Though given another opportunity to respond to the findings of an investigation substantiating bribery allegations against him, D.C. Councilmember Trayon White (D) remained silent throughout much of a public hearing conducted to discuss his expulsion from the legislative body.
However, White’s former attorney, Fred D. Cooke, Jr., sat next to the
With
MPD
Officer Pardons, President Trump Infringes on Local Affairs
Local and National Leaders, Advocates Seek Justice for Karon Hylton-Brown
By Stacy M. Brown and Sam P.K. Collins WI Senior Writer and WI Staff Writer
President Donald Trump’s latest pardon reverses what several local advocates, just months ago, heralded as a critical milestone in their crusade for police accountability.
On Wednesday, during his second full day in office, Trump pardoned Terence D. Sutton, Jr. and Anthony Zabavsky, two
5 Local leaders are upset after President Donald Trump pardoned Terence D. Sutton, Jr. and Anthony Zabavsky, two former Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers convicted for their role in the unauthorized pursuit that led to the death of Karon Hylton-Brown. (Courtesy Photo)
Young People Kick Off Budget Season Deliberations Early at Annual Event
By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer
With the D.C. Council to soon start a series of performance oversight and budget hearings, several dozen high school students recently engaged council members and other elected officials in conversation about their Fiscal Year 2026 budget priorities.
Logan Thompson, a senior at School Without Walls (SWW) and member of Mikva Student Council, said that, even with significant declines in violent crime, she and her peers remain anxious about their wellbeing. She touted the annual D.C. Girls Coalition Youth Town Hall as an opportunity to raise the issue of public safety.
“The depth of this issue is important for my community. Our primary goal is to…alleviate the loss and feelings of hurt that gun
violence caused,” said Logan, who, in her capacity as president of SWW’s Black Student Union, organizes her peers around school conditions and equity initiatives.
D.C. Council and State Board Members Hear Concerns about Housing, Mental Health, Employment and Safe Drinking Water YOUNG PEOPLE Page 34
Summer Youth Employment Program Launch Inspires Conversation about Finances and Public Budgeting
Mayor Bowser, DOES Director Dr. Unique Morris-Hughes Tout New Pathways to Finance Grant
By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer
As tens of thousands of young District residents gear up to register for this year’s Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program (MBSYEP), they have at their disposal more options for college preparation and exploration of careers in
the financial sector.
Dr. Unique Morris-Hughes, director of D.C. Department of Employment Services (DOES), said the newly launched Pathways to Finance Grant builds upon her agency’s efforts over the years to encourage fiscal responsibility among the District’s youngest
5 Trayon White wears a shirt that reads “The FBI Killed Fred Hampton” at the public hearing to discuss his expulsion from the D.C. Council following substantiated bribery allegations. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)
5Youth leader Logan Thompson during D.C. Girls Coalition’s 2025 Youth Town Hall on Jan. 22 at Trinity Washington University. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)
Don't Miss This Month's WI Bridge Center Section
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BY STACY M. BROWN
SENIOR WRITER; JADA INGLETON
Nancy Leftenant-Colon, Trailblazing Army Nurse and Air Force Veteran, Dies at 104
Nancy Leftenant-Colon, the first Black woman to join the U.S. Army Nurse Corps after the military was desegregated in the 1940s, has died at the age of 104. She passed away earlier this month at a nursing home in New York. Known for quietly breaking barriers during her remarkable military career, Leftenant-Colon enjoyed a legacy of resilience, excellence, and service.
Born on Sept. 29, 1920, in Goose Creek, South Carolina, to James and Eunice Leftenant, she graduated from Amityville High School in New York in 1939. Despite facing racial discrimination, Leftenant-Colon pursued her passion for nursing, graduating from Lincoln School of Nursing in 1941.
According to her biography posted on Tuskegeeairmen. org, when she initially sought to join the Armed Forces,
she was denied due to her race. Undeterred, she persisted and was accepted as a reservist into the Army Nurse Corps in January 1945, becoming a Second Lieutenant and serving at Fort Devens, Massachusetts, treating wounded soldiers from World War II.
In 1948, after President Harry Truman issued Executive Order 9981 abolishing segregation in the military, Leftenant-Colon became the first Black woman integrated into the Regular Army Nurse Corps.
After retiring as Chief Nurse at McGuire Air Force Base in 1965, Leftenant-Colon continued to serve her community as a school nurse at her alma mater, Amityville High School, until 1984. In 2018, the school honored her with a new media center named in her memory. WI
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
Isaac Hayes III’s Fanbase Emerges as a Creative Haven in a Sea of Misinformation
With overwhelming disinformation spreading on X and sites like Facebook and Instagram, and with pornography and right-wing propaganda flooding those platforms, Fanbase is quickly gaining traction.
Founded in 2018 by Isaac Hayes III, the Atlanta-based social media platform is climbing the App Store charts by offering users a space to create content and profit from it.
Fanbase allows users to share videos, photos, audio, and stories while earning money. Creators can also offer subscriptions ranging from $2.99 to $99.99, giving supporters access to exclusive content.
“Fanbase is a free-to-download, free-to-use, next-generation social network that allows any user to earn money from day one,” the company states on its website.
Hayes, who discussed Fanbase’s impact during an appearance on the Black Tech Green Money podcast, described the platform’s unique role in the social media
industry.
“I’m the only Black-founded start-up social media app that’s currently in existence that was founded for the entire planet, but it’s Black-owned in infrastructure and ownership,” Hayes said.
This week, Hayes ignited a thought-provoking conversation on X by posing a question to artificial intelligence: What would happen if the entire Black community left platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X and never came back? The A.I. analysis suggested that such an exodus would significantly disrupt the social media landscape, detailing the cultural, economic, and reputational impacts of Black creators' absence.
The departure of Black creators would also damage platforms’ reputations, exposing systemic inequities and sparking scrutiny over their lack of support for marginalized groups.
WI
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
Tuskegee Airmen, WASPs Air Force Instruction Resumes after DEI Review Sparks National Backlash
Trump’s Anti-DEI Agenda Prompts Boycotts Against Major Companies
Amid President Donald Trump’s ban on federal diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs, many companies and government entities are struggling to navigate the intricacies of an anti-DEI society, with some controversial measures leading to national criticism and public scrutiny. One such example is the U.S. Air Force temporarily removing courses with videos of the historic Tuskegee Airmen and Women Airforce Service Pilots, or WASPs, from the basic military training curriculum last week to ensure compliance with Trump’s recent executive order.
"The service and sacrifice of the Tuskegee Airmen and the WASPS, who were also removed from the Air Force’s training courses, are an essential part of American history and carried significant weight in the World War II veteran community,”said Tuskegee Airmen Inc. in a statement late Saturday.
The national nonprofit emphasized they “strongly op-
posed” the decision to remove courses.
“We believe the content of these courses does not promote one category of service member or citizen over another,” the nonprofit noted. “They are simply a part of American military history that all service members should be aware of."
The Tuskegee Airmen were the nation’s first Black military pilots, who flew more than 1,500 missions in a segregated unit during World War II. The WASPs represent the coalition of women pilots who ferried warplanes from the assembly lines to airfields where they were shipped off to war, freeing up male pilots for combat missions.
Many congressional leaders stood in solidarity with history and took to social media to voice their disapproval of the apparent removal, including Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) and newly sworn in defense secretary Pete Hegseth, who said the ban was “immediately reversed” on X on Sunday. WI
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
PARDON from Page 1
3 National and local leaders are speaking out after President Donald Trump pardoned Terence D. Sutton, Jr. and Anthony Zabavsky, two former Metropolitan Police De- partment officers convicted for their role in the unauthorized pursuit that led to the death of Karon Hylton-Brown.
(Courtesy Photo)
AROUND THE REGION
black facts
JAN. 30
1844 – Richard Theodore Greener, the first African American graduate of Harvard College and dean of the Howard University School of Law, is born in Philadelphia.
1944 – Former D.C. Mayor Sharon Pratt, the first African American woman to serve as mayor of a major American city, is born in the District.
1979 – Franklin Thomas is named the first Black president of the Ford Foundation.
JAN.
31
1865 – The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which outlawed slavery and indentured servitude, is passed by the U.S. Congress.
1919 – Baseball great Jackie Robinson Major League Baseball's color barrier in 1947, is born in Cairo, Georgia.
1931 – Ernie Banks, the Hall of Fame shortstop and first baseman known as "Mr. Cub," is born in Dallas.
1933 – Actress and singer Etta Moten becomes the first Black star to perform at the White House.
1961 – Lt. Cmdr. Samuel Lee Gravely Jr. becomes first African Amer ican to command a U.S. combat ship.
1988 – Washington Redskins quar terback Doug Williams becomes the first Black starting quarterback in a Super Bowl, winning MVP honors in Washington's 4210 victory over the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXII.
FEB.
1
1902 – African American writer and social activist Langston Hughes in Joplin, Missouri.
1960 – The Greensboro sit-in act of nonviolent protest against a segregated lunch counter in Greensboro, N.C., begins.
FEB. 3
JAN. 30 -FEB. 5, 2025
SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB
1870 – The 15th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which granted African American men the right to vote, is ratified.
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.
1965 – Alabama officials arrest 700 Blacks as they demonstrate against the state's voter registration requirements in Selma.
1976 – President Gerald Ford offi cially designates February as tory Month in the United States.
1978 – The United States Postal Service issues the first stamp of the Black Heritage Series, honoring Harriet Tubman, abolitionist and Un derground Railroad "conductor."
FEB. 2
1990 – South African a 30-year ban on leading anti-apartheid group the African National Congress.
2009 – Eric Holder be confirmed as United States attorney general.
1913 – Rosa Parks, the "first lady of civil rights," is born in Tuskegee, Alabama.
1997 – Then-Rep. J.C. Watts becomes the first Black selected to respond to a State of the Union Address.
2006 – NFL great Warren Moon becomes the first Black quarterback inducted into the Pro Football Hall of
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.
Hank Aaron is born , "the father of Black professional basketball," becomes the first African American elected to the Basketball
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.
DOUG WILLIAMS
WARREN MOON
view
P INT
BY SARAFINA WRIGHT
President Donald Trump’s first couple weeks in office have been rife with controversial moves regarding immigration enforcement, cutting federal Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs, and a host of executive orders, one of which includes targeting birthright citizenship. What are your thoughts?
KEVIN ROBINSON / WOODBRIDGE, VA.
ED BLACKSHEARE / DETROIT, MICH.
Trump’s ‘America First’ policies will be met with defiance and resistance every step of the way.
Many of them voted for him! I don’t feel one ounce of pity for them. Period!
DAVID PERRIN / DETROIT, MICH.
WARD HILL / GREENVILLE, MISS.
Look at the demographics of the races that they voted for and who they voted for. This is not African American’s fault. The vast majority of every other demographic voted for Trump. But African Americans have to suffer!
We have a long way to go. I’m exhausted already, and it’s been a week.
JOANNE JACK / WASHINGTON, D.C.
Imagine if you voted for him, and now he’s going for your job! Really sad.
Our staff is made up of writers, just like you. We are dedicated to making publishing dreams come true. Trusted by authors for nearly 100 years, Dorrance has made countless authors’ dreams come true.
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AROUND THE REGION
Federal Grants Freeze Sparks Uncertainty for Washington, D.C. Programs
By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer
While a judge blocked President Donald Trump’s push to pause federal grants and loans until Feb. 3, the freeze is raising concerns about how this decision will affect Washington, D.C. programs, which rely heavily on federal funding for essential services.
In a memo issued Monday, the acting director of the Office of Management and Budget instructed federal agencies to suspend all activities related to federal financial assistance. The memo, which applies to grants and loans but exempts Social Security, Medicare, and direct payments to individuals, calls for a “comprehensive analysis” to ensure federal programs comply with President Donald Trump’s executive orders.
These orders include restrictions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and clean energy projects.
5The White House has ordered a pause on all federal grants and loans, raising concerns about how this decision will affect District programs, which rely heavily on federal funding for essential services to support public welfare as well as funding for Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), public schools, and infrastructure. (Courtesy Photo)
Federal transfers are a critical lifeline for D.C. residents, with $6.3 billion in federal funding allocated to the District in fiscal year 2021. This funding accounted for 32.2% of D.C.’s total revenue, supporting Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), public schools, and infrastructure. Nearly 51% of these funds went to public welfare programs.
“This freeze could have devastating consequences for communities in D.C. that rely on federal support for education, health care, and basic services,” said a local budget expert familiar with federal funding impacts.
The memo also states that oversight of federal spending must be reassigned to senior political appointees, raising concerns about transparency and accountability. Agencies must submit detailed lists of suspended projects by Feb. 10.
Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) sharply criticized the move.
“Congress approved these investments, and they are not optional; they are the law,” Schumer said in a statement. “Donald
Trump must direct his administration to reverse course immediately and ensure that taxpayer money goes where it’s needed.”
The legality of the freeze may face challenges. Experts note that while the president can temporarily defer spending, the administration must notify Congress and provide specific details about the funding being paused.
G. William Hoagland of the Bipartisan Policy Center warned of far-reaching implications if the freeze continues.
“I worry this is an effort to avoid implementing the law of the land as it relates to the budget process,” Hoagland said.
WI
@StacyBrownMedia
Savage Breakfast Club Set to Tame Appetites During the Day
The Savage Breakfast Club Experience
By James Wright WI Staff Writer
Before the hyped-up Washington Commanders-Philadelphia Eagles NFC playoff game on Jan. 26, Ashley Bradshaw wanted to grab a bite to eat and chat with a friend.
She and the friend traveled about two miles north from the Congress Heights neighborhood in Ward 8 to the Skyland Town Center in Ward 7 to dine in the latest addition to the Darrell Gaston-owned group of eateries, Savage Breakfast Club.
“We live in the neighborhood, so we decided to go somewhere local,” said Bradshaw, 35. “I visited Kitchen Savages and had a great time. So, we wanted to check out Savage Breakfast Club.”
Savage Breakfast Club is located on the Marion Barry Avenue SE side of the Skyland Town Center. The establishment is located four miles east of Kitchen Savages on Marion Barry Avenue SE, which is also owned by Gaston.
The Southeast restaurant is open from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. each day except Monday.
Savage Breakfast Club is part of a growing number of eateries located in the burgeoning Skyland Town Center that includes Starbucks, &Pizza and Roaming Rooster.
GASTON ON SAVAGE BREAKFAST CLUB
Gaston, 38, is a former Ward 8 advisory neighborhood commissioner who has been known to address issues such as youth violence, stopping the ward’s homicide rate, neighborhood economic development and spurring entrepreneurship in areas east of the Anacostia River.
A graduate of Coppin State University and the Howard University School of Law, Gaston sidestepped a career in the legal field to pursue his desire to be a chef and restaurateur.
Kitchen Savages opened in 2023, with plans in the works for Savage Breakfast Club in the following year. Gaston managed to get assistance for his ventures through District government programs and investors.
The restaurateur said he wanted Savage Breakfast Club to take advan-
tage of the popular trends nationally in offering customers brunch.
“That’s the plan, people should be able to eat breakfast food any time they want to,” Gaston told The Informer. “Savage Breakfast Club does offer lunch and dinner dishes even though breakfast is the focus.”
THE SBC EXPERIENCE
The restaurant’s breakfast menu includes waffles and french toast, shrimp and grits, catfish and grits, chicken and waffles, jerk lamb and eggs, and a Chef’s Special called “Savage Benny” – two English topped with mini crab cakes and scrambled eggs and drizzled with hollandaise sauce.
A la carte items for breakfast include: egg rolls, tacos, creole grits, bacon, pork sausage, turkey sausage and cheesy grits.
“We are going to offer pancakes in the near future,” said Gaston. “We just have to get the equipment ready for that.”
Lunch and dinner items include jerk lamb chops, catfish and chicken dinners, honey blackened or crab stuffed salmon, and “Jerk Rasta Pasta.”
Ancillary offerings are crab cake egg rolls, jerk lamb lollipops, crab fries, and “Savage Wings.”
Sides are collard greens, garlic mashed potatoes, spinach, french fries and macaroni and cheese.
Non-alcoholic beverages are offered. Patrons can also get salads and sandwiches, including burgers as well as bagels that consist of bacon and egg, steak and egg, turkey bacon and egg, and sausage and egg with each offering an added slice of cheese.
The desserts offered are peach cobbler, banana pudding and chocolate cake.
Customers can eat in, carry out or have it delivered through food delivery companies. For those dining in, there are five sets of Black tables with Black chairs offered.
Like Bradshaw, Michael Outlaw came to Savage Breakfast Club to grab a meal before the game, but he ordered takeout. Looking around the restaurant, Outlaw remembers when Gaston first got started as a chef.
“He used to have a kitchen off of
South Capitol Street,” Outlaw, 31, said of when Gaston cooked and sold food at the Good Food Market located in the Bellevue section of Ward 8. “The logo reminds me of buying food from him there.”
Outlaw said Savage Breakfast Club
should be a success.
“The food is well-prepared and well-cooked,” he told The Informer.
“Especially the catfish and the lobster. You must know what you are doing to prepare those.” WI
@JamesWrightJr10
5Options of jerk lamb are served during and after breakfast at Savage Breakfast Club at Skyland Town Center in Ward 7.
(Courtesy Photo/Facebook, Kitchen Savages)
AROUND THE REGION
Jason Moran, Kennedy Center artistic director for jazz, reads The Washington Informer. (Brenda C. Siler/ The Washington Informer)
Events DC partnered with the Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute to welcome Bao Li and Qing Bao, two new giant pandas, to Washington, D.C. (Courtesy Photo/Events DC)
Black Mayors Talk Trump Administration
Working Together, Advocating for Constituents as Priority
By James Wright WI Staff Writer
Days before the official presidential transition of power, leaders from all across the U.S. descended upon D.C. not for the inauguration, but the U.S. Conference of Mayors 93rd Winter Meeting, held at the Marriott Marquis in Northwest Jan. 17-19.
Among the many mayors was Montgomery, Alabama’s Steven Reed (D), who was elected in 2019. The first African American elected to the position, Reed made it a point to connect with officials ffrom the first Trump administration to get more resources for his city.
As a result, he became a regular at meetings sponsored by organizations such as the U.S. Conference of Mayors and the African American Mayors Association (AAMA). At those meetings, Reed had the chance to interact with Donald Trump, and then after with Biden administration officials to learn about their policies and to network.
During the winter meeting, Reed spoke with leaders of the outgoing Biden administration and experts of the second Trump administration to find out about programs that are in place and what the new president’s agenda is.
“This is a great conference, and I am glad I am here,” Reed, 50, who serves as the president of the AAMA, said. “I learned a lot about the infrastructure bill that was supported by Biden, and I am already thinking how that will benefit my residents. I am approaching this administration with the goal of advocating for my residents.”
BLACK MAYORS ON TRUMP
On the eve of the change of administrations, Black mayors talked to The Informer about how they plan to interact with Trump, even if the president’s agenda is not always comparable to theirs.
Reed said it was important for mayors to approach the incoming administration with an open mind.
“Local, state and federal officials must work together,” he said. “I want to make sure that it is a win-win for everyone.”
Like Reed, Cavalier Johnson (D) is the first Black elected mayor of his city: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and won a special election in 2022 for the position.
Johnson has the experience of dealing with high-level members and leaders of the Republican Party, coordinating with the party for the presidential convention that took place in his city last July, in which Trump was formally nominated as the party’s presidential candidate for the third consecutive time.
“Let me make it clear that I was a firm supporter of Joe Biden,” Johnson, 38, said. “Even after Biden had the terrible debate performance, I stood by him until he decided to step aside. Then I worked hard for [Vice President Kamala] Harris to win Wisconsin. However, I worked with the Republican Party to make sure that they had a safe convention. I wanted the world to see that Milwaukee is a great place to visit and move to.”
Johnson said he wants to work with the Trump administration, particularly regarding affordable housing.
“That is an area where I think we can coordinate,” he said. “I have had so many people come up to me and say they love the culture and flavor of Milwaukee, but housing is too expensive. Our housing costs are comparable to New York City. I really supported Harris’ idea of building millions of units of housing. But I will advocate that Trump invest in more housing.”
Affordable housing is also an issue for Waterloo Iowa Mayor Quentin
Hart. However, for Hart, a Democrat who became Waterloo’s first Black mayor in 2015, assistance and support from the Trump administration in such areas as fighting crime, gun violence and affordable childcare is a top priority.
“My phone is always open,” said Hart, 53. “I have made it a point to meet with federal agency department heads and congressional leaders, whether it was with the Trump or Biden administrations. It is important that as a mayor, I build connections. There are no Republican potholes or Democratic potholes, just potholes that need to be fixed.”
Colorado Springs, Colorado Mayor Yemi Mobolade is the first Black and non-Republican leader to serve in that position. Elected in 2023, Mobolade said he will use his political outlier status to his advantage when dealing with the Trump administration.
“That is why it pays to be an independent,” said Mobolade, 45. “My independent nature pans out. My independence helps me make the best decisions for the city.”
Mobolade has a slightly different view of the Trump administration’s position on mass deportations than his colleagues who have more progressive views. He points out that illegal immigrants, especially those with criminal records, will be the focus of the deportations.
