The Washington Informer - June 11, 2020

Don’t Miss Our Homeownership Supplement Center Section Vol. 55, No. 35 • June 11 - 17, 2020

‘Black Lives Matter’ Mural Elicits Flurry of Emotion

Brother of the late George Floyd Testifies on Police Reform Philonise Floyd Addresses House Judiciary Committee

By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor @dkevinmcneir Yielding to the protests and cries for justice lodged by millions of Americans, as well as citizens worldwide, the House Judiciary Committee held a hearing on police brutality on Wednesday, June 10 – just one day after the funeral services for George Floyd in Houston.

And with the centuries-old conflict and crisis of race and the policing of African Americans suddenly back in the spotlight, all eyes remained transfixed on Philonise Floyd, the brother of George Floyd, whose emotional testimony brought deadly clarity to the challenges facing America.

When asked by reporters what he planned to say when called upon by the House Judiciary Committee on reform proposals, and with the death of his brother while being detained by Minneapolis officers all four

5 A familiar street in the District now bears the name Black Lives Matter. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer) Visit our website for a photo gallery of protest pictures in the District by our photography staff.

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins In a situation markedly different than what initially transpired between police officers and protesters in the wake of George Floyd’s death, hundreds of thousands of people of various races peacefully converged on portions of the District’s downtown sector throughout the weekend during what officials considered the largest mass demonstration in the nation’s capital in recent history.

This milestone had been precipitated by a celebratory unveiling of the large “Black Lives Matter” mural and street sign that D.C. Muriel Bowser (D) commissioned a day prior as what some people considered her alignment with protesters clashing with

the federal police forces and President Donald Trump.

However, others — including members of Black Lives Matter DC — quickly dismissed Bowser’s move as an empty political gesture that distracts from her administration’s contentious record on police-community relations.

While local protester Wad Khalafalla didn’t necessarily echo that sentiment, she acknowledged the moment as an opportunity to pressure the District government’s implementation of eight policies — including the defunding of the police — championed by Black Lives Matter as part of Campaign Zero.

“The endgame is to abolish the police, [and let] the communities govern them-

MURAL Page 38

REFORM Page 16

5 Philonise Floyd (Courtesy photo)

Activist Moms Seize Historic Moment

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins In her eighth month without the physical presence of her only son, Roxane Johnson has watched along with the rest of the world as protesters of various ethnicities have taken to the streets in opposition to racialized police violence and abuse of power much like what she said the late Jamaal Byrd experienced.

For Johnson, not even the presence of Black Lives Matter Plaza — a stretch of 16th Street

MOTHERS Page 36 3 Roxane Johnson, mother of Jamaal Byrd who died while in police custody, still seeks answers about his death. (Courtesy photo/onthegroundshow.org)

Celebrating 55 Years of Service / Serving More Than 50,000 Readers Throughout The Metropolitan Area

2 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Around the Region................4-11 PG County...........................12-13 Business................................14-15 National................................16-17 International............................ 18 Health .................................20-21

3Hurricane Season

Education ...........................22-23

6DCPS Briefs

Lifestyle / Page 32

Education / Page 22

Homeownership Supplement ........................... Center Section OpEd...................................25-27 Lifestyle............................. 28-35 Sports ......................................37 Religion.................................... 39

FOLLOW US ON

5Venus Williams

Black Facts / Page 6

5Book Review Lifestyle / Page 35

DONATE MILK AT YOUR LOCAL SAFEWAY TODAY

June 1, 2020 - June 30, 2020.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 3

around the region

www.washingtoninformer.com Visit our updated Web site and give us your comments for a chance to win a gift from The Washington Informer Email comments to: rburke@ washingtoninformer.com

In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark THE WASHINGTON INFORMER PUBLISHER NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is pubDenise Rolark Barnes lished weekly on each Thursday. Periodicals postage paid at Washington, D.C. and STAFF additional mailing offices. News and adD. Kevin McNeir, Editor vertising deadline is Monday prior to publication. Announcements must be receivedIn Memoriam Ron Burke, Advertising/ Marketing Director two weeks prior to event. CopyrightDr. 2016 Calvin Shevry W. Rolark, Sr. Lassiter, Photo Editor

by The Washington Informer. All rights Wilhelmina J. RolarkBarnes, IV, Assistant Photo Editor Lafayette reserved. POSTMASTER: Send change John E. De Freitas, Sports Photo Editor of addresses to The Washington Inform- NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published THE WASHINGTON INFORMER Dorothy Rowley, Online Editor er, 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. weekly on Thursday. Periodicals postageZebraDesigns.net, paid at Washington, Design D.C. and additional & Layout Washington, D.C. 20032. No part of this mailing News and without advertising Mable deadlineNeville, is Monday prior to publication.

Bookkeeper publication mayoffices. be reproduced be received prior to event.

Copyright

by The writtenAnnouncements permission frommust the publisher.

Thetwo weeks Dr. Charles Vincent, Social 2000 Sightings Washington Informer.

All rights the reserved.columnist POST MASTER: Send change of addressInformer Newspaper cannot guarantee return esoftophotographs.

Subscription The Washington Informer,rates 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave.,Media S.E. Washington, Tatiana Moten, Social Specialist are $45D.C. per year, twoNo years $60. will 20032. part of Papers this publication may beJohnson, reproducedCirculation without written permisAngie be received not more than a week after pubsion from the payable publisher. lication.

Make checks to: The Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee the return of

The Washington Informer Newspaper

REPORTERS photographs. Subscription rates are $30 per year, two years $45. Papers will be received Stacychecks Brown (Senior not more than a week after publication. Make payable to: Writer), Sam P.K. THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

Collins, Timothy Cox, Will Ford (Prince 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E Washington, D.C. 20032 George’s County Writer), Jacqueline Fuller, THE WASHINGTON INFORMER Phone: 202 561-4100 Hamil Daniel D.C. Kucin, D. Kevin 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Harris, • Washington, 20032 Fax: 202 574-3785 Phone: 202 561-4100 • Fax: Kui 202 Mwai, 574-3785 McNeir, Dorothy Rowley, news@washingtoninformer.com Brenda Siler, Lindiwe Vilakazi, Sarafina www.washingtoninformer.comE-mail: news@washingtoninformer.com Wright, James Wright, www.washingtoninformer.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS PUBLISHER John E. DeFreitas, Ulrich Fonou, Ja’Mon Denise Rolark Barnes Shevry Lassiter, Roy Lewis, Jr., Jackson, RobertREPORTERS R. Roberts, Anthony Tilghman

STAFF Brooke N. Garner Managing Editor Carla Peay Assistant Managing Editor Ron Burke Advertising and Marketing Mable Whittaker Bookkeeper LaNita Wrenn Administration John E. De Freitas Sports Editor Victor Holt Photo Editor Zebra Designs, Inc. Layout & Graphic Design Ken Harris /www.scsworks.com Webmaster

4 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

Tia C. Jones, Ed Laiscell, Odell B. Ruffin, Larry Saxton, Mary Wells, Joseph Young PHOTOGRAPHERS Lafayette Barnes, IV, John E. De Freitas, Maurice Fitzgerald, Joanne Jackson, Roy Lewis, Robert Ridley, Victor Holt CIRCULATION Paul Trantham

Women the Cycle of wi hotBreak topics Domestic Violence Prince George’s Seeks Input Maryland Health Insurance Deadline Approaching on TransportationlawServices enforcement. She said they threat,” she said.

By Tia Carol Jones WI Staff Writer

had come together to bring a Among the programs Marlow whotoseek insurancearehave until sense of uniformity in theMarylanders way wants see health implemented Monday, June 15, to enroll through When L.Y. Marlow's 23-year- domestic violence victims and stricter restraining order Maryland policies, Health Thisrights comesfor through a speold daughter told her the father survivors are treated. Connection.more victim's COVID-19 families enrollment period in the state with nearly 60,000 of her daughter threatened her “She's using her own cial personal to intervene on behalf of a vicinsurance companies life, and the life of their child, story, her own personalconfirmed pain to cases. tim, aHealth domestic violence assess- on the Maryland connection testing, relating to she knew something had to be push forward,” Davis-Nickens ment unit cover coupled with visits further testing and COVID-19 In addition, comdone. Out of her frustration said about Marlow. training fortreatment. law enforcement with law enforcement's handling waive lab co-payments Davis-Nickens said panies anyoneare required agencies, toa Child's Lifefees, Protecof the situation, she decided to who reads Marlow's book and deductibles at aand doctor’s office,counselurgent care cenwill tion Act mandatory start the Saving Promise cam- “get it.” She said she “puts ter orthe emergency Residents can enroll through ing forroom. batterers. paign. case in such a way, thewww.marylandhealthconnection.gov, average or call 1-855“If we are ever going to eradi“It seems to be a vicious cycle person can get it.” She said at the from cate8 domestic we must 642-857 a.m. to 6 violence, p.m. that won'tBoulevard turn Metro my station familyin Landover 5 Morgan doors end of thelocked day, the bookResidents will look at both sides for of free the at coin. can still get tested various sites loose,” Marlow said.

Marlow March 27.

(File photo: William J. Ford/Thehelp Washington peopleInformer) begin to have a dia- We the victhroughout the need state.to Inaddress Prince both George’s County, resshared her story with the audi- logue about domestic violence. tim free andtesting the batterer,” idents can get at severalMarlow CVS pharmaof Public encePrince at theGeorge’s DistrictCounty’s HeightsDepartment Also present at the event was said. cies including Greenbelt, New Carrollton and Upper Works and Transportation launched an online surDomestic Violence Symposium Mildred Muhammad, the ex- ForMarlow would also like to see sites, go Marlboro. more information on testing to 7receive from residents onJohn theirAllen trav- Muhammad, programs designed to raise onvey May at the feedback District Heights wife of to https://coronavirus.maryland.gov/pages/sympel experience, specifically when it comes to public Municipal Center. The sympo- who was sentenced to sixtoms-testing. consec- awareness among children in transportation.

Some of 14 questions which sium was sponsored bythethe utive lifeask terms without parole public and private schools. She transportation optionsServices do residents how often Family and Youth by ause, Maryland jury for his role in feels children need to be educathave they usedcity the county’s “The Bus” the lastSniper year attacks in ed about domestic violence.

Center of the of District the in Beltway and would a person use a credit, debit or pre-paid Heights and the National Hook- 2002. Mildred Muhammad is “We have to stop being pasto pay for transit. The agenda answers as the Trauma, sive-aggressive with poor chilUpcards of Black Women. theseeks founder of After ways to improve transportation and how Marlow has written a book, experience an organization that helps the dren about domestic violence,” to guide county’swhich futureisofa public transportation.

“Color Methe Butterfly,” survivors of domestic violence Marlow said.

There are 15 Metrorail stations the county but the story about four generations of in and their children.

Marlow has worked to break domestic violence.

The book Area is Washington Metropolitan Transit “I livedAuthority in fear for six years. Six the cycle of abuse in her family, inspired her of own experiences, closed by three them – Cheverly,years College Parkis and in fear a long time. It is and is confident the policies she and those Boulevard of her grandmother, Morgan – during thenot coronavirus pan- to come out is pushing for will start that an easy thing herdemic. mother and her daughter. of,” she said. process.

