores Hattie’s triumphs and tragedies and sheds light on the steadfast friendships she cultivated with Hollywood luminaries like Clark Gable, Louise Beavers, Ruby Berkley Goodwin, and Dorothy Dandridge. Through Tate’s vivid storytelling, “The Queen of Sugar Hill” stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of a woman who, against all odds, left an enduring legacy and paved the way for future generations of Black artists in the unforgiving landscape of Hollywood. “In bringing to life the inimitable Hattie against the backdrop of her segregated times, ‘The Queen of Sugar Hill’ introduces readers to the important, inspiring, heart-wrenching story of the legendary actress whose legacy deserves to be fully understood and celebrated,” said Marie Benedict, the New York Times Bestselling author of “The Personal Librarian” and “The Other Mrs. Christie.” WI @StacyBrownMedia

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Amplifying artists of every age. Black History Month 2024

We’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on Black artists over 50 who are making our community thrive! That’s why AARP is celebrating the arts in all its forms and the Black artists who create it. It connects us and preserves our collective story. Scan the QR code to share your thoughts about art in the District.

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FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 33

BLACK HISTORY MONTH AND THE AWARD GOES TO: A PHOTOGRAPHY LEGEND

Guest Preacher

Dr. Kenyatta R. Gilbert Dean and Professor of Homiletic Howard University School of Divinity

5 James Van Der Zee’s “NY Children-Dance Class,” showcases classic features of the photographer’s work, which often showcased Black life during the Harlem Renaissance. (Courtesy Photo)

James Van Der Zee: Capturing Time and Breaking Barriers in Photography By Andrew S. Jacobson WI Contributing Writer

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My earliest memory of a photograph is etched in the cozy ambiance of my grandparent's study, right at the top of the stairs, above the television. It was James Van Der Zee's “NY Children-Dance Class,” featuring five young girls striking poses, immortalized in black and white. The image, a window to a different era, sparked a fascination with the power of photography — its unique ability to freeze time and encapsulate history. Photography, in essence, is historical. It captures moments that once lived, yet through the lens of a camera, these fleeting instances are preserved with an almost mystical permanence. This is the profound allure of photography — its capacity to hold onto moments even as they recede from our present. Multi-award winning photographer James Van Der Zee (June 29, 1886- May 15, 1983) understood this power profoundly. Van Der Zee did more than just capture images; his work gave life and vibrancy to the experiences of African Americans during an era of profound cultural significance. A celebrated Harlem Renaissance photographer among his people, Van Der Zee chronicled life during the 1920s and 1930s, and beyond. Often, Black New York City residents

turned to Van Der Zee, to mark special occasions with his signature style of carefully composed, cosmopolitan photographs, according to the National Gallery of Art. Each dark room print, a complex chemical composition, emerged as a testament to the richness and depth of Black life during a time when such representations were scarce. Even after the Harlem Renaissance, Van Der Zee continued telling powerful stories through his photos. In January 1984, at the age of 96, Van Der Zee photographed a then 21-year-old Jean-Michele Basquiat, the celebrated painter, for Interview magazine. Van Der Zee's photography went beyond mere documentation. It was a celebration of Black identity, a bold assertion of presence and dignity in a society that often chose to overlook such narratives. His portraits, scenes of everyday life, and cultural depictions became icons of a flourishing culture, allowing present-day African Americans to revel in the splendor and complexity of their history. The significance of Van Der Zee’s work extends beyond its cultural and historical impact. He was a barrier-breaker, a pioneer who navigated a predominantly white industry with the elegance and determination of his subjects. His awards and accolades, such

VAN DER ZEE Page 35

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH

AND THE AWARD GOES TO: FIGHTING FOR MORE DIVERSITY

Black Artists Historically Overlooked in Oscars, Academy Works to Combat Diversity

FREE EVENT

#OscarsSoWhite Movement Inspires Change, 2024 Features Five Black Nominees By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer In the nearly 100-year history since founding the Academy Awards, those who choose the recipients have faced persistent criticism for overlooking Black talent within the film industry. A seasoned film critic, Shawn Edwards, expressed frustration in a 2023 discussion, emphasizing the Academy’s failure to acknowledge Black talent, especially women, both on and off the screen. “It has become exhausting complaining about the motion picture academy and its failure to acknowledge Black talent,” Edwards wrote. Despite a historical oversight of African American artists, there have been moments where Black talent broke through hurdles of barriers to claim well-deserved recognition. Hattie McDaniel made history in 1939, becoming the first Af-

VAN DER ZEE from Page 34 as being a lifetime Honorary Fellow at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City or receiving the International Black Photographers Award and the Living Legacy Award in 1979, presented by President Jimmy Carter, show how the photographer was crucial to American photography and storytelling. After his death in Washington, D.C. in 1983 at Howard University Hospital, Van Der Zee was inducted into the International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum. However, his awards only tell part of his story. Van Der Zee's true achievement lies in the legacy he crafted: The visual anthology of an era, his people, and a legacy that cannot be dimmed.

rican American actor to win an Oscar for her supporting role in “Gone With the Wind.” Twenty-four years later Sidney Poitier followed suit in 1963, securing the Oscar for Best Actor in “Lilies of the Field.” In 2001, Halle Berry shattered ceilings with her performance in “Monster’s Ball,” becoming the first and, to date, only African American woman to win the Oscar for Best Actress. The list of accomplished Black actors who have claimed Oscars includes Louis Gossett Jr., Denzel Washington, Jamie Foxx, Forest Whitaker, Cuba Gooding Jr., Morgan Freeman, Mahershala Ali, and Will Smith. Washington, a two-time Oscar winner, showcased his versatility with a Best Actor win for “Training Day” (2001) and a Supporting Actor win for “Glory” (1989). Foxx left an indelible mark in 2004, winning the Best Actor Os-

Onward

Upward and

a mus ic a l ce le b r ation of b l ack his tory month

OSCAR Page 37 The essence of James Van Der Zee's work is beautifully encapsulated in that photograph in my grandparent's study. It’s more than an image; it’s a portal to the past, a celebration of culture, and a bold statement of place. Van Der Zee's lens did not just capture the light; it illuminated a path for future generations. It inspired future generations to revel in the splendor of the past, while aspiring to achieve more in the future. In a world where the present is abruptly swept aside by the next pressing matter, Van Der Zee’s photographs remain, timeless and eloquent, a medium to capture the excellence of a moment. Read more on washingtoninformer.com. WI

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FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 35

BLACK HISTORY MONTH AND THE AWARD GOES TO: A GROUNDBREAKING STORYTELLER

Alice Walker: A Trailblazer in Womanism and Literature By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

EXPLORE ALEXANDRIA’S

Black History & Culture From a self-taught mathematician who mapped out the nation’s capital to abolitionist sisters who partnered with Frederick Douglass to the first Black athlete to play in the NBA, African American changemakers have shaped the history of Alexandria and the United States.

Black History Month Featured Events:

Plus, more experiences available year-round, including:

FEBRUARY 3: African American Emancipation in an Occupied City Book Signing & Author Talk

Alexandria Black History Museum: Originally the segregated library for Alexandria’s African American residents, the museum documents the local and national history, culture and contributions of Black America. Freedom House Museum: Once a 19th-century complex dedicated to trafficking thousands of Black men, women, and children, the museum now honors the lives of the enslaved and free people who lived in and passed through Alexandria. Contrabands and Freedmen’s Cemetery: Honoring the memory of about 1,800 African Americans who fled to Alexandria to escape from bondage during the Civil War. Barrett Branch Library: Visit the site of one of the nation’s earliest recorded sit-ins in 1939, and honor its 85th anniversary. Duke Street Black History Trail: Stroll from the inspiring Edmonson Sisters sculpture to the African American Heritage Park and more. Waterfront African American Heritage Trail: The self-guided trail highlights the people, places and neighborhoods along the Potomac, from the time of Alexandria’s founding through the 20th century.

FEBRUARY 10 & 17: Manumission Tour Company Black History Bus Tour FEBRUARY 18: Washington Revels Jubilee Voices Concert NOW THROUGH APRIL 15: New Freedom House Exhibit: “Searching for Truth in the Garden” Discover even more events and experiences, including a self-guided driving tour at VisitAlexandria.com/BlackHistory

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36 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

Alice Walker, who will celebrate her 80th birthday during Black History Month, is an internationally renowned novelist, short story writer and poet. Her works include seven novels, four collections of short stories, four children’s books and several essays and poems. Though many know Alice Walker for her Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, “The Color Purple,” she has garnered a reputation as an activist and womanist pioneer. In a 2010 “Democracy Now!” interview, she credited her encounter with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during the 1960s as an impetus for joining the Civil Rights Movement. Her participation placed her at the 1963 March on Washington and among aspirant Black voters in Georgia and Mississippi. By the mid-1980s, the womanist movement came into fruition, specifically at the American Academy of Religion and Society of Biblical Literature. Walker said that by coining the term womanist, she

attempted to unify women of color within the feminist movement and make it more intersectional. As it relates to Walker, the womanist movement further amplified her previous works, including “The Color Purple,” that centered Black female experiences. Since its 1982 release, Walker’s novel “The Color Purple,” continues to resonate with audiences today, and has been turned into an Oscar-winning feature film, Tony-winning Broadway musical, and the 2023 musical film is already garnering awards, nominations and critical acclaim. In a 2023 Vanity Fair article, Oprah Winfrey, who starred in the original film adaptation of “The Color Purple,” and has produced iterations since, credited Walker’s book for sparking personal hope and igniting change. "From the moment I read the book—that was my story,” said Winfrey, who shares some of the protagonist, Celie’s, tragic background of sexual abuse as a teen. I related so much to Celie's story and found hope.” WI

5 Pulitzer Prize-winning author Alice Walker coined the term womanism and penned “The Color Purple,” a story that continues to inspire audiences today. (Courtesy Photo)

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OSCAR from Page 35 car for his portrayal of Ray Charles in "Ray" and securing a nomination for his supporting role in “Collateral.” Whitaker’s depiction of an African dictator in “The Last King of Scotland” (2006) earned him the Best Actor Oscar, highlighting the recognition of Black actors in nuanced and diverse roles. Emphasizing the consistent excellence of Black talent, Ali achieved back-to-back wins for Best Supporting Actor in “Moonlight” (2016) and “Green Book” (2018). The supporting categories also witnessed exceptional performances by Black actresses. Whoopi Goldberg stole hearts in “Ghost” (1990), Jennifer Hudson delivered a memorable performance in “Dreamgirls” (2006), Lupita Nyong’o left an indelible mark with her role in “12 Years a Slave” (2013), and Octavia Spencer captivated audiences in “The Help” (2011). “Black stories matter. Black filmmakers matter. Black talent matters, and they deserve to hear their names called when the best of the best is honored,” Edwards declared. The #OscarsSoWhite movement, ignited by a viral tweet from April Reign in 2015, highlighted the lack of diversity in major award nominations. The movement led to a significant boycott of the 2016 Oscars by influential figures like Spike Lee and Jada Pinkett Smith. The impact of #OscarsSoWhite extended beyond the Oscars, influencing discussions about diversity and representation in other major award shows, including the Grammys and Golden Globes. In response, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences pledged to address its diversity and inclusion issues. By September 2020, in con-

junction with the Academy Aperture 2025 initiative, the Oscars released a statement announcing it had updated representation and inclusion standards for eligibility in the Best Picture category. “The aperture must widen to reflect our diverse global population in both the creation of motion pictures and in the audiences who connect with them. The Academy is committed to playing a vital role in helping make this a reality,” said Academy President David Rubin and Academy CEO Dawn Hudson. “We believe these inclusion standards will be a catalyst for long-lasting, essential change in our industry.” Set to be broadcast on ABC on March 10, the 96th Annual Academy Awards ceremony sets up as a night of celebration, with audiences witnessing a menu that includes Black excellence. Here’s a closer look at the five African Americans nominated for Oscars this year:

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FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 37

Black History Month is a Time to Honor D.C.’s Winning Ways in Early Childhood Education Dr. Calvin E. Moore, Jr., CEO, Council for Professional Recognition As we celebrate achievements during Black History Month, especially in the education sector, we pay tribute to a vital category where Washingtonians can be very proud to lead the nation: early childhood education. And just like our historic leaders embraced personal and professional growth, there are important opportunities that have arrived for D.C.’s child care and early learning sector, which covers those from birth to five years old. The system is a national leader and these changes will help it stay a top performer. The National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) keeps track of the score and its most recent “State Preschool Yearbook” shows that D.C. places first in the U.S. in these categories: • Access for early childhood education for 3- and 4-year-olds; and • Resources based on state spending and all reported spending (which includes federal, state, and local dollars). In December, rules went into effect that require early childhood educators to meet certain education requirements. Assistant teachers employed at all child development facilities (what some might call preschools) and home caregivers and associate home caregivers meet the education requirement if they earn a Child Development Associate® (CDA) Credential™ . D.C. is out front of states by implementing these education requirements for early childhood educators. The Office of the State Su-

38 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

perintendent of Education (OSSE) oversees the District’s early childhood sector and we congratulate it for its rigorous education requirements and supporting early childhood educators to meet them. The Council for Professional Recognition offers the CDA® and we know that this effort is working; in the past four years, we’ve seen a 17% increase in the number of early childhood educators earning a CDA in the District. Most importantly, OSSE supports in-person, hybrid and virtual CDA program options for early childhood educators that are offered at no cost to the educator; a guidebook provides details that make the process as easy as possible. Sebawit Yirsaw earned her CDA years ago in D.C. and now helps others. “Meeting the CDA standards was very enlightening for me from the first day of class. I learned so much about the theories of child development and teaching from my instructors. I feel a personal

bond with my CDA students because most of them are concerned parents. They earn a CDA so they can support both their own children and those of the community around them.” Sebawit is glad that the CDA is not only offered in English but also in Spanish and Amharic (the official language of Ethiopia). In fact, the Council worked with OSSE to make the CDA exam available in Amharic. “My students understand Ethiopian culture and just need the research-based knowledge of childcare. I tell them the CDA gives them the chance to build a new career.” In fact, that’s what’s happened with Sebawit, as she’s now working toward a master’s degree in curriculum and development. Candidates for the CDA must

successfully pass the national CDA exam that tests their knowledge of early childhood best practices based on the National CDA Competency Standards. In its 48-year history, the CDA has grown to become a important benchmark of excellence and the most widely recognized credential in early childhood education around the world. The national CDA Holder Survey found that 79% of owners/directors believe the CDA makes their teachers more prepared for the classroom; 73% of respondents believe the CDA has been beneficial for their career; and nearly 90% said earning the CDA made them more prepared for the classroom. Early childhood educators in D.C. who earn higher credentials are also rewarded for their hard work. The Early Childhood Educator Pay Eq-

uity Fund, a first-in-the-nation initiative administered by OSSE, is increasing compensation for early childhood educators based on the position where they work and the credentials they hold. Perhaps you think this is much too serious for the early years, which we associate with fun learning. Trust me, our D.C. educators make sure their young students enjoy early childhood education while also engaging young minds at a critical time for neurodevelopmental progress. In Washington, we have many things to honor during Black History Month, including our exceptional early childhood educators and those who’ve helped create a system that allows them to build thriving careers and lives.