“Where some people see a lot of fear and concern, I see hope,” Mobolade said of the Trump administration. “I see a lot of opportunities.”
WI @JamesWrightJr10
5Steven Reed is the mayor of Montgomery, Alabama. (Courtesy Photo/X)
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY
Prince George’s County Political Updates
By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter
SENATOR ALS-
BROOKS HITS THE GROUND RUNNING ON CAPITOL HILL
In her first few weeks on the Hill, Maryland’s first Black Senator has received her committee assignments and has pledged to defend Maryland’s many federal workers.
“I am also gravely concerned about what we’ve seen so far as targeting of federal employees” said Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.).
“It should be very clear that these are dedicated, hardworking civil servants—the people that we rely on to ensure that we have clean drinking water and that we are pro-
tected. So, it will be our objective that they are never forgotten.”
The newly minted senator has been quite busy working to protect Marylanders.
During her first week, Alsobrooks took part in three Senate hearings where she questioned Trump nominees Lee Zeldin and Scott Turner on what they would do in their roles leading the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Housing and Urban Development respectively.
On Jan. 23, Alsobrooks was named to three subcommittees: Financial Institutions and Consumer Protection; Housing, Transportation, and Community Development; and the Securities, Insurance, and Investment subcommittees.
“These subcommittees provide
a platform to fight on behalf of everyday people,” she said. “From consumer protection to infrastructure, I look forward to moving our economy forward and building wealth for hardworking Marylanders.”
Alsobrooks also pledged to fight the Trump administration’s plan to significantly raise the cost of lifesaving prescription medications.
During an August rally at Prince George’s Community College, former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris announced their administration’s efforts to lower medicine costs, and Alsobrooks, then in her role as county executive, served as a speaker at the event. She’s continued her dedication to the efforts in her role in the Senate.
“I will continue to fight, along with my colleagues, and I encourage my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to also center in everything we do the lives of those who depend on us, who don't care— to be honest with you—one way or the other, whether we are from a red or blue state; who don't care, whether we are Democrat or Republican,” Alsobrooks said.
She emphasized the true priority citizens have in addressing costs of medicine.
“When someone you love is sick,” Alsobrooks continued, “you want them to have the lifesaving medications that they need— be it for your grandchild or your spouse—it is most important.”
WI
COUNTY EXECUTIVE CAMPAIGNS
CONTINUE: NEW ENDORSEMENTS FOR HAWKINS, IVEY
As the primary election for the next Prince George’s county executive gets closer, some major leaders have come out in support of various candidates, including Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), who most recently held the elected role.
Alsobrooks endorsed County Councilmember Calvin Hawkins (D- At Large) to fill her former seat, which she vacated in December in preparation for her new role as senator.
“I am proud to support Calvin Hawkins to be the next county executive of Prince George’s County,” said Alsobrooks in a statement.
“Calvin is a lifelong Prince Georgian who understands the people of our county, their needs, and their values. He will grow our economy, manage our budget, and provide the services that Prince Georgians need and deserve. I trust Calvin to provide the leadership that puts people first and moves Prince George’s forward.”
Meanwhile, former Sen. Ben Cardin and Del. Adrian Boafo has thrown support behind CountyCouncilmember Jolene Ivey (D- At Large), citing her past experience at multiple levels of government.
“Jolene Ivey doesn’t sit on the sidelines. She takes action and leads the way, which is why I’m proud to endorse her for Prince George’s
3The most recent elected official to hold the position,
Angela Alsobrooks (right) is endorsing County Councilmember Calvin Hawkins (left) to serve as the next Prince George’s county executive. (WI File Photo/ Anthony Tilghman)
County Executive,” Cardin said in his endorsement on Jan. 27.
Boafo emphasized the high responsibility that comes with the county executive role.
“Our next county executive will inherit a county government that has benefited greatly from the leadership of our former county executive and current U.S. Senator, Angela Alsobrooks. However, he or she will also have to confront those natural challenges that face such a large and dynamic county – from protecting our neighborhoods from crime and violence, and making the dream of home ownership a reality for working families, to providing our children with the skills they need to compete in a global economy,” Boafo said. “Furthermore, these priorities must be sustained in a time of fiscal uncertainty in Annapolis and profound political volatility in Washington.”
In addition to endorsement, candidates are working to make their cases clear as to why they believe they are best suited for the county executive position.
State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy will be holding a Feb. 4 meeting at PJs Coffee in Bowie with Councilmember Wala Blegay (D- District 6), one of her early supporters.
State Senator Alonzo Washington (D) sent a mass text announcing his plans to increase community policing, expand childcare and pre-K, and improve the recently-passed senior tax credit. He also noted how his past experiences have helped shape his desire to improve the county he calls home.
“Prince George’s County gave me the opportunity to dream beyond my circumstances. From experiencing homelessness to leading the fight on the defining issues in my community, I know firsthand the power of opportunity—and I’m running to make sure every family in our county has access to the same chance to succeed,” the text read. “I believe pursuing equity isn’t just a moral issue - it’s a strategy for prosperity.”
WI
Sen.
5 Senator Angela Alsobrooks is pledging to defend Marylanders in her new role on Capitol Hill. (Courtesy Photo/Office of Senator Angela Alsobrooks)
Prince George’s County Local Updates
By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY PARTNERING WITH COLLEGE PARK ON LAKELAND REPARATIONS
PROPOSAL
The College Park City Council announced a nearly $150,000 contract with Columbia University to research and develop a plan over the next six months to redress grievances against the historic Lakeland community, a majority-Black community neighboring College Park.
Urban renewal projects in the 1970s and 1980s destroyed numerous family homes, displacing the majority of households in the area with few able to return.
“I think it’s a really great start,” said Lakeland Community Heritage Project founding chair Maxine Gross. “They’ll look into filling historical holes that they find, questions that the materials don’t answer and really look in some of those nooks and crannies for documentation that we just didn’t have access to.”
College Park Councimember
Susan Whitney (District 2) said she looks forward to the report in June, and Councilmember Llatetra Brown Esters (District 2) acknowledged it would be difficult to redress the community following past grievances. Nonetheless, Esters said she also looks forward to what the report will show.
“It is important that all people who live within this community feel like they matter and that they’re important,” said Esters. “It’s not enough to give things lip service. You have to follow it with action.”
WI MOORE
ANNOUNCES HARRY
COKER JR. AS NEW COMMERCE
SECRETARY
Governor Wes Moore (D) an-
nounced that he is nominating Harry Coker Jr. to serve as Commerce Secretary.
Having previously served as a lead cybersecurity advisor to President Joe Biden, Coker will be replacing Kevin Anderson, who will now serve as an advisor to Moore.
Coker, who also served as the executive director of the National Security Agency from 2017 to 2019, will serve on an interim basis until his Senate confirmation hearing.
“At the heart of our economic growth agenda is a commitment to investing in industries of the future — from cyber to quantum,” Moore said in a statement. “Harry Coker understands that mission and brings a wealth of experience working on the leading edge of the very sectors Maryland stands to win.”
Moore has highlighted data centers and state investment into technology as staples of his administration.
Ahead of his work with the governor, Anderson sent an outgoing memo.
“I am so very grateful for the tremendous opportunity to serve as Maryland’s Commerce Secretary for the past two years,” said Anderson. “I have been endlessly impressed with the work our agency does for the state and its economy.” WI
DELEGATE INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO BAN CELL PHONES FROM CLASSROOMS
Delegate Adrian Boafo (DDistrict 23) has introduced a bill that would require school systems across the state to develop cell phone policies by next school year.
"We’re letting all 24 jurisdictions figure out what works best for them in consultation with educators," Boafo said. "We’ve also included provisions for emergency and educational use."
PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY
serving as co-sponsors of the legislation.
Numerous educators support the bill as a way to reduce classroom distractions, while parents have raised the concern of emergency contact to their children.
Montgomery County has already implemented a cell phone ban during the school day, and Virginia recently implemented similar policies.
“The rise of cell phone use has negatively impacted the classroom environment. As a teacher I have witnessed how cell phones have become a distraction to learning. Cell phone chatter often spills over from social media, leading to fights and disruptions in the schools,” Prince George’s County Public Schools teacher Monica Roebuck told The
Informer.
“The school system provides technology to students by way of laptops and devices to complete projects and assignments,” Roebuck continued, “therefore cell phones are really not necessary in the learning environment and have become a distraction.” WI
4 The road sign denoting the historic Lakeland, a majority-Black community bordering College Park that was decimated by urban renewal policies in the 1970s and 1980s. (Courtesy Photo/University of Maryland’s Department of African American Studies
THE ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF AFRICAN AMERICAN L IFE AND HISTORY
THE ANNUAL
black historymonth luncheon
FEBRUARY 22, 2025
The bill has bipartisan support, with both Health and Government Operations Chair Del. Joseline Peña-Melnyk (D-District 21) and Baltimore County Delegate Nino Mangione (R- District 42)
22, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
LABOR
Greg Carr, Ebony McMorris, Mary Frances Berry, Marc Morial
BUSINESS
By James Wright / WI Staff Writer
HUBBARD BECOMES
D.C. CHAMBER CEO
The District of Columbia Chamber of Commerce announced on Jan. 21 that Chinyere Hubbard Hubbard will serve as its next president and CEO.
The chamber partnered with Impact Search Advisors by Nonprofit HR to lead a comprehensive executive search and successfully identify a dynamic leader for the pivotal role.
Hubbard is a native Washingtonian and brings a noted career of strategic leadership, public relations, advocacy, fundraising and board engagement across private, governmental and social sectors. Most recently, she served as chief marketing and strategic communications officer at the Greater Washington Partnership, an alliance of CEOs and C-suite executives across Maryland, Virginia and the District.
In this role, she gained deep insight into the region’s business ecosystem, which the chamber is dedicated to serving. Known for her ability to translate complex data into actionable strategies and build impactful partnerships, Hubbard is uniquely positioned to drive the chamber’s strategic direction, enhance its services and foster growth within the District’s business community.
“We are thrilled to have Chinyere join the D.C. Chamber of Commerce as its next leader,” said Earle “Chico” Horton III, chairman of the board. “Her commitment to innovation, member engagement, and advocating for the business community will position the D.C. Chamber for growth and to drive deeper impact as we work to create a more vibrant and thriving local economy here in the District.”
Lisa Brown Alexander, founder and CEO of Nonprofit HR, also praised the placement.
“Impact Search Advisors by Nonprofit HR is honored to have partnered with the D.C. Chamber
briefs
of Commerce to identify a leader of Chinyere’s caliber. Her extensive experience leading multidisciplinary teams and championing transformative purpose-driven initiatives positions her perfectly to advance the chamber’s mission and elevate its impact across the region,” Alexander said.
Hubbard’s previous role as senior vice president at Events DC allowed her to champion the District’s hospitality, sports and entertainment industries. She played an integral role in recovery marketing efforts to drive visitation back to the District post-pandemic.
Additionally, she was instrumental in transformative projects such as the opening of the Marriott Marquis hotel, Entertainment and Sports Arena, the Fields at RFK and the rebranding of Events DC, expanding its portfolio and elevating the District’s profile as a premier destination for conventions and events. Hubbard’s strategic leadership, community engagement and creative marketing were key to Events DC delivering significant economic impact for over a decade.
“I’m excited to amplify the D.C. Chamber’s impact as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation across our business community,” said Hubbard. “By fostering meaningful partnerships and creating new opportunities, we will ensure that businesses of every size can flourish and prosper in our dynamic economy.” WI
MLK FINANCIAL LITERACY PROGRAM
100 Black Men of Greater Washington, D.C. hosted an MLK financial freedom literacy workshop for 135 middle school and high school students, sponsored by Wells Fargo at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library on Jan. 18.
The event featured topics on financial goals for the new year, savings plans, money management,
5 Ben-James Brown, vice president and lead focus communities program manager for financial health at the Wells Fargo Foundation, speaks to participants of the 100 Black Men of Greater Washington D.C.’s Martin Luther King Jr. financial literacy program, held on Jan. 18 at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in Northwest. (Courtesy Photo/Wells Fargo Foundation)
creative ways to earn money and more. Speakers included BenJames Brown, vice president-lead of focus communities and program manager at Wells Fargo, Traci N. Horne, Sr., philanthropy and community impact specialist at Wells Fargo, and James Thompson, president of 100 Black Men of Greater Washington D.C.
“Financial education is vital, but it’s just one ingredient in the recipe for financial success,” Brown said in October 2024 about Wells Fargo’s financial literacy programming. “To truly thrive, individuals need access to opportunities, wealth building resources, and a supportive network that serves as the finishing touch to complete the meal.”
The students received a unique profile detailing their career, income, and family background.
They went through real-life scenarios, managing expenses such as clothing, groceries, college tuition, and transportation within a set budget.
This experience was led by the Wells Fargo’s Hands on Banking program, which is specifically designed to give young adults insights into navigating financial matters and overcoming challenges through thoughtful planning. During this interactive experience,
the topics were financial goals for the new year, savings plan, creative ways to earn money, managing money, monthly progress checkins, and reflection and motivation.
At an October event, Brown noted he hoped such events offer youth “the foundation for building awareness and habits that will nourish their long-term financial wellbeing.” WI
SURETY BOND TRAINING
The SBA Washington Metropolitan Area District office is co-hosting an in-person Surety Bond Training session with the Anacostia Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) on Jan. 31 from 1-4 pm.
The session will be held at the AEDC office: 1800 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20020.
The featured speaker, Peter Gibbs, founder of Foundation Surety and Insurance Solutions, will discuss all aspects of securing a surety bond or an SBA Surety Bond Guarantee. Foundation Surety is the premier surety bond agency in the U.S. specifically serving small businesses, including the underserved communities.
Barrington Jackson, COO of
Plenary Enterprises, Ray Miles, CEO of Fast Break GC, and John Garces, CEO of Hope Day will also share their experiences with SBA and Foundation Surety.
The event description on Eventbrite says: “Come prepared to ask questions, network with industry professionals, and leave feeling confident about incorporating surety bonds into your business strategy.”
For questions or comments, contact Lisa Avila at (202) 205-6538 or via email: lisa.avila@sba.gov. WI
DIVERSITY AMONG RESTAURANTEURS:
5 Chinyere Hubbard is the new president and CEO of the District of Columbia Chamber of Commerce. (Courtesy Photo/Nonprofit HR)
BUSINESS
American Airlines Faces Intense Scrutiny Over Customer Service and Discrimination Allegations
By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer
American Airlines continues to suffer a string of customer service problems, including severe charges of racial discrimination, sparking worldwide condemnation and a rethinking of its operational policies.
An incident on Jan. 17 involving passenger S.L.Brown, whose trip from New York’s JFK to Saint Marteen was abruptly canceled, again exposed these problems.
Brown’s contact with a customer service agent named “Sash,”who was described as “very nasty, very insensitive,” left her with no viable solutions.
Not only did Sash not give a refund or travel credit, but her handling of the situation forced Brown to arrange a costly same-day flight for her and her three children from LaGuardia Airport with Delta Airlines, incurring significant additional fees.
The instance with Brown and Sash points to deeper structural concerns within American Airlines, as indicated by the huge volume of complaints received. According to the Canadian Transportation Agency, American received 1.9 complaints
from Page 14
STUDY
The #1 Ranked Culinary School in the U.S., Escoffier, compiled data on restaurant industry demographics, focusing on ownership and workforce diversity.
The study aimed to provide a detailed view of minority and women ownership in the restaurant sector, as well as the demographic makeup of restaurant employees across racial, gender, age, and educational dimensions.
“Generally speaking, both restaurant owners and restaurant employees represent more diverse populations than the broader economy—though the details paint a slightly more complex picture,” according to the November 2024 report.
To find out about the diversity among restaurant industry
per 100 flights in the fourth quarter of 2023, with passengers regularly citing issues like unexpected cancellations, misplaced luggage, and inefficient customer service, which often exacerbates their travel delays.
In addition to Brown’s experience in which the traveler said she believed was in part racially motivated, the airline is facing serious claims of discrimination.
In a distressing lawsuit, retired Black police officer Anthony Williams and his white wife, Katsiaryna Shasholka, claim they were wrongfully accused of human trafficking by another passenger on their honeymoon flight from Phoenix to Miami. The couple was publicly escorted off the plane, detained, and subjected to humiliating scrutiny by airline staff without any credible evidence.
The experiences with Williams and his wife and Brown and her children suggest a possible trend of racial profiling by airline staff, as it is similar to another case involving artist David Ryan Harris, who was falsely accused of trafficking his mixed children.
American also has faced legal jeopardy because of its hiring and employment practices. Following a
owners and employees, Escoffier looked through industry demographics.
The study revealed:
• Forty-one percent of U.S. restaurants are minority-owned, surpassing the broader private sector average of 30%, with Asian ownership significantly overrepresented by 196.9%.
• Nearly half (47%) of all restaurants are owned by women, compared to 43% in the broader private sector, with states like Montana leading at 62%.
• Forty percent of restaurant employees are under 25, and 50% identify as part of a minority racial or ethnic group—significantly more diverse than the overall U.S. labor force.WI
@JamesWrightJr10
complaint by America First Legal, American Airlines was found to have violated federal anti-discrimination laws in its hiring practices. This has reportedly led to a mandated cessation of these practices after a federal investigation by the Department of Labor’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs.
Last year, the U.S. Transportation Department imposed a $50 million fine on American for failing to provide adequate assistance to passengers with disabilities, a record fine for such violations, which emphasizes the need for significant improvements in how the airline assists vulnerable passengers.
American Airlines claimed that it has maintained a commitment to enhance the travel experience for all its passengers. The airline said it continues to review complaints and allegations against it.
Transportation officials said the urgency for comprehensive policy and operational reforms remains high as the airline navigates through these legal and public relations challenges.
“The dignity of every passenger
5
that entrusts American Airlines with their travel must be affirmed,” stated the attorney for Williams. “This case is about much more than rectifying a single grievous wrong; it’s about addressing systemic issues that un-
dermine passenger trust and safety. Our efforts aim to ensure that no other individual or family undergoes such a distressing experience ever again.” WI @StacyBrownMedia
TWO RIVERS PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Facilities Management
Two Rivers PCS solicits proposals from facilities management companies to manage 4 buildings. To request a copy of the RFP, email Gail Williams at procurement@tworiverspcs.org. Proposals are due by February 28, 2025.
TWO RIVERS PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
HVAC Service Maintenance
Two Rivers PCS solicits proposals/price quotes from qualified, competent, knowledgeable, and experienced vendors to service HVAC Systems across 4 buildings. To request a copy of the RFP, email Gail Williams at procurement@tworiverspcs.org. Proposals are due by February 28, 2025.
American Airlines continues to suffer a string of customer service problems, including severe charges of racial discrimination. (Courtesy Photo)
BRIEFS
NATIONAL
Trump’s Actions on DEI Are an Attack on Black America
By Keith Boykin Word in Black
This article was originally published online with Word In Black, a collaboration of the nation's leading Black news publishers (of which The Informer is a member). “Black Vote, Black Power,” a collaboration between Keith Boykin and Word In Black, examines the issues and what’s at stake for Black America.
President Donald Trump has issued a new memorandum to carry out his Inauguration Day executive order eliminating federal diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) programs, by placing DEI employees on federal leave.
Trump’s action rescinds President Biden’s executive order from 2021, which sought to make the federal government “a model” for effective DEIA.
Trump’s order inaccurately describes DEIA as “radical,” “illegal,” and “immoral discrimination.” So let’s look at what the federal government’s DEI programs actually do.
FEDERAL DEI PROGRAMS SET GOALS IN EIGHT DIFFERENT AREAS.
1. Data collection, to give us a better understanding of who is and isn’t in the federal workforce
2. Paid Internships, which provide valuable opportunities and experience for people from underserved communities
3. Recruitment, so that the government doesn’t just hire the usual suspects but posts job announcements in places where other people can see them,
4. Professional development, so that once people are hired they
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2838 Bladensburg Rd. NE, Washington, DC 20018
5President Donald Trump’s order to eliminate diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) programs describes DEIA as “radical,” “illegal,” and “immoral discrimination.” (Courtesy Photo)
can continue to expand their skills and become better workers,
5. Fair treatment of people with disabilities, so that they can get a job and find appropriate accommodations,
6. LGBT fairness, so that spouses and families of LGBT employees get the same benefits as other families do,
7. Pay equity, to review government policies, hiring, and salaries to make sure that women and people of color aren’t being paid less to do the same jobs, and
8. Opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals, to review barriers so that qualified job applicants who have served their time get a fair shot to get a job.
These are not radical, illegal, or immoral ideas. These are calls to the highest principles of America, with the stated goal that “all employees are treated with dignity and respect.”
America’s Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 announced to the world that “all men are created equal,” but for the next 200 years, millions of Americans remained second-class citizens.
Black people were legally seg-
ington, D.C., and slash the federal workforce, which would leave thousands of Black people unemployed. All of this would constitute the most significant attack on Black public workers since Woodrow Wilson segregated the federal workforce in 1913.
Black people are overrepresented in the federal government because historically that was the one place where we did not face employment discrimination. I would not be here without federal DEI programs. My grandmother worked for HUD for 30 years in St. Louis, Missouri. My mom worked for the Department of Defense at the Sharpe Army Depot in Stockton, California, and Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas. This is personal to me.