She The saidsurvey every can timebe she reads Mildred Muhammad said “I plan to take these policies to found out https://www.surveyexcerpts from her book, she still and people who have want to help a Congress and implore them to monkey.com/r/Transit_Options residents can notMonday, believe the domestic violence victim must change our laws,” Marlow said. until Junewords 15 tocame complete the survey. from her. “Color Me Butterfly” be careful of how they go into “I will not stop until these poliwon the 2007 National “Best the victim's life, and understand cies are passed.”

Books” Award. that she may be in “survival Tia Carol Jones can be reached “I was just 16-years-old when mode”. at tiacaroljones@sbcglobal.net my eye first blackened and my “Before you get to 'I'm going General Karl A. Racine filed lips bled,” Marlow said. to kill Attorney you,' it started as a verbal WI a lawsuit Tuesday against the District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) for endangering over 5,000 tenElaine Davis-Nickens, presiants at 10 public housing properties – as well as the surrounding communities dent of the National Hook-Up in Wards 1, 5, 6 and 7 – and by failing to confront drug- and firearm-related of Black Women, said there is no nuisances at the properties. DCHA is an independent District agency that consistency in the way domestic violence issues are dealt with by provides housing for low- and moderate-income residents. Between January 2019 and May 2020, the Metropolitan Police Department [MPD] responded to over 5,270 incidents that occurred at the properties, including homicides, shootings and drug offenses. DCHA has failed to respond to both resident complaints and Office of the Attorney General [OAG] notices and requests for action, including recommendations to increase security presence, lighting, and security cameras. Following DCHA’s inaction, OAG filed suit seeking a court order compelling DCHA to make immediate security improvements to its properties to protect District residents.

“District law requires building owners such as DCHA to maintain their properties and take reasonable precautions to protect their tenants and properties from crime,” Racine said. “In response to complaints from residents, our office repeatedly warned DCHA about dangerous and illegal activity at their properties, putting tenants—especially children, seniors, and residents with disabilities – at risk. Following DCHA’s inaction, the Office of the Attorney General filed suit to force the agency to make reasonable, but critical, improvements in the maintenance and security of the properties.”

Racine Sues DCHA for Endangering Tenants at 10 Properties

“

We have to stop being passive-aggressive with poor children about domestic violence. I plan to take these policies to Congress and implore them to change our laws. I will not stop until these policies are passed.

“

SOMETHING NEW EVERYDAY

COMPILED BY WILLIAM J. FORD, WI STAFF WRITER AND D. KEVIN MCNEIR,WI EDITOR

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

L.Y. Marlow

AROUND THE REGION

Experts, Activists Ponder Political Engagement in Age of COVID-19

By James Wright WI Staff Writer @Jamesdcwrighter

As the November general election approaches, political experts and activists have been discussing the best strategies for getting people involved in the civic process whether it be through contemporary procedures such as mail-in voting or the ranked voting system during the coronavirus pandemic.

The District conducted its June 2 primary largely by absentee mail-in ballots, a first, because of the ongoing pandemic. While the process reportedly didn’t go well for a number of District residents because they didn’t get their ballots in the mail, many went to voting centers to cast their ballot, waiting in long lines to do so.

District officials, such as Council members Elissa Silverman (I-At Large) and Charles Allen (D-Ward 6), expressed frustration with the primary process and have vowed to improving not abandoning mail-in voting.

Nevertheless, the District utilizing mail-in voting pleases Carla Hanson, the chair of the Oregon Democratic Party, and David T. McDonald, a leader of the Washington state Democratic Party, residents of two states where the process predominates.

“In Oregon, you mail your ballot in and you don’t have to go to a polling station and risk getting infected by the coronavirus,” Hanson said. “Ballots go out from the election board’s offices three weeks in advance by mail and for the ballot to count in an election, it has to be postmarked by 8 p.m. on Election Day. The process has worked well for us since 1998, when we became the first state in the nation to conduct our elections solely by mail. The talk about fraud in mailin voting is a red herring because your ballot is scanned into the system by a real person, not a machine.”

McDonald has heard about some District residents’ complaints of poor postal service in parts of the city and said Washington state has a way to deal with that.

“In Washington, we have dropoff centers where voters can sub-

mit their ballots and not have to deal with the U.S. Postal Service,” he said. “The ballot is deemed valid when marked.”

McDonald notes the one drawback to mail-in voting occurs on election night when official results aren’t readily known because many ballots haven’t been counted at that time, but said “we have grown used to that.”

While mail-in voting has emerged as an alternative to the traditional going to the polls method, the ranked voting system has materialized as a nontraditional way in choosing politicians. Ranked voting, primarily the instant runoff system, consists of a voter identifying their first candidate choice by giving that person a top ranking and their second preference the next and the process goes further on.

If a candidate gets 50 percent or better in a ranked voting-instant runoff system, that person wins the election. If not, the candidate with the least amount of support becomes eliminated from contention and the process proceeds along those lines until someone gets 50 percent or better.

Rob Richie, co-founder and CEO of FairVote, a nonprofit which promotes ranked voting, said the method “is a part of electoral reform throughout the country.

“Ranked voting changes the dynamics between the candidate and the voter,” Richie said. “If your first option loses, you will still have a stake with the winner if you voted for them within your rankings.

That forces candidates to reach out to everyone for support.”

In the District, Council member David Grosso (I-At Large) has authored a bill, the Ranked Choice Voting Amendment Act of 2019, that would mandate that method in the city’s elections.

Leigh Chapman, program director of voting rights for The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, said whether its mail-in voting or ranked voting, “people voting, period, is the key.”

“We want to make sure that elections are free, fair and accessible,” Chapman said. “We at the Leadership Conference believe that the vote by mail option is crit-

5 People wait in line to vote. (WI file photo)

ical and essential. Voters must have a wide range of options. People of color don’t trust the mail. However, standing in line for a long time to vote increases the chance

of someone getting COVID-19.

That is voter suppression.

“Even when you have voting centers, that means precincts in low-income and minority neigh-

borhoods tend to be closed,” Chapman said. “Despite that, people must vote in the November election because it gives citizens a voice in their government.” WI

VOICE LIFELINE AND BROADBAND LIFELINE Did you know?

You may qualify for assistance in paying your home phone or Fios Internet bill. Discounts for basic telephone or Broadband Lifeline service are available to eligible District of Columbia low-income residents.

Verizon Washington, DC, Inc. Voice Lifeline Plans: Verizon Washington, DC Inc’s Lifeline service, known as “Economy II,” offers reduced rates on Verizon’s monthly telephone bill and one- time discounts on the cost of installing phone service. Additionally, toll blocking is available to Economy II customers at no charge.

Economy II Service*: $3.00 per month for unlimited local calling. Value-added services are not included (e.g., Call Waiting, Caller ID).

No connection charges apply. Also, customers will not be charged for the federal subscriber line charge. Economy II customers who are 65 years of age or older can have this service at a further reduced rate of $1.00 per month.

Broadband Lifeline: Verizon Washington, DC Inc. also offers a monthly Lifeline discount to qualified customers who subscribe to Fios Inter- net service. Eligible customers will receive a $9.25 monthly discount. * Full terms and rates for these services, including terms of eligibility, are as set forth in federal regulations and in Verizon’s tariffs on file with the Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia. All rates, terms and conditions included in this notice are subject to change and are current at the time of printing.

Eligibility: District residents who have been certified as eligible may apply for the Economy II program or Broadband Lifeline service for customers who subscribe to Fios Internet.

Households in which one or more individuals are receiving benefits from one of the following public assistance programs or have an annual income that is 135% or below the Federal Poverty Guideline may be eligible.

Restrictions:

✓ Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) ✓ Medicaid ✓ Supplemental Security Income (SSI) ✓ Veteran’s Pension Benefit ✓ Veteran’s Survivors Pension Benefit ✓ Federal Public Housing Assistance (Section 8)

✓ No separate Lifeline discount on cellular or wireless phone service

✓ No other working telephone service at the same location ✓ No additional phone lines

✓ No Foreign Exchange or Foreign Zone service ✓ No bundles or packages

✓ No outstanding unpaid final bills

✓ Bill name must match eligible participant ✓ Business lines are not eligible

✓ Phone number must match eligible participant ✓ Must be a current Verizon customer or establish new service with Verizon

An Application for Verizon Voice Lifeline or Broadband Lifeline service can be obtained by contacting Verizon at www.verizon.com/lifeline or by phone at 1 800 VERIZON. To find out more information, you may also call the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), which administers Voice Lifeline and Broadband Lifeline for the FCC, by calling (800) 234-9473 or by accessing its website at www.LifelineSupport.org.

Economy II and Broadband Lifeline are Lifeline supported services. Voice Lifeline and Broadband Lifeline are government assistance programs. Only eligible consumers may enroll. You may qualify for Voice Lifeline or Broadband Lifeline service if you can show proof that you participate in certain government assistance programs or your annual income (gross and from all sources) is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guideline. If you qualify based on income, you will be required to provide income verification. Proof of participation in a government assistance program requires your current or prior year’s statement of benefits from a qualifying state or federal program; a notice letter or other official document indicating your participation in such a program; and/or another program participation document (for example, benefit card). Proof of income requires your prior year’s state or federal tax return; current income statement from an employer or paycheck stub; a statement of Social Security, Veterans Administration, retirement, pension, or Unemployment or Workmen’s Compensation benefits; a federal notice letter of participation in General Assistance; a divorce decree; a child support award; and/or another official document containing income information. At least three months of data is necessary when showing proof of income. In addition, the Lifeline program is limited to one discount per household, consisting of either wireline, wireless or broadband (internet) service. You are required to certify and agree that no other member of the household is receiving Voice Lifeline or Broadband Lifeline service from Verizon or another communications provider. Voice Lifeline and Broadband Lifeline services are non-transferable benefits. Voice Lifeline customers may not subscribe to certain other services, including other local telephone service. Consumers who willfully make false statements in order to obtain the Lifeline benefit can be punished by fine or imprisonment, or can be barred from the program.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 5

AROUND THE REGION

black facts

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

JUNE 1

1920 – Hazel Scott, Trinidadian-bom jazz and classical pianist/singer who in 1950 became the first woman of color to have her own TV show, is born.

1963 – Vivian Malone and James Hood are the first two African American students to enroll at the all-white University of Alabama, over the objections of segregationist Gov. George Wallace, who stood in a doorway in an attempt to block the two students from enrolling.

1964 – South African anti-apartheid activist and human rights icon Nelson Mandela is convicted of conspiracy to overthrow the government. He was sentenced to life imprisonment and remained jailed until his release in 1990.

JUNE 12

1963 – Medgar Evers, (right) civil rights leader and NAACP field secretary, is assassinated by a white segregationist in front of his Jackson, Mississippi, home. In the wake of the Brown v. Board of Education ruling, Evers had fought to help overturn segregation at the University of Mississippi and gain social justice and voting rights.