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EDITORIAL

Officials Should Talk to Some Unhoused People Before Deciding On Their Right to Exist

On a Wednesday late last month, volunteers around the country walked their cities’ streets in pairs, working until as late as 2 a.m. in an effort to identify, tally and connect with anyone sleeping on the streets that night. Thousands of volunteers nationwide participate in the annual Point-In-Time Count, a onenight survey that provides crucial data for understanding municipalities' unhoused populations. This year’s count, held Jan. 24, began less than two weeks after the Supreme Court decided it would hear a case determining whether local governments are allowed to criminalize things like using a cardboard box for protection while sleeping outside. The case, Grants Pass, OR v. Johnson, Gloria, et al, will decide if Grants Pass—and all U.S. cities—can jail or fine people for being unhoused when shelters and other options for sleeping indoors are full. The law currently says that’s unconstitutional. The question of whether penalties for lying down or pitching a tent on public property constitute “cruel and unusual punishment” under the Eighth Amendment may be up for debate. But the question of whether those policies actually work to reduce the ever-growing problem of homelessness in the United States is not. Criminal records and debts from municipal fines present additional barriers for anyone seeking employment or permanent housing. Supporters of cities’ rights to enforce no-camping policies argue that preventing criminalization ties leaders’ hands, taking away necessary tools for addressing homelessness. At the same time, U.S. jurisdictions have utilized the strategies that have proven successful elsewhere in the world—namely, providing stable, low-cost housing options without hoops to jump through or years-long waitlists. Or, of course, building more affordable housing so that fewer people end up unhoused in the first place. It seems like anyone who believes punishment is one acceptable tool for addressing homelessness has never talked with someone who is on the street because they are fleeing domestic violence: or can’t find stable housing because medical debt tanked their credit score; or who grew up in foster care and aged out with no safety net. In fact, it feels like some of these officials may never have truly spoken with their unhoused constituents at all. Participating in the Point-In-Time Count would be a phenomenal place for these elected officials and appointed justices to start. They should sign up. In January 2025, let’s see some mayors and judges out until 2 a.m. with a survey. WI

The State of Hip Hop vs. Megan Thee Stallion and Nicki Minaj

Rap Beefs, Diss Tracks, Crazed Fans, and Questioning Safety Rappers Megan Thee Stallion and Nicki Minaj have revived the classic hip hop beef. When Meg dropped the track “Hiss,” on Jan. 26, seemingly calling out Nicki Minaj, the internet went wild and the latter didn’t take too kindly to it. The “Harajuku Barbie,” who hails from Queens, immediately took to social media calling out the Houston Hottie and eventually released a song of her own “Big Foot,” on Jan. 29. Meg released “Hiss,” with the lyrics, “These h–s don’t be mad at Megan, these h–s mad at Megan’s Law. I don’t really know what the problem is, but I guarantee y’all don’t want me to start,” Megan Thee Stallion raps. Megan's Law refers to the U.S. legislation in honor of Megan Kanka, requiring law enforcement authorities to make information about sexual offenders available to the public. Nicki Minaj’s husband Kenneth Petty was convicted for the attempted rape of Jennifer Hough in 1994 and served over four years in prison. Recently, Petty was sentenced to house arrest after failing to register as a sex offender in a new state. After taking to social media to respond to the track, Nicki Minaj clapped back with what she has denied as a diss track, titled “Big Foot,” although she calls Megan out by name– a lot in fact. “This lil' beggin' wh—e talkin' 'bout Megan's Law. For a free beat, you could hit Megan raw. If you a ghostwriter, party in Megan’s jaw. Shots thrown, but I still ain't let Megan score. Bad b—h, she like six foot. I call her Big Foot. The b—h fell off, I said, ‘Get up on your good foot," Nicki Minaj raps. In addition to the language insinuating Megan is an easy woman and targeting her height, Nicki is referring to the Houston rapper accusing Tory Lanez of shooting her in the foot in July 2020. Tory Lanez was found guilty of the shooting in December 2022 and began serving time in jail last September. Nicki Minaj also mentions Tory’s name in the rap and even refers to Megan’s late mother repeatedly saying “lyin’ on your dead mama,” and other references to her mom being gone. Shots were fired for sure, and we’re not here to break down flow or who won (although the Internet contends Megan did and Minaj is just being a schoolyard bully), but rather lift up the pros and cons of this classic beef. Hip hop beefs have birthed great music and evolution within the genre. From the general East Coast vs. West Coast, to the Notorious B.I.G. vs. 2Pac beefs, to more recent feuds such as Drake versus both

TO THE EDITOR What an accomplishment for the Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program to mark 45 years in existence. This is truly a blessing for the children of our community and throughout the city. Let’s keep it going! Charlene Huger Washington, D.C.

Meek and Pusha T, have emerged bopping music, interesting dialogues and sometimes reunions. While some women such as Foxy Brown and Lil Kim and even Nicki Minaj and Cardi B, have had famous feuds, this Megan and Nicki beef has many people talking, taking to social media and streaming their singles. As of Jan. 30, “Hiss,” was no. 1 on Spotify. Though it’s cool to see these Black women revive a classic part of hip hop culture, and gain two new tracks to the canon, it’s a bummer to see how low some people can go. Nicki Minaj’s comeback was pretty harsh– talking about a case in which Megan was a victim of violence and bringing up her mama, but her fans are coming even harder. Fans on both ends are showing support for their respective rap queens, but the Hotties, Meg’s fans, are a lot friendlier than the “Barbs,” Nicki fans, some of whom have teased her appearance, questioned her honesty, posting “Free Tory,” and even threatened her safety.

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I just want to commend you all for an outstanding issue last week. It was chock full of news, entertainment, and a few notables worth pocketing. As usual, I appreciate you all! Michael P. Dean Washington, D.C.

From crazed fans like Mexican-American singer Selena’s murderer, Yolanda Saldívar, we know what can happen when obsessed fans go too far. We also have seen the violence associated with tense moments in hip hop. Further, let us not forget that hands were thrown at a New York Fashion Week party in 2018 when Cardi B and Nicki Minaj got in a physical altercation. This Nicki vs. Megan feud has been entertaining, for sure, but when threats of violence get involved, it’s time to cool it. It’s time for the “Hot Girl Summer,” collaborators to bury this beef and come together for another girl power anthem, as opposed to a track tearing other women down. Kudos to Megan and Nicki for reviving the classic beef and giving us something new to listen to and talk about, but now it’s about time to say, “Can’t we all just get along?” WI

FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 39

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

Julianne Malveaux

Miscarriage Is Not a Crime, and Medically Necessary Abortion Should Not Be, Either

Brittany Watts wasn't seeking an abortion. At 21 weeks, she sought medical care at nearby Mercy HealthSt. Joseph's Hospital in Warren, Ohio. A doctor told Ms. Watts that her water had broken prematurely, that her fetus was dead, and that she had to have labor induced. Then doctors entered into a morality debate and kept the pregnant 33-year-old, who was in excruciating pain, waiting for eight hours. She

left the hospital, not knowing when she would be seen, and went home. Brittany returned to the hospital the next day. Again, she waited for hours without being seen. Again, she went home. At home, she miscarried, pushing her fetus out into the toilet. When she returned to the hospital for a third time, disclosing that she had miscarried, and a nurse called the police, suspecting that she had self-aborted. She was charged with felony abuse of the fetal remains that she passed in the toilet, although the fetus was dead when it passed from her body.

Guest Columnist

Instead of focusing on grieving and healing, Ms. Watts was plunged into a legal labyrinth that started with her Dec. 19 arrest and ended a grand jury declined to charge her. For a month, this young woman was in a legal limbo that might have resulted in a year in jail and thousands of dollars of fines. The inhumanity that a Trumbull County prosecutor imposed on this woman is not unusual. Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, abortion bans have forced women to endanger their lives by continuing dangerous pregnancies that would be ended but for rabid

anti-abortion legislation. Antiabortion legislation criminalizes ordinary pregnancy complications. According to some studies, as many as one in five pregnancies result in miscarriage, and one in 175 babies are stillborn. Yvette Cabrera wrote "When Pregnancy Becomes a Crime" for the Center for Public Integrity. She notes that states have increased criminal investigations of pregnancy loss, "including miscarriages, stillbirths, and self-induced abortions." Guess who they are most likely to investigate? Poor women, women of color, young women, and people with

substance abuse issues. Those who advocate for the "right to life" seem to feel little for the lives of women they persecute because of their pregnancy outcomes. Brittany Watts was blessed. A community rallied around her, raising more than $190,000 for her legal fees and for counseling. While the grand jury declined to indict, Ms. Watts has been through quite an ordeal. If anyone should be indicted, it should be the doctors who debated the morality of

Argentina, sees how the symbolism behind the "build the wall" rhetoric goes deeper than just erecting a physical barrier. He made a moral statement highlighting the abandonment of social justice by many evangelical Christians. Securing the overwhelmed southern border is a legitimate crisis, but the issue has been used to fuel and cover forms of ethnic hate and division against the "foreigner." From the beginning of the 2016 Republican primary season, the "build the wall" rhetoric has solidified political sup-

port for Donald Trump. It continues to do so today. Sound Christian doctrine has always placed a mandate on supporting social issues by requiring Bible-believing Christians to become the voice and advocate for the poor, foreigners, oppressed, and the fatherless. While the "Jesus saves" message is embraced, the "love thy neighbor" message is too often rejected in favor of right-wing political ideology. Pope Francis touched a nerve because it is

MALVEAUX Page 61

David W. Marshall

Social Justice Is the Fight for Human Dignity

It didn't take long for Pope Francis to get under Donald Trump's skin. During his flight back to Rome after a visit to Mexico, the pope said during an interview: "A person who thinks only about building walls, wherever they may be, and not bridges, is not Christian." Trump, who at the time, was the 2016 Republican presidential frontrunner, responded by saying, "For a

religious leader to question a person's faith is disgraceful." Trump then accused the Mexican government of "using the pope as a pawn." In a press release, Trump suggested that the leader of the Catholic Church would regret not supporting his candidacy. Pope Francis' comments generated mixed responses from both ardent Trump supporters and undecided Republicans. Some strongly believed the pope needed to stay out of the political arena and stick to religion. Others, like me, saw Pope Francis as the moral compass by speaking truth

Guest Columnist

to power rather than serving as a political kingmaker for Republicans. Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, one of Trump's opponents for the party's nomination in 2016, was one of many who were confused by the true meaning behind the pope's words. As a converted Catholic, Bush stated "I don't know what that means" after being asked about the pope's statement concerning building walls. This is another example of how messages of inclusion get clouded by either politics, political distortions, or idolatry. Pope Francis, born in Buenos Aires,

MARSHALL Page 61

Marian Wright Edelman

Transforming Changemakers

As the first votes are being cast for the 2024 presidential election, many Americans are thinking deeply about their own part in our democracy right now — and many are wondering whether they have any power to make a difference. It's a question Sam Daley-Harris has been asking for decades, and even at a moment of surging voter cynicism, he keeps arriving at the same

40 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

resounding answer: yes! Daley-Harris has just released a new edition of his book "Reclaiming Our Democracy: Every Citizen's Guide to Transformational Advocacy," revised and updated for this critical election year. Daley-Harris wants every citizen to feel hopeful and empowered to move beyond what he calls transactional advocacy to the much more powerful transformational advocacy, where you're trained to do things as an advocate that you thought you couldn't do. Daley-Harris has a long track record of results — he is the founder

of RESULTS and the RESULTS Educational Fund, a movement of passionate, committed everyday people using their voices to influence political decisions that will bring an end to poverty. He — along with Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Muhammad Yunus and John Hatch — co-founded the Microcredit Summit Campaign, which in 2007 achieved its goal of reaching 100 million of the world's poorest families with microloans and other financial and business services. And he is the founder of Civic Courage, which trains nonprofits to deliver transforma-

tional advocacy. Threaded through all this is the evidence that "small-scale" actions — a letter to the editor of a local newspaper, a microloan to one working mother, a meeting with your own member of Congress — can lead to transforming change. One of his earliest lessons in citizen education more than 40 years ago came when he began giving anti-hunger presentations to high school students: at his first talk, he asked the students how many of them knew the name of the person who represented them in Congress — and only four

answered correctly. This disconnect from members of Congress was not just limited to young people. Learning how to engage directly with your elected representatives is one of Daley-Harris's key messages, and throughout "Reclaiming Our Democracy" he introduces readers to "ordinary citizens," from teenagers to adults, who chose to do just that. One, Maxine Thomas, described her first visit to her senator's office where she shared her experience of how the Earned Income Tax Credit

EDELMAN Page 61

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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. (Ret.)