But the impact of Trump’s attack will be felt far beyond the federal workforce. The federal government influences the private workforce by dictating rules for federal contractors and serving as a model for best practices for private employers. And some corporations are already rolling back their DEI initiatives.
regated, denied jobs, housing, and the right to vote until the late 1960s. Women couldn’t get a credit card in their own name until 1974. People with disabilities were locked out of the workplace until 1990. And gay and lesbian couples couldn’t marry the people they loved until just 10 years ago. Most of those changes happened in my lifetime.
What DEI policies do is acknowledge our history to create a fairer and more inclusive workplace that benefits everyone. I’m not sure Trump knows any of that history, but I do know that his actions are designed to be an attack on Black America. That’s why he also revoked Executive Order 11246 on affirmative action, which has been in place since 1965 in the civil rights era.
There’s a reason for this.
Black people were the least supportive racial or ethnic group for Donald Trump. We make up about 13.7% of the U.S. population but account for nearly 19% of federal workers. Nearly 400,000 Black people now work for the federal government. Trump’s DEI attack fits with his larger plans to move federal jobs out of Wash-
Because of Trump’s actions, not only will Black federal employees lose their jobs, but Black people in private companies will be laid off. After spending his 2024 campaign scaring Black people with racist lies that immigrants are taking “Black jobs,” Trump will end up being the one to take their jobs. By closing DEI offices, ordering the government to delete all websites about diversity, pardoning the January 6 insurrectionists, and paying restitution to (presumably) white people he calls victims of DEI, Trump is launching a radical campaign to promote white victimhood and erase America’s true racial history.
I have no hope that “moderate Republicans” or misinformed celebrities performing for Trump will use their influence to help Black Americans, people of color, or other groups that are targeted by these mean-spirited policies. These clout chasers seem only to aspire to personal adjacency to power.
So we must educate our own people, fight in the courts, the boardrooms, and the media when we can, and in the streets when we must, and resist his efforts to erase us as powerfully and constructively as we can. WI
As Attacks Against DEI Heighten, Costco and Apple Prove Inclusion Remains Good Business
By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer
Under President Donald Trump’s Project 2025, the administration has launched an unprecedented effort to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. Federal agencies are now prohibited from observing Black History Month, and employees involved in DEI initiatives have been terminated.
Critics argue these measures represent a full-on attack on marginalized communities and signal a clear directive for corporations to follow suit. Trump’s administration, which has no diversity in its ranks, has been accused of setting a dangerous precedent.
Some companies, however, remain committed to their DEI efforts. Organizations like Costco, JPMorgan Chase, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Apple continue to view diversity as a cornerstone of their workforce strategies,
refusing to back down despite mounting pressure from conservatives and the White House.
CORPORATIONS
HOLDING THE LINE
Costco’s board of directors recently rejected the National Center for Public Policy Research (NCPPR) proposal that sought to force the company to publish risks associated with its DEI programs or eliminate them entirely. The board reaffirmed the company’s commitment to inclusion ahead of a Jan. 23 shareholder vote.
“Our success at Costco Wholesale has been built on service to our critical stakeholders: employees, members, and suppliers,” the board said in a statement reported by Forbes. “Our efforts around diversity, equity, and inclusion follow our code of ethics. These efforts remind and reinforce with
January 31 – February 9
everyone at our company the importance of creating opportunities for all.”
JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon has also resisted calls to retreat from diversity programs.
“We will continue to reach out to the Black community, the Hispanic community, the veterans community, and LGBTQ. We have teams with second chance initiatives — governors in blue states and red states like what we do,” Dimon said in an interview with CNBC.
Apple’s leadership has similarly rejected proposals to scale back DEI, labeling such measures as attempts to “micromanage” the company’s operations.
The board stated, “The proposal is unnecessary as Apple already has a well-established compliance program,” as reported by Tech Xplore. Walmart, by contrast, joined corporations like Meta, McDon-
ald’s, Ford Motor Co., and Molson Coors in rolling back its DEI initiatives.
ADVOCATES WARN OF LONG-TERM CONSEQUENCES
Leaders in DEI initiatives continue challenging corporate rollbacks, warning of the harm such decisions could cause.
Tinisha Bookhart, co-founder and director of IT and DEI at Primary Talent Partners, described the move to abandon diversity programs as deeply troubling.
“When implemented correctly, DEI solutions aim to provide oppor-
3Companies like
a
tunities to qualified individuals who, due to conscious or unconscious bias, might not otherwise have them. Abandoning DEI altogether is a grave misstep that only serves to perpetuate existing disparities in the workforce,” she said.
In an interview with CWS 3.0, Omni Inclusive CEO Perry Charlton said corporations like Costco and Apple serve as shining examples of why DEI matters.
“Diversity in the contingent workforce is not just a moral imperative — it’s an essential driver of innovation, growth, and long-term success. Abandoning these efforts now undermines progress and jeopardizes the future of equitable work environments,” Charlton said. WI
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Costco, JPMorgan Chase, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Apple continue to view diversity as
cornerstone of their workforce strategies. (Courtesy Photo)
Miles Henderson Stands Out as Youth Nominee for Coveted UN Position
By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer
n Booklets
n Brochures
n Business Cards
n Banners
n Canvas Bags
n Color Copies
n Contracts & Vouchers
n Church Fans
n Fax & Scan n Programs
Postcards
Promotional Products n Posters & Signs n Tithe Envelopes n Tickets & Flyers n T-Shirts
Mugs & Glassware n Notary
Amid preparations for the fourth session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent (UN PFPAD), the search continues for a new core group member charged with amplifying Diasporic African voices of all ages via engagement with the UN’s Human Rights Council (HRC).
For nearly a month, Millennials and Gen Zers of the African diaspora have rallied around Pan-Africanist organizer and longtime PFPAD participant Miles Henderson as the ideal candidate for that position.
“We received more formal support letters sent to the HRC president… in recommendation of me being on the forum as a youth member,” said Henderson, 34, founder of the Pan-African collegiate platform known as True Culture University and leader of the youth subcommittee under PFPAD’s International Civil Society Working Group (ISCWG). “I’m thankful that everyone is seeing me as a voice that can represent the youth. The cultivation of experiences I had globally and the places I lived on the African continent and diaspora equip me with the ability to speak on Black issues globally.”
In addition to the launch of True Culture University, Henderson’s morethan-a decade career as a Pan-African youth organizer includes travels to Ghana, Kenya, Senegal and Ethiopia and his involvement in efforts to erect a bust of Marcus Mosiah Garvey in the African Union’s Addis Ababa headquarters. If selected as a PFPAD member, he will be replacing Chinese cultural researcher Hongjiang Huang and joining a body that currently includes: Howard University law professor Justin Hansford; Kenyan diplomat Martin Kimani; Colombian human rights activist Pastor Elías Murillo Martínez; former Costa Rican Vice President Epsy Campbell Barr; Egyptian diplomat Mona Omar; and St. Lucian diplomat June Soomer.
In his new role, Henderson would have direct contact with HRC, a UN intergovernmental body composed of nearly 50 countries that meets in Geneva to discuss the protection of human rights across the globe. He and his colleagues would also have direct
say in how to shape policy recommendations submitted at PFPAD’s annual sessions by civil society representatives, Afrodescendent groups, human rights and equity organizations, and UN specialized agencies.
Last year, during PFPAD’s third session at UN’s Geneva headquarters, Henderson led the ISCWG youth subcommittee in making a call for direct youth representation on the forum. Despite the subcommittee’s collection of 300 signatures and a speech by Henderson that sparked a standing ovation, the forum didn’t acquiesce to the subcommittee’s request for two seats on the forum for adult representatives under the age of 35.
Months later, Henderson acknowledges his nomination, and likely selection to PFPAD, as the fulfillment of a mission to give young people more of a direct influence in global affairs.
“We always emphasize the inclusion of youth voices. Not just [giving] opinions, but [having] the ability to represent and consolidate viewpoints of what youth are saying at the table,” Henderson told The Informer. “We're looking to identify the problem and be part of the solution [as] the ones closest to the emerging technologies and results of decisions made at PFPAD and other forums.”
A LONGTIME COLLEAGUE EXPRESSES SUPPORT FOR HENDERSON
The fourth session of PFPAD, scheduled to take place on April 1417 at UN headquarters in New York City, comes amid President Donald Trump’s return to the White House, and what advocates describe as ongoing threats to the rights of African people across the world.
For New York resident Jadayah Spencer, the upcoming session represents, yet another opportunity to authentically represent the wishes and desires of young people. As one of the longest-serving members of ICSWG’s youth subcommittee, Spencer said she can attest to the importance of her work with PFPAD.
“Our goal…is to see an improvement in the condition of our people around the world,” Spencer, a longtime colleague of Henderson, told The Informer. “It's an excellent place to learn about issues that affect us, and identify commonalities and actions so people could move with more unity.” Spencer, said upon Henderson being called to lead ICSWG’s youth subcommittee in 2021, he contacted her to join what eventually became a team of 30 young people.
At the time she accepted the call, Spencer was serving as International Youth Leadership Institute’s (IYLI) youth representative in the UN Department of Global Communications. She has since been on the frontlines with Henderson and others to ensure that young people can authentically participate in PFPAD.
As Spencer recounted, her latest act of service in that movement was joining the ICSWG youth sub-committee in submitting a letter on Henderson’s behalf to HRC.
“Knowing that the African continent is becoming younger over time, and is one of the youngest populations at this time, Miles is the ideal candidate because of his international experience and commitment to helping people of African descent and bringing us together,” said Spencer, who's currently IYLI’s executive director. “He recognized how crucial youth involvement is in uplifting the youth voice. It’s an urgent need at this moment, and he’s got the strategic acumen and character for it.”
WI
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
@SamPKCollins
5 Miles Henderson is vying to be a member of the UN’s Human Rights Council to amplify Diasporic African voices of all ages. (Courtesy Photo)
Social Security's Long-Term Challenges: What Must Be Considered
AARP DC State Office Reports
Americans pay into Social Security expecting to receive the money they've earned when they retire. However, the program faces a long-term financial challenge that must be addressed.
Today’s Social Security checks are paid for by the money that regularly comes out of workers' paychecks (they’re listed as “FICA” taxes) and the interest income on the money those payments have built up in the Security Trust Funds. For decades before 2021, Social Security collected more in FICA taxes and interest than it paid out, so it built up a surplus to help support the retirement of the “Baby Boomer” generation. Today, that surplus is being used to supplement incoming payroll tax income, but the Trust Funds will face a shortfall in 2035 according to current estimates. When that happens, Social Security will only be able to pay around 83% of the benefits you expect to receive. (If you want to know how much you can expect to get when you retire, go to SSA.gov to set up your own account).
When the Trust Funds run out of money, Congress can decide to cover the shortfall by raising taxes, cutting benefits or coming up with new funding sources. While any solution could contain any or all of these changes to the program, here is a brief list of some of the commonly discussed options Congress might consider:
• ELIMINATE OR RAISE THE WAGE CAP:
Social Security taxes are only paid on the first $168,600 of wage earnings in 2024. Any earnings above this amount are not subject
to the Social Security payroll tax. Various proposals would help close the shortfall by either removing this cap altogether or setting it higher so those with bigger paychecks pay a larger portion of their income into Social Security.
• INCREASE THE PAYROLL TAX RATE:
Employees and employers each pay a 6.2% payroll tax on the first $168,600 of annual wages to Social Security. This is part of the FICA tax on your paycheck. One way to help close the Social Security funding gap would be to increase the 6.2% payroll tax on all employees and employers.
• USE OTHER FUNDING:
By law, Social Security is largely self-funded, which means its funding comes from the Social Security payroll tax and Congress does not use “general revenues” – the money we pay in income and other taxes -- to pay Social Security benefits. Various proposals include: - using money from general revenues
- taxing other forms of income,
- creating a new fund to invest in the private market to help pay benefits as this new fund grows over time.
• RAISE THE FULL RETIREMENT AGE:
The current full retirement age is 67 years old for people who turn 62 in 2024. Many Americans are living and working longer. One option would raise the full retirement age to anywhere from 68-70. Most proposals to raise the age phase this change in over time and seek to protect those currently at or near retirement from any increase in the retirement age. Most proposals would keep the early claiming age of 62.
• REDUCE BENEFITS FOR THE UPPER
INCOME:
Social Security is set up so that while people with lower wages throughout their careers receive lower benefits, they get a larger amount of their contributions back in retirement than those with higher incomes. These are just some of the leading options regularly put forward. No single one of these options is expected to fix the Social Security shortfall.
Republicans and Democrats must work together to agree on a bipartisan package of options to protect benefits and address Social Security’s long-term financial challenge to ensure future generations get the money they've earned.
HEALTH
Nehemiah Project Respite Center Officially
Opens Its Doors
Local Recovery Advocates Bring
In-Patient Resources to Ward 7
By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter
With the new year, Ward 7 gained a viable resource toward the fight to lower substance abuse rates east of the Anacostia River, as Nehemiah Project DC— in collaboration with District recovery advocates— opened a long-awaited inpatient respite center on Jan. 1. The facility is dedicated to men grappling with drug addiction and offers hope and helpful services in a part of the District that is working to uplift residents, combat substance abuse and address health inequities.
Ralph Williams, founder of Nehemiah Project DC, along with Demetrius Jones, certified peer recovery specialist with DC Recovery Community Alliance and member of the Department of Behavioral Health Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission, are proud to spearhead the new facility. Their goal is to guide residents from a place of despair to a promising resurgence.
“We welcome and want [people] to come,” Williams told The Informer. “That’s the biggest part of growing and taking the next step [in one’s recovery]. They need to know that when they come here, they are stepping into a non-judgemental environment.”
Located on Sheriff Road Northeast, the eight-unit building includes two beds per dwelling, with a living room space and kitchenette, housing a maximum of 15 residents at a time. In addition, there is a staff-operated vehicle designated to transport residents back and forth to medical and other support
service appointments.
The 14-day program aims to sustain treatment for those self-medicating with illicit drugs, having around-the-clock access to peer recovery specialists to assist mental and emotional wellness, in-house chefs to provide nutritious meals throughout the day, and medical oversight to aid the detoxing process.
Residents are provided in-patient care for effectively 10 business days and two weekends, giving residents time to stabilize in the interim before moving into a drug rehabilitation center.
During the stay, occupants are connected to resources including housing options, job training, and support services from local organizations like Goodwill and the Salvation Army.
Jones, one of the Nehemiah Project’s lead peer recovery specialists, said he enjoys instilling faith in those struggling with addiction.
“I would say that it has been of the utmost importance, and one of the top priorities that I had in my life at this point, being able to have a [facility providing a] full continuum of care, full wrap-around services, with a no-nonsense type of approach to drug usage for individuals who have especially suffered from overdose,” Jones said.
MAKING CHANGE IN A CHALLENGED COMMUNITY
While drug addiction has plagued various communities across the District, the deadly opioid crisis has presented a staggering impact on local African Americans.
5 Nehemiah Project Respite Center prepares to house incoming residents for in-patient care. (Cleveland Nelson/The Washington Informer)
4 Demetrius Jones spearheads peer recovery specialist services for care recipients at the Nehemiah Project Respite Center. (Cleveland Nelson/The Washington Informer)
Predominantly Black neighborhoods within Wards 5, 7, and 8 experience the greatest number of overdose fatalities at 85% of all deaths due to opioid use.
While all genders of various ages are dying of opioid addiction, city statistics show African American men accounted for more than double the rate of fatalities suffered by Black women from 2017-2023, with between 70-77% of overdoses.
Environmental challenges, such as drug trafficking, high rates of single parenthood, and limited resources, paired with systemic prejudice, leave many community members struggling to balance their health and overall wellbeing .
William’s past incarceration and a successful 26 years of sobriety, along with Jones’ lengthy tenure of service and advocacy in the recovery space, inspired the center’s strategic program.
“Demetrius Jones and myself are experts who have been in the trenches. I’ve been in [their] position before,” Williams explained. “A lot of people don’t make it to treatment because they’re scared or just don’t know how to get in there.
That’s what we’re here for. We can get you ready to go.”
Their combined experiences have helped create a tightly-run program designed to relieve care recipients from the morbid trap of addiction.
“A lot of times people are not looking for respite housing, but safe spaces that allow opioid [or illicit drug] use in the facility. We decided that is not something we wanted for our community and our people— to be inside a place where people are administering fentanyl and having to be revived back and forth,” Jones told The Informer. “We want a safe space, but we want a safe space for people to get well and achieve their goals.”
Despite their expertise, Jones emphasized that the onus lies on
residents to be receptive to all the program offers and the possibility of turning their lives around for the better.
“At the end of the day, you have to want to be healthy and want to accept the resources [that will help you move forward],” Jones said.
The first year of the facility’s operations will reveal the center’s sustainability east of the Anacostia River.
Williams feels confident that the long-awaited respite center will make a significant difference for a community members in need.
“I am glad to see this come to pass,” Williams told The Informer. “One of the greatest issues we’ve had in the city is spending too much time talking about the issues but not doing something about it.” WI
What Can Prospective Homebuyers, Current Homeowners Expect from the Trump Administration
Project 2025, HUD Nominee Hints to a Challenging Four Years for Housing
By Zerline Hughes Spruill WI Staff
Now that the pomp and circumstance of inauguration has passed and Donald Trump is officially president of the United States, the American public is standing by on how he will approach a myriad of issues. At the top of the list of items awaiting Trump’s attention is housing, specifically issues around addressing nationwide homelessness, providing affordable housing and lower interest rates, and the need to close the racial housing gap, efforts that were prioritized under the Housing and Urban Development Department as instructed by President Joe Biden.
“There’s several other issues at play including Black women buying real estate, the fact that 2 million Black Americans are mortgage ready but aren’t pursuing buying a home, and then there’s the lack of inventory,” said Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose, president of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB). “That’s the thing Trump has talked about that is more encouraging. There’s always going to be mid-range homes out there, but when it comes to affordability, the more homes there are, the more we can afford. The less the supply is, the higher the price will be. That’s driving us out of the marketplace.”
While promises from the Kamala Harris-Tim Walz campaign platform created a lofty housing plan, it did, in fact, address the generational and racial homeownership gap and ensured first-time and first-generation home buyers could purchase homes with success and affordability. The plan also set out a timeline to create 3 million homes to address the housing inventory shortage.
While Trump didn’t lay out a housing plan during his campaign, Project 2025–the publication put out by the conservative Heritage Foundation authored by former Trump administration officials–called for the “improvement" of HUD by eliminating its Housing First policies that address homelessness for families, ending property appraisal equity initiatives, and slashing fair housing regulation that support equity.
Ironically, as a Texas lawmaker, Turner voted against local affordable housing bills and championed zoning efforts benefitting commercial interests.
As Turner awaits confirmation, Matthew Ammon, a career HUD official, will serve as acting secretary. Ammon served in the same role during the Biden-Harris administration, prior to Adrianne Todman taking over the acting secretary role in March 2024.
Todman, who spoke regularly with The Washington Informer, said last summer that HUD tracked $600 million in savings to those who used HUD products, due to reductions in FHA fees, mortgage insurance premium fees and upfront costs for prospective home buyers–many of whom were Black and Brown. At the close of the administration last week, HUD reported a total savings of $800 million for more than one million borrowers.
While a member of the Trump-Vance transition team told Newsweek “the cost of new homes will be cut in half, and President Trump will end the housing affordability crisis,” Trump did not mention in last Monday’s inauguration speech the current state of housing nor his efforts to solve the crisis.
Scott Turner is Trump’s pick to lead HUD. While the former Texas state representative and NFL cornerback who played in D.C. from 1995-1997 did acknowledge a housing crisis during his Senate hearing earlier this month, he said HUD failed at its mission, which under the Biden-Harris administration was to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all.
“President Biden made sure we prioritize equity and how we think about programs and rules,” said Todman last year, adding that $10 billion was earmarked in the 2025 budget to close the racial homeownership gap by helping a half million, first-generation prospective homeowners buy property. “He said we need to do everything we can to help first-time home buyers and first-generation home buyers–folks whose parents or grandparents didn’t own a home.”
At the close of the Biden-Harris administration, HUD published a fact sheet on its successes over the past four years which included investing nearly $5 billion in tribal communities; permanently housing or serving more than 1.2 million people experiencing homelessness; issuing more than 120,000 new housing vouchers over years, the most in any three-year period in 20 years; serving more than 5 million people in 2.5 million households in 2024; and driving near-record construction of 1.7 million new housing units built in 2022.
Todman also mentioned how helpful HUD’s partnership with NAREB is, a network of Black realtors who conduct research, advocate for, and educate communities around the nation on the landscape of home buying.“We have had a long relationship over the years with HUD and we want to, of course, continue that into the new administration,” said Rose. “If Mr. Turner is confirmed, we have already reached out to him with a letter. We gave references and links to our State of Housing of Black America report, our Women Investing in Real Estate white paper, our report on appraisal bias and heirs property. We are trying to get ahead before he gets confirmed so that he at least knows who we are and the type of data we produce and have. A great percentage of HUD staff should remain–people that have 10 to 20 years with HUD–and they will hopefully mention the work of NAREB. We are grateful there are folks like that who have built their careers there.”