FULL-SERVICE SIGN & ADVERTISING SOLUTIONS Professional VISUAL BRANDING INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS to help grow your business

JUNE 13

1967 – Thurgood Marshall is nominated to the U.S. Supreme Court by President Lyndon John-

...because image matters Call Today! 301-273-3462

Stacey Brown “Chief Image Builder”

stacey@signarama-silverspring.com

8930 Brookville Rd Silver Spring, MD 20910 signarama-silverspring.com MBE/DBE Certified | Woman-Owned Business

son, becoming the first-ever Supreme Court justice upon Senate confirmation two months later.

JUNE 14

1864 – Congress rules that African American soldiers must receive equal pay. Earlier that month, Pvt. Sylvester Ray of the 2nd U.S. Colored Cavalry was recommended for trial because he refused to accept pay inferior to that of white soldiers.

JUNE 15

1913 – Effie O’Neal, the first Black woman to hold an executive position in the American Medical Association, is born.

1921 – Aviator Bessie Coleman becomes the first African American woman to earn a pilot’s license and an international aviation license from the Fed6ration Aéronautique Internationale.

1996 – Iconic jazz chanteuse Ella Fitzgerald, also known as the “First Lady of Song,” “Queen of Jazz” and “Lady Ella,” dies in Beverly Hills.

JUNE 16

1942 – Eddie Levert, lead singer of the R&B group The O’Jays and father of Gerald and Sean Levert, is born in Bessemer, Alabama.

1971 – Iconic rapper and actor Tupac Shakur (top) is born in the East Harlem section of Manhattan, New York.

JUNE 17

VENUS WILLIAMS 6 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

1937 – Journalist Robert Maynard, who became the first African American owner of a major metropolitan daily newspaper in 1983 when he and his wife purchased The Oakland Tribune, is born.

1980 – Tennis great Venus Williams, the first Black American woman to be ranked No. 1 in the world during the Open era, is born.

WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

AROUND THE REGION

view P INT

IF YOU WANT QUALITY WORK, JUST CALL!

Quality Assurance Home Improvement, Inc.

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

Amid protests against police brutality, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser unveiled a street painting that read “Black Lives Matter.” The street leads directly to Lafayette Park and the White House. The mayor has been lauded for the act, but some critics say it was performative and not enough. What are your thoughts?

“We Stand By Our Name”

FREE ESTIMATES! / Office: 301-248-3325

FINISHED BASEMENT

DECK

APRIL DAY /

Financing Available 90-day Deferment Payment

NEW YORK CITY

I wholeheartedly agree that we need to come together.

That is, coming together to make actual, tangible and demonstrated progress … not empty gestures and displays to simply appease and assuage. All people in office who claim to be for us are eligible for critique, are to be called to task, and must be held accountable. Right now, it’s trendy to make these gestures. However, where are the real and lasting policy changes? The pressure needs to be applied to ensure they don’t forget to stay on agenda.

JAMES JACKSON / WASHINGTON, D.C.

Whether it performative or not, it’s a strong statement of support and art has always been a force for change.

KATHY WILLIAMS / HOUSTON, TEXAS

The “Black Lives Matter” painting is a great gesture. Yay! But eventually, it will fade. How about getting some policies changed?

Kitchens • Bathrooms • Room additions • Retaining walls • • Carports Screen rooms Sun rooms • Carports • • Porches • Roofing • Siding Decks • Complete renovations • Enclosed porches • Basements Solid virgin virginfinal vinylreplacement replacement windows • Bay and bow windows

ADDITION & 4 SEASON SUN ROOM SIONAL PROFES LERS INSTAL home g in A+ Ratinment from improve r Business the Bette r 175 years Bureau fo ight stra

KITCHEN

ADDITION

Bonded / Insured / Licensed MHCI#86727 / D.C. License #53005449 Lead Paint Removal Certified

KITCHEN

Visit our website today at: www.fortwashingtonhomecontractors.com Did you know if you invest in a Room Addition installed properly on your home it will increase the value of your home up to 100% Up to or more? At Quality Assurance Home Improvement, we do the job right. We recently installed (2) two-story Room Additions that increased Sunrooms & Additions the value of our client’s home from $289,000 to $589,000. Every addition we installed including Sun Rooms and Renovations have always todayvalue andwhich receive FREEincable ForinSenior Citizens increased thePurchase home owner’s resulted a greatoutlet return on their investment. Invest your home todayExtra and let5% theOff professionals at and FREE A/C & Heating Unit With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases.

QualityWith Assurance Home Improvement expand your living area and increase the value of your home.

We stand by our name “Quality Assurance” this coupon. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases.

$2500 off

15% off Any Service

Call us today at 301-248-3325 to schedule an appointment for a free estimate.

All Work is Done in Compliance to DC and MD Codes

Homeowners are you in need of a new roof, kitchen, bathroom?

If so, take advantage of our 90 days or 6 months deferred payment plan now for as low as $199 a month.

LYNNDELL CLIFTON / WASHINGTON, D.C.

Can’t win for losing!

MEEMEE PENNY / DALLAS, TEXAS

Can’t win for losing!

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 7

The World According to Dominic

BY D. KEVIN MCNEIR / WI EDITOR / @DKEVINMCNEIR

Will George Floyd’s Death Move U.S. to Compose a Jubilant Resolution or Just Another Uninspiring Refrain?

(301) 864-6070

EMPLOYMENT LAWYERS MCCOLLUM & ASSOCIATES, LLC ADA, Age Discrimination, Benefits, Civil Rights, COBRA, Contracts, Deaf Law, Defamation, Disability Law, Discipline, Discrimination, FMLA, FLSA, FOIA, Family Responsibility, Harassment, HIPPA, OSHA, National Origin Discrimination, Non-Compete, Race Discrimination, Rehabilitation Act, Retaliation, Severance Agreements, Sexual Harassment, Torts, Whistleblowing, Wage-and-Hour, Wrongful Discharge SERVING MARYLAND, DC, & NORTH CAROLINA

www.jmlaw.net

(301) 864-6070

jmccollum@jmlaw.net

During my formative years, I remember pleading with my parents to let me take piano lessons from a highly-respected music teacher, Oneida Lewis, who chaired the music department and directed the choirs at my school, Louis Pasteur Elementary in Northwest Detroit.

Armed with my stack of books and donning my eyeglasses from which I was only freed with the advent of contact lenses about a decade later, I embarked upon a 10-year journey during which I mastered the pianoforte. I practiced regularly and according to Mrs. Lewis, showed great promise.

Perhaps it was because as I grew older, my hands became so large that I could pull off the playing of chords that called for a large expanse – at least eight notes (an octave) or more. But it was more likely the fact that my teacher really like me, treating me like the son she never had.

Further pleading would result in my parents purchasing a piano for our home where I would perch myself each day to learn the proper interpretation for some of the greatest classical composers in world’s canon: Schumann, Bach, Brahms, Beethoven and my favorite, Rachmaninoff.

Regretfully, I closed the lid on my piano after leaving home for college and as one would expect, my muscles began to atrophy, my ability to sight read with ease diminished and my overall skills plunged. Blame it on being attracted to other activities and interests – like chasing girls, playing basketball with dreams of becoming the next Dave Bing, slamming down winning cards in bid whist games or dancing and chanting at parties sponsored by my college fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha.

About five years ago, I purchased a new piano – one which has all the bells and whistles – and have started to practice once again. But it’s a process that sometimes frustrates me more than it brings me joy because I cannot do the things on the keyboard that once came so effortlessly. In effect, I’m rusty. Still, I continue plodding through scales and arpeggios with the hopes that one day, I’ll achieve the skills that secured statewide awards in Michigan during my senior year in high school. At the least, I want to be able to serenade my “sweetheart” or just have some fun playing songs whose melodies bring me personal satisfaction.

As the nation continues to protest and pushback against the long legacy of injustice and police violence aimed particularly at Blacks, fueled by the murder of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis law enforcement, many activists, politicians and others suggest that we

have arrived at a unique moment where we can change the trajectory of American society. They suggest that we can actually put an end to the constant lip service and actually enact policies and laws that make America a place where all men and women are equal – especially when they encounter police.

As a musician, I am reminded of the practice of composers who, as their works reach their conclusion, often change the sound of the chords in a highly-predictive manner. In the next to the last measure, known as the penultimate measure, the sounds tend to be jarring – often described as dissonance. But with the final measure, the composer achieves harmony in the sounding of a chord that achieves resolution.

I am led to cite this practice among the majority of Western composers as a metaphor for what lies ahead in America. Two options lie before us. We can take the anger, the injustice, the frustration – the dissonance that has long-dominated society and restructure our country, our practices, our laws and our mores in anticipation of a final measure in which resonance is achieved.

By definition, the effect of resonance is to reinforce or prolong a sound. In fact, the terms resonant is used to convey a sense of richness or fullness. That’s what America needs today. It is what we have needed for centuries.

Let the music play. WI

Save Now On Home Security ® Monitored by ADT the #1 home security company in the U.S.

GREAT

LOW PRICE

ADT® 24/7 Monitored Home Security 24/7 monitoring provides peace of mind Yard sign and window decals help deter crime Quickly connect to fire and emergency response May qualify for a homeowners insurance discount

MONITORING

PER M O N T H

1-877-325-1437

WE’RE AVAILABLE 24/7—CALL TODAY! BASIC SYSTEM: $99 Parts and Install. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $27.99 per month ($1,007.64). 24-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $27.99 per month ($671.76) for California. Offer applies to homeowners only. Basic system requires landline phone. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Premier Provider customers only and not on purchases from ADT LLC. Cannot be combined with any other offer. The $27.99 Offer does not include Quality Service Plan (QSP), ADT’s Extended Limited Warranty.

GENERAL: For all offers, the form of payment must be by credit card or electronic charge to your checking or savings account, satisfactory credit history is required and termination fee applies. Certain packages require approved landline phone. Local permit fees may be required. Certain restrictions may apply. Additional monitoring fees required for some services. For example, Burglary, Fire, Carbon Monoxide and Emergency Alert monitoring requires purchase and/or activation of an ADT security system with monitored Burglary, Fire, Carbon Monoxide and Emergency Alert devices and are an additional charge. Additional equipment may be purchased for an additional charge. Additional charges may apply in areas that require guard response service for municipal alarm verification. Prices subject to change. Prices may vary by market. Some insurance companies offer discounts on Homeowner’s Insurance. Please consult your insurance company. Photos are for illustrative purposes only and may not reflect the exact product/service actually provided. Licenses: AL-21-001104, AR-CMPY.0001725 AZ-ROC217517, CA-ACO6320, CT-ELC.0193944-L5, DC-EMS902653, DC-602516000016, DE-07-212, FL-EC13003427, EC13003401, GA-LVA205395, IA-AS-0206, ID-ELE-SJ-39131, IL-127.001042, IN-C.P.D. Reg. No. – 19-08088, City of Indianapolis: LAC-000156, KY-City of Louisville: 483, LA-F1914, LA-F1915, LA-F1082, MA-1355C, MD-107-1626, ME-LM50017382, MI-3601205773, MN-TS01807, MO-City of St. Louis: CC#354, St. Louis County: 100194, MS15007958,MT-PSP-ELS-LIC-247, NC-25310-SP-FA/LV, NC-1622-CSA, NE-14451, NJ Burglar Alarm Lic. # -NJ-34BF00021800, NM-353366, NV-0068518, City of Las Vegas: 3000008296, NY-Licensed by the N.Y.S. Department of State UID#12000317691, NYS #12000286451,OH-53891446, City of Cincinnati: AC86, OK-AC1048, OR-170997, Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor Registration Number: PA022999, RI-3582, RI-7508, SC-BAC5630, SD- 1025-7001-ET, TN-1520, TX-B13734, ACR-3492, UT-6422596-6501, VA-115120, VT-ES-2382(7C),WA-602588694/ECPROTEYH934RS, WI-City of Milwaukee: PAS-0002966, WV-WV042433, WY-LV-G-21499. 3750 Priority Way South Dr. Indianapolis, IN 46240 ©2017 DEFENDERS, Inc. dba Protect Your Home DF-CD-NP-Q220

8 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

AROUND THE REGION

Rally Places Spotlight on Montgomery County’s Police-Involved Shootings

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Contributing Writer @SamPKCollins In a move aligned with ongoing efforts to preserve an African burial ground, the Bethesda African Cemetery Coalition (BACC) recently organized a rally, in solidarity with George Floyd and other victims of police-involved shootings, on the steps of Macedonia Baptist Church, a remnant of Black history sitting atop a hill on River Road.