Eatonville, the Historic Town of Zora Neale Hurston

Growing up, I learned a lot about Black history. Of course, I learned some things about Zora Neale Hurston, but nothing about Eatonville, Florida — her hometown. It was not until I began visiting Busboys and Poets restaurant in Washington, D.C., that I learned about Eatonville. I met Busboys owner Andy Shallal, who named rooms in his restaurant for historic places and figures, and I

became curious about the town. Later I became a member of the board of the World Conference of Mayors and learned about historic Black towns and settlements. The organization holds its annual meeting in Orlando, Florida, a few miles from Eatonville, and we always attend the Zora Festival after our conference. This year we held our meetings in Eatonville and learned so much history! Zora Neale Hurston. If you don't know Zora, let me introduce her. She is the sister who said, "I think that you will discover that my viewpoint

Guest Columnist

is that I do not consider Negroes as special additives among humanity. I see us as people, subject to the same desires and emotions as others … That is the way I see Negroes, and that is the way I write about them." I suggest you read a book compiled and edited by Dr. N.Y. Nithiri, our host. The name of the book is "Zora! A Woman and Her Communtity." The annual festival is named for Zora Neale Hurston. This year we held our meetings in this small town. What a perfect place it was! A lot of history was added when numerous visitors came from

Africa. Other highlights from the conference were speakers Dr. Kenneth Harris, president of the National Business League, Dr. Charles DeBow, president of the National Black Chamber of Commerce, and Shaquane Teasley, CEO of Agate Solutions. They gave us an impressive number of ideas for community building and success. We had a speaker from USAID Assistant Administrator Monde Muyangwa, who eloquently explained the work the United States does in Africa. She was informative on projects in which both Africans

and African Americans may participate in the programs. During the pre-conference, Dr. Abdoulaye Mbengue, who is the WCM VP for Africa, executive director for the Mayor John Smith Executive Leadership Institute and the WCM African office, held a leadership training session for mayors in remembrance of Smith. Hobson City, Alabama, MayorAlberta McCrory chairs this committee and Dr. Mbengue chairs the Africa committee. We had speakers who gave lectures

WILLIAMS Page 62

Marc H. Morial

Record Number of Police Killings in 2023 Emphasizes Need for NUL's 21 Pillars

"The only way to get this number down significantly would be to make more significant changes to, you know, what policing means in this country." — Justin Nix, criminal justice professor, University of Nebraska Omaha The sheriff's deputies who shot and killed Tony Cox in Mich-

igan late last year said he had a gun. He didn't. The deputies said Cox pointed at them with "a two-handed posture." But in the single still image police released — it's not clear whether it's from a body camera or dashboard — Cox is facing away from the camera. Police in Fayetteville, N.C., who shot and killed DeMarcus Brodie during a traffic stop on Thanksgiving Day haven't explained why they stopped Brodie, or how the encounter escalated into violence. Cox and Brodie are two of the

Guest Columnist

1,329 people killed by police in the United States last year, the deadliest year for police killings since 2013. Black people are three times as likely to be killed by police as white people. Almost 90% of the victims died by gunfire. It's no mystery why police killings continue to escalate: the nation is awash in guns, too many police are poorly trained, and most face almost no accountability. All of these factors point to the urgent need for the nation to adopt the National Urban League's

Pillars for Redefining Public Safety and Restoring Community Trust. A comprehensive framework for criminal justice advocacy, 21 Pillars takes a holistic approach to public safety, the restoration of trust between communities and law enforcement, and a path forward for meaningful change. Each of the 21 Pillars centers on five key themes that are fundamental to the protection and preservation of life, dignity, and trust, while also building safer communities:

1. Collaboration between law enforcement and communities 2. Accountability 3. Reform of divisive policies 4. Transparency, reporting, and data collection 5. Improved hiring standards and training. The George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, which the National Urban League emphatically endorses, would accomplish most of the Pil-

MORIAL Page 62

Ben Jealous

Biden-Harris Admin's LNG Decision Is the Hope Young People Have Been Waiting For

James Hiatt lives in an area along the Mississippi River in Louisiana that has been dubbed "Cancer Alley." Teeming with chemical plants and oil and gas refineries, the air the residents of this area breathe contains more carcinogens than anywhere else in the country. One of those oil and gas facil-

ities is the Calcasieu Pass liquified natural gas (LNG) terminal, which has further devastated public health, local livelihoods, and marine wildlife. Last week the Biden-Harris administration's Department of Energy (DOE) paused the permitting of new LNG projects. The decision stops the gas industry's plans for the even larger CP2 LNG terminal right next store. This move was perhaps the boldest rebuke ever from a US president against the oil and gas

industry. President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Secretary of Energy Granholm — whose support for the move was especially crucial — did the right thing. Millions of us are celebrating along with James Hiatt, who says, "I'm thankful for this pause in granting gas export licenses; the DOE has finally heard the wakeup call. The gas industry was planning to inundate my hometown with LNG terminals." American families' pocketbooks will be thankful as well. Any word

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you hear from the fossil fuel industry or the politicians in their pockets about how this decision harms American consumers or the economy is a lie. As Hiatt points out, "exporting LNG drives up domestic energy costs, affecting everything from home heating to food prices." Pausing the LNG boom will keep global energy markets more stable. It will help move economies and electric grids towards using less expensive and more resilient renewable energy sources. It

will keep 681 coal plants worth — or 548 million gasoline-powered cars worth — of planet-warming greenhouse gasses out of our atmosphere each year. All of this is critically important. But so is James Hiatt's point about the "finally heard wake-up call." For years, activists, along with scientists and others, have been sounding the alarm to get those in power to wake up. Some of the

JEALOUS Page 62 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 41

LIFESTYLE WASHINGTON INFORMER WEEKEND CHECKLIST WASHINGTON INFORMER'S

Things To Do, DMV!

By Ra-Jah Kelly WI Contributing Writer This weekend, the DMV area is bustling with a range of events, as featured in the Washington Informer Calendar. Starting Thursday, 'Welcome Black' kicks off Black History Month with Mayor Bowser at the Carlyle Room and trumpeter Brandon Woody performs with UPENDO. Friday offers Dr. Ivy's 'Sound Vibronics' and Jessica L. Hagan's 'Queens of Sheba.' Saturday's highlights include the DCBHCC Black History Month Kick-Off and 'Onward and Upward' at the National Cathedral.

THURSDAY, FEB. 1

Welcome Black | African Americans and the Arts Time: 5:30 p.m. | Free Carlyle Room, 1350 I St NW, Washington, D.C. Mayor Bowser, along with MOAAA and OCTFME leaders, will start Black History Month celebrations with 'Welcome Black,' a showcase of local artists at the Carlyle Room. Aligning with the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH's) theme 'African Americans and the Arts,' the event features co-host Joe Clair, comedian, radio personality, and D.C. native. Joe will guide a talented lineup of local performers in a journey through the history of the African Diaspora. Brandon Woody's UPENDO Time: 7 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP Shanklin Hall, 2325 18th Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20009 Trumpeter Brandon Woody, Baltimore School for the Arts alumnus, performs with his band UPENDO. Two sets are planned: 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Attendees may join both.

FRI, FEB 9, 8 PM

STRATHMORE (NORTH BETHESDA, MD) Steve Hackman, conductor A transformative exploration of life, death, legacy, struggle, and triumph, the program fuses the classic music

FRIDAY, FEB. 2

of Notorious B.I.G. and Tupac Shakur

The Power of Sound, Thought & Intention: Dr. Ivy's Sound Spa Time: 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. | Free— Donations suggested Meditation Museum, 9525 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, Maryland, 20910 Experience transformative healing with Dr. Ivy's “Sound Vibronics” and “Sonic Mind Streaming.” This immersive sound therapy session uses crystal alchemy singing bowls, exotic instruments, aroma therapy, and Dr. Ivy's voice to promote psychological, physiological, and emotional balance. It aims to elevate spiritual consciousness and achieve deep relaxation and peace. Join us for a powerful journey into personal and consciousness transformation."

with Mahler’s “Resurrection” symphony. Included in the performance are “Hypnotize,” “Dear Mama,” “California Love,” “Juicy,” “Keep Ya Head Up,” “Everyday Struggle,” and more.

TICKETS START AT $35 | BUY TODAY AT BSOMUSIC.ORG! THE MUSIC CENTER AT STRATHMORE | 877.276.1444 Just minutes away from Washington D.C. at the Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro stop!

42 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

Sunday features a virtual concert with Jordan Bak, Adam Sadberry and Ashley Jackson, and Clay Cane's 'The Grift' discussion at Busboys and Poets.

Queens of Sheba • Jessica L. Hagan Time: 8 p.m. | $10+ The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, 8270 Alumni Drive, College Park, Maryland, 20742 The four powerful Black women that form the beating heart of Jessica L. Hagan’s knowingly sharp and riot-

ously funny choreopoem “Queens of Sheba,” demand respect and, with every story told, they earn it. A spiritual successor to Ntozake Shange’s “for colored girls who have considered suicide / when the rainbow is enuf,” “Queens of Sheba” incisively calls out and lances the constellation of racist, sexist, and colorist micro- and macro-aggressions that its characters encounter: the music and the misogyny, the dancing and the drinking, the women and, of course, the (white) men. Turned away from a nightclub for being “too Black”, the Queens navigate the minefields of misogynoir, seeking power among the songs of Tina Turner and Diana Ross and Aretha Franklin, finding elevation in sisterhood, sweet relief in the riot of laughter and the shedding of tears. Playful, intellectually rigorous, packed with righteous fury and genuine soul, “Queens of Sheba” is a unique meditation on Black Women’s identity, suffering, and joy.

SATURDAY, FEB. 3

D.C. Black History Celebration Committee Presents The Black History Month Kick-Off Time: 11 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. | Free Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I St. SW, Washington, D.C., 20024 The D.C. Black History Celebration Committee, a model for cities nationwide, promotes and celebrates African American achievements and contributions to America. It also addresses current issues affecting African Americans. On Saturday, the event will host a Black History Month kickoff, featuring keynote speaker Tom Porter. Honorees include Karan Cornish-Adebiyi, Sharon Scott, the Rev. Tony Motley, Nana Malaya Rucker, Brenda Sayles, Susan Woodard, and Robert Vanzant. Washington National Cathedral presents "Onward and Upward" Time: 4 p.m. | Free w/ RSVP Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, D.C., 20016 Celebrate Black History Month at the Cathedral with an inspirational evening of spoken word, dance, and music. The event directed and produced by Michele Fowlin, features performances by Washington Performing Arts Children of the Gospel, Katherine Smith Contemporary Dance Ensemble, and SE Tennis and Learning Center's “Blacks in Wax.” Read more on www.washingtoninformer.com WI

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LIFESTYLE

Alvin Ailey 65th Anniversary Season: Go for the Classics, Leave with New Inspiration, Feeling Empowered

DMV Natives Talk Bringing Beloved and New Works to the Kennedy Center Stage By Micha Green WI Managing Editor Celebrated, classic choreography meets new and reimagined works in Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s 65th anniversary season, with performances coming to the Kennedy Center in Northwest, D.C. Feb. 6-11. Featuring excerpts from the beloved Ailey work “Revelations,” plus new and reconceptualized pieces, this season celebrates women and visionaries, while also honoring the company’s legacy of Black excellence. In her 10th year with the company, D.C. native Samantha Figgins remains honored to continue the Ailey tradition: entertaining and empowering audiences worldwide. “This season is an opportunity for people to really see the human experience and see from the dancers [the lesson of ], never backing away, always pushing forward– even in uncomfortable moments– to discover your glory, discover your true self, and discover the beauty it is to be alive,” said Figgins, a graduate of D.C.’s prestigious Duke Ellington School of the Arts. Figgins, 34, said that the 2024 season offers lessons with a large helping of hope. “I think this season is empow-

ering for the audience to see that there is no limit to your greatness, there's really no obstacle in front of you, and there's no mistakes, there's only lessons. And there's only an invitation to a path that will lead to your highest and greatest good,” she said. In its 65th season, Alvin Ailey is all about celebrating trailblazers, while also serving up classics to audiences. “We're really trying to hone in and celebrate not only the organization as a whole, but really people that have shifted the organization and taken it to all new heights,” said Alvin Ailey company member and DMV native Alisha Rena Peek. And women are the highlight of the 65th season. “We have another ballet coming back, this time with an all female cast by our former elite dancer Jamar Roberts. This dance is called ‘Ode,’ a meditation on the beauty and fragility of life in a time of growing gun violence,” Figgins said, adding it was originally performed by men. “It was really at the height of George Floyd and just really inspired by those types of things that we saw in the news and headlines. And to bring it back with the all

ALVIN AILEY Page 60

An exhilarating musical adventure about a deaf soldier in World War I

FEBRUARY 6 − MARCH 10 SigTheatre.org | 703 820 9771 Photo of the Private Jones cast by Christopher Mueller

5 Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s Solomon Dumas Khalia Campbell and Samantha Figgins in Alvin Ailey's “Revelations.” In its 65th season, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater will be performing at The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Feb. 6-11. (Courtesy Photo/Paul Kolnik)

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FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 43

LIFESTYLE

Understanding the Music of the Black Church Through the PBS Series ‘Gospel’ By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

5 The Rev. Dr. Dwight Andrews appears in “Gospel,” the latest docuseries from Dr. Henry Louis Gates, which airs on PBS from Feb. 12-13. Andrews is a Music Theory and African American Music professor at Emory University and senior pastor at First Congregational Church UCC, both in Atlanta, Georgia. (Courtesy Photo/PBS “The Black Church”)

Music From The Sole I Didn’t Come to Stay THU, FEB 8 • 7:30PM AT THE CLARICE

For a long time, educator, writer, and producer Dr. Henry Louis Gates has famously been on a mission to capture Black history. Through programs he produces on PBS, Gates keeps audiences excited with everything he explores. Yet again, he’s engaging viewers with a four-part series titled “Gospel-Season 1.” If you are familiar with and enjoy gospel music, there is nothing else you need to know except when it will air. The four-part PBS series airs over two nights, from Feb. 12 to 13. To prepare audiences for the series, Gates hosts a companion gospel pre-docuseries concert airing on Feb. 9 also on PBS. “The Black Church has been the home of creative expression and experimentation for more than 300 years,” Gates says in his opening of the first episode of “Gospel.” “From the beginning, this creativity was driven by the one instrument that Black people can count on. Nothing else was available, the human voice.”

REVENUE AND FAITH

A tap dance and live music company that blurs the line between concert dance and music performance, Music From The Sole celebrates tap's roots in the African diaspora, particularly its connections to Afro-Brazilian dance and music and its lineage to forms like house dance and passinho (Brazilian funk). The New Yorker notes that the group’s “dancers, whose bodies also provide percussion, are in a constant give-and-take with musicians on piano, sax and bass. The feeling is that of being at a family reunion, in which every family member has something to say.”

TICKETS: THECLARICE.UMD.EDU OR 301.405.ARTS

44 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

Make no mistake, gospel music is big business. “Gospel” goes from the beginning of this genre of praise music to crossover into jazz and R&B, to records, performances, and awards programs. The series comprises four episodes with the titles, “The Gospel Train,” “The Golden Age of Gospel,” “Take the Message Everywhere,” and “Gospel’s Second Century.” Viewers will learn about the money-making enterprise of turning sermons and music into albums. Audiences are introduced to a few early influencers in gospel music, like the Rev. C.L. Franklin, Aretha Franklin’s father, The Five Blind Boys, Clara Ward, and the Rev. James Cleveland, a choirmaster, composer, and vocalist. The series also discusses the rise of Thomas Dorsey and Mahalia Jackson. It’s hard to believe that good church people gave Dorsey

and Jackson a hard time. Dorsey was a successful blues singer, and then he converted. He penned one of the most beloved spirituals, “Precious Lord.” It seems that some audiences had a problem with how Jackson moved her body when performing. Also, they probably did not like her outspoken way of expressing her opinion. Then there is the explanation of “hooping.” A style of singing in the Black Church and Pentecostal tradition. As a minister begins to wrap up the sermon, he or she puts more rhythm in the cadence. An astute organist knows what is about to start. It will be a singing, preaching mode.