WI
5Former HUD Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman last year during a press conference on the National Mall unveiling a new plan to increase the supply of housing.
5NAREB President Dr Courtney Johnson Rose “hopeful” her network of Black real estate brokers maintain its partnership with HUD in the new administration.
5Former Texas lawmaker and D.C. NFL cornerback Scott Turner awaits confirmation as HUD’s new Secretary.
EARTH OUR
By Zerline Hughes Spruill WI Staff
When Junel Jeffrey was a young girl raising money to participate in a beauty pageant, she started collecting cans to recycle them in exchange for cash. Her aim was to collect enough money to buy a gown to win a title and tiara, not to help save the environment.
However, today, the Eastland Gardens Washington, D.C. homeowner realizes that experience was just the start of her now 25-year commitment to recycling and composting.
“The first time I actually recy-
cled on purpose was when I got stationed in Germany in 2000. It’s the law of the land and it’s a way of life there–but when I first got there, it wasn’t a way of life for me,” said Jeffrey, a Howard University graduate and soldier in the Army. “My landlord came to me and said, ‘Ms. Jeffrey, you can’t mix your trash like that.’ I had to do it then and it just became my way of life.”
For Jeffrey, intentionally recycling and composting have proven to be rewarding experiences.
“Now that I have added composting, what I find is that when you take all the living things out
of your trash, your trash doesn’t smell,” she said. “I have not looked back.”
The District of Columbia Department of Public Works (DCDPW) is working to make both recycling and composting a way of life for D.C. renters and homeowners by enhancing its waste programs to divert 80% of waste from landfills and incineration by 2040.
In September 2023, DCDPW rolled out a 12-month pilot curbside composting program in the District, initially planning to enroll 1,500 single-family households per ward or 12,000 residences to test food waste collection. Participants were provided with a free five-gallon bucket and 1.9-gallon kitchen caddy to place food scraps in for weekly pick up at their curb.
“D.C. gives you the full compost kit, including the bags to use, plus they give us back five pounds of compost to plant with,” said Jeffrey. “Food, vegetables, meat, leftovers I don’t use, I put them in the compost bin and scrape them into the bag. Once full, I put it in the container that D.C. gives and close it shut. I had about 11 people over for Thanksgiving, and after my dinner, I didn’t have much trash because it all went into the compost bucket.”
From September 2023 to November 2024, the Food Waste
Collection program collected 2.6 million pounds or 1,300 tons of compost. Of that amount, 110 tons were collected in Ward 7, and 38 tons in Ward 8, according to DCDPW.
No longer in an experimental stage, the program has transitioned into a robust Food Waste Collection program and is looking to attract more residents in more predominantly African American areas (such as Wards 5, 7 and 8) to participate following the pilot.
“We didn’t get the same level of participation from Wards 7 and 8,” said Office of Waste Diversion Program Manager John Johnson III. “Ward 7 had 10% of those enrolled in the pilot, roughly 900 households, while 3% were in Ward 8. One of the things we’re doing to increase enrollment from Wards 5, 7 and 8 is to provide opportunities for folks who do want to enroll by prioritizing one of the 200 slots we have from folks who have moved or opted out of continuing following the pilot.”
BENEFITS OF RECYCLING AND COMPOSTING
Recycling was also mandatory when Jeffrey was stationed in Italy and Korea, so by the time she returned to the U.S., she was completely on the wagon to reduce,
recycle and reuse.
When she purchased her Ward 7 home in 2019, she added composting to her routine and immediately began recruiting others to recycle and opt in to the District’s free composting to decrease trash, rodents and dependence on energy.
“I don’t see why people aren’t hopping in on this,” said Jeffrey. “Racoons? I never have those problems. They go in our trash cans and what they want is no longer in there, so they move on.”
Plus, for Jeffrey, there are economic benefits to recycling and composting.
”You also save so much money on trash bags. The only things that go in my trash are things that are not recyclable–stuff that I clean my face with like cotton swabs, dirt from when I sweep the kitchen, and anything I clean with,” she told The Informer. “Other than that, everything else is divided between the compost bin and the recycle bin.”
MORE TECHNOLOGY, LESS TRASH
Starting in February, the D.C. Department of Public Works plans to install three to four smart composting bins throughout each ward. The bins will allow for res-
of Deanwood. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)
COMPOSTING from Page 22
idents to participate in food waste drop off 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Activated by bluetooth technology, the bin opens automatically for residents to add food scraps.
“This is an intentional effort that we want people to opt in to,” said Johnson.
He also noted the new bins are convenient to those who don’t want composting buckets at their homes, and residents who are unable to do curbside composting because they live in apartments or condos.
“There is a keypad option for those who don’t have smartphones. This quadruples the number of food waste drop off points,” Johnson explained.
The waste diversion program manager also noted that the ability for residents to drop off food scraps 24 hours a day is an added convenience, compared to the current weekend and farmers market drop off points that exist under the District’s programs.
Further, Johnson said the technology of the new bins prevent rodents from entering the unit because it cannot be left open like a trashcan, and it reduces contamination.
Residents can still drop off compost at certain farmers markets throughout the city, in addition to the compost site in Deanwood in Ward 7, and Sycamore and Oak in Ward 8. In addition, DCDPW is hosting environmentally con-
scious programming for residents including the electronic collection waste program at RFK stadium on Feb. 1 and the Christmas tree mulch program’s final pick up for residences will be on Feb. 28.
Long-time Ward 7 senior resident and environmental advocate Zandra Chestnut is part of the curbside compost program and also visits the drop-off point on Saturdays across the street from First Baptist Church of Deanwood.
As a 10-year composter who recently cultivated a heap in her yard to create a crop of homegrown tomatoes, Chestnut said DCDPW’s composting techniques are not traditional but she’s still happy the effort is being prioritized.
“Their composting is different from mine, because I don’t put meat in mine; I just put in vegetables, egg shells, items like that,” said Chestnut, whose neighbors on each side of her also compost.
Chestnut told The Informer she’s looking forward to the rollout of the bluetooth bins because she’s concerned about unsanitary conditions when dropping off food scraps.
“They do not have hand sanitizer to make people feel comfortable after they come to dump their stuff,” Chestnut said. “You go from the bins to your car steering wheel. That new container will make me feel a lot safer.”
To learn more about existing food drop-off sites and how to recycle and compost zerowaste.dc.gov. WI
Connect to Black Brilliance and Resilience in Nature!
5Ward 7 resident Junel Jeffrey adding food waste into her outdoor bin that was provided by Compost DC: Food Waste Collection program. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)
5Ward 7 resident Junel Jeffrey preparing her weekly groceries and disposing the food waste into her indoor compost bin. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)
EDUCATION
SUMMER YOUTH EMPLOYMENT from Page 1
employees. She noted parallels between the six-week program and financial literacy standards that the Office of the State Superintendent of Education finalized in collaboration with D.C. State Board of Education (SBOE).
“Our program is slightly different but there are components of the standards, including banking, saving and budgeting,” Morris-Hughes told The Informer at the end of an event commemorating the launch of the 2025 MYSYEP application portal and the summer youth employment program’s 46th anniversary.
On Jan. 27, Morris-Hughes joined D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D), D.C. Federal Credit Union President and CEO Sybil Bogans, DJ EZ Street, and several dozen District public and public charter school students at the innovative art space known as ARTECHOUSE.
That’s where they celebrated the latest additions to MBSYEP offerings, and took stock of how the summer youth employment program has grown during Bowser’s decade-long mayoralty.
Youth between the ages of 16 and 18 who participate in DOES’ Pathways to Finance Grant gain internship experience in accounting, economics, international finance, and risk management for six weeks before shadowing finance students and professionals during trips to various universities and institutions across the country. This program builds upon the Office of the Comptroller’s Currency High School, through which rising high school seniors accumulate banking supervision experience while financial industry services career paths.
The Pathways to Finance Grant and Career Ready Early Scholars Program, a college-preparation program for middle school youth
between the ages of 9 and 13, follows the Bowser administration’s expansion of summer job age eligibility, and a slight increase in hourly compensation for the eldest group summer job participants. It also builds upon the Bowser administration’s 2015 renaming of the summer youth employment program in honor of late D.C. Mayor Marion Barry and a total investment of $2.2 million into the Mayor’s Opportunity Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarships for high school graduates pursuing postsecondary education, occupational training, and military service.
With a bevy of opportunities and resources for young people, Morris-Hughes stressed the importance of MBSYEP participants learning and practicing financial maturity.
One of her suggestions focused on avoidance of check cashing establishments and other traps laid out for unbanked consumers.
“It's always been important, which is why we encourage young people to get direct deposits,” Morris-Hughes said. “We decided to partner with D.C. Credit Union. That's a low-fee, non-custodial account for life.”
BUDGET QUESTIONS, AND A FOCUS ON LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS
Students have until March 6 to apply for MBSYEP, while prospective partner institutions can register as a job site by June 1. Last year, 12,000 District students -- more than half of whom live in Wards 7 and 8 -- developed their skill sets and filled their pockets at more than 700 job public and private sector MBSYEP job sites across the District.
This year’s MBSYEP launch centered on the theme of budgeting, a topic of relevance as D.C. council members, agency heads,
residents and advocates gear up for Fiscal Year 2026 budget deliberations. A week prior to the event at ARTECHOUSE, high school students reflected on their budget priorities at a town hall attended by a cohort of D.C. Council and SBOE representatives.
Some of the high school students who spent time with Morris-Hughes and Bowser on Jan. 27 engaged in a similar activity. A couple of young people stood before their peers and allocated the imaginary “Bowser Bucks” given to them to fund healthcare, housing and education resources in the District.
Minutes earlier, a trio of young leaders, led by Banneker Academic High School student and D.C. youth co-mayor Tatum Michael Alexis Primas, engaged Morris-Hughes and Bowser in conversation about youth employment and aspects of the D.C. budget.
During this portion of the program, Bowser emphasized the importance of young people preparing for a future in which they have to support themselves.
“Young people… start thinking about what [assignment] you want to get,” Bowser told the youthfilled audience. “Start thinking about what you want to do when it comes time to match up to different opportunities. You can take some responsibility for those six weeks you spend with us.”
Later, Bowser, in response to student interviewer Cydney Rob-
erts’ question about D.C.’s school nurse shortage, touted the Advanced Technical Center, yearround internship programs, and career and technical education curricula in District public and public charter schools as part of a long-term solution to bridge the personnel gap and foster student academic achievement.
“You have to be good at science and math with interpersonal skills -- all skills are important to being successful,” Bowser told Cydney on Jan. 27. “As young people make decisions about college and career, how we think about high school has changed. We want all kids to get an internship or join a school with a health focus [so] by the time you get to high school you would’ve gotten some exposure.”
YOUNG PEOPLE REFLECT ON HARD-EARNED OPPORTUNITIES
Other speakers at the MBSYEP application launch event included Bogans, DJ EZ Street and Diane Yomkil, a DOES employee with firsthand knowledge of MBSYEP's impact.
A decade ago, Yomkil, a Cameroonian immigrant and Ward 8 resident, secured an opportunity through MBSYEP to earn college credit while spending time at a private university in Boston. The experience, she said, laid the foundation for her acquisition of the
Mayor’s Opportunity Scholarship, college matriculation, and work as a liaison in the DOES’ Global Kids Program.
“I had the incredible opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school but that was just the beginning,” said Yomkil, an alumna of Manhattan College in Bronx, New York City. “Over the next two summers, I continued with MBSYEP, working as an intern in the Global Kids Program. This program [MBSYEP] didn’t just give me my first job in America, which meant the world to me…., it also opened doors to further my education.”
Cydney, a student at Washington Latin Public Charter School in Northwest with aspirations of becoming a nurse, also extolled MBSYEP as a program fitting for young go-getters, and even those, like herself, who needed a little more prodding to nurture their leadership potential.
“I learned how to step up and take initiative,” Cydney, whose MBSYEP experience includes a cosmetology internship and participation in a youth leadership program at Catholic University of America in Northeast. “When I get out of my shell to take advantage of opportunities around me, I become a better version of myself. I want people to take advantage of the program. They have to understand that it opens doors for opportunities.” WI
@SamPKCollins
5 This year’s Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program (MBSYEP) explores careers in the financial sector and emphasizes financial maturity for all participants. (Courtesy Photo/Executive Office of the Mayor)
Private, Public Schools in D.C. Shows Racial Disparity
By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer
In the District of Columbia, the racial composition of students in private schools differs significantly from that in public schools, according to a comprehensive database released by ProPublica. The detailed analysis has revealed a higher prevalence of white students in private institutions than their public counterparts.
For example, Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School, a Roman Catholic institution for grades 9-12 in Northwest, has 59% white students among its 509 enrollees. Similarly, Blessed Sacrament School in Northwest reports that 68% of its students are white. The percentages are considerably higher than the District’s public schools, where white students make up only 39% of the enrollment.
“White parents will NEVER allow their kids to go to school with Black kids,” one social media user wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter), in response to The Washington Informer’s article on the ProPublica report.
The British International School of Washington and the Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School of the Nation’s Capital in Northwest have even higher proportions, with white students accounting for 73% and 79% of their populations, respectively.
Other private schools show similar trends. St. John’s College High School, also in Northwest, has 41% white students among 1,279 enrolled, while Sidwell Friends School has a white student population of 29% out of 1,120. The Field School and Edmund Burke School report 63% and 42% white populations, respectively, indicating a widespread pattern
across various private educational settings.
The ProPublica database includes data on 65 private schools in D.C. that responded to at least one of the past three Private School Universe Surveys. It details the religious orientation and types of schools, showing diverse affiliations from Roman Catholic to nonsectarian and from regular elementary or secondary schools to those specializing in Montessori and special education.
Despite the variety in educational focus and mission across these schools, the high percentages of white students highlight significant accessibility and inclusivity issues within the private education sector. Notably, some schools like Archbishop Carroll High School and St. Augustine Catholic School, which have larger Black student populations—12% white at Archbishop Carroll and 20% at St. Augustine—illustrate that racial composition can vary notably among private institutions.
The database also provides additional context, such as the number
of teachers and the founding years of the schools. For instance, Sidwell Friends School, established in 1883, employs 139 teachers, indicating a well-supported educational environment.
By making this data accessible, ProPublica hopes to contribute to ongoing discussions around educa-
tional equity and reform. Researchers said the information enables policymakers, educators, and the community to address the disparities in access to educational opportunities to ensure that private education is equitable across all racial demographics in Washington, D.C. WI @StacyBrownMedia
5 She racial composition of students in private schools differs significantly from that in public schools, according to a comprehensive database released by ProPublica. (Courtesy Photo/Arthur Krijgsman on Pexels.com)
Energy, Actually
By popular demand, Washington Gas is sharing the holiday LinkedIn post from President Blue Jenkins. The coming year will be an exciting chance for collaboration and putting real-world energy principles into action to serve our DMV communities.
Submitted by Washington Gas
If you regularly read my LinkedIn posts and articles—and thank you for that!—you might have noticed that energy and its place in our lives is always on my mind.
To paraphrase a holiday quote so famous that I know it without having seen the movie, “If you look for it, I’ve got a sneaky feeling energy, actually, is all around.”
For example, right here in my office is a Newton’s Cradle, and watching it move is a metaphor in motion. The laws that govern energy, from the quantum realm to utilities infrastructure, are all encapsulated in one elegant toy. Whether it is the goal of perfect conservation or the sneaky theft of friction, some of the most powerful principles in the Universe are in play on my desktop.
Consider the law of the Conservation of Momentum, which states that momentum inside a closed system stays constant unless an external force acts upon it. That’s why the motion of one ball transfers seamlessly through the others, moving the last ball with nearly the same momentum.
In everyday life, momentum ensures smooth energy flow, encompassing everything from natural gas pipelines to electric power grids. Thoughtful policies and partnerships across sectors help maintain progress and ensure we produce reliable supplies to meet growing global demand.
AI data centers illustrate this trend well, creating massive demand for their functions. In everyday terms, ChatGPT’s annual consumption is projected to reach 226.8 GWh per year, enough to fully charge about 95% of the electric vehicles currently in the United States. Natural gas helps maintain the momentum of our interconnected systems by providing consistent energy when
other sources may fluctuate.
Simply stated, the Conservation of Energy principle tells us that energy is never created or destroyed but only changes in form. When you lift the first ball on Newton’s Cradle and let it drop, that force transforms from potential to kinetic energy and transfers efficiently to the next sphere.
Robust systems depend on conserving resources, and innovations like Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems are a great example of this principle. Using a single fuel source like natural gas, CHP generates electricity and thermal energy, maximizing utilization by up to 95%. This approach improves efficiency and reliability, keeping operations running even during unexpected interruptions.
When you think of steel, you may not think of Elasticity, but that is actually a key trait of Newton’s Cradle. An object returns to its original shape after being stretched or compressed, minimizing energy loss during sphere collision. No material can return 100% of its energy because some of it is lost over time as heat and sound.
Elasticity isn’t just a desk toy concept; it's something we see daily within our utility systems. One instance is when natural gas is readily available during demand surges, helping power critical facilities like hospitals. Adaptive technologies can help make our energy systems more resilient and respond dynamically to evolving needs.
If I have a favorite energy principle, it’s probably Synergy: the combined effect that makes a whole system greater than the sum of its parts. In the case of Newton’s Cradle, each ball depends on all the others to keep the motion going.
Synergy is at the core of modern energy systems, which perform best when diverse sources—natural gas, electricity, wind, solar, and other emerging technologies—work together. A strong, interconnected ap-
proach supports safety and affordability, especially as global demands spike. This principle also lies at the heart of assistance programs to help those experiencing utility energy insecurity, especially within underserved communities.
While synergy shows us what is possible when everything aligns, friction reminds us of challenges that can disrupt progress. Newton’s Cradle would swing and sway forever in a world of perfect conservation. In reality, resistance at critical pivot points and during sphere collisions gradually slows and stops forward motion.
Friction shows up differently across our utility systems: inefficiencies, outdated infrastructure, regulatory hurdles, competing priorities, and occasional misinformation. While different perspectives are positive and lead to greater strength, misaligned resistance can waste valuable time and resources, create needless tension, and slow progress. But there is good news here. As president of Washington Gas, I see firsthand how my colleagues across all industries work together to un-
lock the full potential of industry-wide synergy. We know perfection doesn’t exist, but it’s within our power to resolve issues together and keep innovation moving forward.
This matters tremendously because energy isn’t a one-sizefits-all proposition. Empowering families and businesses with robust choices is the right thing to do and the smart path forward to help build resilient communities.
Universal energy fundamentals connect us all, from powering our individual homes to meeting massive global demand. That principle of scale is why all Newton’s Cradles function the same, from gigantic
editions with 250-pound spheres to their quantum cousins. Whether it’s invisible electrons, metallic spheres, or sprawling energy systems, synergy, momentum, and efficiency are always at work around us.
I’m excited for 2025 and ready to participate in collaborative, real-world principles in action. They remind me of what matters most: making sure that energy flows smoothly and reliably to power the lives of the communities we serve.
Like the red ribbon on my team’s gift, this post wraps up 2024 with a bow. Wishing all of you a Happy New Year!
Bishop Budde Bravely Pleads with President Trump to Show Mercy, We Should All Be Inspired by Her Courage
Recently, the Rt. Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, the Episcopal Bishop of the Diocese of Washington, D.C., rattled President Donald J. Trump after directly addressing him during her sermon at the National Prayer Service on Jan. 21.
“Mr. President, millions of people have put their trust in you, and as you told the nation yesterday, you have felt the provisional hand of a loving God. I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now,” Budde said from the pulpit of the National Cathedral. “There are gay, lesbian, and transgender children in Democratic, Republican, and independent families, some who fear for their lives."
In a gracious, loving and honest tone, Budde referenced his plans for mass deportations.
“The vast majority of immigrants are not criminals." She called them “good neighbors” and “faithful members” of religious communities.
Trump was not as gracious in responding.
“The so-called bishop who spoke at the National Prayer Service was a radical Left hard-line Trump-hater. She brought her church into the world of politics in a very ungracious way,” said the president, adding that her service was “uninspiring,” “nasty in tone, and not compelling or smart.”
“She is not very good at her job,” Trump concluded. “She and her church owe the public an apology.”
Since 2011, Bishop Budde is the first woman to serve as the spiritual advisor leader here. Before coming to Washington, she was the rector of a parish in Minneapolis for two decades.
After winning an election against other priests, Budde was elected, ordained and consecrated to lead the Episcopal Diocese in the nation’s capital. Moreover, shouldn’t it be the position of any religious leader to speak of love and compassion for all? Isn’t compassion at the core of most religions worldwide?
Bishop Budde concluded her sermon by reminding us that unity requires honesty, humility, and recognition of the dignity of all humans by “refusing to mock, discount, or demonize.”
Based on Trump’s reaction, her pleas fell on deaf ears with him.
However, that does not mean we must ignore Budde’s words and fail to recognize the “dignity of all humans.”