The gathering of Black and white protesters not only elicited honks from passing cars but emboldened Black women and men of the community to again highlight instances of their friends and family dying at the hands of Montgomery County police officers.

“The worst thing a mother can go through is burying her child, and [it’s] because of their skin,” Comfort Oludipe told protesters on the evening of June 8 as she reflected on her son’s death and her efforts to bring the officer involved to justice.

In 2011, Oludipe’s son, Emmanuel Okutuga, was fatally shot by Montgomery County Police Officer Christopher Jordan at City Place Mall in Silver Spring — just months before his graduation from Bowie State University. In her remarks, she recounted learning that Jordan received a transfer to Rockville, and the Maryland State Attorney’s Office accidentally deleted footage from the night of the Feb. 19 incident.

Oludipe later likened the lessons she learned from her struggles in Montgomery County to what elders told her about colonialism in her native country of Nigeria.

“During colonialism, they put the pressure on people [of different tribes] to fight against each other, like one side is better than the other,” Olduipe said. “They put us against each other [and] I didn’t think that [a police-involved shooting] could happen to me [and my family].”

Oludipe counted among a bevy of speakers — including Macedonia’s own Rev. Segun Adebayo and Harvey Matthews Sr., Dr. Yvette Butler-Yeboah of American Africans United, the Rev. George Gilbert Jr. of Holy

ASK US HOW TO GET THE

AMAZING iPHONE® 11 FOR $0 WHEN YOU SWITCH TO AT&T Find out how to get our most popular phones, call now!

877-370-2155 © 2020 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T and the Globe logo are registered trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

DESIGNER EYEWEAR

5 Demonstrators gather at the Macedonia Baptist Church in Bethesda. (Courtesy photo)

Trinity United Baptist Church, and Tebabu Assefa, a social entrepreneur and activist who lives in Takoma Park, Md. — who often mentioned Scripture in their testimonies of trial and triumph.

The rally was scheduled to precede a march across River Road to Moses African Cemetery where protesters would decorate a fence near the African burial ground, said to have initially been desecrated during development projects of the 1950s. The BACC-organized event came on the cusp of an excavation project carried out on the grounds of Moses African Cemetery, currently under the purview of the Housing Opportunities Commission.

Along with direct control of Moses African Cemetery, BACC has demanded the arrest and charging of officers that have killed Black people in Montgomery County, the defunding of the 3rd District police department, a diversion of those resources to community programs, and the elimination of armed police officers in schools.

Zakiya Sankara Jawara, a mother of two Montgomery County public school students, said young people often suffer the consequences of police engagement, and the disciplinary records from those encounters affect their chances of entering college.

“This is going to be an uphill battle but everyone needs to help, including parents of Montgomery County Public School students,” said Jawara of Racial Justice NOW, who said she has taken this cause to Montgomery

County Council member Will Jawando (D-At large).

“Black and brown students are referred to police at disproportionate rates compared to other students,” she said. “That has to end. There are so many different ways to deal with childhood behavior than getting a cop that will harm the child.”

Over the last couple of years, BACC and other social justice organizations have rallied in remembrance of those shot and killed by Montgomery County police officers, including Robert White of Silver Spring, and more recently Finan Berhe, who lost his life on the night of May 7 in White Oak. In the days after his death, reports surfaced from the Montgomery County Police Department that Berhe, 30, was wielding a knife.

Berhe’s friends painted a different picture on Monday as they stood before protestors and held enlarged photos of Berhe smiling and sporting a suit and graduation gown.

“I’m here to talk about the goodness of my brother and remove that evil image the press put on him,” said Zegai Teckle, Berhe’s friend of more than two decades. “[Finan] graduated from high school with a high GPA, graduated college on time, and worked at a bank.

“I’m tired. This has to end,” Teckle said. “We have to fight for Finan, George Floyd, Ahmaud [Arbery], and all those gunned down in the streets by unlawful, criminal officers.” WI

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

PHONE: 202-526-0300 FAX: 202-526-0233 EYE EXAMS: Tues, Thurs & Fri: 11am-3:30pm walk ins available

STORE HOURS: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5:30pm Closed for lunch: 12:30pm - 1:10pm

25% OFF

OF SELECT FRAMES WITH MENTION OF THIS AD FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED AT YOUR SERVICE FOR OVER 40 YEARS

Accepting United Health PPO, HSCSN & DC Medicaid (Straight only) 3610 12th Street, NE - Washington, DC 20017

New Life Wellness Center featuring

Colon Hydrotherapy & Aqua Chi Detox System Where Have You Been?

It’s Time for Your HEALING &

202.544.9595

426 8th St. SE – 2nd Floor WDC 20003 www.newlifewellnesscenter.com Email: carmelvoice@aol.com

Hours: 7am – 7pm M - F / 7am – 12pm SAT. Walk Ins Welcome

SPECIAL $59 OFFER – CALL FOR DETAILS JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 9

AROUND THE REGION CAPTURE THE MOMENT SIGNS OF THE TIME

People have placed messages on the fences erected around Lafayette Park using them as teachable moments for America.

(Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

Denise Rolark Barnes Independent Beauty Consultant www.marykay/drolark-barnes.com 202-236-8831

Who’s Reading the Informer?

net

Kadallah Burrowes and M. Cox Mitchell take a break for lunch while protesting and read the Washington Informer at Malcom X Park in Northwest. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

in upper and lowercase, flush left as indicated on artwork at these point sizes: Consultant name in 11-point Helvetica Neue Bold; Independent in 9-point Helvetica Neue Light; Web site or e-mail address in 9-point Helvetica Neue Light; phone number in 9-point Helvetica Neue Light. nt Beauty Consultant: Only Company-approved Web sites obtained through the Mary Kay® Personal Web Site program may be utilized.

WORDS TO LIVE BY

Need Help Getting Social Security Disability Benefits?

We Can Help!

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”

$ Steady monthly income depending on your paid in amount

A lump sum payment of benefits owed from back-pay

• We simplify the process & strive for quick claim approval • Starting the process is easy and takes only minutes to complete

Annual cost of living increases

855-549-3119

– Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Helping thousands get the benefits they deserve

Bill Gordon & Associates, a nationwide practice, represents clients before the Social Security Administration.

Member of the TX & NM Bar Associations. Mail: 1420 NW St Washington D.C. Office: Broward County Florida.

Services may be provided by associated attorneys licensed in other states.

Bill Gordon & Associates, a nationwide practice, represents clients before the Social Security Administration. Member of the TX & NM Bar Associations. Mail: 1420 N W St Washington D.C. Office: Broward County, FL. Services may be provided by associated attorneys licensed in other states.

10 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Maryland PTA Provides Food for Needy Amid Coronavirus Health Pandemic

By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer The Maryland Parent Teacher Association along with affiliates of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia recently distributed cash cards and boxes of fresh food to needy families across the state.

The June 5 event — spearheaded by MPTA’s Health and Safety Committee of the MPTA, which was awarded a grant from Maryland’s Share Our Strength No Kid Hungry campaign — provided emergency food assistance during the coronavirus pandemic.

“There are 500 families that we wanted to provide food assistance to,” said Tonja Carrera, MPTA

vice president for leadership development, who was in charge of the effort. “There are 24 counties in Maryland where we were not able not to provide food. However, [those] families received $100 food cards, depending on the size of the family.”

Carrera said that in April, PTA leaders across the state sent out confidential surveys via Constant Contact and Social Media Platforms to identify families in need of emergency food assistance and that families were selected based on need.

Boxes of food from the Share Food Network, along with volunteers showed up at Fletchers Field in Riverdale to unload a truck packed with fresh chicken, sacks

AROUND THE REGION

of potatoes, onions and fresh fruit.

The food was distributed via a human conveyor belt formed by leaders of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge, the Georgiana Thomas Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star and others.

“Worldwide, masons are doing a lot but as far the District of Columbia is concerned, it is a pleasure to partner with Carrera,” said Quincy Gant, the Prince Hall lodge’s Most Worshipful Grand Master. “That is what we do. We are about sharing with our 25 lodges, 15 chapters and organizations in the District of Columbia that are doing various things and it was our pleasure to step up with this endeavor.”

WI

5 Quincy G. Gant, Grand Master of the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, unloads boxes of fresh food during a June 5 event in Riverdale, Maryland, to assist area families in need. (Hamil R. Harris/The Washington Informer)

WILLS, PROBATE (DC & MD) The virus is making us get our affairs in order.

Let me write your Will or handle the Probate of your love one’s estate. We work remotely.

Call for 30 min. telephone consultation (202)-457-8180 (9:00 am -5:00 pm) Monday - Friday

Stay Informed!

www.washingtoninformer.com WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

20+ years of experience

STEVE LARSON-JACKSON, ESQ. (WWW.LARJACK218.COM) (MOST MAJOR CREDIT AND DEBIT CARDS ACCEPTED) JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 11

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY Md. Lawmakers Demand Answers After Shaky and Problematic Primary Election

By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill

Maryland’s presidential primary election endured some glitches at the polls, computer snafus and even printing errors on ballots in Baltimore City.

That caused the state’s presiding leaders to hold a virtual hearing Tuesday, June 16 to review what exactly transpired and why problems arose.

“The right to vote is the cornerstone of our democracy and our country’s endurance,” House Speaker Adrienne Jones and state Sen. Bill Ferguson wrote in a letter. “We must have clear answers to what happened and how we can do better in November.”

Although this month’s election was organized primarily by mail because of the coronavirus pandemic, residents still could vote on Election Day at certain voting centers. Some citizens had to vote in person because they didn’t receive a ballot.

A printing error was discovered on ballots in a Baltimore voting district that caused voters to wait in line for several hours and forced election officials to take longer to assess and count the ballots.

The state Board of Elections drew criticism in April when voters received ballots late during the 7th Congressional District’s special election to replace the late Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Maryland).