PREACHING THROUGH THE MUSIC

The “Gospel” series traces how some gospel singers began recording popular music. It was the path vocalists took to stretch their talent and make money. Look at Sam Cooke, Aretha Franklin, Lou Rawls, and Dionne Warwick. Artists who really never left their gospel roots. As the gospel entered the 1990s, religious conventions were massive, and the music took on a more contemporary beat, bumping up against hip-hop. Back faith radio formats and mega-churches have moved gospel music forward. “Many African Americans were not attending church with the same regularity their parents and grandparents did,” said Gates. “Nevertheless, gospel albums are selling at platinum levels.” The door was now open for Donald Lawrence, Kirk Franklin, Mary, May, Yolanda Adams, and others. “It is a genre that can live in different spaces,” said Holman, also a producer and director for “The Black Church series. “It can live in country, in hip-hop, and in the blues.” WI @bcscomm

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55th NAACP Image Award Nominees Unveiled By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

The NAACP unveiled the full list of “55th NAACP Image Awards” nominees with Netflix and Amazon leading the pack with 55 and 27 nominations respectively. The winners will be revealed during the two–hour LIVE TV special, airing Saturday, March 16 at 8 p.m. on BET and CBS. Colman Domingo leads the nominations across the motion picture categories with three nominations. Ayo Edebiri received the most nominations in the television and streaming categories with two for Abbott Elementary and The Bear. Victoria Monét and Usher received the most nominations in the music recording categories, earning six and five nods, respectively. RCA Records received an impressive 20 nominations, the most across record labels. HarperCollins Publisher and Penguin Random House lead nominations across literary categories seven and four nods, respectively. “We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of this year’s nominees, whose outstanding contributions across film, television and streaming, music, literature, podcasts, and

more have inspired us all,” said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP. “The NAACP Image Awards stand as a tribute to their creativity, talent, and dedication to authentic storytelling and are a testament to the richness and diversity of our community.” “As we reflect on the rich legacy of the NAACP, we take pride in honoring the artistic brilliance of this year’s nominees. We are excited to illuminate and celebrate the extraordinary talent within our community,” said Scott Mills, President and CEO, BET Media Group By visiting naacpimageawards.net, the public can vote to determine the winners of the “55th NAACP Image Awards'' in select categories. Voting closes Feb. 24 at 9 p.m. Winners will be revealed during the “55th NAACP Image Awards'' telecast on March 16, 2024, on BET and CBS. NAACP will also recognize winners in non–televised Image Awards categories March 11–14th, which will stream via naacpimageawards.net. For information and updates, please follow NAACP Image Awards on Instagram @NAACPImageAwards. The “55th NAACP Image Awards” is proudly presented by this year’s incredible partners and spon-

sors. We extend our thanks for their invaluable support and commitment to promoting excellence in the Black community. Media interested in interviews and covering the “55th NAACP Image Awards,” can complete the following application: https://betnaacpimageawards2024.pvitl.com/registration/media_form. For any additional media questions, please email ImageAwardsCredentials@ssmandl. com or BETPressinfo@bet.net. Please note: the deadline to apply for media opportunities is Feb. 29 at 9 p.m.

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LIFESTYLE

Globally recognized as one of the most distinguished multicultural awards shows, the “55th NAACP Image Awards” will continue a tradition of excellence, uplifting values that inspire equality, justice, and progressive change, and highlighting artists committed to that purpose. One of the most iconic annual celebrations of Black excellence, the NAACP Image Awards draws the biggest and brightest stars in Hollywood. Previous years' attendees and winners include Angela Bassett, Will Smith, Viola Davis, Beyoncé, Nicco Annan, Ruth E. Carter,

Glynn Turman, Quinta Brunson, Nia Long, Keith David, Jennifer Hudson, Stacey Abrams, Tabitha Brown, Dwayne Wade & Gabrielle Union, Tems, Erica Campbell, Chris Brown, Bruno Mars, Anderson Paak Silk Sonic, Rihanna, Quavo, Takeoff, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Zendaya, Yara Shahidi, Issa Rae, Janelle Monáe, Tracee Ellis Ross, Serena Williams, Kerry Washington, Method Man, Dominique Thorne, Austin Scott, Tyler James Williams, Kyla Pratt, Jabari Banks, and many more. WI @StacyBrownMedia

FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 45

March 20 - April 14, 2024

spring

Kick-off with four weeks of food, entertainment, art, and culture. Make your Festival plans today!

Scan QR code or visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org

#SpringTogether LEADERSHIP CIRCLE

MEDIA PARTNER @ CherryBlossFest @ CherryBlossomFestival 1.877.44.BLOOM (442.5666)

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FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 47

Jill and Phil are pals. They like many of the same things. How many ways can you find that Jill and Phil are the same?

Draw a heart around the healthy snacks. Draw an X through the unhealthy ones. February is Heart Month and Dental Health Month. Use the tips on today’s page to exercise your heart and be sweet to your teeth! Your heart is a muscle. And, like all of your muscles, it works best when you exercise, rest, drink water and eat healthy. Love your heart, and your heart will love you!

Jumping good exe for your your car (your Jumping can do Try it—

Standards Link: Recognizing similarities and patterns in objects.

Do you feel with your heart?

Are you making pictures of hearts and giving little heart-shaped candies to friends for Valentine’s Day? When you make a promise you really, really mean, do you “cross your heart”? Or, do you listen to songs about broken hearts? We see and hear about hearts everywhere. Long ago, people thought our feelings came from our hearts. Maybe because strong feelings can make our hearts beat faster. Now we know feelings come from the brain, not the heart.

Standards Link: Health: Recognize the fitness benefits from various types of foods.

My Funny Valentine

Make a Valentine Puzzle for your special Valentine. Cut a heart shape out of some pink or red paper. Write a message on your heart. Then cut the heart into four or five puzzle pieces. Put all the pieces in an envelope and give it to your Valentine!

Standards Link: History/Social Science: Understand the purposes of and events honored in holidays.

Broken Heart Puzzle

Cut out these shapes. Can you put them together to make a heart? What does the Valentine message say?

Standards Link: Reading Comprehension: Follow simple written directions.

7 - 12 - 12 - 7 - 19 - 25 - 9 - 6 - 8 - 19

Every day a terrible troublemaker hides in your teeth, waiting to carve holes in them—PLAQUE! (Say it like plak, rhymes with tack.) You must remove it everyday, or else it will cause your teeth to decay. How do you get rid of it? Use the secret code to to find the names of the Mighty Plaque Fighters and you will learn how to keep your smile dazzling!

Z A X Y2 1 26 B C

25 W 3 24 D 4 23 E V 5 22 U 6 21 F T 7 20 G 19 S 8 H 9 18 R 10 17 I Q 11 12 13 15 16 J 14 P O N M L K

21 - 15 - 6 - 12 - 9 - 18 - 23 - 22

21 - 15 - 12 - 8 - 8

L O S E I D N A C E

G N I L Z Z A D S N V E U Q A L P I E I

S H T E E T C L R T

K P A P E R I T U N C A Y E E M O R T E

A L W X S U R A C L

N S E C R E T E I A S G N I R A C H P V

Standards Link: Letter sequencing. Recognize identical words. Skim and scan reading. Recall spelling patterns.

Have a Heart!

Look through the newspaper for an example of someone who was “heartless” or totally lacking compassion or caring. Is there a way they can make up for their behavior? Standards Link: Social Science: Recognize behaviors that demonstrate good character.

Do this after every meal to keep germs off your teeth:

25 - 9 - 6 - 8 - 19

7 - 12 - 12 - 7 - 19 - 11 - 26 - 8 - 7 - 22

SWEET HEART EXERCISE VALENTINE PLAQUE CANDIES PICTURES SECRET PAPER DAZZLING SNACKS CARING TEETH SMILE PALS

Move!

Name three ways kids could get exercise every day.

Standards Link: Health: Understand good personal hygiene practices that include caring for teeth.

KID SCOOP IS SPONSORED BY

48 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

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With hund Kid Scoop features six high-intere activities fo school! Get sample tod

wi book review "Be a Revolution: How Everyday People Are Fighting Oppression and Changing the World — and How You Can, Too" by Ijeoma Oluo c.2024, HarperOne $26.99 / 416 pages By Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer Your mind's made up: it's time to make a difference. You've decided now to stand up with the people in your community, to make change for the better. You can't live with the status quo anymore, but where do you start? Do you pick up where others left off or, with the new book "Be a Revolution" by Ijeoma Oluo, do you act where few have served before? In her writing and speaking life, many people tell Ijeoma Oluo that they wish they could help fight racism, but they feel helpless. Their sincerity is willing but the direction is weak, which is understandable. Racism, Oluo acknowledges. is really a very complicated matter but though there doesn't seem to be a single solution, there is a place for every individual to help. She suggests starting with your own imagination. Ignore the naysayers. What do you want to change? Oluo begins with a chapter on the prison system, and the work that can be done to change them from the outside in. Volunteers can also help change laws, and there's always a need to support those who are imprisoned. Watch your privilege and approach each injustice with respect. Reject any shame associated with a subject and don't separate racial justice and gender justice; working for one is working for both. While you're at it, support disability justice, too. Be serious about accessibility, both for the disabled and the able-bodied. Support unions and pay attention to their calls for help. Shop at businesses owned by people of color or disabled shop owners. Work to restore the environment around Black communities and demand that toxic sites in the vicinity are cleared. Attend meetings of your local school board and know your neighborhood school's policies. Support the library and ask for more diverse reading material. Put your support behind BIPOC-led arts foundations. And finally, be a mentor. Remember that the world is larger than you think. So you may be wondering what makes "Be a Revolution" different from the other hundreds of books on activism that have been released in the last four years. That's a valid question, the answer of which is: the size. You don't have to go big, says author Ijeoma Oluo. Grand plans are not necessary, which is a refreshing thing for time-crunched readers to know. No more feeling bad about inactivity; merely attending a city council or school board meeting is activism, in her book, and it can lead to change. That's good news, if you're already scheduled over your head. And yet, tiny steps may still seem insignificant, so Oluo offers interviews with activists who invite readers to look around, see what needs doing, and cast aside feelings of hopelessness. There are simple things you can do for justice. Don't be afraid to do them. For a beginning justice warrior or someone who's finally found the time to act, this is a good way to find your niche. "Be a Revolution" is a way to get started, and a different kind of motivational book. WI

horoscopes

LIFESTYLE FEB. 1 - 7, 2024

ARIES The preparations have been made. The stove is fired up. It's time to do your thing. You might need to call in some assistance when the going gets tough. No matter what happens on Tuesday, keep a clear head. On Wednesday and Thursday, your perseverance is richly rewarded. Someone may even pin a blue ribbon on your lapel. It may fall off on Friday, since the end of the week is going to bring some frustrations. They're minor compared to your successes. Lucky Numbers: 8, 27, 55 TAURUS Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a tree? To be so grounded, healthy, and tall? You'll get an inkling of this feeling on Monday and Tuesday. On Wednesday and Thursday, someone may regard you with something other than awe. It may feel like they're coming at you with branch cutters. Hold your own in a dignified way. On Friday, the world will be righted again. Spend Saturday and Sunday in the company of your favorite people. Lucky Numbers: 3, 10, 56 GEMINI Finding the answer to a question you have on Monday requires some detective work. You spend the day collecting clues and dusting for fingerprints, all metaphorically. On Wednesday and Thursday, you're very influenced by the theories of others. A conversation about someone's opinions has the added benefit of unearthing a lot of facts. Friday and Saturday are paradoxical: The clearer things become, the more questions you have. Spend Sunday mulling. Lucky Numbers: 1, 17, 44 CANCER That elephant in the room? Maybe you should deal with it because it's starting to be demanding. On Monday and Tuesday, addressing issues directly is the way to go. On Wednesday and Thursday the challenge is to get everyone else around you to address problems directly, as you're doing. Try to get them to be connected, rather than aloof, and to call a spade a spade. By Friday, you're tired of other people and may want to end the week with a pizza and a movie. But Sunday's a riot. Lucky Numbers: 21, 32, 33 LEO You have enough self-respect to hold off until you get what you want. Others may interpret this as arrogance, to which you should ask, "What's wrong with having standards?" By midweek, you open up to the idea of flexibility, but your nonnegotiable issues are still nonnegotiable. The end of the week you're consumed with research. Don't make a decision until you're sure of the facts. A big piece of the puzzle falls into place on Sunday. Lucky Numbers: 6, 30, 41 VIRGO You have an arsenal of tools, but your creativity is the most useful one at the start of the week. Your recent projects have been attracting attention, good attention, and if you're single, you might not be much longer. You're also ambitious in other realms. By midweek, your regular way of doing things starts to seem both inefficient and boring. A new method for approaching the usual routine is in order. On Friday, resist the urge to be critical of a good friend and find a way to be supportive. Then on Sunday, just shrug when someone else is critical of you. Lucky Numbers: 8, 9, 26 LIBRA What's with this sense of imbalance? Why is your home life so weird right now? It's enough to give you vertigo. It's also making you a bit sentimental. On Tuesday, no matter what's going on in the present, your mind is dwelling on the past. There's only one solution: romance. Luckily, romance figures into Wednesday and Thursday, and beauty plays a major role on Friday too. The weekend begins a bit frantically but it ends with smooching. Lucky Numbers: 11, 39, 44 SCORPIO Don't be deterred. Don't let them tell you it's impossible. When you set your mind to something, pianos raining from the sky couldn't get in your way. That said, make Tuesday an exercise in modesty, and recognize that Wednesday, when things don't go your way at home, is just a hiccup on your path toward grandeur. Conflicting ideas on Thursday lead to a more complex outlook on a problem, and Friday and Saturday are charged with innovation. Lucky Numbers: 3, 4, 31 SAGITTARIUS You're interested in art and music on Monday and Tuesday, but you're more focused on keeping your cash in your wallet. Find a way to do what you want without spending too much dough. On Wednesday and Thursday, the way to have fun without spending a lot is to strike up wild conversations with people you don't know. You spend Friday sorting your thoughts and letting your brain expand,. Saturday and Sunday are fun in a goofy way. Lucky Numbers: 10, 19, 23 CAPRICORN How you got to be so lucky you'll never know. At least, you'll never tell, because you're modest. Monday and Tuesday are defined by the accolades people bestow on you. Their support gives you lots of energy and inspires you to change your approach to work or school on Wednesday and Thursday. Suddenly, you're the brilliant one. Use your creativity to your advantage on Friday and Saturday. Then on Sunday, collapse on the couch after a week done well. Lucky Numbers: 7, 38, 42 AQUARIUS You're not sure why things are happening in a certain way on Monday and Tuesday, but the mere fact that you're thinking about such questions places you ahead of the pack. Wednesday and Thursday are inspiring. The excitement you get from a small discovery makes you crave still more great finds, and your enthusiasm infects others. On Friday and Saturday, you're constantly dissecting the difference between fantasy and reality. Sunday is positively electric. Lucky Numbers: 1, 5, 6 PISCES The group needs a leader, this much is obvious, and all eyes are on you. You realize the group needs a lot of things, which is what any true leader would recognize. There are also other reasons why you might be the right person for the job. On Wednesday and Thursday, you long to help anyone you can. You want to change the world. You might scale back your ambitions and focus on doing a few small things well. On Friday and Saturday, you're trying new things, running ideas up flag poles and making calls. Sunday offers exciting challenges. Lucky Numbers: 8, 11, 22

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FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 49

SPORTS Washington Commanders Urged to Appoint First Full-Time Black Head Coach By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

The National Black Players Coalition (NBPC) has ramped up its call for Washington Commanders’ Owner Josh Harris to shatter a century-long tradition by appointing the team’s first full-time Black Head Coach. The Commanders, even before becoming Washington’s football team, trace their roots back to 1932 as the Boston Braves and were renamed under the ownership of George Preston Marshall in 1933. Despite a 92-year existence, the franchise has never appointed a full-time Black Head Coach, maintaining a notorious tradition that dates to its founding. But the call for a Black head

coach in the nation’s capital appears likely to fall on muted ears. ESPN has reported that Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson will take the job once the Lions playoff run ends. “It is a pretty foregone conclusion in Washington, albeit one that we’ll have to wait on to see with certainty, that Ben Johnson will wind up being the coach of the Commanders after the Lions’ season ends,” journalist Jeff Darlington said on ESPN’s SportsCenter. Still, the NBPC highlighted in a news release that the team’s reputation is marred by being the last NFL franchise to integrate its players. When the team did integrate, it was only at the demand of President John F. Kennedy’s administration in 1962.