Just as Bishop Budde did not apologize “for asking for mercy for others,” neither should we. WI
Family of Karon Hylton-Brown Deserves a Call from Trump After Pardoning the Two Police Officers Convicted for Their Role in His Death
After his inauguration, President Donald Trump suggested he might pardon the two Metropolitan Police Department officers convicted for their roles in the deadly chase of Karon Hylton-Brown, 20, in October 2020.
However, as the case against Officer Terence Sutton and Lieutenant Andrew Zabavsky, who supervised Sutton, seemed to be outside of the norm of conditions leading to a president’s use of pardon power, many doubted that Trump would make good on his
I really enjoyed the MLK special issue. Read ing the paper reminded me of the old days when you could touch, fold, and keep what you read. This is one of the many reasons physical newspapers are so important, especially ones that serve our communities and preserve our history.
Kraig Watson Washington, D.C.
promise. After all, both officers had already been free since last September, pending the outcome of their appeals.
Then, it happened. Keeping in line with a phrase from his victory speech following the 2024 election, “promise made, promise kept,” Trump, admittedly without knowing the full details behind the case, issued a full and unconditional pardon on Jan. 22 to the two police officers.
One day before announcing the pardon, Trump told the press:
“They were arrested, put in jail for
five years because they went after an illegal. And I guess something happened where something went wrong, and they arrested the two officers and put them in jail for going after a criminal,” he said.
But Mr. Trump, Hylton-Brown was not an illegal nor was he a criminal.
It gets worse.
According to prosecutors, after Hylton-Brown, who was driving a moped without a helmet on a sidewalk “at unreasonable speeds,” was struck by another vehicle during which he sustained life-threatening injuries, the officers allowed the driver who struck him to leave the scene.
TO THE EDITOR
I applaud Joe Biden for pardoning Marcus Garvey posthumously before leaving the White House. With the news, I hope more people will research Garvey and his impact on Black history and culture and why this pardon matters. That’s all for now.
Roshaun Levitt Hyattsville, Md.
They then turned off their body cameras, conferred privately and left the crash site. Later, they implied that Hylton-Brown had been drunk and drafted a false police report. More questionable actions allegedly would follow.
U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves said after the officers were sentenced: “Crimes like this erode [public] trust and are a disservice to the community and the thousands of officers who work incredibly hard, within the bounds of the Constitution, to keep us safe.”
After the pardons, David Shurtz, an attorney representing Hylton-Brown’s estate, called Trump’s decision “outra-
geous” and “misguided.”
Further Karen Hylton, HyltonBrown’s mother, alleges that she sent a letter to the president expressing her belief that racism played a role in her son’s death, and asking Trump to review the case before making his decision.
From his cursory comments to the press, Trump did not review the case. If he did, the presidential thing to do, we believe, would have been to at least reply to Ms. Hylton – a mother still in mourning.
If justice is really what the president was after, he might want to rethink this one.
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OPINIONS/EDITORIALS
Guest Columnist
Joy and Pain
a "drum major for justice," and his harsh criticism of church hypocrisy in the "Letter From a Birmingham Jail."
For Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday commemoration to be recognized the same day that King's very antithesis was inaugurated into the presidency brings Frankie Beverly's song "Joy and Pain" to mind.
We always experience joy at the very thought of King–his brilliance, his courage, his resilience. We are reminded of his self-description as
From his Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech: "I have the audacity to believe that people everywhere can have three meals a day for their bodies, education and culture of their minds, dignity, equality and freedom for their spirits." King once described himself, in a letter to his wife, Coretta, as "a socialist" because he cared about economic justice and distribution issues. In one speech, he thundered, "If the world is two-thirds water, why do we pay water
Commutations Cement
"American communities, disproportionately Black and brown, have long borne the scars of the drug war. Extreme and racist sentences for crack cocaine offenses tore apart families. Children grew up visiting their parents behind bars. Those parents are now elders, yearning to hold their grandchildren. Justice is served by allowing these individuals to return home. Their debt to society was long ago
The Rt. Rev. Mariann Budde is a woman of power. Budde is the first woman to lead the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, a position she's held since 2011. As bishop, she oversees 86 churches across Washington, D.C., and Maryland, with 38,000 members. She is a bold woman who knows how to use the power of her position, as demonstrated in her sermon during
bills?"
The current president, in contrast, has surrounded himself with oligarchs and predatory capitalists, industrial titans who already have billions of dollars of government contracts who aspire to get even more. Putting them in leadership is akin to placing the fox as the overseer of the henhouse, then hoping there will be chickens left when you return. The joy of our MLK celebration was dampened by the current state of national politics and by the realized promises of the 47th president.
The 47th president said he would
Marc H.
pardon the Jan. 6 disruptors and terrorists, and he did, even excusing those who assaulted police officers, even though he campaigned with police support. The accounts of Harry Dunn and Aquilino Gonell, two Capitol Police officers who were attacked and eventually left their jobs, are harrowing. Both are angered by the Republican members of Congress who have kowtowed to the 47th president to the point that they have forgotten that Capitol Police officers saved their lives. About 140 officers were assaulted, beaten, sprayed. Several died from
the stress. This seems to be acceptable to the current Republican administration. Joy and pain.
It is amusing or pathetic, whichever you prefer, to hear Republicans attempt to redefine reality. There was no insurrection, says the 47th president, just a protest that happened "out of love." Where is the love for a man like Gonell, who served in Afghanistan, says he loves our country, yet experienced two or more surgeries from the Jan. 6 physical attack? The people who
MALVEAUX Page 49
Biden's Legacy as a Champion of Justice and Racial Reconciliation
— Kara Gotsch, executive director of The Sentencing Project
Chief Justice John Marshall described a presidential grant of clemency as an "act of grace." The president's constitutional power to grant pardons and reprieves descends from the "prerogative of mercy" of English law.
Few acts of clemency exemplify the ideals of grace and mercy more fully than former President Joe Biden's historic commutation of the sentences of almost 2,500 people convicted of nonviolent drug offenses.
It was the largest single-day commutation in U.S. history, coming less than a month after another historic act of clemency–sparing the lives o clemency, sparing the lives of 37 people sentenced to death in federal courts. Together, these commutations have cemented President Biden's legacy as a champion of justice, civil rights and racial reconciliation.
The commutations of drug sentences address a shortcoming in the First Step Act, which the National Urban League has advocated for years to repair. Too many people have been
incarcerated for too long based on outdated and racist sentencing laws.
Black men especially have suffered under our current sentencing regime that still charges crack cocaine offenses 18 times more harshly than powder cocaine at the federal level.
The National Urban League and our partners in the civil rights community have worked tirelessly to close the gaps in our drug sentencing laws.
In November, the leaders of the eight legacy civil rights organizations wrote a letter to President Biden asking to remedy the extensive harm done to
Black and brown communities caused by the war on drugs through commutations, and he delivered.
Further, the death penalty has ensnared hundreds of innocent defendants. The National Urban League has long opposed the death penalty in all cases. The death penalty has proven to be wildly discriminatory in every aspect. This is true in the federal system, just as in the states.
In his commutation order, President Biden acknowledged the racially
the inaugural prayer service.
The traditional service at the Washington National Cathedral became the perfect opportunity to publicly speak truth to power. As she made her plea directly to the newly inaugurated president to accept the Christian values of mercy and compassion, it was done in a respectful and soft-spoken manner. Her nonconfrontational words were a Christian message delivered in a politically divided public setting. While her biblically based message was inspiring and encouraging to many people, others became annoyed and even of-
fended by her compassionate sermon. Trump did not acknowledge her when she passed him after the service. He later called Budde a "Radical Left hard line Trump hater" on his Truth Social site and demanded an apology for "her inappropriate statements."
Conservative evangelicals are among President Trump's strongest supporters, and they have now become Budde's loudest critics. Robert Jeffress, the pastor of First Baptist Church of Dallas and a Fox News contributor, attended the service and posted a message on X stating that
Budde "insulted rather than encouraged our great president" and "there was palpable disgust in the audience with her words."
The response from Jeffress is disappointing because it comes from a clergyman, but not surprising because it comes from a Trump-supporting clergyman. His defense of "our great president" is pure idolatry by continuing to worship an unjust man who refused to place his hand on the Bible when taking the oath of office. Jeffress' response reflects a man who has chosen the ideas and thoughts of his personal
cultural war views over the basic biblical teaching of "love thy neighbor." It also reflects the deep divisions between conservative and progressive Christians. Budde addressed her remarks to Trump, but the message was for everyone who shared his views.
Referencing the "palpable disgust" in the audience means her words deeply hit home. Particularly with those Christians who, at one time, may have accepted Jesus Christ as savior but who have consistently rejected
paid."
Morial
David W. Marshall
Having No Fear of Trump
Julianne Malveaux
Guest Columnist
Guest Columnist
Otherwise Good People Often Disappoint Us
Sometimes we get so accustomed to appreciating the goodness of people that we overlook their shortcomings. Many of us worked hard and donated more than we could afford to support the campaign of Vice President Kamala Harris. We were appreciative of President Joe Biden when he dropped out of the presidential
race to give our highly qualified sister Harris the opportunity to run for the office. We were disappointed when we didn't see many people we had supported in the past. Some of us went beyond our means working to elect Vice President Harris.
As much as some of us loved and supported President Biden, we were grateful when he gave her the opportunity to run, but we were disappointed when many others we'd supported didn't show up or hardly showed up for her when
she worked so hard and ran circles around her opponent. She made us proud! As the campaign moved along, many seemed willing to go only so far. We began seeing that when Biden had the ability to step down with just a few days left in office to allow her to become president. We could call her Madam President for just a little while to show our appreciation for her accepting the challenge of the great work she did in the campaign, but he didn't do that.
Then we began hearing the neg-
ative stories about how the Bidens really felt and we were hearing what sounded like regrets. One notable thing we heard was that Biden said he could have beaten Trump, implying that Harris didn't conduct a good enough campaign. Then the rumor of what Mrs. Biden thought about Harris began. True or not, they never corrected the rumors. Many of us stuck with Biden even when he allowed Netanyahu to take advantage of him with our tax dollars.
We know, without a doubt, he
was miles better than the man who took over on Jan. 20. He knew what would happen once he left without a pardon for Jesse Jackson Jr., who has paid his debt to society and has been doing great things to make up for his mistake, but Biden denied a pardon for Jackson knowing Trump has no plans to do so.
Another case he left on the table was that of attorney Marilyn Mosby, a brilliant former prose-
During Times of Change, It is Communities That Power Nonprofits to Stabilize and Thrive
profits have played a pivotal role throughout history in addressing societal needs and serving as stabilizing forces during times of transition.
As we finish out this first month of 2025, nonprofit leaders across the country like me are thinking about what lies ahead.
Changes in federal and local government administrations, new tax policies, and ever-changing economic conditions will undoubtedly shape how organizations continue to serve communities. Yet non-
For example, the Peabody Education Fund was established in 1867 to integrate poor white and formerly enslaved individuals in the South after the Civil War. A decade later, United Way began as the Charity Organizations Society and its role was to coordinate resources to address community needs. These organizations and count-
A Lesson From Dr. King
The week honoring Martin Luther King Jr. Day in our nation ended under a barrage of threats to King's vision and values and attacks on long-deserved, hardearned protections and progress for millions of people. It is a shameful moment. But it is also a moment to return to something King taught again and again over
the years: progress against forces of regression can never be taken for granted, and will always rely on the hard work of committed, creative, faithful people who never lose sight of where the end will be.
King wrote these words in his seminal "Letter from Birmingham Jail," as he countered "the strangely irrational notion that there is something in the very flow of time that will inevitably cure all ills." He said, "Actually time is neutral. It can be used either destructively or constructively. I am coming to
less other nonprofits consistently evolve to meet whatever current challenges and societal needs exist. Through world wars, social movements, economic downturns and public health crises, nonprofits fill gaps left by the government and private sector. In doing so, they offer hope and tangible support to their communities.
It is likely that this year will bring significant shifts in funding priorities and economic policies under the new administration. Adjustments to taxation and financial regulations
will impact working families, businesses and nonprofit funding models.
ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) data tells us that shifts in policy and economics greatly affect those who are at or below the federal poverty line, as well as middle-class Americans who are working but living paycheck to paycheck and do not qualify for government assistance programs.
These ALICE households often choose daily essentials, like food and transportation to work or school,
over other needs and could be easily devastated by a medical crisis or other unexpected expense. We know that nonprofits must fill critical gaps in helping people with low-to-modest incomes meet basic needs when federal spending cuts decrease social programs. We also must remember that policy changes can bring new opportunities.
Discussions about access, equity and inclusion, particularly within
feel that the people of ill-will have used time much more effectively than the people of good will. We will have to repent in this generation not merely for the vitriolic words and actions of the bad people, but for the appalling silence of the good people. We must come to see that human progress never rolls in on wheels of inevitability. It comes through the tireless efforts and persistent work of men willing to be co-workers with God, and without this hard work time itself becomes an ally of the forces of so-
cial stagnation. We must use time creatively, and forever realize that the time is always ripe to do right. Now is the time to make real the promise of democracy, and transform our pending national elegy into a creative psalm of brotherhood. Now is the time to lift our national policy from the quicksand of racial injustice to the solid rock of human dignity."
King repeated variations of this admonishment in a number of other sermons, speeches and essays before and after Birmingham. He
included it in several addresses on college campuses, making sure its truth was underscored for young people. In another speech he phrased it this way: "Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable. Even a casual look at history reveals that no social advance rolls in on the wheels of inevitability. Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicat-
WILLIAMS Page 50
Rosie Allen-Herring
Marian Wright Edelman
Guest Columnist
E. Faye Williams
Columnist
LIFESTYLE
WASHINGTON INFORMER WEEKEND CHECKLIST
WASHINGTON INFORMER'S
Things To Do, DMV!
By Tait Manning WI Intern
This week is full of opportunities for reflection and celebration. From performances honoring Chinese Lunar New Year to free wellness classes, check out a handful of the many events happening in the DMV this weekend.
To keep up with all the fun, don’t forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar.
THURSDAY, JAN. 30
VisArts Exhibition - Hedieh Ilchi: Tell me how to weave my world from these dark filaments
Noon - 4 p.m. | Free VisArts Gibbs Street Gallery, 155 Gibbs St Rockville, MD 20850
Hedieh Javanshir Ilchi, a member of VisArts’s 2024 Gibbs Street Residency, is an Iranian American artist whose creative practice is a navigation of her multifaceted experiences as an
immigrant.
In these hybridized paintings, Ilchi examines how the confluence of the disparate metaphorical languages of abstraction, ornamentation and the sublime can reflect the harmonies and tensions caused by the meeting of different cultures and traditions–on a personal, sociopolitical and environmental scale.
Each painting provides a space where her two disparate histories come together to reflect on cultural traditions and notions of belonging. The exhibition is on display from Jan. 30 to March 9.
National Ballet of China: Chinese New Year (A Ballet in Two Acts)
7:30 p.m. | $30.00 + Kennedy Center, 2700 F St NW, Washington, D.C., 20566
With its dazzling hybrid of western ballet and Chinese culture, National Ballet of China has won a distinguished reputation for performing cherished works and original creations. The renowned company returns to thrill audiences with its luminous fusion of traditions, telling the story of a family’s Chinese New Year celebration—set to Tchaikovsky’s treasured Nutcracker score.
Brought to life by vibrant characters and radiant choreography, this colorful, fresh tale tells the story of a young Chinese girl celebrating the New Year as she embarks on a mystical journey through a world of festive Chinese customs.
FRIDAY, JAN. 31
All levels Afro-dance class (Washington D.C.) by Thelma 7 p.m. | $24.57 Studio will be emailed, Washington, D.C., 20016
Launched in April 2017, Madeforkobina (MFK) is an online publication celebrating African American artists in the DMV area. The team hosts events and dance classes to build community and awareness about Afro dance culture, including MFK Afro by Thelma.
Madeforkobina continues to host various Afro-based workshops and events, create Afro dance projects, and perform.
Eckington Flea Night Market
7 - 11 p.m. | Free Eckington Hall, 1611 Eckington Place NE Suite 170, Washington, D.C., 20002
Eckington Flea Night Market is a weekly, Friday night market taking place inside of Eckington Hall in
Northeast, D.C., featuring a variety of local makers selling a plethora of goods, from vinyl records, jewelry, vintage and contemporary clothing and other cool finds.
Food by Cajun chef Mardi Gras Munchies will be for sale and there will be a full bar.
Join the Wellness Market on Feb. 1 and Feb. 2 for a day filled with health and wellness activities. Located at the charming Western Market, this event is perfect for anyone looking to explore a variety of wellness products and services.
At the market, discover new ways to improve your well-being and connect with like-minded individuals, featuring free heart health screenings, as well as free yoga, tai chi, and meditation classes, plus more than 20 vendors to shop from.
From organic foods to yoga classes, don't miss out on this opportunity to prioritize health and wellness.
The Poppaw Queen: Healing Justice Forum
3 - 7:30 p.m. | Free Creative Suitland Arts Center, 4719 Silver Hill Road, Hillcrest Heights, MD 20746
Join Creative Suitland Arts Center for “The Poppaw Queen: Healing Justice Forum,” an event inspired by the award-winning documentary, “The Poppaw Queen.”
The forum will feature a dynamic blend of insightful guest speakers, cap-
tivating live musical and poetry performances, and exclusive clips from the film. Discussions will explore critical topics such as healing for descendants of enslaved individuals, acknowledging the deep connections between Indigenous and African communities, and forging pathways toward reparations.
Designed to bring communities together, this event encourages reflection on the past while building a brighter, more equitable future for all–a unique space for learning, healing, and collective action.
SUNDAY, FEB. 2
Lunar New Year Parade
2 p.m. | Free D.C. Chinatown, 7th & H Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20001
The Annual Lunar New Year Parade has been hosted by the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association for over 60 years in Washington, D.C.’s Chinatown. This year, they are celebrating the Year of the Snake, the sixth animal in the Chinese Zodiac.
Participants will include lion and dragon dance troupes, musical bands from diverse generational and cultural organizations, kung fu schools, beauty pageant representatives, members of the U.S. military from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, as well as local high school bands and more.
The parade will culminate in a firecracker show accompanied by lion dance performances.
WI
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
5The annual Lunar New Year Parade, which celebrates the arrival of spring and marks the beginning of the Chinese lunisolar calendar, will take place in Chinatown on Sunday, Feb. 2, featuring a range of cultural organizations and performances. (Courtesy Photo/Penny Lee)
5A preview from Iranian American artist Hedieh Javanshir Ilchi’s solo show “Tell me how to weave my world from these dark filaments” is on display at VisArts through March 9. (Courtesy Photo/VisArts Center)
‘Who Cares,’ A Play that Exposes Many Levels of Caregiving
By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer
With the many emotions, responsibilities, and challenges that come with being a caregiver, a new play presented by Voices Festival Productions (VFP) shines a light on creating a hopeful community for those who are tasked with caring for others. “Who Cares: The Caregiver Interview Project,” at Universalist National Memorial Church in Northwest, D.C. exposes the many nuances of caregiving.
Based on a 2023 study by Guardian Life Insurance Company, 100 million U.S. adults function as caregivers, providing care for a child, parent, or other relative. Working Americans who care for loved ones are predominantly women, at 56% versus 44%. These figures are daunting.
Co-written by Ari Roth, A. Lorraine Robinson and Vanessa Gilbert, the characters in “Who Cares” go through various personal scenarios. This production references places and agencies in D.C. that play a role in local caregiving.
“I think so many things come into view,” said Robinson, also artistic producing partner for VFP. “You need people in your corner advocating for you and asking questions.”
Six actors take on multiple roles in this play: Kelly Renee Armstrong, Lise Burneau, Laura Shipler Chico, Kendall Arin Claxton, Joelle Denise, and Todd Scofield. On the evening I attended, Llogan Paige filled in for Kelly Renee Armstrong.
The production revolves around a caregiver support group.
Group members speak about what they are tackling. Some group members talk freely about their situation, while others avoid revealing many details.
The common thread within the group includes anxiety about how to manage, curiosity about their loved one’s healthcare issues, feeling unsuccessful in managing a job and caregiving, and how to keep up a facade that they are managing the caregiver role until something blows up.
BRINING ‘WHO CARES’ TO AUDIENCES
The script for “Who Cares” is based on approximately 700 to 900 pages
of transcripts from caregiving workshops around the D.C. area. Some of the participants were from the theater community.
“Most did have some exposure to caregiving issues. That certainly informed our participants' understanding of the material and their approach,” said Robinson.
Another resource for the cast and crew to build a well-rounded understanding of caregiving was the book, “The Measure of Our Age: Navigating Care, Safety, Money, and Meaning Later in Life” by M. T. Connolly. The D.C. area author was available to the team to broaden their perspective about caregivers caring for themselves.
“We learned about things that happen through care from the caregivers’ point of view and the government's point of view to convey through the whole dynamic of the play,” said Robinson about Connolly’s involvement
The Universalist National Memorial Church stage was set in a square, with the audience seated in a bleacher-like arrangement. The actors rearranged their chairs to move between scenes and the different characters. The bleacher arrangement made it easy to see the audience's reaction. Many were deeply moved.
The actors and pacing of “Who Cares” were exceptional. Switching between multiple roles in a play can be confusing, but Director Kathryn Chase Bryer masterfully transitioned the actors between their characters.