The letter from Jones and Ferguson requests testimony from state

Prince George’s County Races

5 (WI photo)

12 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

election administrator Linda Lamone and election board Chair Michael R. Cogan. Local election administrators, specifically Baltimore City Elections Director Armstead Jones, will be invited to testify.

The joint hearing will be conducted by the Senate Education, Health and Environmental Affairs and House Ways and Means committees. Among the expected focal points is the mailing process with the hired vendor, SeaChange of Minnesota, delivery of ballots for hard-to-reach voters with “undeliverable” addresses, and collaboration with local election boards.

The ongoing election challenges and problems had the mild-mannered Lt. Gov. Boyd Rutherford openly criticizing Lamone during a Board of Public Works meeting, which began within 10 hours after election results from Baltimore didn’t appear on the Board of Elections website due to the ballot error.

Comptroller Peter Franchot, one of the three members on the public works board, went a step further.

“I hesitate to ask for anyone’s resignation, but I think it’s time for some retirements and new leadership,” he said. “There’s something going on over there that is just completely unacceptable.”

Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, who called the election board’s problems “unacceptable,” asked for election officials to complete a report

by July 3 that will address corrective The placement of candidates since last week’s Maryland presidential primary election has changed.

According to unofficial results on the state Board of Elections website at 4:46 p.m. Tuesday, June 9, the top five candidates for Prince George’s County Circuit Court judge on the Democratic ballot are incumbents Wytonja Curry with 120,380 votes, ShaRon M. Grayson with 117,051 votes and Cathy H. Serrette with 96,413.

Gladys Weatherspoon, a defense attorney who ran independently, currently sits in third place with 99,538 votes. April Ademiluyi, another attorney who ran as an independent, rounds out the top five with 90,980 votes.

However, the order on the Republican ballot is different, with Serrette as the top vote-getter at 4,791 votes. Incumbent Jared Michael McCarthy sits in second place with 4,717 votes, while fellow incumbent

5 Citizens await to vote at the Southern Regional Technology and Recreation Complex in Fort Washington on June 2 as election workers sit behind plexiglass for protection. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

measures.

“The most basic responsibility of the SBE is ensuring that free and fair elections are conducted accurately,” Hogan said at a press conference last week. “There were obviously significant failures. There are questions that need to be answered.”

Although election officials have received criticism, state law shows the governor appoints the five-member board with Senate approval. The board appoints Lamone’s position, also with consent by the Senate.

Meanwhile, other problems existed before the June 2 primary, such as 90,000 Prince George’s County voters who received mail-in ballot instructions in Spanish.

Most voters such as Walter and Linda Redmond of Forestville eventually received English-language voting instructions a few days lat-

er. They filled out their ballots and placed in the mailbox.

“It’s just like filling out an absentee ballot. We did that a few years when we weren’t home,” Linda Redmond said.

Her husband, who said the couple has lived in their home since 1973, added that today’s political climate with President Donald Trump in the White House makes it more of a reason for people to vote in the Nov. 3 general election.

“It is the legal voice that we have to make a decision to what is and what is not going on,” he said. “[Trump] seems to be incapable of telling the truth. Everything that comes out is just a lie. He’s deceptive. Just seems like the kind of leadership is more of an authoritarian, king-like complex.

That’s enough of a reason why people need to vote.” WI

Byron Seth Bereano trails McCarthy with 4,193. Weatherspoon sits in the fourth spot with 3,467 votes and Grayson trails her with 3,349.

Judge races are nonpartisan, so all seven candidates were on both the Democratic and Republican ballots.

The top five vote-getters on either ballot will appear on the Nov. 3 general election ballot.

If results stay the same, then all seven candidates seeking five open seats will appear on the ballot. The winners will serve 15-year terms.

The results of the two county school board races have two political novices on top.

In District 4, Shayla Adams-Stafford recorded 6,340 votes. Incumbent Bryan Swann remains in second place with 3,881 votes. Mohammed Ali garnered 2,129 votes.

Trina D. Brown with 1,526 votes and Alethia J. Simmons with 859.

In District 7, Kenneth F. Harris II received 8,372. In second place sits

Alexis Branch, who garnered 6,982 votes, followed by incumbent K. Alexander Wallace with 2,922 votes.

All local election board offices have until Friday, June 12 to count all ballots that include those postmarked by June 2. WI

All local election board offices have until Friday, June 12 to count all ballots that include those postmarked

by June 2.

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY Maryland Senator Proposes Sweeping Police Reform

By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill A Maryland lawmaker has proposed more than a dozen police reform recommendations amid renewed national discourse about police brutality in the wake of George Floyd’s death.

State Sen. William C. Smith Jr. (D-Montgomery County), who chairs the Judicial Proceedings Committee in Annapolis, said the legislature passed 21 police reform transparency bills in the past three years, “but none of them have really gone far enough.”

“The system has not changed in a meaningful way,” Smith said in a June 4 interview. “What we really lacked is the political will to have a lot of these tough conversations and move the ball forward.”

In the proposal Smith released last week, law enforcement agencies would be required to note use-of-force complaints in annual reports to the Maryland Police Training Standards Commission, and the commission would be required to establish de-escalation practices.

Smith acknowledged that the

death of Floyd, a Minneapolis man who died while in police custody last month, and the subsequent protests worldwide have sparked an even greater push for changes in the law enforcement structure.

One of the latest incidents of alleged brutality happened May 30 in Langley Park. Prince George’s County Police shared a video shot by a bystander that shows an officer forcefully taking down a suspect in an assault before kicking the man twice while another officer attempts to handcuff him.

Police Chief Hank Stawinski said the officers and their supervisor have been suspended. State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy may file charges in the case that remains under investigation.

Meanwhile, the operations, budget and fiscal affairs committee for Prince George’s school board met Monday, June 8 to discuss a proposal to cancel a contract with the Police Department for school resource officers in the schools. Known as SRO, part of the program pays for officers to patrol school property.

Supporters have said it also allows students to communicate with officers on a more personal level.

According to a resolution presented

by board member David Murray, the school system “shall cancel its contract” and amend the budget by $5 million to hire more social workers, mental health professionals and counselors.

The five-member committee voted on the resolution in three parts, including its unanimous approval for the full board to receive a complete report on SRO training and the $5 million to hire additional staff.

However, board member Curtis Valentine voted against canceling the contract, he said in a text message Monday. Board member K. Alexander Wallace abstained.

Murray, board Vice Chair Edward Burroughs III and board member Belinda voted to recommend the full board approve to cancel the department’s contract.

“We’ve been getting a lot of calls to get SROs out the schools,” Queen said. “This is a different day and a different time. People want more resources for mental health and counselors for our students.”

The county council on May 29 approved the fiscal year 2021 budget that includes education, but the spending plan doesn’t go into effect until July 1.

Anderson-Walker Organizes County’s Virtual Safety Forum

By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill Prince George’s County Council member Monique Anderson-Walker has kept herself busy, even virtually.

At the onset of the coronavirus pandemic in the majority-Black jurisdiction, Anderson-Walker helped organize a March 25 virtual community session with the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission on proposed plans to redevelop land near Henson Creek in Fort Washington.

As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, she put together a “Moving Forward” series on May 28 in coping with the potentially deadly virus.

In the meantime, she partici-

pates in council meetings, runs a commercial brokerage firm at National Harbor and since March 17 has helped provide at least 100,000 meals in her District 8, which include the communities of Camp Springs, Fort Washington and Oxon Hill.

The 20744 zip code in Fort Washington remains among the state’s top 15 jurisdictions for the number of confirmed coronavirus cases.

“We are just trying to make sure people get their basic needs and are safe,” Anderson-Walker said.

“This is all teamwork. We are trying to rise, even among this pandemic.”

She received more help this month to kick off a weeklong community forum with a focus on

SAFETY Page 44

5 Prince George’s County Council member Monique Anderson-Walker (D-District 8) of Fort Washington (Courtesy photo)

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

5 Bowie Mayor Tim Adams speaks during a community vigil at Allen Pond Park in Bowie on June 6. The event sought to remember George Floyd and other Blacks who have died due to racial injustice. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

The school board plans to discuss the resolution Thursday, June 11.

Police departments have been the focus during peaceful protests, marches and vigils throughout the weekend in Prince George’s County and the D.C. region.

In Smith’s two-page letter, he summarized other measures he plans to craft into proposed legislation and then to hold hearings on in the fall.

His other recommendations for police departments and law enforcement agencies include: - Adopting policies that require officers to intervene when another officer uses excessive force.

- Banning chokeholds, strangleholds and shooting at moving vehicles.

- Releasing an officer’s name if a complaint or investigation reveals an officer discharged a firearm, sexual assault, discrimination, or improper use of force.

One of the most noted items deals with eliminating a five-day waiting period for police officers to be interviewed after an incident, a major item part of a collective bargaining agreement in the Law Enforcement Bill of Rights. Prior to 2015, Smith said officers received 10 days before they were questioned about an incident.

Smith, a lawyer who spent eight months last year in Afghanistan as an intelligence officer with the U.S. Naval Reserve, pointed out that military police or JAG Corps officers would immediately detain and question any military officer, even one who is a civilian, charged with a crime.

“You don’t get five days to kind of

get your story straight and to kind of reflect on what happened. … You’re interrogated right away,” he said. “So why would we have a different standard for law enforcement? That’s just a matter of transparency and fairness.”

Smith and his Senate colleague Malcolm Augustine (D-District 47) of Cheverly said these reforms aren’t to target police officers, but to restructure the law enforcement system.

Augustine, a member of the Finance Committee, said the recommendations seek not only to improve relationships between police and residents but to also enhance conversations.

“There is an inherent bias in our society,” he said. “It is an uncomfortable thing to share with young children because they may be treated wrong and poorly just because of who they look like. It is a reality in the United States.

We have to communicate that. We have to be honest and look out for the people we love … based on the experiences in our society today.”

Toni Holness, public policy director for the ACLU of Maryland, said the proposed police reforms and others have been presented before state lawmakers for more than a decade, and family members of those killed and brutalized by police have testified, but “nothing is done.”

“The killing of countless Black Marylanders has not been enough to pass these bills,” she said. “I want to know what is different now. If the legislature is ready to act, [then] I look forward to hearing the action behind these words.”

WI

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 13

BUSINESS As Coronavirus Restrictions Ease, More Americans Seek Pandemic-Proof Jobs

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Correspondent @StacyBrrownMedia About 73.5 million Americans plan to look for a job that is more pandemic-proof, according to research by officials at the personal finance website, WalletHub which released a nationally representative Coronavirus and the Future of the Economy Survey.

The survey examined Americans’ thoughts on our economic situation during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, including how comfortable people are with traveling and shopping in person, as well as how soon they think the

U.S. will recover financially.

“Due to the incredibly high level of unemployment caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, 73.5 million Americans plan on looking for a job that is more pandemic-proof,” said Jill Gonzalez, a WalletHub analyst.

“As a result of Americans searching for more pandemic-proof jobs, we may see growth in professions that allow working from home, as well as those that are deemed ‘essential’ during times of crisis.”

The District was among the cities in the nation hit hardest by unemployment claims, with filings up more than 761 percent over 2019.

Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic in early March, unemployment claims in the District have increased by more than 2,185 percent, according to the WalletHub survey.