5Washington Commanders Owner Josh Harris (WI File Photo/Ja'Mon Jackson

However, the NBPC noted that the legacy of discrimination persists at the head coaching position, perpetuating the lack of diversity within the organization. Following the acquisition of the Commanders from former owner Dan Snyder, Harris, and the team’s ownership group pledged to “earn your trust” and strive to be a franchise that fans can take pride in, NBPC officials noted. However, the NBPC, in an open letter dated August 14, 2023, reminded Harris of the responsibility to address not only the sexual harassment issues inherited from

Jackson Reed Wins Matchup Against Cardozo By Ed Hill WI Contributing Writer

It was a long-anticipated match between the reigning league champion Jackson Reed and upstart Cardozo High School. Jackson Reed (24-2, 11-0 in the DCIAA), ranked number three in the area and in the top 25, came in the game with a 10game winning streak. While the Clerks (15-3 overall, 8-2 in the DCIAA), once one of the high school basketball powers in the DMV, were looking to atone for a setback to Coolidge High School last Friday. To put this in the proper perspective: from 2002-03 until

50 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

2006-07, the Clerks won four out of five DCIAA titles, including the City title in 2004. Dating back to even earlier in the 60's through the 90's, Cardozo was always in the conversation about top teams and players in the talent-rich DMV. However, Cardozo has suffered through many dismal seasons over the past 15 years. The Tigers were also ranked through the years when it came to basketball in the area. But it has become one the most dominant teams in the DCIAA the past four years, winning three titles, sending many of its players to Division 1 schools (Boston College, Virginia Tech, Arkansas, University of Mary-

land, Alabama) and becoming nationally ranked for the first time in school history during that period. The intensity of the game and what was at stake was evident, as both teams turned the ball over and missed a number of easy shots at the basket, in what was a frenetic pace in a nearly packed house at the Cardozo gymnasium in Northwest, D.C. The more experienced Tigers jumped out to an early 8-0 lead before the Clerks rallied to trail only 13-10 at the end of the first. But the Tigers who have played a strong national schedule that includes teams from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,

Snyder’s era but also to take a leadership role in tackling racial discrimination within the organization. One of the critical issues highlighted by the NBPC is the historical absence of a full-time Black head coach in a predominantly African American community. The Commanders find themselves among the 11 NFL teams, including the Buffalo Bills, Dallas Cowboys, and New York Giants, that have never appointed a Black full-time head coach. Recent breakthroughs with teams like the New England Pa-

triots and Atlanta Falcons hiring their first Black head coaches have only underscored the urgency for the Commanders to join the ranks of progress. “The Las Vegas Raiders just hired their third Black head coach, Antonio Pierce,” NBPC officials wrote. “Will it take 100 years for Commanders fans to get their first Black head coach? Now is the time for the Commanders to make history by joining these teams to hire their first Black Head Coach.” WI @StacyBrownMedia

Chicago, Illinois, and Tennessee failed to capitalize, as they missed 12 free throws in the first half and several easy baskets despite their decided height advantage. So, with junior guard Cameron Young and Wisdom Carter carrying the offensive load, Cardozo was able to stay within striking distance, with a score of 27-23 at the half. "I'm sure that they felt good about only trailing by four at the half," said Jackson Reed head coach David "Tee" Johnson, in his third year as head coach. "We still felt good because despite the missed free throw and bunnies, we knew that we just needed to clean up some things." Johnson's appeal to his team apparently worked as Jackson

Reed opened the third quarter with a 16-3 run over the first three minutes to open up a 4326 lead. Much of the damage was done by the Tigers' 6-8 talented forward Jadyn Fort, who took over, scoring eight of his team's points during that run. With the season winding down, both teams will be looking to the upcoming DCIAA tournament, March 14-16. They could meet again. "When you play a game like this and you are not at your best, you get to see players step up when they get the opportunity," said Johnson, regarded as one the top young coaches in the area. "This will definitely help us because it gave some experience to some players we don't normally count on." WI

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CAPTURE the moment

5 NFL Hall of Famer Darrell Green greets staff members. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer) 3 Jabarri Hughes- AWS, Duane Matthews- AWS, NFL Hall of Famer, Darrell Green, Andrew Torrence- AWS and Michael Hoggard- AWS. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer) (Middle Left) NFL Hall of Famer Darrell Green, congratulates Shamyah Robinson from Capital Heights for finishing the Bluetooth speaker kit. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer) (Top Left) Michael Hoggard- AWS. gets everyone started on their kits. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer) (Top Right) Southeast resident Kyla Campbell assembles a Bluetooth speaker kit with help from Aisha Lawrey from Amazon Web. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

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FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 51

RELIGION D.C. Council Honors St. Augustine Catholic Church School By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer

The 1400 block of V Street N.W. has been renamed “St. Augustine School Way” in honor of the oldest Catholic School in the District that was dedicated to educating African American children. D.C. Councilmember Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 1) and leaders of the Archdiocese of Washington recognized the administrators and teachers of St. Augustine Catholic School during the ceremony to symbolically rename the street on Jan. 24. St. Augustine Catholic Church is now 165 years old and recognized as the "Mother Church of Black Catholics" in Washington, D.C. In 1858, a group of African-American Catholics established St. Augustine Catholic School. Catholic officials say the church served as a beacon to the formerly enslaved population even before the Civil War. It is not only the first Black Catholic church in the District but also the oldest Black Catholic parochial school. Father Patrick Smith, the current pastor of St. Augustine, said in a statement, “The unveiling of St. Augustine School Way pays tribute to the rich history and spiritual legacy of St. Augustine Catholic Church and School.” He noted five years before the Emancipation Proclamation, the Black Catholic community, “while not yet having a church of their own to worship,” founded the institution. According to history, members of the St. Augustine community worshiped in the basement of St. Matthew’s Church before the first Catholic school for Black children

52 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

in the District was open. Smith added, this made clear, “that the education of their children was their highest priority,” Today, St. Augustine Catholic School educates children in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. The school is committed to laying a threefold foundation of academic excellence, spiritual growth, and moral virtue in all students who enroll, resulting in holistic character development. According to the statement, the Catholic church's involvement, past and present, in affordable housing, including senior housing and advocacy for the poor and the homeless, highlights its dedication to community development. As

BOOK FAIR from Page 11 that’s what Black teachers bring to the educational experience… Young people don’t listen to African history when people omit and misrepresent things. We have

5 Father Patrick Smith, pastor of St. Augustine with students, teachers, parishioners, and other supporters at the renaming of the 1400 block of V Street, NW to St. Augustne School Way. (Jacques Benovil/The Washington Informer)

steadfast community partners, St Augustine Parish, which encompasses both the church and the school, has consistently provided office and meeting spaces for non-profit organizations working with vulnerable residents in our city. Deeply committed to community outreach and engagement, St.

Augustine Catholic Church and School actively strives to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need in our neighborhood and beyond. The unveiling ceremony was a culmination of the introduction of Bill 25-70, the "St. Augustine School Way Designation Act of 2023," on January 25, 2023, by

Councilmember Nadeau. Many attendees noted that this approved bill points the way to a legacy not only worth celebrating but, most importantly, worth continuing in the community today. “Loved being part of this beyond measure,” Nadeau wrote on X (formerly Twitter) after the event. WI

a big job ahead of us. It won’t be done overnight or in my lifetime, but I want to get the ball rolling.” When it comes to African history and culture, the Know Thyself Book Fair provides ample opportunity to delve into that which

has been hidden from Black people. For instance, Danny Queen, a well-known poet, astrologist, and archivist, told The Informer about his plans to share 10 of his books, the latest of which is “Astrological Love Poems.” That work, more than two decades in the making, compiles poetry that’s tailored to each Zodiac sign. It includes a foreword from globally renowned astro-numerologist Lloyd Strayhorn. Queen, who started writing the book to better understand an ex-girlfriend, said that conveying astrology through poetry better helps people respect the authenticity of what he calls an ancestral science. Over the last 40 years, Queen garnered a reputation as the host of “Color Me Poetry,” a program that aired on Bowie TV throughout the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s. He also served as an archivist for the late Dr. Frances Cress

Welsing; he has more than 1,700 of her lectures stored on cassette tapes, CDs, and thumb drives. Another book that Queen plans to feature at the Know Thyself Book Fair, titled “The Book of Tributes,” includes reflections on Welsing, Pan-African historian John Henrik Clarke and other late, great Black pioneers of various career fields. As it relates to astrology and poetry, Queen, an avid old-school hip-hop aficionado, said he relishes the opportunity to further affirm knowledge of self through the two mediums. For him, such a combination allows the readers of his books to learn about themselves, which he said aligns with the theme of the upcoming book fair. “People in the community saw what I did in this area of study and it was unusual for a poet,” Queen said. “There’s so much more you can learn about numerology and astrology. Numbers is the most exact science there is.

5 Queen Laureen Butler, president of Woodson Banneker Jackson Bey Div. 330 (Courtesy Photo)

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RELIGION the religion corner WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Living With Type 2 Diabetes — Part 3

Your body is a temple… — 1st Corinthians 6:19-20 Let's talk about the problem. This period in American history dates back to 1790, and for those enslaved ones, food was still scarce, thus the "thrifty genes" protected them. If you research the documentations found at the National Archives and Records Administration, slaves received rations in America. Africans who managed to survive the slave trade here in America arrived on the shores very strong. The majority of them worked in fields from sunup to sundown, six days per week, and in many cases, seven days a week. Slaves ate what we call "soul food" scraps, like hog maws, chitterlings, pigtails, pig feet and pig ears, and they drank milk from a trough alongside other animals! No longer in their homeland, our people ate whatever was made available to them — scraps. In an effort to create a delicious meal, the women worked at creating recipes they could all enjoy. They loved collard greens with fatback meat. They used lard and learned to bake sweet potato pies. They cleaned chitterlings and made them into a delicacy to be eaten on special occasions. Pots of beans seasoned with ham hocks, or pigtails, pig feet, and seasoned with pork — a harmful, but delicious tradition that still lives on today. Homemade biscuits from self-rising flour were

the norm, made from white flour and lard. They learned to make hush puppies, candied yams, peach and apple cobblers, pies and cakes, all types of potatoes, cornbread, and the soul food list goes on and on. Though the enslaved ate poorly, they enjoyed it and were able to sustain themselves easily. Why? They didn't realize it at the time, but due to the physical labor in the fields 12-16 hours a day, from sunup to sundown, the diet did not harm the slaves. The exercise burned off all negative possibilities. Compare our lifestyles today to that of the slaves — you will see what has happened. This, according to NIH, work was the difference. 12-16 hours each day of physical labor, that's a lot of time exercising! Plus, they had the so-called "thrifty genes," which allowed their bodies to preserve food in an appropriate manner when food was scarce. What is the major cause of Type 2 diabetes in the United States? Research shows that being overweight or obese and physical inactivity are the main culprits. Extra weight sometimes causes insulin resistance and is common in people with Type 2 diabetes. The location of body fat also makes a difference. In general, obesity was a stronger independent risk factor than physical inactivity for Type 2 diabetes. Some studies concluded that the

risk of physical inactivity differed between categories of BMI. It was suggested that increased physical activity may, at least in part, counteract the detrimental effects of obesity. Pay close attention to your activity level, the number of steps you take in 24 hours, and definitely pay close attention to the foods you buy and eat. Google to find answers about non-organic foods and see for yourselves. I have found quite an abundance of information on how there are many synthetic chemicals that have infiltrated our food system during the period in which rates of diabetes have surged. Data has suggested that one particular synthetic chemical, bisphenol A (BPA), may be associated with increased risk for developing Type 2 diabetes (more about this in my next column). Many chemicals are tough to avoid. But you can limit your exposure to chemicals added to food intentionally, especially some artificial sweeteners, preservatives and added sugars such as high-fructose corn syrup. Read the labels! Sugar comes in different names. If you set a goal to pay closer attention to what you eat in 2024, and you want to know how to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals as shown by the following research by numerous research studies, then follow these proven guidelines. WI

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RELIGION The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor 9161 Hampton Overlook Capitol Heights, MD 20743 Phone: 301-350-2200 / Fax: 301-499-8724 Service and Times Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 AM 7 10:00 AM Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com Motto: “We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”

Blessed Word

Pilgrim Baptist Church

Church of Living Waters

Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor

Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor

700 I Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002 (202) 547-8849 Service and Times Worship Sundays: 7:30 & 11:00 AM 5th Sundays: 9:30 AM 3rd Sundays: Baptism & Holy Communion Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @ Noon & 6:30 PM www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org

Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ

Dr. Dekontee L. & Dr. Ayele A. Johnson Pastors

Reverend William Young IV Pastor

4001 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 (202) 265-6147 Office 1-800 576-1047 Voicemail/Fax

3845 South Capitol Street Washington, DC 20032 (202) 562-5576 (Office) / (202) 562-4219 (Fax)

Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion Service: First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:30 PM www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org

Mount Carmel Baptist Church

901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423 Service and Times Sunday Church School : 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship: 10:10 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00 PM Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00 PM Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10:10 AM themcbc.org

Services and Times Sundays: 10:00am Worship Services Bible Study: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays 12:00 Noon; 6:30 PM (dinner @ 5:30 PM) Sunday School: 9:00 AM – Hour of Power “An inclusive ministry where all are welcomed and affirmed.” www.covenantdc.org

Mount Olivet Lutheran Church

“Friendliest Church in the City” Website: mountolivetdc.org Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com

Dr. E. Gail Anderson Holness - Senior Pastor Rev. Ali Gail Holness-Roland Assistant & Youth Pastor

54 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

12801 Old Fort Road • Ft. Washington, MD 20744 Office (301) 292.6323 • FAX (301) 292.2164 Service and Times Sunday Worship 10:15 am Sunday Church School 11:00 am Youth Sunday every 4th Sunday Prayer Call @ Noon every Tuesday & Thursday 978.990.5166 code: 6166047# Virtual Bible Study Wednesday Facebook & Zoom 7:00 pm “A Growing Church for a Coming Christ” www.adamsinspirationalamec.org

Service and Times Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:45 AM Men’s Monday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00 PM Women’s Ministry Bible Study: 3rd Friday -7:00 PM Computer Classes: Announced Family and Marital Counseling by appointment E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org / “God is Love”

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Third Street Church of God

Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. / Senior Pastor 5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301.899.8885 – Fax 301.899.2555 Service and Times Sunday Early Morning Worship 8:00 AM Sunday School 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 AM Tuesday: 7:00 PM – Kingdom Building Bible Institute Wednesday: 12:30 PM – Mid-Day Bible Study Wednesday: 7:00 PM – Evening Bible Study Baptism - 3rd Sunday – Communion 4th Sunday Free Food Giveaway – Every Tuesday, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm “We are One in the Spirit” www.ssbcmd.org | secretary@ssbcmd.org

Campbell AME Church

2562 MLK Jr. Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Adm. Office 202-678-2263 Email: Campbell@mycame.org

Service and Times Divine Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m. Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday

Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor 800 I Street, NE - Washington, DC 20002 202-548-0707 - Fax No. 202-548-0703

www.livingwatersmd.org

1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005

Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor

Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards

Service and Times Sunday Service: 8:30am& 11:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM Communion Service: First Sunday

Rev. Terrance M. McKinley Senior Pastor

Adams Inspirational A.M.E. Church

Service and Times Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM Christian Education / School of Biblical Knowledge Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration

4915 Wheeler Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-894-6464

John F. Johnson Reverend Dr.