PERSONAL CONNECTION TO THE ACTION
Ron Kampeas, who lives in Arlington, Virginia, attended “Who Cares” with his adult son Nathaniel.
He said he connected to the play’s storyline as Kampeas and his family were caregivers for his wife’s aunt.
“She was living in a three-story walkup in the area, which was ridiculous,” said Kampeas about his wife’s aunt’s housing arrangement. “She had lived in Greece within a small Romanian community, so Nathaniel learned to speak the language of my wife’s aunt, and he would talk to her.”
They eventually got the aunt out of the three-story walkup apartment.
“She stayed with us for the last 18
months of her life. She had signs of dementia, and she was immobilized,” continued Kampeas. “It was a mix of worry, but I wouldn't trade those 18 months for anything because we loved her so much.”
Performances for “Who Cares: The Caregiver Interview Project” continue through Feb. 2. General admission is $45, with discounts available for groups, patrons under 30, affinity groups, and artists.
The play is approximately 2-1/2 hours with a 15-minute intermission. The church does not have an elevator. There are only steps to get to the theater from the inside.
For more information and tickets, visit voicesfestivalproductions.com. WI
5In this scene from “Who Cares: The Caregiver Interview Project” are Joelle Denise Kendall, Arin Claxton and Lise Bruneau. (Courtesy Photo/Peggy Ryan)
3Kelly Renee Armstrong and Joelle Denise in a scene from “Who Cares: The Caregiver Interview Project.” (Courtesy Photo/Peggy Ryan)
Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum set to host first After Dark of 2025
Submitted by The Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum
The Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum announces its first After Dark installment of 2025. Join us on Thursday, February 6 from 7pm -10pm, where history and culture meets creativity!
The After Dark event series features a free evening program for adults 21+, providing visitors an opportunity to explore the museum’s gallery, enjoy food and beverage from local creators, and meet other neighbors and community members.
The February 6 event, Bold and Beautiful: After Dark, will provide visitors with an opportunity to dive into the inspiring exhibition, "A Bold and Beautiful Vision: A Century of Black Art Education in Washington, DC, 1900–2000", and honor the legacy of DC's Black artistry and education through the decades. This exhibition traces the story of the teachers and students who made Washington, DC a truly unparalleled center for Black arts education.
In the spirit of crafting your own history, talented poets will create poems tailored just for each visitor. Share your thoughts, memories, or musings, and watch them turn into one-of-a-kind typed poem on vintage typewriters—a keepsake you'll treasure forever. Plus, the night will feature incredible sounds by Jerome Baker 3rd, whose beats will carry guests through a night of self-expression and connection. To wrap it up, satisfy your sweet tooth with toasty s'mores and a decadent chocolate fountain from local dessert vendor, A Chocolate Chick Company.
Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of history, music, poetry, and delicious treats. Come ready to celebrate, connect, and create your own history. We can’t wait to share this special night with you!
Registration and a valid ID showing guest age is required for all After Dark series events. Attendees can register by visiting anacostia.si.edu. “A Bold and Beautiful Vision” is on view until March 2, 2025.’
The Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum is located at: 1901 Fort Place, SE, Washington, DC 20020. The museum is open daily (except December 25) from 10am-5pm and is free to visit. You can stay up to date with what is coming next at ACM by following the museum on social media @smithsonianacm.
3Bold and Beautiful: After Dark will take place at the Anacostia Community Museum on Thursday, February 6, 2025 from 7-10pm. Learn more by visiting the museum’s website.
(Matailong Du/Anacostia Community Museum)
Sullivan Fortner Returns Strolls Through the Keys at Blues Alley
By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer
Grammy award-winning pianist and composer Sullivan Fortner reminded audiences of the joy it is to have him back in D.C. at Georgetown’s Blues Alley.
Accompanied by bassist Yasushi Nakamura and drummer Kayvon Gordon, the Fortner trio opened with the song “No 3” by Detroit drummer, composer and educator Lawrence Williams. That was an opportunity to spotlight drummer Gordon immediately.
With the song “Stablemates,” audiences saw one of Fortner’s many styles. He seems to overlap chords effortlessly, allowing several songs to be blended.
The listener may not realize that they just hear three to four different tunes as one.
For instance, after the trio’s performance, Fortner confirmed to the Informer that the well-known jazz standard “Spain,” by late pianist and composer Chick Coreawas woven into
one of the pieces played by the trio.
During the show the pianist asked the audience, “Any operatic singers in the room,” before going into a piece by Gabriel Fauré, a French composer, organist, pianist and teacher who lived between 1845 and 1924. Fauré is best known for the song “Clair de lune.”
To have bassist Nakamura as a part of the Sullivan Fortner Trio was a gift to the audience. His bass lines punctuate the melodies delivered by Fortner and Gordon. It was a grand, tight set delivered by the group.
New Orleans native Fortner shared that he received a few bumps and bruises on the Blues Alley stage early in his career playing with the late trumpeter Roy Hargrove in 2006.
“Sometimes, he would look at me, and I knew I was going to hear about it,” Fortner said about Hargrove.
Provocative Play, ‘Justice on Trial,’ Revisits Debate Over Reparations Supported by Iconic Witnesses from Black History’s Past
By D. Kevin McNeir WI Contributing Writer
While there’s no law that prohibits African Americans from walking, talking, driving – simply attempting to live, survive and thrive while Black, for African Americans, the reality and often
It was a beautiful set leading into a busy performance schedule for the next few months. To keep up with Fornter’s schedule, visit his website. WI @bcscomm JUSTICE ON TRIAL Page 33
tragic results of racism, say otherwise. As advocates work to hold America accountable for the heinous way that Black people have been mistreated since 1619, Chad Lawson Cooper, a New York-based actor, director, pro-
5The Sullivan Fortner Trio recently performed at the iconic jazz club Blues Alley in Georgetown. On stage are drummer Kayvon Gordon, bassist Yasushi Nakamura and pianist Sullivan Fortner. (Brenda C. Siler/The Washington Informer)
JUSTICE ON TRIAL
from Page 32 ducer and writer, believes reparations would confirm America’s desire to make amends.
To bolster the conversation, he’s bringing his provocative, off-Broadway play, “Justice on Trial,” to Howard University’s Cramton Auditorium for one night only on Feb. 1.
“I was visiting the DMV and sitting in a Cracker Barrel when I was first inspired to write the play,” Cooper said. “It was July 6, 2016 – the day that Philando Castile was murdered by a police
officer during a traffic stop. I was the only Black person in sight, and I remember the tears that began to flow and how disheartened I became. That’s when I got the epiphany.”
Less than a year later, “Justice on Trial” debuted at Medgar Evers College, followed by a two-year stint off-Broadway. It’s the fourth play that has been created, written and produced by The Chad Cooper Company on Broadway – the only Black-owned theater and film company headquartered in Times Square.
Encouragement from fellow artists
gave Cooper the confidence to tour the production.
“I used to be the lead singer for the inspirational vocal group, Soul Tempo, who were featured in the original production of ‘The Preacher’s Wife,’ and the guys kept urging me to take the play out on the road,” Cooper said. “In 2018, I gave in, and we’ve been on tour ever since.”
For audiences and Cooper alike, touring the show has been rewarding.
“The response has been amazing,” he said. “I like to describe what audiences will experience as ‘edutainment.’”
Tell Us What Matters to You
WHAT’S ‘JUSTICE ON TRIAL’ ALL ABOUT?
The play opens with two civil rights attorneys who have filed a long-anticipated lawsuit against the U.S. Justice Department for reparations to African Americans. Witnesses for the defense include iconic time travelers from Black history’s past like Harriet Tubman, Malcolm X, Emmett Till, Medgar Evers and Dr. W.E.B. DuBois. They testify, sharing their truths, before a modern day, multicultural jury.
One rare aspect of the production that keeps it current and fascinating is Cooper’s decision to change the witnesses.
In the D.C. production, the witnesses include DuBois, portrayed by his great grandson, Jeffrey DuBois Peck; Tubman, portrayed by veteran actress, executive producer and Cooper’s wife of nearly 30 years, Alicia Robinson Cooper; and Emmett, who’s played by Cooper’s son, Chad II. WI
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
Metro has released its proposed budget for the next fiscal year that optimizes service to meet growing ridership demand without any major funding increases. Metro is considering the following fare and service changes starting July 1, 2025:
Metrobus will implement the 2025 Better Bus Network Redesign.
MetroAccess service will adhere to any expansion of services.
Provide feedback by 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 10, 2025.
Take the survey and provide comments
Visit wmata.com/budget or scan the code.
In-Person Public Hearings
Monday, Feb. 3
6:00 p.m.
Metro Building at Eisenhower 2401 Mill Rd. Alexandria, VA 22314 Eisenhower Ave
Virtual Public Hearing
Tuesday, Feb. 4
12:00 p.m.
Participate in an In-Person Public Hearing
All public hearings begin at 6:00 p.m., with an open house starting at 5:30 p.m. At the open house, you may ask the Metro staff questions about the proposed changes.
Tuesday, Feb. 4
6:00 p.m.
Metro Headquarters 300 7th St. SW Washington, DC 20024 L’Enfant Plaza
Wednesday, Feb. 5
6:00 p.m.
Metro Building at New Carrollton 4100 Garden City Dr. Hyattsville, MD 20785 New Carrollton
We’re here to help if you need additional accommodations
Metrorail service enhancements and hours of operation.
Metro will add the option of Open Payment.
Participate in a Virtual Public Hearing
To participate by phone, call 646-902-9990 and enter meeting code 734 797 690#. To participate by video, email speak@ wmata.com by 5 p.m. the day before the public hearing.
For more information about Metro’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget, visit wmata.com/ budget or call 202-637-7000.
Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, gender, religion, disability, or family status. ASL interpretation will be provided. To request other accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act or other language interpretation services (free of charge), contact the Office of the Board Secretary at 202-962-2511 (TTY: 202-962-2033) or send a message to speak@wmata.com as soon as possible, so Metro can make the necessary arrangements before the public hearing date.
Watch or listen live to the public hearings at wmata.com/budget or at youtube.com/ MetroForward
For three hours, Logan and other young people spoke candidly about their academic and social experiences during a resource fair, along with breakout sessions and an open-mic at Trinity Washington University’s Main Hall in Northeast.
Just like Logan anticipated, a handful of council members and D.C. State Board of Education (SBOE) representatives sat within earshot ready to respond.
“I want elected officials to hear youth voices and hear our passion,” Logan, a Southwest resident, told The Informer. “Time is very important for youth. With D.C. being a small town, and us being fed [images of] crime, I can’t see the decline in violence.”
A NIGHT WHERE YOUNG PEOPLE from Page 1
YOUNG PEOPLE EXERCISED THEIR RIGHT TO BE HEARD
Elected officials who attended the D.C. Girls Coalition Town Hall included: D.C. Councilmembers Robert White (D-At large), Brooke Pinto (D-Ward 2), and Matt Frumin (D-Ward 3), along with SBOE Representatives Ben Williams (Ward 1), Eric Goulet (Ward 3), Robert Henderson (Ward 5), and LaJoy Johnson-Law (Ward 8).
At the height of the program, those officials listened, and later accompanied groups of students to the front of Main Hall’s auditorium where youth spoke about the need for clean water, food security, mental health, safe passage and employment.
Earlier in the evening, participants ate and spoke among one another before perusing through resources and, later, listening to each other’s insights at the main town hall.
Amid spoken word and dance performances, adults in the space often found difficulty encouraging youth participation. Christina Hanson, executive director of the Anacostia chapter of Community, Advocacy and Resources for Education (CARE) Washington, D.C., took to the mic and stressed the importance of the annual town hall.
She went as far as mentioning that 564 out of 566 public and public charter schools have experienced at least one shooting within a fourblock radius from their location.
“There are those of us who need to hear from you. We need you to speak your truth to us,” said Hanson, a former D.C. Public Schools (DCPS) employee. “People go into spaces with assumptions about what is good for you, so I’m excited for this opportunity to hear from you… I left my good government job to be in spaces to advocate and find the people, policies and funding to get what you need.”
A D.C. Council Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting earlier in the week allowed council members to set the rules for what will be a slew of oversight hearings this winter. As hundreds of residents, advocates and advisory neighborhood commissioners prepare to testify at the John A. Wilson Building and online, the council unanimously approved a document that included a provision limiting the number of people who could testify on behalf of an organization at a hearing.
On Jan. 22, no limits existed for young people who wanted to make
their voice heard.
Amina Cotton, a senior at Templeton Academy in Northwest and D.C. Action youth leader, said she came to the D.C. Girls Coalition Youth Town Hall with housing insecurity on her mind.
“We want to make sure the homeless can access resources like everyone else,” Amina told The Informer.
Upon joining D.C. Action last fall, Amina identified housing insecurity, out-of-school time programming, and summer youth employment as her issues of priority. As she continues to shed light on her concerns, Amina said that she doesn’t take her platform for granted.
“Not everyone has the opportunity to be a voice for people who can’t speak up,” she said. “I knew I would enjoy it. I needed the experience of seeing different faces and knowing we would make an impact.”
Other program participants on Jan. 22 included Black Swan Academy, Critical Exposure, and YMCA National Capital Area.
During the town hall, a male student, whose identity The Informer kept anonymous to protect his academic standing, recounted often not seeing water fountains with new filters at his award-winning, application-based public high school.
“We stress about bringing water from our house and the store because our school water is nasty,” the student said. “We live in the capital city of the strongest and most influential country in the world, so why are we dealing with dirty water?”
Even the adults weighed in on what they believed to be D.C.’s top budget priorities.
As she doled out information to young people, youth advocacy specialist Freweyni Asress told The Informer that nonprofits, like the one she represented at the D.C. Girls Coalition Youth Town Hall, need government support, now more than ever, to address issues affecting young people and their families.
“Families coming to us when a child has been sexually assaulted… are experiencing poverty and intersecting violence,” said Asress, a facilitator of Safe Shores’ client advocacy initiative.
Asress said the initiative, made possible through the passage of the Sexual Assault Victims’ Rights Act, positioned Safe Shores to better help young people and understand underlying issues threatening their livelihood. WI
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
5During breakout sessions, students share their lived experiences, challenges, and actionable solutions to pressing community issues with Ward 8 State Board of Education Representative LaToya Johnson Law. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)
An overnight snowstorm is big news in Deersprings Valley. Scarlett Squirrel and her team of reporters at The Treetop Tribune have to separate FACT from OPINION to tell the story. And they need some help from YOU to do so!
Roscoe Rabbit is a new reporter at the Treetop Tribune. He made a list of facts about the big storm in his reporter’s notebook, but is he correct? Circle the FACTS in green crayon. Underline the OPINIONS in red crayon.
Take a Survey Reporter’s Notes
A survey is a way to gather opinions about something.
Ask your friends and family members which of these veggies they like best. Complete the graph by coloring in a square each time someone selects that vegetable. Share your findings with everyone who took the survey.
the Facts Scarlett knows how important it is to include as many facts as possible in a news story. These facts give readers more understanding of what happened and why. Look at this article about the storm. Does it tell WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE and WHY?
Fact Finder
Find three facts and three opinions in the newspaper. Have three friends take turns deciding which statements are facts and which are opinions. Each correct answer earns 1 point.
Standards Link: Students correctly identify the differences between fact and opinion.
CARROTS POTATOES TOMATOES CELERY BROCCOLI GREEN BEANS
2025 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Je Schinkel, Graphics Vol.
review wi book
"In Open Contempt: Confronting White Supremacy in Art and Public Space"
By Irvin Weathersby Jr.
c.2024, Viking
$30 / 256 pages
Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer
The issue appears to be permanent.
It's been happening for a long time. It doesn't look like it'll stop any time soon, either, and though you've been able to work around it, you shouldn't have to. Some say it might be better someday but you're not holding your breath. As in the new book, "In Open Contempt" by Irvin Weathersby Jr., some things are too set in stone.
Cemeteries are filled with them.
So are parks, campuses, galleries, museums and courtyards where, for centuries, humans have left their carved and constructed monuments and artwork celebrating and commemorating our heroes. Those works may be so familiar, in fact, that you might barely notice them, although many of the monuments have lauded white supremacists.
Says Weathersby, while some works have been removed in the recent past, many still stand, quietly, unobtrusively.
In his hometown of New Orleans, for instance, there was great controversy over the removal of statues honoring Civil War figures. The Ninth Ward street that Weathersby lived on as a child honored a slaveholder. Schools he attended nearby were named after men who established racist laws and ways of life.
He didn't know to question those things when he was a child, or even as a young man. When he enrolled at Morehouse, an HBCU, though, he "began … unlearning … white supremacist culture." Stories from his great-grandmother helped him see white supremacy clearer.
He found it in South Dakota, at Mount Rushmore and at Wounded Knee, and he saw its effects at an Indigenous Writer's Festival where he learned of the Dakota 38.
He sees it in art everywhere. He saw it once, when he was jailed overnight for a bike ticket he'd already dealt with. White supremacy is there when he thinks about the innocent people killed by police, and he thinks about how close he came to being a policeman himself.
"Look," he says, "white supremacy everywhere."
And, he says, if we have the courage to actually see it, to look hard and clear at it, "there exists a chance to heal and become empowered."
You know how you can stare and stare at something, only to suddenly realize that there's something about it that's surprising, even shocking, right in front of you? That's the sense you'll get as you read "In Open Contempt," that smack-your-forehead, duh feeling you get when your eyes are opened wide.
And yet, like many of the things he discovered and points out, author Irvin Weathersby Jr. keeps a quiet presence in his book. His words are soft, but urgent. Gentle, but insistent. Firm, but prodding, leading, like having a presence sitting on your shoulder, whispering in your ear and urging you to see, to notice, demanding that you tell others, too.
Readers who drive or walk past a monument to a historical figure every day will surely be spurred to regard it with fresh new eyes, after reading this book. You may never view artwork quite the same, either, because what you'll learn inside "In Open Contempt" is monumental.
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horoscopes
LIFESTYLE
JAN. 30 - FEB 5, 2025
ARIES Your pioneering spirit leads to an exciting discovery early in the week, particularly in areas related to personal growth. A chance encounter on Wednesday could spark a valuable professional connection — stay open to unconventional networking opportunities. The weekend brings a surge of physical energy; channel it into that competitive project you've been wanting to tackle. Your confidence attracts positive attention from higher-ups, and a long-awaited recognition may finally arrive. Lucky Numbers: 4, 18, 33
TAURUS Financial matters take a positive turn as your practical approach pays off. An investment of time in learning a new skill proves especially valuable by midweek, potentially opening doors to new income streams. Your artistic sensibilities are heightened on Thursday and Friday — perfect timing for home decoration or creative projects. Lucky Numbers: 8, 21, 45
GEMINI Your quick wit shines in group settings this week, making you the go-to person for solving communication challenges. A sibling or close friend brings unexpected news that opens up exciting possibilities, especially regarding travel or education. Your ability to adapt quickly serves you well during a midweek workplace shuffle. Lucky Numbers: 3, 16, 39
CANCER Domestic harmony becomes your focus as the week begins, with family members finally aligning on an important decision that's been pending for months. Your nurturing instincts help resolve a friend's dilemma by Thursday, strengthening bonds in your social circle. Career opportunities arise through past connections — don't hesitate to reach out to former colleagues. Lucky Numbers: 7, 24, 42
LEO Your natural leadership abilities are in high demand this week, particularly in group projects that require creative thinking and bold decision-making. A long-term goal suddenly seems within reach thanks to an unexpected ally who shares your vision. Public speaking opportunities around Friday showcase your talents to influential people who could help advance your career. Romance heats up over the weekend through a shared artistic pursuit, bringing both excitement and deeper understanding. Lucky Numbers: 1, 15, 37
VIRGO Analytical skills prove invaluable as you uncover a solution to a persistent workplace challenge that's been puzzling everyone. Your attention to detail impresses someone you've been hoping to work with, potentially leading to a promising collaboration. Health routines established midweek create positive momentum for the month ahead, especially if you focus on holistic approaches. A practical approach to a relationship issue brings clarity and closer connections, allowing for honest communication. Lucky Numbers: 5, 22, 44
LIBRA Partnership matters take center stage as the week opens, with important negotiations requiring your diplomatic touch and keen sense of fairness. Your sense of style and harmony helps resolve a group conflict by Wednesday, earning you respect from all parties involved. Financial opportunities appear through social connections — trust your instincts about timing, particularly regarding joint ventures. Lucky Numbers: 9, 27, 36
SCORPIO Deep insights about a personal matter emerge early in the week, helping you release old patterns that no longer serve your highest good. Your resourcefulness at work impresses higher-ups, potentially leading to increased responsibilities and recognition. A powerful connection forms through honest conversation on Thursday, possibly with someone who challenges your perspectives in a positive way. Lucky Numbers: 2, 19, 41
SAGITTARIUS Adventure calls as the week begins, whether through travel opportunities or educational pursuits that expand your horizons. Your optimistic outlook helps transform a challenging situation into a learning experience that benefits everyone involved. Social connections made around Thursday open doors to exciting future possibilities, particularly in areas related to publishing or international affairs. Lucky Numbers: 6, 25, 38
CAPRICORN Professional achievements highlight your week as a long-term strategy begins showing concrete results. Your practical approach to problem-solving helps navigate a complex family situation by midweek, bringing relief to all involved. Investment opportunities require careful consideration around Friday — trust your thorough research and conservative instincts. Lucky Numbers: 11, 28, 43
AQUARIUS Your innovative ideas capture attention, particularly in group projects focused on future planning and technological advancement. Technology plays a key role in your success, possibly through an unexpected virtual connection that spans geographical boundaries. Humanitarian interests lead to meaningful collaborations by Friday, allowing you to make a real difference in your community. Lucky Numbers: 12, 30, 47
PISCES Creative inspiration flows freely as the week begins, especially in artistic or musical pursuits that connect you with like-minded souls. Your compassionate nature helps heal a rift between friends by midweek, demonstrating your natural gift for emotional understanding. Lucky Numbers: 10, 26, 40
SPORTS
Washington Commanders Close Out the Season With a 55-23 Defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles
Team Sets the Stage for a Brighter Franchise Future
By Skylar Nelson WI Intern
The Washington Commanders’ season came to a bitter end with a 55-23 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field, but the final score doesn’t tell the whole story.