According to DC’s Department of Employment Services (DOES), roughly forty percent of eligible claims are still being processed.

“Too many people were left without any support due to exclusions that predominately impacted workers who earn the least and have the fewest income protections available to them,” Katrinell M. Davis, a WalletHub expert, and associate professor of the Department of Sociology at Florida State University, stated when asked about the $2.2 trillion emergency relief package passed by the Senate.

“So, in the end, plenty of hardworking Americans, quarantined to protect their health and safety, are facing serious setbacks that will not be resolved by political speak and wishful thinking,” Davis stated.

“If the government really cared about working Americans, the targeted effort would have emerged to support those excluded from stimulus payments like the parents behind on child support, people without social security numbers, and other workers who pay state taxes but are excluded from state

Public Benefits Program Underpins Resident Living Essentials in District

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Contributing Writer

D.C.’s Department of Human Services (DHS) continues to work to expedite benefits for city residents whose needs have been exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic.

Unemployment compensation has been one of the leading public benefits utilized amid the citywide shutdown, but is not the only assistance available to residents who have experienced a vast range of needs during the health crisis.

“In D.C., anyone who has lost their job or lost wages should consider applying for public benefits, and those benefits are all accessible through the Department of Human Services,” said Daniela de la Piedra, a senior staff attorney with the Legal

14 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

Counsel for the Elderly.

The services include SNAP, TANF, and other benefits to help bridge residents’ financial shortfalls.

D.C. has put emergency funding in place to allow recipients the maximum amount of money per household, regardless of eligibility restrictions.

Benefit programs must be renewed on a month-to-month basis. Emergency allotments for the month of June have already been approved by DHS. Medical assistance programs such as Medicaid and the DC Healthcare Alliance provide benefit security for a large network of applicants, including undocumented immigrants who are residents of D.C. The Black community, struck by the coronavirus at disproportion-

ately higher rates than others, may significantly benefit from the burial assistance fund. For a percentage of this demographic, the absence of technological resources may serve as a hindrance in filing for needed benefits.

“You do need to have an email address to do this,” de la Piedra said.

“An email address and also a computer and internet access, for some people, that is not possible. I have clients that don’t have that option because they don’t have a computer, or don’t use that technology.”

DHS has sped up the online process to provide quicker turnarounds. Additionally, robocalls are now used to advise residents of last-minute updates, as it serves as a swifter method of communication than mail.

5 (Courtesy photo)

support when it really counts.”

The survey highlighted anticipated changes in several categories, including: • Travel and dining will continue to take a hit until there’s a vaccine. Nearly 4 in 10 Americans won’t feel comfortable getting on an airplane until there is a vaccine (plus, 27 percent won’t feel comfortable staying in a hotel and 21 percent won’t feel comfortable dining out).

• Most Americans want a nontax solution for recovery. Around 28 percent of Americans think

“There’s no exchange really going on right now with the workers who are in the service center due to the public health emergency, so my other big suggestion for people who are turning in public written applications is to make sure that your name, date of birth, and phone number are crystal-clear on that application,” de la Pierda said. “Because the DHS workers will call you to finish the application if they’re things that are missing.”

DHS is consistently pushing to extend these benefits further, as the available programs will prolong based upon the duration of the current health crisis.

“DHS is an agency that I’ve always enjoyed working with — they’re very transparent,” de la Piedra said. “Their leadership understands what it means to work with the community. They’ve done a great job really switching over to remote work pretty seamlessly.”

WI

that tax rates should increase to fund coronavirus recovery efforts.

• People view a full recovery in employment as far off. Almost 80 percent of Americans don’t think the unemployment rate will drop to pre-COVID-19 levels until at least the end of 2021, if at all.

• Many people want to find more stable jobs. 73.5 million Americans plan on looking for a job that is more pandemic-proof.

“A significant chunk of the population will not be willing to travel until there is a vaccine for COVID-19, as nearly 40 percent of Americans say they are uncomfortable flying before a vaccine and 27 percent say they are uncomfortable staying at a hotel,” Gonzalez said.

“More than one in five people won’t even be comfortable dining out before we have a vaccine. It’s important to continue to focus on vaccine research because we won’t see normal levels of consumption until Americans can get vaccinated.”

Gonzalez added that most citizens believe unemployment will remain relatively high.

“Almost 80 percent of Americans think unemployment will not return to pre-COVID-19 levels until at least the end of 2021, if ever,” she said.

“People over age 59 are most likely to think the unemployment rate will return to pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2022. Younger age groups are all more optimistic, and tend to think that unemployment will be back to normal by the end of 2021.” WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Bowser Agreement to Bring Two New Hospitals to Wards One and Eight

WI Staff Report

Mayor Muriel Bowser recently announced two agreements to improve health care and address inequalities in health outcomes for District residents. The agreements include the construction of two new, state-ofthe-art hospitals: a 136-bed hospital at St. Elizabeths East in Ward 8, operated by Universal Health Services in conjunction with George Washington University and George Washington Medical Faculty Associates; and a 225-bed Howard University Hospital on Georgia Avenue NW in Ward 1.

Both hospitals will build upon their existing and new networks of care to deliver fully integrated systems of care, offering the best in clinical integration. Structured as public-private partnerships with significant investments by all parties, this paradigm holds the promise of long-term sustainability in a very competitive market for hospitals, while providing the full range of health care services for DC residents.

“While DC continues to battle this pandemic, our team has remained committed to delivering hope and a better DC through a more equitable health care system,” Bowser said. “With these new agreements, we will deliver high quality, integrated care and transform our health care system by promoting equity in care, access, and outcomes. Together, we will build a health care system that meets the needs of all residents, attacks health disparities, and makes us more resilient for the challenges that lie ahead.”

With construction funded by the District, the new $306 million hospital at St. Elizabeths East is expected to open in the fall of 2024 and include 136 inpatient beds, with the ability to expand to 196 beds. The District is also funding the construction of a $69 million health services complex (ambulatory center) at St. Elizabeths that is expected to open in the fall of 2023. Two new urgent care centers in Wards 7 and 8 will open in the fall of 2021 and the spring of 2022, costing $21 million to be funded by Universal Health Services. This invest-

5 Mayor Bowser (Courtesy photo)

ment will be a part of a $75 million contribution to the project. The full agreement between the parties will be submitted to the Council for approval in June. The current United Medical Center will remain open until the new hospital is completed.

The agreement with Howard University for a new hospital will further enhance the critical nexus with what will be a new academic health center and Howard’s College of Medicine – a premiere medical school that produces more African American doctors than any other university in the country. As with all academic health centers, the new hospital will play a vital role as a training ground for promising medical school students and experienced physicians, facilitate biomedical research, and provide specialized services to all DC residents while retaining a special focus on underserved populations.

“The role that Howard University Hospital plays in providing healthcare to the citizens of Washington, DC, and especially to those most vulnerable, is a sacred one,” said Wayne A. I. Frederick, M.D., MBA, President of Howard University. “This partnership with the City to support building a new facility will strengthen Howard University’s healthcare system, which is important to preserve our mission to serve the community.

Because of Howard’s role as the primary pipeline of African-American healthcare professionals, this investment in the hospital is also an investment in the future of the healthcare profession and its diversity.” WI

BUSINESS

Valuing Our Lives Aimee D. Griffin, Esq The times are crazy. Last month I discussed the struggle of living with the COVID 19 reality. The oppressive burden of always looking around for the visible enemy. The struggle of not knowing when our life will be threatened when were least aware. The virus that is killing the most vulnerable people. In these United States, Black and Brown people are the most vulnerable.

In these United States we are losing our lives at a rate that should not have been surprising. We know that Black and Brown people have a fraction of the as much economic power and net wealth of white families. The COVID impact is great with more than 100,000 people having died and more than the fair share being Black and Brown people there is a reality that living in the United States can be hazardous to our health.

Then we look at the recurring cases of Black people being killed by police officers and white people with little or no consequence. The active “weaponization” of the police is now an action that people have demonstrated as the reality of Black men as targets has shown its effectiveness.

I wonder if someone had intervene when Eric Garner had cried out “I can’t breathe!” and saved his life would George Floyd’s on lookers and video tapers felt empowered to disrupt the action. Instead of watching a man die with another man’s knee on his neck for 9 minutes if someone would have pushed the police officer would the chain of events have been different.

I am not judging by any means. I am struggling with the question. As a question that confronts me as a self-proclaimed Christian. Would I have been willing to risk the fragility of my life by trying to disrupt the chain of events?

Is it that we are so used to be powerless over those who oppress and victimize us that we believe we have no power? I confess, I have not watched the video of Mr. Floyd’s murder, so I have no idea of the dynamics of the moment. I watched the movie “Straight Outta Compton” for the first time the other day. There is a scene where police exerted their force against a group of men who were just standing around. This scene was a re-enactment of the unjust reality and demoralizing experience it was being Black in Compton. That experience was not an anomaly.

I, like so many others, feel more vulnerable because of the recent murders. The truth is that killing has been happening since the beginning of time. The outrage is that the country, the infrastructure has been protecting and allowing the killing of black people for more than 400 years. The devaluation of Black lives was part of the Constitution.

My question is how to step up and refuse to be victimized and assert our value. We need to see our value first and foremost. If we don’t value ourselves why would someone one else. In my job I hear the diminution of value often when people say to me, they don’t need an estate plan because they don’t have anything. My response is always that you have a life and that is worth protecting.

Our lives are indeed an incredible gift. It is often not an easy row to hoe, but it is worth protecting and cherishing. I pray that this time of community challenge is transformative. We should each be able to take a stand against racism that may be the seed that moves us from bystander to disrupter.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

The Griffin Firm, PLLC www.yourestateplanningattorney.com (202)379-4738 5335 Wisconsin Ave NW, Suite 440 Washington DC 20015 1401 Mercantile Lane , Suite 383 Upper Marlboro MD 20774 100 International Drive, 23rd Floor Baltimore MD 21202 1100 Peachtree ST NE, Suite 200, Atlanta GA 30309 2530 Meridian Parkway, Suite 300 Durham NC 27713

Stay Informed! www.washingtoninformer.com

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 15

NATIONAL REFORM from Page 1 of whom now face charges from second degree murder to aiding and abetting, and with the pain of his brother’s unnecessary death still fresh in his mind, Floyd gave a terse reply.

“Justice for George.”

Philonise Floyd spoke candidly at the U.S. Capitol to testify at “Oversight Hearing on Policing Practices and Law Enforcement Accountability” in the District.

Benjamin Crump, the Floyd fam-

ily’s lawyer, also testified, among others.

In announcing the hearing, the panel issued a statement saying that the hearing would “examine the crisis of racial profiling, police brutality and lost trust between police departments and the communities they serve.”

In a provocative and understandably emotional opening statement, Philonise Floyd asked our nation’s political leadership to ensure that police officers be included as “part of the solution, not the problem”

In a provocative and understandably emotional opening statement, Philonise Floyd asked our nation’s political leadership to ensure that police officers be included as “part of the solution, not the problem.”

with the hopes, it appeared that his brother would not have died in vain.

“I couldn’t take care of George the day he was killed but maybe by speaking with you today, I can help make sure that his death isn’t in vain.