All Nations Baptist Church

2001 North Capitol St, N.E. - Washington, DC 20002 Phone (202) 832-9591

Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor

Crusader Baptist Church

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 AM Bible Study: Wednesday: 12:00 Noon, Wednesday: 7:00 PM, Thursday: 7:00 PM “Reaching Up To Reach Out” Mailing Address : Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE - Washington, DC 20020

Emmanuel Baptist Church

Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders, Th.D. Senior Pastor 1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202-347-5889 office / 202-638-1803 fax Services and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM “Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Reverend John W. Davis Pastor 5101 14th Street, NW / Washington, DC 20011 Phone: 202-726-2220 Fax: 202-726-9089 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service - 8:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Children’s Church - 11:00 a.m. (1st & 3rd Sundays) Communion - 10 a.m. 4th Sunday Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. (4th Sunday 8:15 a.m.) Prayer Meeting & Bible Study - Wednesday 7:00 p.m. “A Church with a past to remember – and a future to mold” www.mtzbcdc.org

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor

2409 Ainger Pl.,SE – WDC 20020 (202) 678-0884 – Office / (202) 678-0885 – Fax “Moving Faith Forward” 0% Perfect . . . 100% Forgiven!

623 Florida Ave.. NW - WDC. 20001 Church (202) 667-3409 / Study (202) 265-0836 Home Study (301) 464-8211 / Fax (202) 483-4009

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 8:00 AM & 10:45 AM Baptism/Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30 PM Prayer Service: Tuesdays – 8:00 PM www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 AM Holy Communion: Every First Sunday Intercessory Prayer: Monday – 7:00-8:00 PM Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday –7:45 PM Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 PM Noonday Prayer Every Thursday

Isle of Patmos Baptist Church Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor 1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-6767 - Fax: (202) 526-1661 Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Sunday Church School: 9:20 AM Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 PM Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!” Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net

Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr. Senior Bishop & Evangelist Susie C. Owens – Co-Pastor 610 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 529-4547 office • (202) 529-4495 fax

Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM Sunday Youth Worship Services: 1st & 4th 10:45 AM; 804 R.I. Ave., NE 5th 8 AM & 10:45 AM; Main Church Prayer Services Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6:00 AM & 6:30 PM Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round Contact Church / Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org / emailus@gmchc.org

Shiloh Church of God 7th Day Elder Jonathan M. Carson Senior Pastor

5701 Eastern Avenue, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Phone: 301 559-5262 Service and Times Sabbath Worship @ 1:00 pm in-person/FB/Zoom Tuesday - Prayer@ 7:30 pm on Zoom Wednesday - Bible Study@ 7:30 pm on Zoom Friday - Sabbath School@ 7:30 pm on Zoom Web: shiloh7thday.org Email: shiloh7thdaycomm@gmail.com "A culturally diverse church of edification, deliverance and transformation"

Holy Trinity United Baptist Church Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert Senior Pastor 4504 Gault Place, N.E. / Washington, D.C 20019 202-397-7775 – 7184 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service : 11:00 AM The Lord’s Supper 1st Sunday Prayer & Praise Services: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: 7:30 PM Saturday before 4th Sunday Men, Women, Youth Discipleship Ministries: 10:30 AM A Christ Centered Church htubc@comcast.net

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RELIGION Zion Baptist Church

Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor 4850 Blagdon Ave, NW - Washington D.C 20011 Phone (202) 722-4940 - Fax (202) 291-3773 Service and Times 9:00 a.m. – Sunday School 10:15 a.m. – Worship Service Wed. Noon: Dea. Robert Owens Bible Study 7 PM Pastor’s Bible Study Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Sunday, Holy Communion 4th Sunday Mission: Zion shall: Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, And Exalt our Savior. (Acts 2: 41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org

St. Luke Baptist Church

Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis Pastor 1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851 P: (202) 726-5940 Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion: 11:00 a.m., 3rd Sun. Bible Institute: Wednesday - 1:30 PM Prayer Meeting: Wednesday - 12:00 Noon

Rehoboth Baptist Church

Rev. Lance Aubert Imterim Pastor 1251 Saratoga Ave., NE Washington, DC 20018 (202) 269-0288 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM Holy Communion: First Sunday 10:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30 PM Motto: "Faith On The Hill"

Eastern Community Baptist Church Damion M. Briggs Pastor

5606 Marlboro Pike District Heights, MD 20747 301-735-6005

Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged. The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42

“Where God is Praised, Christ is Obeyed, and People are Loved”

New Commandment Baptist Church

8213 Manson Street Landover, MD 20785 Tel: (301) 322-9787 Fax: (301) 322-9240

13701 Old Jericho Park Road Bowie, MD. 20720 (301) 262-0560

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 AM and 10:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 AM & 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:30 AM Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon & 6:30 PM Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 PM Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 PM Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org Email: mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org

Service and Times Early Morning Message: 7:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 9:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 7:30 AM & 10:00 AM Prayer, Praise and Testimony: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11 AM Sunday School: 10 AM Wednesday Mid-Week Worship, Prayer & Bible Study: Wed. 7 PM

Promised Land Baptist Church

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

621 Alabama Ave., S.E.- Washington, D.C. 20032 P: (202) 561-1111 - F: (202) 561-1112

Foggy Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 - Fax : 202-338-4958 Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist

www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org

401 Van Buren St., NW, Washington D.C. 20012 Office (202)-882-8331 Service and Times Sunday Worship 10:30 am Zoom: zoom.us/;/2028828331 Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00pm Communion Every First Sunday

"Serve, teach and Live by precept and example the saving grace of Jesus Christ."

All are welcome to St. Mary’s to Learn, Worship, and Grow.

“A Church Where Love Is Essential and Praise is Intentional”

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Rev Kevin A. O'Bryant Pastor

Website: Theplbc.org Email: churchclerk@theplbc.org

Dr. Joseph D. Turner Senior Pastor

Service and Times Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 PM Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 PM Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor

“Real Worship for Real People” Website: www.easterncommunity.org Email: ecc@easterncommunity.org

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church

2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 - Fax 202-678-3304 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 9:30 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 9:30 AM Sunday School: 8:15 AM Bible Study: Wednesdays at Noon Baptism: 4th Sunday 9:30 AM

1636 East Capitol Street, NE Washington, DC 20003 Telephone: 202-544-5588 - Fax: 202-544-2964

The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

Motto: “Where God is First and Where Friendly People Worship”

1301 North Carolina Ave. N E Washington, D C 20002 202 543 1318 - lincolnpark@lpumcdc.org www.lpumcdc.org

Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

Rev. Richard B. Black Interim Pastor

Mount Moriah Baptist Church

Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor

Service and Times Sunday Service: 10:00 AM Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 AM 1st Sunday Baptism: 10:00 AM 2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10:00 AM Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 PM Prayer Meeting: 7:45 PM

Lincoln Park United Methodist Church

Israel Baptist Church

Website address: www.mmbcdc.org

Peace Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell 712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836 Service and Times Sunday Early Morning Prayer & Bible Study Class: 8:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Service: 12:00 PM “The Loving Church of the living lord “ Email Address: admin@pbc712.org

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor

Rev. Dr. H. B. Sampson, III Pastor

602 N Street NW - Washington, D.C. 20001 Office:(202) 289-4480 Fax: (202) 289-4595

2914 Bladensburg Road, NE Wash., DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-3180 - Fax: (202) 529-7738 Service and Times Worship Service: 7:30 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:30AM & 10:30 AM Prayer Services:Tuesday 7:30 PM. Wednesday 12 Noon

Service and Times Sunday School for All Ages: 8:00 AM Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 AM Midday Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 11:30AM Evening Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00 PM Laymen's League: Thursday 7:00 PM Email: Froffice@firstrising.org Website: www.firstrising.org “Changing Lives On Purpose “

Email:mthoreb@mthoreb.org Website:www.mthoreb.org For further information, please contact me at (202) 529-3180

Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor 3000 Pennsylvania Ave.. S.E Washington, DC 20020 202 581-1500 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Monday Adult Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Youth & Adult Activities: 6:30 PM Prayer Service Bible Study

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FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 55

LEGAL NOTICES Notice of an unregistered claim by a private living man, sovereign by the grace of God. Their name written in the Book of the Tree of Life, beneficiary in original jurisdiction now coming as Grantor/settler with NOTICE of Unregistered Claim, or priority equitable right, title and interest in the DERRICK THOMAS ESTATE LOUISIANA state file number 119-1974-014-00164/9046223 including all assets, attributes, derivatives and transmutations therefore.

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000010

2022 ADM 001433

2023 ADM 1547

2023 ADM 001555

Ralph C. Mills Jr. Decedent

William Kelly, Jr. Decedent

James Steven Turner Decedent

Latoya Brooks Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Howard Halley, Esq. The Halley Firm, PC 7600 Georgia Ave., NW #416 Washington, DC 20012 Attorney

Philip B. Zipin Zipin, Amster & Greenberg, LLC 8757 Georgia Avenue, Suite 400 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Tuesday C. Dodson, whose address is 7701 Mane Lane, Forestville, MD 20747, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ralph C. Mills Jr. who died on June 15, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/25/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 7/25/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 1/25/2024 Tuesday C. Dodson 7701 Mane Lane Forestville, MD 20747 Personal Representative

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Alice M. Pearson, whose address is 2972 2nd St., SE Washington DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William Kelly, Jr. who died on January 27, 2021 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/25/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 7/25/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 1/25/2024 Alice M. Pearson Personal Representative

Betsy E. Lehrfeld, whose address is 7214 Blair Rd., NW Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Steven Turner who died on 1/25/2022 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/25/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 7/25/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 1/25/2024 Betsy E. Lehrfeld Personal Representative

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Washington Informer

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Caniya Brooks, whose address is 4925 G St., SE Apt 102, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Latoya Brooks who died on 10/21/22 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/25/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 7/25/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 1/25/2024 Caniya Brooks Personal Representative

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Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 001560

2023 ADM 001559

2024 ADM 000013

2023 ADM 001550

2023 ADM 1527

James M. Pridgen aka James Marcellus Pridgen Decedent

Michael Nathaniel Harris Decedent

Sharon M. Ayers Decedent

Edward R. Williams Jr. Decedent

Arthur Anthony Warren 3131 Connecticut Ave., NW Apt 2509 Washington, DC 20008 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Diane Williams Shelby aka Diane W. Shelby aka Diane Terry aka Diane Shelby Decedent

Michael Nathaniel Moore, whose address is 3724 Hayes St., NE #6, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Michael Nathaniel Harris who died on September 9, 2023 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before July 25, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before July 25, 2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

John T. Ayers and Triston J. Ayers, whose addresses are 17 Michigan Ave. NE, Washington DC 20002, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Sharon M. Ayers who died on December 27, 2021 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before July 25, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before July 25, 2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Ciara T. Williams, whose address is 33 V Street NE, Washington DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Edward R. Williams Jr. who died on April 24th, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/25/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 7/25/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: January 25, 2024

Michael Nathaniel Moore Personal Representative

John T. Ayers Triston J. Ayers Personal Representative

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Arthur Anthony Warren, whose address is 3131 Connecticut Ave., NW Apt 2509, Washington DC 20008, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James M. Pridgen aka James Marcellus Pridgen who died on 10/9/2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/25/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 7/25/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 1/25/2024 Arthur Anthony Warren Personal Representative

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56 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

Washington Informer

Ciara T. Williams Personal Representative

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Date of first publication: 1/25/2024

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Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Julius P. Terrell 1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW #400 Washington DC, 20004 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Bonita Ward and Amelia Nwokeji, whose addresses are 7763 Cromwell End, New Albany, OH 43054 & 12226 Leather Saddle Ct., Houston TX 77044, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Diane Williams Shelby aka Diane W. Shelby aka Diane Terry aka Diane Shelby who died on 7/10/2023 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/25/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 7/25/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 1/25/2024 Bonita Ward Amelia Nwokeji Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2023 ADM 1514

LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2023 ADM 1530

John A. Green, Jr. Decedent

Timothy John Devine Decedent

Deborah D. Boddie, Esq. Probate Law DC 1308 Ninth Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20001 Attorney

Tabitha R. Brown, Esquire Law Offices of Tabitha R. Brown 1200 G Street SE, Suite A Washington, DC 20003 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Cheryl Brown, whose address is 807 30th Street, SE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John A. Green, Jr., who died on June 19, 2023 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/25/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 7/25/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Rachel Erin Carr, whose address is 259 14th Pl., NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Timothy John Devine who died on June 11, 2023 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/25/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 7/25/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 1/25/2024

Cheryl Brown Personal Representative

Rachel Erin Carr Personal Representative

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LEGAL NOTICES There is now pending before the District of Columbia Superior Court an action, Case Number 2023 CAB 004133, seeking damages for conversion, forgery, invasion of privacy, breach of fiduciary duty, and tortious damage to credit. A copy of the action is available in the Clerk’s office of the court. A written answer, including any claims or defenses must be filed with the District of Columbia Superior Court Civil Branch, 500 Indiana Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. 20001, within 21 days of being served.