Despite a staggering four turnovers and Philadelphia’s relentless running game highlighted by seven rushing touchdowns, the Com-
manders have laid the foundation for something greater next season.
While the Eagles secured their second NFC title in the past three years, Washington’s 2024 campaign, though imperfect, was far from unsuccessful. It marked a season of growth, filled with moments of promise that point toward a brighter future for the franchise. From breakthrough performances to critical lessons learned, this campaign will be remembered
in history as Washington’s major comeback story from 1991. With the offseason now upon them, Washington has the opportunity to refine their game and build upon the intensity they’ve established this year. The 202526 season will be considered to be one of renewed focus and potential that sets the stage for a rise to greatness that fans will be excited to see.
“Obviously man it sucks,” said quarterback Jayden Daniels. “The sh*t sucks. Excuse my language. I couldn’t be be prouder of the guys in the locker room. Year one [of] not everybody really knowing each other, rookies, the vets that have done a tremendous job of bringing us in and helping us out. We all just meshed and we got to this point. At the end of the day, we lost and it sucks but we’ll move on from this.”
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4Despite losing to the Philadelphia Eagles 55-23 in the NFC Championship game, the Commanders have laid the foundation for something greater next season. (WI File Photo/Abdullah Konte)
Baba Oladotun is Changing the Game
By Demarco Rush WI Contributing Writer
Babatunde (Baba) Oladotun, the nation’s number one basketball recruit in the class of 2027 and a James Hubert Blake High School student, is changing the high school basketball scene in Montgomery County, Maryland.
Along with being the top recruit of his class in the country, Baba’s success is highlighting the strength of public schools, as opposed to the private school route that many ranked athletes take.
“I mean, private school isn't bad, but playing at public school, you can get the same experience. Yes, you’re playing against lower competition but
you get game experience,” emphasized Baba. “You get high level basketball, you get to play a lot of minutes and all that good stuff.”
With the distractions that national attention can bring, Baba handles life of a high-profile student athlete by working hard.
“[It’s about] just being productive,” he said. “Time is definitely a big thing for me, it’s always been God, grades and games for me, so just knowing my priorities and then getting it done.”
PUBLIC SCHOOL COACHES TALK
CHANGING THE GAME
As Baba dominates the hardwood in Montgomery County and beyond, public schools are getting more attention for their training.
Boys Varsity Head Basketball Coach at Blake, Desmin Wade, spoke about Baba and the excitement surrounding the team from the community.
“With Baba growing up in the community it definitely takes things
to the next level. Everyone embraces him and the team like it’s a big family. Sometimes I tell the guys to stop and take a look in the stands,” said Wade. “Embrace the privilege and live in the moment. It’s pretty cool to see how basketball can pull a community even closer.”
He shared the ethos of Blake’s basketball program.
“We try to develop players to be high IQ guys that would be ready to play on the next level. We always talk about ‘the standard,’ they hold each other accountable.” he said. “Baba has told me some of his goals, so I push him everyday in some sort of way. It could be physically or mentally–he knows how much we love him so he embraces it all.”
Coach Wade believes more high-profile players will embrace the public school scene moving forward.
“I think more ranked players will take a look at public schools in Montgomery County and in general. When you look at the history there are so many notable players that went to public school and went on to have amazing NBA careers,” Wade said. “There are a lot of phenomenal coaches in private schools but there are a lot
of public school coaches who are on the same level or even better.”
FATHER AND MASTER TRAINER: IBRAHIM OLADOTUN
Ibrahim Oladotun, Baba’s father, has been inspired by his son’s hard work.
“He definitely pushes me both on and off the court–keeping me humble and grounded to have good confidence, and just helping me apply things [from] basketball into life as well,” Oladotun told The Informer. A former athlete himself, the father knows all about what it takes to be a successful basketball player. He played basketball for two years at the junior college level before earning a roster spot at Virginia Tech.
Now, he has taken it upon himself to ensure his son receives high quality training.
“We’re here at the library until 1:30 p.m., then we’ll go workout from 2 p.m. until around 3:50 p.m., then he has practice,” he explained. “Some days we go back to the gym from maybe 8:30 p.m. to 9:45 p.m.” WI
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
5Ibrahim Oladotun stands with Baba Oladotun as they finish his studies before practice. (Demarco Rush/The Washington Informer)
CAPTURE the moment
D.C. Council and State Board Members met with several dozen high school students on Jan. 22 to hear concerns about housing, mental health, employment and safe drinking water during the D.C. Girls Coalition 2025 Youth Town Hall at Trinity Washington University. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)
RELIGION
Preaching Truth to Power: Activism from the Pulpit
Religious Leaders Celebrate Local Bishop’s Sermon as Courageous, Emphasize Justice Work as Part of Christian Faith
By Jada Ingleton WI Digital Equity Fellow
During the National Prayer Service, held the day after the Jan. 20 inauguration, the Rt. Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, shocked the nation with a direct plea to President Donald Trump on behalf of youth, the LGBTQIA+ community and immigrants. The bold move has sparked controversy among many conservatives, while empowering others and igniting conversation in the faith community about the role of activism
from the pulpit.
“There are gay, lesbian and transgender children in Democratic, Republican, and Independent families, some who fear for their lives,” Budde said to a glaring President Trump at the National Cathedral on Jan. 21.
Her sermon came approximately 24 hours after Trump’s first day in office consisted of signing executive orders that would: eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and federally recognize “two sexes, male and female.”
After Trump, also on his first day, restored the “Remain in Mexico” pol-
icy from his first presidential term, and called for immigration officers to ramp up mass deportation of unauthorized individuals, the bishop asked for mercy for immigrants. She said that while some may not be citizens or have appropriate documentation, “the vast majority of immigrants are not criminals.”
The president referred to Budde as a “so-called Bishop”and “Radical Left hard line Trump hater” who is “not very good at her job” in a post to Truth Social on Jan. 22. He further condemned her approach as ungracious and demanded an apology, which the Episocal bishop told Time she “refuses to give.”
Despite Trump’s displeasure with her delivery, many people, like the Rev. Mark A. Thompson and the Rt. Rev. Paula Clark, have celebrated Budde’s act as courageous.
“Bishop Budde demonstrated a prophetic witness and speaking truth to power,” said Thompson, who also serves as the global digital transformation director for the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA). “We should all admire her courage and her calling.”
Having served as Canon to the Ordinary under Budde before becoming bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Chicago, Clark said she was particularly proud to see her former boss and now colleague emphasizing the power of spreading love to all creation.
“I was very thankful for Bishop Mariann Budde’s sermon, which was biblically based, and spoke to our commitment as Christians to be merciful toward all God’s people,” Clark, a D.C. native told The Informer.
the day before the federal holiday celebrating the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
He explained the intersections of the King and Jesus Christ in finding their “Riverside,” and their care for human rights, challenging those in person and tuning in virtually to consider their own journeys and how they will devote themselves to justice.
“I’m not at all suggesting today we decide to give up our lives in the way that Christ and Dr. King did, but I am suggesting that we give up…the segments of our lives that are…in fact aspirtual,” Thompson told the congregation on Jan. 19, which was also the day before the presidential inauguration. “This is the paradoxical ironic language of the Gospel. We have to lose our lives to gain our lives.”
He told The Informer that King and Jesus Christ also shared a passion for helping people and encouraging others to work toward justice.
Bishop Budde stood before a congregation including Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance and several other affiliates of the GOP, and asked the leaders to “have mercy on the people who are scared now.”
As the federal government works to shut down programming supporting DEI, Thompson emphasized why it’s important to use religious platforms to fight for freedom and equality for all.
“An amoral government must be countered with a moral movement,” Thompson told The Informer.
PREACHING TRUTH TO POWER FROM THE PULPIT
Bishop Clark, who also served in the Epicopal Diocese of Washington as canon for multicultural ministries and clergy development, emphasized the importance of faith leaders speaking up for marginalized communities.
“In the pulpit, we are called to speak up for those who are often voiceless. That’s respecting the dignity of every human being,” Clark told The Informer. “We have the ability to contribute to the narrative on issues, and add a spiritual perspective that would otherwise be neglected. Our job is to bring God into the conversation.”
A longtime freedom fighter, media professional, faith leader and host of “Make it Plain” podcast, Thompson is a veteran at using the pulpit to channel social activism and speak truth to power.
Most recently, Thompson took to the historic Riverside Church in Manhattan, New York, to deliver a sermon
“The two greatest public theologians in history, Jesus and Dr. King, defined the prophetic calling of the pulpit by proclaiming good news to the poor, freedom for the prisoners, recovery of sight for the blind and freedom for the oppressed,” Thompson said.
Despite growing up in rural, majority conservative Kansas, the Rev. Christian Watkins of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ told The Informer she’s been practicing “progressive” convictions her whole life.
Similarly to Clark and Thompson encouraging justice work through following Christ’s teachings, Watkins considers her mission to be a reflection on the basis of Christianity, more so than an enactment of liberalism.
“It is my dream that a diverse coalition which includes Christians of shared convictions can collaborate in the project of making this country a thriving place reflected by its rich diversity,” Watkins told The Informer.
Through global and domestic ministry outreach, Watkins has expanded an understanding of the relationship between conservatism and religion, something she aims to continue debunking in her ministry.
“American Christians must learn to distinguish between our tradition being a good fit for one person, and not being a good fit for another person,” she said. “And we must bless and affirm that choice with love and compassion.”
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Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
5The Rev. A. Mark Thompson preaching at Riverside Church in New York on Jan. 19, the day before the federal holiday celebrating the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the presidential inauguration. Thompson emphasized the importance of speaking truth to power from the pulpit. (Courtesy Photo)
5The Rt. Rev. Paula E. Clark, now bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Chicago, speaks at the Rally to End Racism in April 2018 while working as Canon to the Ordinary under Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde in the Episcopal Diocese of Washington. (Courtesy Photo)
This week, we are teaching the next principles to success researched for 20 years by the late Napoleon Hill, author of the best-selling book "Think and Grow Rich." Hill reminds us, "Richness is whatever it is you happen to want." This week, we talk about the need to move toward your goal with "organized planning."
Let's explore how structured planning can be a game-changer in the journey toward success and how it lays the foundation for the achievement of wealth and personal goals. Hill calls this "the crystallization of desire into action," stressing the need to convert your dreams into actionable plans. Every man needs a plan to get to his goal. Once you have that plan, you will know your next steps. You've heard the cliché: If we fail to plan, we plan to fail.
This weekly "God-given" series has about seven more principles after this, which is principle No. 6. It teaches success principles found in the Bible, interwoven with these 13 principles researched by Hill. Let's talk about your plans now.
When God gave you the idea of your dream, just know that particular dream was meant only for you. How can anyone else know what God has said to you? Stay away from listening to others who try to guide your life. Those who are most successful always follow an inner voice, as God guides them. That inner voice is the providence of God.
As you receive instructions, follow carefully those thoughts given to you by the Holy Spirit. Make organized, step-by-step plans. Tweak those plans with the help of your role model or mentor, someone you're sure who knows.
WITH LYNDIA GRANT
Life-Changing Principles: When Faith Guides Planning the religion corner
As you work your plan, go into action out in the world where God can inspire and put needed resources in your path, and watch miracles begin to happen. Belief/faith will have such a strong effect on manifesting those dreams into reality. According to Neale Donald Walsch's "Conversations With God," there are no "dues to pay" for miracles. After all, in the Word, the Savior tells us to seek and we shall find, knock and the door shall be opened to us, ask, and it shall be given.
As you move toward your seemingly impossible goal, keep your mind stayed on Jesus, pray without ceasing, and renew your mind daily. Don't allow negativity to get in.
Never mind what you think if those upstream thoughts do come along occasionally; never mind what "they" say either – those hideous comments that anger or hurt. Ignore the negative voices, and keep working on your plans, and go with the flow. The stream of life will take you down the river with ease!
Your plans may not all work out, but those who succeed develop a new plan, with the same goal in mind. One instance was when I finally got the opportunity to go to college. It was Trinity University in Washington. My age was mid-50s, studying and giving up of my personal, relaxing time was not easy. During my first semester, everything in me said, "You
must drop out, this is ridiculous, you are now too old to give up your life as you have been accustomed to this way!" But I'm blessed that my inner voice kept me thinking more clearly. Never give up! Those who quit are sure to get what they went after, and that's nothing! Quitters never win and winners never quit!
The Bible has many instances where planning was of value. The Parable of the Ten Virgins shows how planning and preparation made the difference: Matthew 25:1-13. This lesson involves a strange marriage custom we don't fully understand, but the message rings loud and clear... the wise servant of God is the one who cares enough to plan and prepare. The wise virgins were prepared for the unexpected delay of the groom.
Stay inspired! Here are some affirmations to repeat daily: "I feel good now; my worthiness is not in question; the Word says anything I desire can be mine; I am eager, full of life; I feel fantastic, sure, unlimited, never finished, always unfolding, and I'm led by the Holy Spirit." Therefore, anything I want to know the Holy Spirit will answer.
In closing, "Fail your way to success!" What does that mean? When you create a plan as you go toward your goal, and if you should fail, just get up and create a new plan, and be sure those plans are organized plans. WI
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
Rev Kevin A. O'Bryant
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."
Froffice@firstrising.org Website: www.firstrising.org “Changing Lives On Purpose “ The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson
All are welcome to St. Mary’s to Learn, Worship, and Grow.
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 001515
Anne Wiener Snyder aka Genevieve Anne Wiener aka Anne Wiener Decedent
Thomas W. Westberg-Croessmann, Esq. 8000 Towers Cresent Drive, Suite 1575 Vienna, VA 22182
Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Margaret Snyder Thompson, whose address is 1524 Crestwood Lane, McLean, VA 22101, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Anne Wiener Snyder aka Genevieve Anne Wiener aka Anne Wiener who died on 9/23/2024 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 7/16/2025. 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 7/16/2025, 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: 1/16/2025
Margaret Snyder Thompson 1524 Crestwood Lane, McLean, VA 22101
Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 001516
Pinkie McDowell aka Pinkie M. McDowell Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Pamela M. Fogan, whose address is 69 Randolph Place, NW, Washington, DC 20001, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Pinkie McDowell aka Pinkie M. McDowell who died on March 10, 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 7/16/2025. 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 7/16/2025, 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: 1/16/2025
Pamela M. Fogan Personal Representative
TRUE
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
Dorothy B. Jones aka Dorothy Bernice Jones
Bobby G. Henry, Jr. Henry Legal Firm, LLC 9701 Apollo Dr., Ste. 100 Largo, Maryland 20774 Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Nadine Jones Smith and Charlene Glispy, whose addresses are 8007 Carmel Drive, District Heights, Md 20747/ 12103 Partridge Dr., Lake Wales, FL 33859, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Dorothy B. Jones aka Dorothy Bernice Jones who died on 2/16/2024 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 7/16/2025. 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 7/16/2025, 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: 1/16/2025
Nadine Jones Smith Charlene Glispy Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 000545
Josephine W. Humphrey aka Edith Josephine Humphrey Decedent
Sharon Legall 1325 G Street, NW, Suite 500 Washington, DC 20005 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Jerry Sims aka Jerry S. Sims, whose address is 10823 Haggle Court, Manassas, VA 20112, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Josephine W. Humphrey aka Edith Josephine Humphrey who died on 2/5/2024 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 7/16/2025. 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 7/16/2025, 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: 1/16/2025
Jerry Sims aka Jerry S. Sims Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 1369
Jasmine Victoria Shelton Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Shonnell Shelton, whose address is 1815 Vinewood Place, Gwynn Oak, MD 21207, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jasmine Victoria Shelton who died on January 19, 2024 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 7/16/2025. 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 7/16/2025, 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: 1/16/2025
Shonnell Shelton 1815 Vinewood Place
Gwynn Oak, MD 21207
Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 001091
Rose W. Redmond aka Rose White Redmond Decedent
Mary Jane Knight
Law Office of M. J. Knight 1007 Varnum Street, NE, Suite 100 Washington, DC 20017 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Alice Carole Redmond, whose address is 13160 Keverton Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rose W. Redmond aka Rose White Redmond who died on September 9, 2009 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 7/16/2025. 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 7/16/2025, 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: 1/16/2025
Alice Carole Redmond Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 001484
Paula A. Robinson Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Mark J. Robinson, whose address is 11102 Quiet Woods Court, Boston, VA 22713, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Paula A. Robinson who died on 11/08/2024 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 7/16/2025. 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 7/16/2025, 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: 1/16/2025
Mark J. Robinson
Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 001478
Sarah Bundu Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Fatima Bundu-Paen and Mohamed Bundu, whose addresses are 7406 Potomac Ct., New Carrolton, MD 20784 and 7827 Vanity Fair Dr., Greenbelt, MD 20770, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Sarah Bundu who died on June 8, 2024 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 7/16/2025. 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 7/16/2025, 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: 1/16/2025
Fatima Bundu-Paen Mohamed Bundu Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 001512
Diane Coleman Decedent
Sharon Legall 1325 G Street, NW, Suite 500 Washington, DC 20005
Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Ronald Coleman, whose address is 756 Burns St., SE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Diane Coleman who died on 2/5/2024 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 7/16/2025. 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 7/16/2025, 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: 1/16/2025
Ronald Coleman Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division
Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 001344
Estate of Dorothy M. Wilson aka Dorothy May Wilson
NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE
Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Sadie Edwards-Brown and Elizabeth Hunter William 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 January 27, 2018 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise
Date of first publication: January 16, 2025
Itta Englander, Esq. #610293 NLSP, 64 New York Ave, NE, Ste. 180 Washington, DC 20002
Petitioner/Attorney:
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 001520
Arletha Chappelle Green aka Arletha C. Green Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
James A. Schneider, whose address is 5703 Church Road, Bowie, MD 20720, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Arletha Chappelle Green aka Arletha C. Green who died on October 12, 2024 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 7/23/2025. 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 7/23/2025, 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: 1/23/2025
James A. Schneider Personal Representative
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2025 ADM 000009
Dominica B. Hill aka Dominica Bitondo Hill Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Myron George Hill, III, whose address is 3900 Calvert St., NW, Washington, DC 20007, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dominica B. Hill aka Dominica Bitondo Hill who died on October 20, 2024 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 7/23/2025. 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 7/23/2025, 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:
1/23/2025
Myron George Hill, III
Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 001011
Barbara Tucker Decedent
Sharon Legall
1325 G. Street, NW, Suite 500 Washington, DC 20005 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Kevin Tucker, whose address is 2402 Ewing Ave., Suitland MD, 20746, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara Tucker who died on February 9, 2024 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 7/23/2025. 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 7/23/2025, 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: 1/23/2025
Kevin Tucker Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADP 001571
Eunice Mooney Johnson aka Eunice Johnson aka Eunice Renee Mooney Decedent
Andrew T. Richardson, III 1629 K Street, NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Brittany Mooney, whose address is 1016 17th Place, NE, #301, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Eunice Mooney Johnson aka Eunice Johnson aka Eunice Renee Mooney who died on July 24, 2024 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 7/23/2025. 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 7/23/2025, 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: 1/23/2025
Brittany Mooney Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 001007
Bernice Serena Smith Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Patricia Prescott, whose address is 1115 46th Place SE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bernice Serena Smith who died on July 15, 2024 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 7/23/2025. 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 7/23/2025, 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: 1/23/2025
Patricia Prescott
Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 001544
Hailemichael Mengistu Seyoum Decedent
Donald Marlais, Esq. 411 10th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Joseph Seyoum, whose address is 5808 30th Avenue, Hyattsville, MD 20782, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Hailemichael Mengistu Seyoum who died on 11/13/2024 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 7/23/2025. 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 7/23/2025, 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: 1/23/2025
Joseph Seyoum Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 001538
Camille Saum Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Clover Stieve, whose address is 513 Harrison St., Frenchtown, NJ 08825, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Camille Saum who died on 10/29/2024 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 7/23/2025. 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 7/23/2025, 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: 1/23/2025
Clover Stieve
Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 001541
Helen Frances Burland Rehwaldt Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Kathleen Rehwaldt, whose address is Unit 7700, Box 498, DPO, AE 09290, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Helen Frances Burland Rehwaldt who died on March 27, 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 7/23/2025. 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 7/23/2025, 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: 1/23/2025
Kathleen Rehwaldt Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
1995 ADM 2168
Charles A. Rehwaldt aka Charles Arther Rehwaldt Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Kathleen Ann Rehwaldt, whose address is Unit 7700, Box 498, DPO, AE 09290-0498, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles A. Rewaldt aka Charles Arthur Rehwaldt who died on October 20, 1995 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 7/23/2025. 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 7/23/2025, 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: 1/23/2025
Kathleen Ann Rewaldt
Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 001537
James P. Burrell Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
David R. Burrell, whose address is 118 Tuckerman St., NE, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James P. Burrell who died on December 6, 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 7/23/2025. 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 7/23/2025, 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: 1/23/2025
David R. Burrell Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 1529
Joan Peterson White Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Christopher David White, whose address is 4423 Springdale St., NW, Washington, DC 20016, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joan Peterson White who died on June 11, 2024 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 7/23/2025. 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 7/23/2025, 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: 1/23/2025
Christopher David White 4423 Springdale St., NW Washington, DC 20016
Personal Representative
TRUE
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
Declaration of Nationality Protocol
In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender.