To make sure that he is more than another face on a t-shirt. More than another name on a list that won’t stop growing,” he said.

In efforts to explain his feelings upon seeing the video of his brother’s final minutes before his death, George Floyd’s sibling said, “[his] calls for help were ignored.”

“I can’t tell you the kind of pain you feel when you watch something like that. When you watch your big brother, who you’ve looked up to your whole life, die. Die begging for your mom,” Floyd said. “I’m tired of the pain I’m feeling now and I’m tired of the pain I feel every time another black person is killed for no reason. I’m here today to ask you to make it stop. Stop the pain. Stop us from being tired.”

Floyd stated that reform and accountability remain the most effective means to honor his brother, and others who have lost their lives in police custody.

“Honor them, honor George, and make the necessary changes that make law enforcement the solution – and not the problem. Hold them accountable when they do something wrong. Teach them what it means to treat people with empathy and respect. Teach them what necessary force is. Teach them that deadly force should be used rarely and only when life is at risk,” he said.

“George wasn’t hurting anyone

5 Attorney General of Minnesota Keith Ellison (WI File Photo)

that day. He didn’t deserve to die over twenty dollars. “I am asking you, is that what a Black man’s life is worth? Twenty dollars?

“I didn’t get the chance to say goodbye to Perry [the name to which he referred to George Floyd] while he was here. I was robbed of that. But, I know he’s looking down on us now. Perry, look at what you did, big brother. You’re changing the world. Thank you for everything.

Angela Stanton-King Seeks to Unseat Rep. John Lewis Political Newcomer Adds Diversity to Republican Field

By K. Barrett Bilali Zenger News

Angela Stanton-King has overcome being separated from her newborn daughter after giving birth in prison and re-entering society without a job or income.

Now she has a new set of challenges as a lack Republican running in an urban Democratic stronghold.

The 53 year old hopes to unseat the popular civil rights icon John 3 Angela Stanton-King (Courtesy photo)

16 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

Lewis, 80, who has represented Georgia’s 5th Congressional District since 1986. The seat was also held by former Atlanta mayor Andrew Young in the 1970s and has only been in Republican hands three times since the District was established in 1827.

Stanton-King said she knows defeating Lewis is a monumental task and said she often gets attacked on social media for running against him. She also faced heavy criticism earlier this year for a series of tweets that compared gay and transgender people to pedophiles and refused to elaborate

on or explain those comments to Zenger News.

Still, Stanton-King said, she has gotten more support than she originally thought she would.

“I am surprised to see that, but I think the people of Atlanta are ready for a transfer of leadership,” she said.

In February of this year, President Trump offered Stanton-King a full pardon for the nearly three years she spent in prison after a 2004 conviction for her involvement in an auto-theft operation.

KING Page 17

For taking care of us when you were on Earth, and for taking care of all of us now,” he said. “I hope you found mama and can rest in peace and power.”

Sherrilyn Ifill, the president of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, also counted among the witnesses subpoenaed by Democrats. Republicans called three witnesses: Dan Bongino, a conservative radio show host and adviser to President Trump; Pastor Darrell Scott, the co-founder of Trump’s National Diversity Coalition; and Angela Underwood Jacobs, a member of the Lancaster, Calif., city council and former congressional candidate.

In next week’s edition, and this week on our website, www.washingtoninformer.com, we share the summary of an interview conducted by WI Senior Correspondent Stacy Brown with Minnesota State’s Attorney General Keith Ellison, who now leads the prosecution’s case against the four policeman who allegedly caused the death of George Floyd, and D.C. Attorney General Karl Racine, who spoke one-on-one with the editor about the case, the challenges facing Ellison and the kinds of issues he himself confronts as the leading attorney for the District.

WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

KING from Page 16 Stanton-King’s experience in prison turned her into an advocate for criminal justice reform, and she was a vocal supporter of the First Step Act passed by Congress and signed by Trump in 2018.

The bill’s prohibition of shackling pregnant women in federal custody was especially important for Stanton-King, who said she was handcuffed to a bed while giving birth before having the child “snatched from my arms 24 hours later” in 2004.

“I credit President Trump for being my inspiration,” Stanton-King said. Before she became active in conservative politics, she said, “I was lifelong Democrat just because, well, you know, monkey-see, monkey-do. I was just doing everything that my family was doing. I guess we had all been duped.”

Stanton-King is also the goddaughter of Alveda King, a niece

NATIONAL of Martin Luther King, Jr. who leads the anti-abortion activist group Civil Rights for the Unborn. Stanton-King argues that there is “racism in abortion,” accuses Democrats of wanting to “fund the slaughter of our unborn children,” and said she ignored her father’s advice to have an abortion when she was 15 years old.

Stanton-King shares something else in common with Trump beyond politics: They were on reality TV series. Stanton-King was a cast member in BET’s “From the Bottom Up,” a series about five women who had fallen on hard times and were rebuilding their lives.

“I think that my show was more like a docuseries,” she said.

“It wasn’t fake drama. People are going to be able to appreciate the reality in politics, and that is what I represent.”

Stanton-King could use a dose of that reality herself, according to Dwight Bullard, political director of New Florida Majority, an orga-

nization that supports progressive Democrats and people of color.

“I think it safe to say that her politics are not reflective of the community she is trying to represent,” Bullard said. “In the case of Atlanta, you are talking about a civil rights icon in John Lewis whose politics are rooted in black liberation.”

Stanton-King is one of many political newcomers who are diversifying the Republican field of congressional candidates this year, but not all of those candidates have actually gotten on the ballot.

Jineea Butler tried to run for Congress in Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s 14th Congressional District in New York, but withdrew before the scheduled GOP primary date. Butler is one of three black Republican candidates who ultimately could not get enough petitions signed during the COVID-19 pandemic to secure their place on the primary ballot.

Scherie Murray and Antoine Tuck-

5 John Lewis, (left) Angela Stanton-King (Courtesy photo)

er were the other two.

“We don’t have enough allies in the Republican party to really do things,” Butler said. “We don’t have anybody fighting for our positions on the ballot.”

Currently, William Hurd of Texas is the only Black Republican

in the House; Tim Scott of South Carolina is the only Black Republican senator. Hurd decided to not seek re-election in his district, which means the Republican Party could be left without any Black House members after the 2020 election. WI

If I could do one thing, I’d make sure we stay healthy.

If you could do one thing for your community, what would it be? More walk-in clinics? More funding for health services closer to home? Completing the 2020 Census is a safe and easy way to inform billions in funding for hundreds of services and programs in your community.

Respond online, by phone, or by mail.

Complete the census at:

2020CENSUS.GOV Paid for by U.S. Census Bureau.

C24097_17a_2019_Census_Community_Seniors_V2_HalfPage_SizeI_9_85x5_5.indd WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM 02.25.20 Epson HP

/ THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 17 A24097x01D_131-00033230_240u.tif 4C Newspaper - Size I NON-Bleed Size: 9.85” x 5.5”

INTERNATIONAL PETWORTH PRINTING Your Quality Printers

301 Kennedy Street, NW

n

Washington, DC

202-291-6565

PRINTING & DESIGN

WASHABLE

FACE MASKS FOR SALE Reusable & Surgical Face Masks Also Available Custom Imprint Also Available

WEAR MASKS TO STAY SAFE

BANNERS POSTERS & SIGNS

FAST TURNAROUND

SEE OUR ONLINE STORE: www.QualityPrintersDC.com

Traditional Help Buttons

At Home In the Car On a Walk On Vacation At the Park Shopping

A Help Button Should Go Where You Go! To be truly independent your personal emergency device needs to work on the go.

Order Now & Receive a FREE Lockbox!

1-800-681-0667

Service availability and access/coverage on the AT&T network is not available everywhere and at all times. Current GPS location may not always be available in every situation.

View

Sports Photos

by John De Freitas

at:

 18 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

africa now

COMPILED BY OSWALD T. BROWN

DA Members Rattled by ANC Involvement in Western Cape Democratic Alliance (DA) insiders fear that the African National Congress (ANC) is muscling in on the Western Cape, using the province’s COVID-19 crisis.

The Western Cape is South Africa’s coronavirus epicenter, with over 30,000 of the country’s 45,973 known cases and accounts for 77% of the fatalities. It is also the only province out of the nine not governed by the ANC, the South African Sunday Times reported.

In response to the Western Cape’s towering numbers, national government has sent top officials to the province, including President Cyril Ramaphosa (left) and Health Minister Zweli Mkhize, who visited Friday.

More ministers will be sent to the province, according to Minister in the Presidency Jackson Mthembu, who said there was nothing political about the move.

Premier Alan Winde has also cautioned against politicizing government’s response to the pandemic in the province. However, according to the Sunday Times, insiders in the DA have likened the step made by national government to an effort to micromanage Western Cape officials.

An unnamed official quoted by the publication expressed concern at the lack of consultation with the office of the premier. The publication says the ministers set to descend on the province in the coming days include controversial figures such as Police Minister Bheki Cele and his transport counterpart, Fikile Mbalula.

Also said to be on their way to the Western Cape are Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan as well as Barbara Creecy at Environmental Affairs and Ebrahim Patel at Trade and Industry.

Winde confirmed Saturday that national government had indeed deployed cabinet ministers to the province, but also stated that he and Ramaphosa had not discussed details.

“We didn’t actually talk about that [the mandate of the ministers], so I am not too sure,” Winde said. “Obviously, I would hope that kind of consultation happens before it actually gets deployed. And who gets deployed where and for what reason.”

As of June 6, the Western Cape had recorded 30,379 coronavirus cases, which accounted for 66% of the country’s total, and 729 deaths out of South Africa’s toll of 952. WI

caribbean now Team Unity Retains Power in Election The Team Unity coalition, led by Dr. Timothy Harris, recorded a decisive nine-seat victory in the June 5 general election, as the majority of the electorate clearly voted for the stronger, safer future that, in their opinion, only the coalition could deliver for the people of St. Kitts and Nevis.

Harris, who was resoundingly returned by the people of Constituency #7, has thanked the people of that constituency in particular and the people of St. Kitts and Nevis in general, for once again reposing their trust in the tripartite coalition to the govern the affairs of the country, this time with an even greater mandate.

He noted that Friday’s electoral outcome is a clear indication that the policies and programs introduced over the past five years that have positively affected the lives of all citizens and residents and positioned the federation as the best managed small island state, resonated well with the majority of persons in St. Kitts and Nevis.

In its second term, the Team Unity coalition has pledged to continue to build on the progress made over the past five years by investing heavily in agricultural development, housing, improving the already strong relationship between the Federal entity and the Nevis Island Administration and further advancing the good governance agenda.

Harris also commended his political running mates of the People’s Labour Party, the People’s Action Movement led by Shawn Richards and the Concerned Citizens Movement led by Mark Brantley on being duly elected by the people, and for their commitment and willingness to continue to serve in the best interest of citizens and residents.

In a congratulatory statement, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, who chairs the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), said, “The overwhelming nature of the triumph at the polls indicates the scale of confidence that the people of the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis have in the ability of the party to guide them to a secure and prosperous future.” WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

June Greetings from DC Department of Aging and Community Living Laura Newland Director Department of Aging and Community Living It’s June! While it’s not how any of us expected to start the summer, staying home, practicing good hygiene, and maintaining a safe social distance has helped keep us safe. Together, we’ve flattened the curve.