COME THIS DAY, on the 28th of January in the Julian Period of 1972 (2441345.2033), under the Aquarius, sign (4º 17’) Saturn, house of Shevat (Asher), at Philadelphia, in the Territory of Philadelphia County, in Pennsylvania, one of the several states of the United States of America, Charlene Anna Farmer (mother and “birthing person”) gave birth to a single man, known as Craig Lacy Jr, at approximately 03:25 AM UT, precisley at Philadelphia County Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104. It is hereby declared by Charlene Anna Farmer (mother) a Philadelphian National but not a citizen of the District of Columbia and Craig Steven Lacy (father), a Philadelphian National but not a citizen of the District of Columbia, give testament to the witness of the birth of Craig Lacy Jr, The Bey of Pennsylvania and has no connection to the after birth of born-alive person, for any claims of salvaging under Pope Boniface VIII, any Papal Bulls of Birth Certificate exist within the State of Pennsylvania Certification of Vital Records or with the County of Philadelphia Registrar- Recorder/County Clerk. This Birth Announcement and its property is held in Lacy Family Express Trust and shall stand as true with any City, Town, Borough, County, State municipality or United States Department of State.

LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 000059 Estate of Wanda Anita Oates NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Christopher Caple for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth. In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative Date of first publication: 2/1/2024 Christopher Caple 551 Regent Place NE Washington, DC 20017 Petitioner/Attorney: TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 000024 Nathaniel Bacon Decedent Steve Larson-Jackson 1629 K Street NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Linda Wilson-Gaskins, whose address is 17209 Aspen Leaf Drive, Bowie, MD 20716, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Nathaniel Bacon who died on May 3, 2017 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/1/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 8/1/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 2/1/2024 Linda Wilson-Gaskins Personal Representative

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Washington Informer

We, the undersigned, declare (or certify, verify, or state) under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the foregoing is true and correct. Signed/Mark: Charlene Anna Farmer Executed: January 12, 2024 Signed/Mark: Craig Steven Lacy Executed: January 12, 2024 January 12, 2024

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000047

2024 ADM 000027

2024 ADM 000015

2024 ADM 000018

2024 ADM 000028

Estate of Larry Turner aka Larry Paul Turner

Delois A. Simpson Decedent

Anna Danuta Staszewicz Decedent

Pamela Lipscomb Decedent

Kenneth Howard Washington Decedent

Suren G. Adams, Esq. Adams Law Office, LLC 4201 Northview Drive, Suite 401 Bowie, MD 20716 Attorney

Howard J. Walsh III, Esq. 7101 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 1200 Bethesda, MD 20814 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Alexandria Davis & Asha Gardner, whose addresses are 1655 Flatbush Ave., Apt B608, Brooklyn, NY & 1736 Upshur St., NW Washington, DC 20011, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Pamela Lipscomb who died on 10/15/2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/1/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 8/1/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Derek Washington, whose address is 7152 Boxwood Ct., Bryans Road, MD 20616, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Kenneth Howard Washington who died on December 4, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/1/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 8/1/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

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Washington Informer

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Alice Paterick Paxton for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth. Admit to probate the will dated May 9, 2017 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate, appoint an unsupervised personal representative Date of first publication: 2/1/2024 Alice Paterick Paxton 2354 N. Oakland Street Arlington, VA 22207 Petitioner/Attorney: TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Cynthia D. Simpson, whose address is 5126 Kansas Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20011-3215, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Delois A. Simpson who died on July 20, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/1/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 8/1/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 2/1/2024 Cynthia D. Simpson Personal Representative

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Howard J. Walsh III, whose address is 7101 Wisconsin Ave #1200 Bethesda MD 20814, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Anna Danuta Staszewicz who died on June 24, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 3/1/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 3/1/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 2/1/2024 Howard J. Walsh III Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Date of first publication: 2/1/2024

Alexandria Davis Asha Gardner Personal Representative

Derek Washington 7152 Boxwood Ct. Bryans Road MD 20616 Personal Representative

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Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Washington Informer

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 57

LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2023 ADM 001534 Anna Mae Reynolds Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Lorraine Natalie Reynolds, whose address is 136 Jefferson Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Anna Mae Reynolds who died on November 28, 1982 without a Will. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/1/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 8/1/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

CL ASSIFIEDS

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2023 ADM 001542 Joan L. Briggs Decedent Denis C. Mitchell Stein Mitchell Beato & Missner, LLP 2000 K Street, NW, Suite 600 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Jane Briggs, whose address is 13225 Old Chapel Road, Bowie, MD 20720, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joan L. Briggs who died on August 30, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/18/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 7/18/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 1/18/2024 Jane Briggs Personal Representative

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58 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

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SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

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Washington Informer

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Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

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Date of first publication: 2/1/2024

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TELEWORK from Page 1 trict agencies from having to provide routine or situational telework. For one D.C. government employee, the upcoming changes place further pressure on them and their colleagues who, for the last four years, have juggled the demands of work with the changes to home life brought on by the pandemic. “The government’s taking telework back thinking it will bring more money back to the economy when it won’t,” said the employee who requested anonymity in light of a grievance they filed with management. “People lost their jobs and haven’t recovered. A lot of family dynamics have changed.” Early on in the pandemic, the employee was obligated to process between 15 and 20 documents submitted by D.C. residents and facilitate inspections -- all from their home located in the D.C. metropolitan area. The employee did so while taking care of a relative who’s battling a terminal illness. For four years, their daily routine included spending at least 30 minutes of their lunch break administering medicine through an IV. That arrangement ended last fall when, as the employee recalled to The Informer, a manager rated their quality of work, and that of other employees, as “Marginal (Level 2)” and called them back into the office full time. They have since taken on a workload that requires their use of artificial intelligence and, sometimes, more than eight hours. After finishing their tour of duty, the employee commutes to their second job, the compensation for which covers their daily Metro commute, and parking when needed, along with the costs for the nurse who takes care of their relative. Earlier this month, after an emergency prevented the nurse from reporting to work, the employee returned home in the middle of their morning commute and called out of work. Days later, after a snowstorm, they received permission to telework that day when the nurse couldn't make it to work. The employee lamented that, despite the level of commitment to their work, they had to go to extreme measures before their manager allowed them to work from home. “I spend 40% of my time covering and documenting myself, my work, what I do, and even when I help my counterparts and my inspector,” the employee said. “That takes time. We’re doing triplicate work and higher

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TELEWORK from Page 58 grades of work than what we’re paid for. If an analyst is helping with our work, and it’s too lengthy, they dump it on us. It’s a debacle.”

LOCAL UNION QUESTIONS REASONING, INTENTIONS OF TELEWORK POLICY CHANGE

By last fall, President Joe Biden (D) started ushering the call for federal employees to return to the office. Months prior, House Republicans successfully passed the SHOW Up Act, which requires executive agencies to submit a report to Congress about the effects of expanded telework during the pandemic and their plans for its future use. By November, 70% of the federal workforce was teleworking, according to data compiled by the Office of Personnel Management. During that month, a debate raged within the House’s subcommittee on government operations and federal workforce about whether telework lowered employee output within the federal agencies. A similar debate has been unfolding within D.C. government A District of Columbia Department of Human Resources spokesperson told The Informer that, in October, nearly 5,000 out of 33,600 District government employees teleworked. Employees who were authorized to do so under the mayor’s order were not required to disclose their reason, the spokesperson said. They however said that the use of telework is based on “a myriad of factors,” including operational obligations and the needs of the communities being served. For months, Bowser, in her crusade to revitalize Downtown D.C., supported President Joe Biden’s calls for federal government employees to return to work. After issuing the work order on Jan. 8, she was on record saying that the change in telework policy is intended to enhance community engagement, foster a collaborative work environment and further support the local economy. Some people, like Dr. Kofi Onumah, continue to question whether the reduction in telework would in fact boost the local economy. Or even if that’s the responsibility of District government employees. Onumah serves as first vice president of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) Local 2725, which includes employees of

the Department of Buildings, D.C. Housing Authority, D.C. Health, Department of Energy and Environment, Rental Housing Commission, Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection, Office of the State Superintendent of Education, and Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Earlier this month, AFGE leadership circulated a statement requesting that Bowser listen to employees’ concerns about rising crime and cost of living that’s sparking anxiety about the telework policy change. Onumah, a pharmacist inspector at D.C. Health, recently followed up with a demand that the D.C. government provide empirical evidence that telework reduction produces economic benefits. In speaking to The Informer, Onumah said that telework would reduce employee productivity and efficiency and increase pollution from the additional cars on the roads. It would also cause an influx in District government resources being used when thousands of employees converge on office buildings throughout the city, he added. Onumah said that the increase in greenhouse gasses, as a result of more employees reporting to the office, counters the District’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions. As it relates to his personal experiences, Onumah said that telework allowed him to freely collaborate with colleagues on several projects from the comfort of his home. Those projects included a remote pharmacy audit program and the COVID vaccine rollout, the latter of which involved the launch of clinics at co-op communities and grocery stores during the pandemic. As young people across the District struggled to transition back to in-person instruction, Onumah also noted that he was able to see his children much earlier during after-school hours while working from home. The telework policy change, Onumah said, would preclude him from spending essential time with his family, especially with D.C. Health’s move from North Capitol Street to its new building on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue in Anacostia in Southeast. He went on to reiterate his concern that the Bowser administration doesn’t fully appreciate various elements of the post-COVID landscape, including crime, children’s socioemotional needs and tight budgets, that require workplace flexibility. “It’s my duty to protect my mem-

bers and advocate on their behalf when management puts them in danger,” Onumah said as he questioned what else the D.C. government has on the chopping block. “What other benefits are at risk -- like health or dental benefits --- because a large portion [of the employee population] perhaps didn’t use them? It’s problematic and concerning.”

A D.C. GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE TO SOON MAKE A CHOICE

In the aftermath of a gas leak that caused an explosion on Marion Barry Avenue in Southeast earlier this month, many D.C. Department of Housing and Community Development (DCHD) employees, like one who spoke to The Informer on the condition of anonymity, verbally petitioned to telework, at least for a day, out of regard for their safety and mental well-being.

Those efforts, the employee said, proved unsuccessful due to what they described as DHCD Director Colleen Green’s insistence that their agency continue to lead the pack as an example of D.C. government’s telework policy changes. The employee said such a mindset at DHCD, and across the D.C. government, leaves the D.C. government at a competitive disadvantage to other entities, like the federal government and private sector, where employees have relatively more flexibility with telework. Last fall, when DHCD announced its reduction of telework days from two to one per week, employees stood up against the policy change with arguments that centered on wellbeing and increased use of building utilities. While the anonymous employee acknowledged that management, in response, postponed the change to December, they said the change was made with-

out much engagement or further interest in employees’ feelings. For nearly two months, the anonymous employee has spent every work day on a three-hour commute that takes them back and forth along at least two modes of transportation between the Maryland suburbs to Anacostia. They said that dilemma, in tandem with a disdain for working a cubicle, has inspired thoughts about leaving the D.C. government. “Historically, the D.C. government has had people who stayed in it for their entire career, but you have a new wave of career professionals who don’t stay at jobs forever,” the employee said. “When folks come in with skills, degrees, and experience under their belt and they’re in environments that don’t seem supportive and flexible, they start looking for other opportunities.” WI @SamPKCollins

PUBLIC NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE ANNOUNCES THE AVAILABILITY OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE RECORD FILE FOR THE OXON COVE LANDFILL SITE NATIONAL CAPITAL PARKS – EAST The National Park Service (NPS) announces the availability of the Administrative Record file for the Oxon Cove Landfill Site for public review. The site is located in Oxon Cove Park and is managed by the National Capital Parks – East (NACE) administrative unit of NPS located in Washington, D.C. NPS is currently investigating releases and threatened releases of hazardous substances related to historical activities at the site following the process established by the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). NPS is authorized under CERCLA to respond as the lead agency and, as the lead agency, is responsible for determining the nature and extent of contamination at this site and evaluating the risks to human health and the environment. The Administrative Record file currently includes various reports and historical documents related to the site. NPS will update the Administrative Record file as the CERCLA investigations progress. The public is welcome to submit comments on any of the documents included in the Administrative Record file at any time. The Administrative Record file is available for review at the location and during the times listed below: Oxon Cove Park & Oxon Hill Farm Visitors Barn Bald Eagle Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 Contact: Donna Davies Phone: (202) 359-3234 E-mail: donna_davies@nps.gov Everyday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Except for January 1, Thanksgiving Day, and December 25 An index listing all of the documents included in the Administrative Record file is available for download from the Oxon Cove Landfill Site website. The Administrative Record file is also available electronically upon request. To request an electronic version of the Administrative Record file or to submit comments on any documents in the Administrative Record file, please contact the NPS Project Manager, Donna Davies.

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FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024 59

PUBLIC SAFETY from Page 25

TUDOR PLACE from Page 1

afternoon hasn’t been released. While MPD coordinated these efforts from its Command Information Center, Carroll told The Informer that the launch of the Real-Time Crime Center, scheduled for sometime between late February and early March, will provide local, regional and federal law enforcement officers with a stateof-the-art physical space where they can collaboratively monitor crime around the clock. On Tuesday, as she spoke about the crime spree, and Appiah provided a public safety update, Bowser expressed her hope that the D.C. Council to pass the Secure D.C. Omnibus Act. The omnibus bill includes elements of more than a dozen bills that Bowser, along with Council members Pinto, Robert White (D-At large), and Charles Allen (D-Ward 6) introduced last year to coordinate government activity, increase accountability for perpetrators, and bolster crime prevention efforts. On Jan. 23, the council’s Committee of the Whole approved the bill’s inclusion on the Feb. 6 legislative agenda, despite some apprehension from some council members about aspects of the legislation. Less than a week later, on Monday, a racial equity impact assessment released by the Council Office of Racial Equity painted an ominous picture of what’s to come with the Secure D.C. Omnibus Bill’s passage. In their report, analysts Jarred Bowman, Rolando Cuevas, and Milika Robbins, wrote that, if passed in its current form, the Secure D.C. Omnibus Act threatens the public safety of the area’s BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, people of color) residents. The trio wrote that no evidence-based research supported the provisions outlined in the Secure D.C. Omnibus Bill. In speaking against the increased penalties, the trio noted that the consequences currently on the books haven't curbed violent crime. The report went on to highlight the likelihood that Black residents would be disproportionately incarcerated as a result of the legislation. It also pointed out that provisions around mask prohibition stand the chance of increasing racial profiling and surveillance of historically marginalized communities. Patrice Sulton, executive director of D.C. Justice Lab, told The Informer that the racial equity impact assessment further affirms the need for the council to return to the drawing board. More importantly, she said, Dis-

The Gallery Place/Chinatown Task Force also includes former D.C. mayors Anthony Williams and Adrian Fenty as honorary co-chairs, along with DowntownDC BID Executive Director Gerren Price and Rita Lee of Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of Washington, D.C., among other people, as executive committee members. Read more on washingtoninformer.com. WI