Donald Marlais, Esq. 411 10th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002
Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Gail Whitley and Donna Price, whose addresses are 4110 Bolton Overlook Court, Woodbridge, VA 22192 & 18154 Windsor Hill Dr., Olney, MD 20832, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Joyce E. Strong aka Joyce Strong aka Joyce Evelyn Strong who died on 7/18/2023 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 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 7/23/2025. 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 7/23/2025, 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: 1/23/2025
Gail Whitley
Donna Price Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 001373
Kenneth Nathaniel Hall Decedent
Colline Silvera Robinson Kirlew & Associate PC 7731 Belle Point Drive Greenbelt, MD 20770 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Lynn Watkins, whose address is 1370 Beringer Drive, Hoschton, GA 30548, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Kenneth Nathaniel Hall who died on May 19, 2024 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 7/30/2025. 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 7/30/2025, 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: 1/30/2025
Lynn Watkins Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 001365
Margaret Reeder Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Monica Reeder, whose address is 212 Varnum Street, NE, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Margaret Reeder who died on 5/5/2008 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 7/23/2025. 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 7/23/2025, 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: 1/23/2025
Monica Reeder Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2025 ADM 000001
James I. Fitzgerald Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Magdalene Fitzgerald, whose address is 812 Decatur Street NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James I. Fitzgerald who died on August 23, 2024 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 7/30/2025. 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 7/30/2025, 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: 1/30/2025
Magdalene Fitzgerald Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 001566
Samuel Addison Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Joseph Addison, whose address is 1015 Brockton Ct., Glen Burnie, MD 21060, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Samuel Addison who died on 7/6/2023 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 7/23/2025. 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 7/23/2025, 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: 1/23/2025
Joseph Addison Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 001499
Elaine F. Gunter aka Elaine Faye Gunter Decedent
Joan M. Wilbon 1629 K Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Olivia V. Morris and Darrell W. Gunter, whose addresses are 4417 Sturbridge Dr, Salisbury, MD 21804 and 298 Mathers Rd., Ambler, PA 19002, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Elaine F. Gunter aka Elaine Faye Gunter who died on 8/20/2024 with a Will and will serve with 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 7/30/2025. 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 7/30/2025, 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: 1/30/2025
Olivia V. Morris
Darrell W. Gunter
Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 001540 2024 WILL 000849
Sandra W. Jones Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Joy A. Williams and David A. Rucker, whose addresses are 636 Rock Creek Church Rd., NW, Washington, DC 20010 / 203 Edge Creek Lane, Odenton MD 21113, were appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sandra W. Jones who died on November 11, 2024 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 7/23/2025. 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 7/23/2025, 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: 1/23/2025
Joy A. Williams David A. Rucker Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 000118
Rene Antonaire Simms Decedent
Brian L. Kass, Personal Representative 4301 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 434 Washington, DC 20008 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Brian L. Kass, whose address is 4301 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 434, Washington, DC 20008, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rene Antonaire Simms who died on January 7, 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 (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 7/30/2025. 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 7/30/2025, 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: 1/30/2025
Brian L. Kass
Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
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Ward 8 council member at a table designated for public witnesses. For several minutes, he spoke on White’s behalf, laying out what some called a cogent argument questioning not only the timing of the expulsion resolution, but the council’s ability to facilitate such a process, as outlined in the Home Rule Act and the Board of Ethics and Government Accountability (BEGA) Establishment and Comprehensive Ethics Reform Amendment Act of 2011.
“There’s no state that allows the expulsion of a legislator upon being indicted,” Cooke said on the afternoon of Jan. 28 in regard to the council’s ability to expel White, who has yet to face trial “You can be put in a different posture, but you’re not expelled.”
Cooke, a longtime attorney, has experience that includes representing D.C. Mayor Marion S. Barry. As he alluded to during the public hearing, Cooke also served as the District's clean energy counsel, during which he facilitated the 1987 arrest of D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D), then an activist protesting the development of a public park.
During the special public hearing, Cooke denied the “charges and specifications” the council’s ad-hoc committee levied against White. Later, in his statement, he noted that the committee, formed in the aftermath of White’s arrest last summer, introduced the resolution to expel him during a hearing conducted toward the end of Council Period 25. He went on to argue that, though the council will vote on that resolution during an upcoming legislative meeting, it shouldn’t be able to do so due organizational rule changes made at the start of a new council period.
“The council doesn’t have this resolution from the previous council period properly reported, and it needs to be reported in a procedurally substantive manner,” Cooke said, while also noting that, from his vantage point, the council “usurped” a process that BEGA is currently navigating independent of the council. “The council’s… process .. is inconsistent with previous council action and no good … because BEGA is conducting an investigation. It can have a fact-finding record reviewed by the council, but it doesn't make sense making the council the fact-finding and re-
viewing agent.”
THE COUNCIL STANDS BEHIND ITS PROCESS
BEGA didn't immediately respond to The Informer’s request for confirmation of an investigation into White's alleged ethics violation.
On Feb. 4, the council will vote on White’s expulsion. Based on council rules, White isn’t allowed to participate. As such, approval of the resolution requires 11 out of 12 votes.
During the Jan. 28 public hearing, only Mendelson and D.C. Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie (I-At large) spoke. Those joining them on the dais included: D.C. Councilmembers Christina Henderson (I-At large), Anita Bonds (D- At large), Brooke Pinto (D-Ward 2), Janeese Lewis George (Ward 4), Robert White (D-At large), Charles Allen (D-Ward 6), and Matt Frumin (D-Ward 3), along with Wendell Felder (DWard 7).
The Informer unsuccessfully attempted to gather comment from Felder, who, in a week, would be weighing in for the first time on White’s expulsion as an elected official.
In December, Lathams & Watkins, LLP, a law firm the council commissioned to conduct the independent investigation, released a report substantiating White’s violation of the Home Rule Act and council rules of conduct, as it relates to his alleged acceptance of $35,000 and future payments in exchange of him securing violence interruption grants for local nonprofit Life Deeds.
PARDON from Page 5
“Officer Sutton was wrongly charged by corrupt prosecutors for doing his job,” the union wrote on the platform formerly known as Twitter on Jan. 22. “This action rights an incredible wrong that not only harmed Officer Sutton, but also crippled the ability for the department to function.”
MPD circulated a similarly worded statement expressing gratitude for what the department called Trump and Attorney General Edward Martin’s support of police officers.
LOCAL, NATIONAL POLITICIANS WEIGH-IN
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s response to the pardons appeared restrained.
Latham & Watkins didn’t find White, who FBI agents arrested outside of a Ward 6 condominium, in violation of residency requirements for elected officials.
However, as ad-hoc committee chair McDuffie noted, much to Cooke’s chagrin, White previously declined three opportunities to speak to Latham & Watkins. The law firm gathered interviews with former and current council staff and violence interruption personnel. They also scoured public records and surveillance footage.
With that evidence, they pieced together a timeline during which, in between allegedly accepting cash payments, White met with officials in the Office of Neighborhood Safety & Engagement and Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services.
The process, McDuffie noted, stayed within the bounds of the council’s powers.
“Relevant to this proceeding, you are wrong,” McDuffie told Cooke. “The Home Rule Charter gives the authority for the council to create procedures for expulsion and … we have done so through the rules we’ve adopted.”
After his arrest, White lost his stewardship of the council’s Committee on Recreation, Libraries and Youth Affairs. He later won his re-election bid in November, beating a slew of write-in candidates and an increasingly perennial Republican contender. However, as reported in a previous Informer story, White struggled to find a judge who would agree to administer the oath of office at his swearing-in ceremony.
WI
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
“Never before, in any other jurisdiction in the country, has a police officer been charged with second-degree murder for pursuing a suspect. These members could never have imagined that engaging in a core function of their job would be prosecuted as a crime,” MPD’s statement read. “The [d] epartment recognizes the risks involved in vehicle pursuits, which are reflected in our pursuit policy. But violations of that policy should be addressed through training and discipline - not through criminal prosecution.
Trump’s pardon of the two former MPD officers represents the first instance, since his return to office, that the president has infringed on local affairs. It also follows similar action he took for the nearly 1,600 people who were either convicted or facing trial for their alleged involvement in the January 6, 2021 attacks on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol. Monica Hopkins told The Informer Trump’s latest pardon threatens to undo some of the progress that local advocates and elected officials alike have been making to make the public safety ecosystem more equitable. At a time when District residents are at the mercy of the federal courts and prison system, she cautioned against the further decimation of the public trust.
“When police officers are allowed to abuse their power without facing consequences, the public can understandably grow reluctant to interact with the criminal justice system at all,” said Hopkins, executive director of the ACLU of the District of Columbia, on the night of Jan. 22. “People across the political spectrum want our leaders to prevent police misconduct and to hold officers accountable when they break the law, and especially not when they are convicted of murder and obstruction of justice.”
In a statement, she said, “While MPD has long believed that the unfortunate loss of life caused by this police pursuit was best addressed in MPD's administrative processes, not a criminal one, we nonetheless accepted the jury verdicts.” Bowser added that the District continues to focus on training and discipline to hold officers accountable “while keeping our community safe from violent offenders.”
The Metropolitan Police Department also weighed in, expressing gratitude for Trump’s decision. “The prosecutions of Officer Terence Sutton and Lieutenant Andrew Zabavsky were literally unprecedented.
Never before, in any other jurisdiction in the country, has a police officer been charged with second-degree murder for pursuing a suspect, the department stated. It added that pursuit policy violations “should be addressed through training and discipline— not through criminal prosecution.”
Karon Hylton-Brown, a 20-year-old father, died in October 2020 after his moped collided with a vehicle during a police chase initiated over an alleged traffic violation. His death sparked widespread protests and demands for justice.
Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), a ranking member of the House Judiciary Committee, condemned the pardons while addressing Trump’s broader actions during his second term.
“President Trump on day one pardoned 1,500 insurrectionists, including hundreds who violently attacked police officers,” Raskin said. “Now, he’s pardoning officers convicted of murder and obstruction of justice. This is not about restoring the rule of law; it’s about dismantling it.”
Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.) echoed Raskin’s concerns, calling the decision a threat to public safety.
“The decision to pardon officers who were convicted by a jury undermines the justice system and makes America less safe,” she said. WI
@SamPKCollins
5A truck outside of the John. A. Wilson Building in Northwest, D.C. during the hearing for Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White, whose likeness is on the vehicle with the phrase ' “FBI SET ME UP.” (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington)
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attacked him deserve incarceration, not pardons. But to maintain the fiction that there was no violence on Jan. 6, pardons serve to paper over the lie.
In a frenzy of takeover ecstasy, the 47th president issued about 200 executive orders, including the pardons, rollbacks of Biden executive actions, and increased border restrictions (declaring the U.S.-Mexico border a "national emergency" even though border crossings are down). One of his executive orders attacks federal workers, making it easier for them to be fired without cause. Although our Constitution mandates citizenship for anyone born in this country, he is attempting, through executive order, to eliminate that right. He will withdraw our country from the Paris Climate Accord, even as we experience the devastating effects of climate change. And he will withdraw us from the World Health
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disparate impact of the death penalty and committed to ending it on the federal level. His Department of Justice paused executions, a welcome reprieve after the Trump administration's gruesome execution spree.
The cases of the 37 men whose lives were spared manifest all the profound flaws that inevitably mar the death penalty, including significant racial disparities. Black Americans are seven times more likely to be falsely convicted of serious crimes compared to white
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the biblical teachings that followers of Christ are to "speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, speak for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy." Unfortunately, many conservative evangelicals have truly abandoned their faith and the things they were taught by deciding to follow a false idol in Trump. They must deal with the heavy weight of their conscience. Therefore, they don't want to hear messages like Budde's sermon. It is uncomfortable for them to be exposed in public and reminded of the sound teaching they choose not to accept. Many of them do not like the idea of a woman holding a powerful position traditionally held by men and using that position to expose their religious hypocrisy and their cold hearts. Why should any of them be allowed to feel comfortable
Organization (WHO), which weakens health stability on the planet.
COVID-19 was a global – not a national – phenomenon, and we needed WHO-generated data to deal with the virus. All in all, the executive orders are a naked power grab, an attempt to diminish the role of Congress. And while organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and others have filed suits against this president, he has so stacked the Supreme Court that they may well find in his favor. This consolidation of presidential power is dangerous and painful, but there is joy in the energy and spirit of the resisters. The Rev. Al Sharpton's National Action Network moved their planned outdoor rally from McPherson Park to the historic Metropolitan AME Church, where an overflow crowd listened and learned about ways to resist. In more than 80 cities, including Washington, D.C., the ANSWER (Act Now to Stop War and End Rac-
Americans. Among the 37 were: those prosecuted by almost exclusively white attorneys and convicted by all-white juries; the intellectually disabled, seriously mentally ill or brain damaged; those who faced execution though they did not personally kill anyone; and those whose convictions or death sentences were secured through the use of misleading or unreliable scientific evidence.
President Biden is a man of faith, courage and principle. His historic acts of grace and mercy manifest all of those qualities.
when they use their platforms and positions to perpetuate a national climate of hate where people will become more emboldened to discriminate against those considered as "others?" Budde is not apologizing, for she's not the one promoting intolerance.
We all should support Bishop Budde and any Christian leader who uses their platforms and positions to expose and speak out against the normalization of white supremacy and political vindictiveness, against normalizing insensitivity toward the economic and physical well-being of marginalized and vulnerable individuals. We need more white Christian leaders with the heart and understanding to agitate their counterparts and elected officials publicly.
The hate and racism from the Jim Crow era never truly died in the hearts and minds of many people. It was simply suppressed by progressive laws of tolerance and inclusion and by
ism) Coalition held rallies of resistance against this new administration. These actions are a necessary response to those who would widen the wealth gap, not narrow it. As an example, the oligarchs say that tariffs would offset any losses from the extension of the Trump tax cuts. But tax cuts benefit those at the top, while tariffs burden those at the bottom.
There is joy in revolution, but extreme pain at the attacks on democracy, on human rights and on basic decency. Our answer – litigation, when executive orders break the law; legislation, when new laws are needed and we have enough allies to pass them; and agitation, the culture of protest, of resistance, of truth-telling. In the words of Frederick Douglass, agitate, agitate, agitate. The current president thinks he can circumvent the Constitution. Many Republicans don't agree. We'll see. WI
"President Biden has demonstrated one of the strongest commitments to racial justice in U.S. history," Morial said in a Jan. 18 National Urban League news release. "Today's historic decision will allow people to come home to their families sooner and give communities the opportunity to reunite and rebuild.
"We commend President Biden for his commitment to justice and equality even in his last days in office. As we prepare to enter a new era, today's actions are a reminder of what real leadership looks like." WI
Christian leaders of all races appealing to the conscience of a hate-filled nation. Those who now misrepresent and attack CRT (critical race theory), DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion), and "wokeness" are using it as political rallying cries intended to conceal the truth and the depth of hatred behind racism throughout our history and modern-day society. In doing so, it spares them and others from the weight and conviction of their conscience. Frederick Douglass often repeated the phrase "agitate, agitate, agitate" to encourage others to join him in his fight for justice and equality. Budde also struck a nerve with Republican lawmakers. Rep. Mike Collins from Georgia lashed out by demanding that Budde — who was born in New Jersey — be deported. By her bold sermon, Budde is unlikely ever to be intimidated and silenced. Unlike many people, she is not afraid of Trump. WI
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cutor who gave extensive service in her community and inspired nearly 100,000 supporters to sign a petition for a pardon. Most national Black leaders supported our efforts to pardon her. She was wrongly prosecuted for using her own retirement money during COVID-19.
Mayor Johnny Ford of Tuskegee, Alabama, made valiant efforts. Lt. Col. Tyrone Bost, Joy-Ann Reid,
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health care, education and economic mobility, are expected to intensify in 2025, and we will see nonprofits continuing to serve as critical bridges between the public and private sectors.
Public-private partnerships are important for addressing immediate challenges while also fostering longterm solutions, and it is through these partnerships that nonprofits have proven their resilience and ingenuity to adapt. At the same time, nonprofits must continue to advocate for unrestricted funding and flexible resources to sustain programs and meet evolving community needs.
As we navigate changing landscapes, organizations will lean on evidence-based approaches to not only inform their strategies and programs but also to drive their impact. For example, data shows that programs that decrease absenteeism and build supportive learning environments improve students' overall educational outcomes.
Meanwhile, economic mobility opportunities, like financial literacy resources and coaching, help families build stability. Food banks and community-based health organizations bridge gaps by providing people with additional ways to access
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ed individuals. Without persistent effort, time itself becomes an ally of the insurgent and primitive forces of irrational emotionalism and social destruction. This is no time for apathy or complacency. This is a time for vigorous and positive action."
King also repeated the same words in "Letter from Birmingham Jail" nearly verbatim in his last Sunday sermon, "Remaining
Rep. Ayanna Pressley, attorney Benjamin Crump, Derrick Johnson, the Rev. Al Sharpton, Michael Steele and Gov. Wes Moore made public statements about the case against Mosby, but obviously their voices were not heard to get a pardon. He knew that on the day he left office, 1,500 people who assaulted and caused police officers to die while defiling our Capitol at the expense of people like you and me would go free. He only had time to take care of his son and
nutritious food and related resources to keep their minds and bodies healthy.
We can never forget that it is the people, not just the funding, that sustains nonprofits. Regardless of religious beliefs or personal backgrounds, mission-focused organizations are guided by a moral compass to lift their neighbors in need.
As a woman of faith who grew up in the church, I have seen firsthand how far a dollar or an hour of volunteer time can go when multiplied by the collective will of a community. Contributions of time, treasure and talent allow us to provide meals to those who are hungry, give students chances to explore high-paying, high-demand career options, and equip families with financial knowledge to stretch every dollar.
So, as we move through 2025, it will be the people — dedicated individuals, volunteers, donors and partners — who drive the most meaningful change. Coming together across sectors will allow nonprofits to foster a more equitable, sustainable future for more people in a more efficient and effective way.
After all, nonprofits are not simply organizational entities. They are made up of neighbors and friends working tirelessly to ensure their communities not only survive but thrive.
Awake Through a Great Revolution," given at the Washington National Cathedral on March 31, 1968–four days before he was assassinated. This was a message he never stopped wanting to make sure his listeners heard and internalized.
His words remain both a sobering reminder and a powerful instruction for all who seek to follow him right now. The King holiday is also a moment when many people repeat another of King's most
members of his family in the last days of his presidency. No matter how much we supported him, he didn't think about what his strongest supporters asked him to do for two very deserving people! Are we expected to forgive this oversight and other oversights of so many otherwise good people like Biden? History often records people to be better than they actually were in life. Must we follow that trend?
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As a woman of faith who grew up in the church, I have seen firsthand how far a dollar or an hour of volunteer time can go when multiplied by the collective will of a community.
If we continue to invest in one another to amplify the power of collective action, we can adapt, innovate and sustain the critical nonprofit work that makes the most lasting differences.
Let us keep these "rules of thumb" top of mind: If we want to go wide, go with the government. If we want to go deep, go with nonprofits and academic institutions. If we want to go fast, go with the private sector. And if we want to go far, we must go together.
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beloved teachings, which he quoted from 19th century abolitionist and Unitarian minister Theodore Parker — another lesson that King included again in his final sermon at the Washington National Cathedral, in words that are now engraved on the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial on the National Mall:
“We shall overcome, because the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.”
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Join the Washington National Cathedral in celebrating Black History Month as we honor the contributions of Black composers.
The Unsung Black Heroes of Classical Music
HBCU Welcome Sunday
Sunday, February 16 | 11:15am
Washington National Cathedral invites you to celebrate our Annual HBCU Welcome Sunday. During this service, the Cathedral welcomes alums, organizations, families, and communities representing Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Guest Preacher
With musical and spoken word performers including The Denyce Graves Foundation and the Coalition of African-American Performing Arts, under the direction of Michele Fowlin.
The Reverend Dr. Raphael Warnock, Senior Pastor, Ebeneezer Baptist Church, Atlanta, Georgia Guest Choir
North Carolina Central University Choir
All Cathedral worship services are free and open to the public.