Tudor Place will show the perspectives of enslaved and free Black people who lived and worked at the site. Throughout the 1800s, the historic home and garden was home to generations of the Peter family, descendants of Martha Washington. Chinn and other descendants took the leading role in creating the narrative of the new installment, “Ancestral Spaces: People of African Descent at Tudor Place.” The advisory committee included Chinn, Karl Haynes, and his cousin Jerolyn Cole, who are both descendants of John Luckett. Luckett was a free Black man with a lasting presence at Tudor Place as the gardener for 40 years. The other committee members were Director Lisa Fager and President Neville Waters, both from the Black Georgetown Foundation. The group collaborated on archaeological findings, oral histories, and emotional connections to tell their families’ story at Tudor Place. Both Chinn and Haynes emphasized the necessity to tell the full truth of the legacy of slavery at Tudor Place. “I believe that those of us who are descendants of the enslaved have got to be a part of the decision-making. We can’t be the sideline commentaries. And I think that’s what’s occurred at Tudor Place,” said Chinn. Chinn’s ancestral matriarch is Sal Twine, who, along with her children, were enslaved by the Peter family on their Maryland plantation. Sal’s daughter, Barbary, was forcibly separated from her mother to work under Martha Custis Peter, the granddaughter of Martha Washington. Barbary was the first generation of

“We have a new work by Amy Hall Garner called ‘Century,’” Peek added, which draws inspiration from the choreographer’s grandfather’s life and legacy. While maintaining the beauty of the choreography, the dancers find ways to bring their life experiences to the movements. Through each step, the artists reveal truths about life and the world– true to the mission of the company’s visionary namesake and founder, who started the organization in 1958. “Mr. Ailey, one of the things he always said is,’These are the dance steps, but I need to be able to see you– see you as a person, your story, your life, through these dance steps,’” Figgins told The Informer, adding. “[Ailey] is not a cookie

cutter ballet company where we all have these small little heads and tiny buns… but we are really reflecting what the world looks like.” Ailey performances, throughout its 65-year legacy of engaging and entertaining audiences, allows people to deeply connect with the narratives, tap into their own truths, and leave empowered. “I think people will get from this season just love, joy and laughter. And, yes, you're experiencing grief, sorrow and anger, sometimes, even. But again, humanity, that's the human experience, and that's exactly what we will be giving and showcasing,” Figgins said. “And Black excellence.” Read more on washingtoninformer.com. WI

60 FEBRUARY 1-7, 2024

5 Earlier this month Acting Deputy Mayor of Planning and Economic Development Nina Albert speaks during Mayor Bowser's launch of the new Gallery Place/ Chinatown Task Force to create a vision and investment plan for the Gallery Place neighborhood. (Courtesy photo. (Courtesy photo/Mayor Bowser Facebook)

trict residents deserve more of a say so about what’s in the bill. That’s why she and her colleagues continue to urge the council to forgo what she calls a distraction and aim for solutions that have been proven to meet residents’ material needs, not penalize them for being poor. Sulton, who reiterated Bowman, Cuevas and Robbins’ point about intent versus impact, lauded Harriet’s Wildest Dreams for conducting teachins about the Secure D.C. Omnibus Act. However, she lamented that many District residents don’t have the time to deeply explore the legislation. She expressed her hope that the racial equity impact assessment, at the very least, causes council members to slow down and reconsider another course of action, even if it’s delaying the vote on the Secure D.C. Omnibus Bill. “People just need to be comfortable with the truth that this [omnibus bill] will make our criminal justice system bigger, Blacker and more expensive

ALVIN AILEY from Page 43 female cast, it’s just been an honor and a pleasure to do so.” Peek, 27, also noted that this season, while holding strong to the classic works such as “Revelations,” the company is also working to appeal to a younger audience. “Aside from the audience that we already have, we're really trying to expand our reach. So we're not only touching on Mr. Ailey’s classics that are so near and dear to the organization, but we're bringing back works from Alonso King, ‘Follow the Subtle Current Upstream,’ and we have a work that we presented last year by Kyle Abraham that was really a hit ‘Are You in your Feelings?,’” Peek told The Informer.

and that’s not right,” Sulton said. “Residents should be demanding more input. There’s very little people understand about what’s in the bill,” she added. “The council has a responsibility to break things down. We need more time between committee print and when a vote is dropped for people to be educated on it.”

QUESTIONS PERSIST ABOUT AN ECONOMIC STRATEGY FOCUSED ON TOURISM

women in Chinn’s family to connect her to Tudor Place. Barbary’s daughter, Barbara Cole Wiliams, also lived and worked at Tudor Place. At any time, there were 12 enslaved people who were forced to live and work at Tudor Place. According to Tudor Place’s research, Barbara was sexually assaulted by a member of the Peter family, and later gave birth to Hannah Pope and her twin sister, who died at birth. This made Hannah Pope a descendant of Martha Washington, but it did not change her status from enslaved. She was forced to live and work at Tudor Place as property to her known relative, Britannia Peter Kennons. “I resent the fact our family is only reflected as property. But that’s because we’re dependent on people of European descent defining us and placing us in the narrative,” said Chinn.

HIGHLIGHTING AND CURATING THE BLACK HISTORY AT TUDOR PLACE

Chinn explained that although the preservation of her family’s legacy at Tudor Place was fragmented, she created their livelihood in her mind. She said she felt a real connection to her ancestors during the curation process, and used the emotional connection to interpret the human response to harsh conditions. Tudor Place’s curation shifts the narrative exclusively to the people of African descent who were at the home. Their enslavers are rarely mentioned by name. Rob DeHart, curator at Tudor Place, said the focus of the narrative is more on these individuals’ experiences rather than their labor, and the descendants played crucial roles in the storytelling. DeHart emphasized that the experience goes beyond the physical artifacts that will be shown, which were used or owned by the enslaved Africans. What’s most important, he said, are the stories that were passed down through generations. In 2022, historians at Tudor Place found evidence of a former enslaved dwelling located in what is the North Garden today. The structure appeared to be a workspace and living quarters for the enslaved people at Tudor Place. Read more on washingtoninformer.com. WI

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MALVEAUX from Page 40 inducing birth, while Watts waited for hours for attention. At the same time, some doctors fear performing abortions lest they be charged and incarcerated. Kate Cox left Texas to get a medical abortion when she learned that her pregnancy would have fatal consequences both for her and her child. She actually sued Texas to get the abortion she needed, but when the courts sided against her, she left the state to receive necessary medical care. She had the resources both to sue Texas and to leave the state when necessary. What would have happened to a less-resourced woman? I am reminded of Regina McKnight, the first woman charged and convicted of child abuse because she gave birth to a stillborn child. Ms. McKnight was

MARSHALL from Page 40 rare to see a pontiff speak out in favor of social justice in America. So many religious leaders in our nation have fallen into idolatry over a man who is creating a political atmosphere that is becoming less inclusive of others. Social justice has always been the fight to preserve human dignity. Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) are critical outcomes of that fight. The Declaration of Independence is not necessarily seen as a social justice document, but that is what it has become. When Thomas Jefferson, as its primary author, inserted those five powerful words, "All men are created equal," the meaning transformed this historic document from being a mere list of grievances and injustices to becoming a profound commitment to the fight to preserve human dignity. The hypocrisy of Jefferson is wide-

EDELMAN from Page 40 and Child Tax Credit helped families like hers: "I was a ball of emotions. … I was scared and worried whether I would say the right thing." But she did, and her senator said, "Wow, this has been emotional." At the end of a day of meetings, Thomas said, "I was euphoric. I was on this high and felt I was part of something revolutionary." Daley-Harris wants every citizen to understand and start wielding this power. His organizations provide training in specific actions like meeting with elected officials and reaching out to the news media, and emphasize working together with others. As he asks in "Reclaiming Our Democracy," "Who do you want to be? Do you want to be

sentenced to 20 years, and required to serve 12 years of her sentence. Her conviction was overturned after eight years, but those years cost her dearly. She had other children, who she missed and was unable to nurture and raise. Her life came to a hard stop. The National Advocates for Pregnant Women, an organization that has been researching the increase in criminalized pregnancies, championed her. repeal of Roe allows the courts to criminalize pregnancy, and the zeal to unearth "criminal" behavior by those who miscarry or give birth to dead children is abhorrent. The fact that so many Black women find themselves criminalized and, with limited resources, being pushed into courts speaks to the antipathy that our nation has for women, especially Black women. More than 30 years ago, a group of

Black women, including Dr. Dorothy Height, Essence editor Susan Taylor, Planned Parenthood leader Faye Wattleton, Rev. Willie Barrow and about a dozen others (I was among them), came together to assert our right to reproductive freedom. Essence and Ms. magazine editor Marcia Ann Gillespie wrote the powerful statement that began with the sentence "Choice is the essence of freedom." Repealing Roe takes away our choice. Criminalizing pregnancy limits our choice. Those who use pregnancy and women's health as a political football don't see the faces behind their rhetoric, like Regina McKnight, who lost eight years of her life behind political nonsense, Brittany Watts, who faced criminal incarceration for miscarrying, and Tricia Cox, who had to leave her state to get medical system. Enough! WI

ly known — oppressed by the British while being an oppressor himself of others as an enslaver. While Jefferson's fight for human dignity was noble, it was also very selective. His fight did not produce any form of DEI. The battle was only for the benefit of white, wealthy males like himself. Therefore, DEI under Jefferson was delayed and nonexistent. As we view Jefferson historically, we must separate the hypocrisy of the man from the legacy of "all men are created equal" through the Declaration of Independence. Despite the inconsistency, he gave future generations the ammunition and the blueprint for their separate fights for social justice, which eventually did include forms of diversity, equity and inclusion. Unfortunately, other legacies come into play. The legacy of pride, where one group feels superior to others, is at the forefront. Add to

pride the legacies involving hate and division, passed down from generation to generation. Today, Americans are not responsible for the creation of systems of inequality, privilege, oppression and marginalization. They are simply continuing the legacies of our nation's past. DEI initiatives in businesses, schools and government agencies are intended to address inequities against marginalized groups. As Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis bars state universities from funding these initiatives, similar efforts are underway in Texas. Now, Utah has an anti-DEI bill that is poised to become law. Thomas Jefferson's example of hypocrisy still lives. Like Jefferson, today, many people want justice, freedom, life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness for themselves while at the same time promoting injustice to others. WI

someone whose cynicism leaves them on the sidelines, or do you want to be a changemaker? When I say changemaker, I don't mean that you singlehandedly change the world, but that you are powerful in your community, and perhaps beyond. You are powerful with your members of Congress. You are powerful with the local media. You are powerful with other community leaders — in fact, you've become a community leader yourself." He goes on to quote climate activist and futurist Alex Steffen: "Optimism is a political act. Those who benefit from the status quo are perfectly happy with a large population of people who think nothing is going to get any better. In fact, these days, cynicism is obedience. What's really radical is being

willing to look right at the magnitude and difficulty of the problems we face and still insist that we can solve those problems." In a recent interview Daley-Harris gave a similar answer when he was asked how to respond to people who feel beaten down by our current politics: "Apollo astronaut Rusty Schweickart said, ‘We aren't passengers on spaceship Earth, we're the crew.' Well, are we, and if we are, what does crew act like?" Sam Daley-Harris's call for a radically optimistic, active, engaged crew of citizens is desperately needed right now — especially among young people and young voters, who can be effective, informed advocates for themselves and need to know they can make a difference. WI

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on Artificial Intelligence, Agriculture, raising resources for running towns, climate change and water management systems. Commissioner Samuel Ings served as chair of the Conference, as well as chair of the Resolutions Committee. I served as vice chair of the Resolutions Committee. We passed resolutions of support and recognition on many subjects. The first one was for the restoration of Haiti. Others were regarding human and sex trafficking, peace in various nations, the work of Africa's Brain Bank, Literacy, health care, support for historically Black colleges and

MORIAL from Page 451 lars on the federal level. About a quarter of those killed by police last year were in the throes of a mental health crisis. Address the needs of individuals experiencing mental health crisis is Pillar 4. Campaign Zero, the criminal justice reform advocacy group that compiled the data, notes that at least 42% of the incidents were captured on body-worn cameras, which police often don't release

JEALOUS from Page 41 most powerful voices have been those of young people. And we should all appreciate what it has taken for those young people to maintain their determination. The American Psychological Association defines "eco-anxiety" as "a chronic fear of environmental doom." In 2021, Lancet Planetary Health surveyed more than 10,000 young people, ages 16 to 25, in 10 countries. Anxiety about climate change impacted the ability of more than 45 percent of these young people to function in their daily lives; 75 percent were "frightened" of the future. And it exposed a key feature of eco-anxiety: hopelessness. Half the young people in the study described feeling helpless and powerless. Now, we know that despite the fear, young activists have been among our fiercest leaders in the fight against the climate crisis. They have not given in to the lingering despair. But, as a piece on eco-anxiety in the Harvard Political Review pointed out,

universities, women's right to choose, fight against gun violence, replacing confederate statues representing slavery in the United States, and erecting statues representing African Ameri-

can and indigenous people of color, welcoming South Korea as a trading partner, end to all forms of racism locally and globally, and support of Taiwan as a major trading partner, addressing climate change, support of the restoration of the relationship between the U.S. and Cuba, support of peace in the Middle East and more, supporting the John Lewis Voting Rights legislation, supporting Global Foster Care and making a federal holiday in honor of Rosa Parks. By traveling, reading and participating in conferences like that of the World Conference of Mayors and Historically Black Towns and Settlements Alliance, you will learn a lot! WI

to the general public. The footage "commonly" contradicts officers' initial accounts of a fatal encounter. Mandate the use of dashboard and body-warn cameras and provide public access to the footage is Pillar 15. Campaign Zero also noted that their research efforts are hampered by the fact that at least half of police killings are not reported in official government data. Collection of data on police misconduct and use of force is Pillar 14. Chuck Wexler, executive direc-

tor of the Police Executive Research Forum, told USA Today that de-escalation training is proven to work, but too few departments have implemented it. Strengthening police hiring standards and improving training to build integrity and trust is Pillar 20. "Until that training changes, and until the culture with it changes, that number is going to be way too high," Wexler said. "We can cut officer involved shootings with the right training." WI

We passed resolutions of support and recognition on many subjects. The first one was for the restoration of Haiti.

young people have felt like they are alone in the fight. And, "if no one is listening and no change is happening, then pushing forward can feel hopeless." That is why, aside from the emissions numbers … aside from the economic and energy security benefits … the Biden-Harris administration's LNG decision is a win for hope. And hope is a powerful thing. In his statement about the decision, President Biden said, "We will heed the calls of young people and frontline communities who are using their voices to demand action from those with the power to act." This victory for climate-concerned people the world over — and the planet itself — is proof that organizing works. Grabbing the bullhorn and telling your story — even if the crowds don't listen right at first — matters. This LNG decision is a momentum builder. And a clarion call for even more organized action on the climate crisis — especially from young people. WI

In his statement about the decision, President Biden said, "We will heed the calls of young people and frontline communities who are using their voices to demand action from those with the power to act."

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