Last month, Mayor Muriel Bowser presented her Fiscal Year 2021 (FY21) Budget and Financial Plan to the Council.

While the financial impact of COVID-19 requires us all to make sacrifices, the Mayor remains steadfast in the District’s commitment to maintaining the critical services our residents expect and protecting our most vulnerable neighbors.

In the FY21 budget proposal, the Mayor is finding ways to save resources so that we don’t lose ground on our shared progress in the District. As the Mayor says, we are all in this together, and we will get through this together. The Mayor’s FY21 budget is driven by DC HOPE — Health, Opportunity, Prosperity, and Equity — and is a testament to the Mayor’s commitment to DC Values, even in times of unprecedented crisis.

For DACL, this means continued investments in our vital programs and services, such as nutrition, health and wellness, and in-home support.

COVID-19 required all of us to adapt quickly, and DACL launched new programs and activities to provide addition-

al support to our community: • Home-delivered meals. We increased our meal delivery by almost 200%, delivering meals to more than 6,400 District seniors — and that number increases every week. Since the start of the public health emergency, DACL has delivered more than 300,000 meals to seniors!

• Launch of DACL’s “call and talk” line. DACL provides a friendly voice and conversation to those in need of a connection.

• Regular confidential wellness and reassurance calls. Participants in DACL-funded programs and services are receiving regular check-in calls from our service providers.

• Mailings to seniors. We’re planning two big mailings this fiscal year to seniors to make them aware of DACL and city services with support from the Mayor’s Office. We want to make sure we’re reaching out to those who might not be connected to us yet.

• Technology for seniors. In partnership with OCTO and DHCF, we’ll be launching a technology connection program for qualifying seniors to connect with telehealth and online social and wellness programs.

In addition to our initial COVID-19 response, the Mayor’s ongoing commitment to seniors remains strong and includes significant investments in critical programs that allow people to stay in their homes longer, including: • $5M investment in Safe at Home

• $1.9M to provide transportation for essential medical trips, such as dialysis and cancer treatments The Mayor also affirmed her capital investments: • $11.4M to open a new senior wellness site in Ward 8 by 2022 • $35.5M to renovate the Therapeutic Recreation Center, which will have supportive programs for caregivers • $1.5M to complete expansion of Ward 5 & 8 Senior Wellness Centers On Monday, June 15, I’ll be testifying at our annual Budget Oversight Hearing before the Committee on Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization, which will be held virtually this year. To learn more or to submit your testimony, please see the Budget Oversight ad to the right. I’m proud to talk about the Mayor’s continued commitment to our community, and I can’t wait to hear from you!

Stay safe!

Your Testimony is Encouraged On Monday, June 15, Director Newland will represent DACL at our annual Budget Oversight Hearing. Due to the public health emergency, all public hearings will be held via virtual meeting platforms. Written or transcribed testimony from the public is highly recommended and will be taken by either voicemail or email. We encourage you to join us and share your thoughts on DACL’s programs and our proposed FY2021 Budget.

To submit written testimony, please email housing@dccouncil.us or mail to The Office of At-Large Councilmember Bonds, 1350 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Suite 404, Washington, DC 20004.

To submit testimony via voicemail, please call (202) 350-0894. All testimony received will be made a part of the official record.

To testify live, the Committee on Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization will provide slots for witnesses to testify on a first-come, first-served ba-

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

sis. If you would like to sign up to testify live, send an email to housing@dccouncil.us and you will be emailed a link to access the virtual hearing.

Please include your name, address, phone number, organizational affiliation, and title (if any), your preferred email address, and the name of the agency or program that you are testifying about.

If you would like to testify by phone, please call 202-724-8064 and leave your name and phone number. The committee will call you before the hearing to make sure that you are connected.

The Committee will contact all witnesses by phone or email on the day before the hearing to confirm that they have received a slot. Please sign up to testify no later than the close of business two days prior to your hearing date. Witnesses will be limited to three (3) minutes.

The committee encourages only one witness per organization. For more information, please contact the Committee on Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization at housing@dccouncil.us or 202-724-8064.

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 19

HEALTH Bob Johnson Calls for $14 Trillion in Reparations Billionaire Businessman Says Black Wealth was Stolen by White America

By Sarafina Wright WI Contributing Writer BET founder and billionaire entrepreneur Bob Johnson is

calling for $14 trillion in reparations for Black Americans as compensation for slavery and in an effort to shrink the wealth gap between African Americans and

their white counterparts.

In an exclusive interview with The Washington Informer, Johnson said he came to the sum of $14 trillion through several factors.

“Your home, your savings, your work income, and how much you would spend for education — we put those things together and it came up that white Americans had about $357,000 in what we call net wealth on average,” Johnson said.

“And then when we look at African Americans in those same categories, we are about 60 percent below the average white American.”

Johnson said he arrived at $14 trillion by figuring $357,000 for each of the 40 million African American households. He said this wouldn’t be a lump sum, but a figure that could be paid out over 10, 20 or 30 years.

Johnson isn’t just calling for reparations for the poor, but for the wealthy as well.

“You don’t segregate out and say not the rich, only the poor Black

5 Bob Johnson (Courtesy photo)

people,” he said. “That’s the whole problem that exists … is that you separate us … that goes back to slavery. Divide and rule.

“Give it to Robert Smith, who is worth $3 or $4 billion,” he said.

“Give it to Michael Jordan, Oprah Winfrey, Jay-Z and Beyonce. They are descendants of slaves. When the lash came down on other people’s

REPARATIONS Page 28

Virginia: Open with care.

COVID-19 isn’t over.

We’re making progress, but we can’t leave behind all the safety measures we’ve been taking. They’re working!

That’s why, when you visit your local stores, restaurants, and places of worship, they’ll only allow in half as many people as before. And they need all of us to do our part to keep them safe. Please continue to:

6 ft.

Wear a mask in public.

Stay 6 feet away. from others.

Wash your hands often.

Get tested if you’re sick!

More at vdh.virginia.gov, or call 2-1-1 for help with food, shelter or safety.

20 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

HEALTH A CONTINUING SERIES

COVID 19 UPDATE

AARP AUTO INSURANCE FROM THE HARTFORD

Strategies to Survive, Sustain and Succeed

More Local Businesses Poised to Reopen in Prince George’s County

By William J. Ford WI Staff Writer @jabariwill If certain coronavirus measures continue to decrease, more businesses could reopen in Prince George’s County by June 15.

Some of those indicators include lower hospitalization rates, deaths and confirmed cases have either decreased or remained stable in the past month.

For instance, confirmed cases in the majority Black jurisdiction reached its highest point the week of April 26 at 2,407. It decreased ever week since to 1,427 the week of May 24.

During the same timeframe, COVID-19 tests collected increased from 5,628 to 10,870.

The first four weeks of the same period death rates dropped from 71 to 47. The final week it rose by one patient to 48.

“We are encouraged by the trends we are seeing in our data since announcing our modified phase one reopening, but we must remain vigilant,” County Executive Angela Alsobrooks said in a statement. “All of our indicators tell us that COVID-19 is still active in our community and while I am eager to continue reopening our county, we must do so in a safe, smart and responsible manner that is data driven.”

The county joins Montgomery County in maintaining a phase one reopening of businesses, which include carryout services for restaurants and farmer’s markets, curbside pickup at retail stores and gatherings of 10 or fewer people at churches and houses of worship.

Both jurisdictions continue to record the highest number of confirmed cases in the state and continue to rise above the state’s positivity test rate.

Baltimore City lifted some of its restrictions and moved into a phase one

reopening of certain businesses Monday, June 8.

The remaining 21 counties in the state followed Gov. Larry Hogan’s stage two “Maryland Strong: Roadmap to Recovery” plan, which allowed nonessential businesses to open.

For instance, residents can go to nail salons, visit tattoo parlors and tanning salons can also open but at 50 percent capacity by appointment only.

Offices such as real estate, financial institutions and advertising and architectural firms “will all be open and operational in Maryland.”

State agencies such as the Motor Vehicle Administration reopened Monday, June 8 at select branches.

In Prince George’s County, the Largo station will provide driver’s license renewals, driver’s tests and vehicle titles by appointment only.

One industry that remains on par deals with construction, especially in the D.C. area where drivers can view dust from construction vehicles hoisting bricks and other materials to build residential and commercial businesses.

The Maryland Department of Labor projects the state will produce slightly more than 171,000 construction jobs in the state this year, an 8

percent increase from two years ago at almost 158,000.

Columbia Enterprises, a general contractor established more than 25 years ago with offices in southeast D.C. and Camp Springs in the county, closed for about a week to implement safety and health protocols, said Patricia Mitchell, vice president of finance and administration for Columbia.

The Black-owned business with at least 20 employees currently works on one of the county’s biggest projects: the $543 million regional medical center under construction in Largo scheduled to open next year. The company helps to make sure certain parts of the project such as inspections are completed.

Mitchell said the coronavirus has slowed down progress to start new projects, but those already in effect remain steady. She said each site must provide sanitary stations, masks and gloves.

“Construction has been one industry, especially in the DMV, that has not been affected,” she said. “Our customers have looked at this as being able to get a lot of work done without a lot of traffic.”

WI

TO SPEAK WITH AN AGENT AND REQUEST A FREE QUOTE CALL THE HARTFORD TO SEE HOW MUCH YOU COULD SAVE:

1-877-579-9788

Do you or a loved one struggle on the stairs?

AN ACORN STAIRLIFT IS A PERFECT SOLUTION FOR:

ü Arthritis and COPD sufferers ü Those with mobility issues ü Anyone who struggles on the stairs

THE PURCHASE OF A NEW STAIRLIFT!

CALL NOW FOR YOUR FREE INFORMATION KIT AND DVD!

1-855-841-2971

*Not valid on previous purchases. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Not valid on refurbished models. Only valid towards purchase of a NEW Acorn Stairlift directly from the manufacturer. $250 discount will be applied to new orders.

Please mention this ad when calling. AZ ROC 278722, CA 942619, MN LC670698, OK 50110, OR CCB 198506, RI 88, WA ACORNSI894OB, WV WV049654, MA HIC169936, NJ 13VH07752300, PA PA101967, CT ELV 0425003-R5.

DENTAL Insurance Physicians Mutual Insurance Company

A less expensive way to help get the dental care you deserve If you’re over 50, you can get coverage for about

$1 a day*

Keep your own dentist! NO networks to worry about NO annual or lifetime cap on the cash benefits

No wait for preventive care and no deductibles – you could get a checkup tomorrow Coverage for over 350 procedures including cleanings, exams, fillings, crowns…even dentures

you can receive

FREE Information Kit

1-877-308-2834

www.dental50plus.com/cadnet *Individual plan. Product not available in MN, MT, NH, RI, VT, WA. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY; call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150(GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN) 6096C MB16-NM001Gc

5 Black businesses seek to recover from a months-long shutdown. (Courtesy photo)

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 21

EDUCATION DCPS

BRIEFS Compiled by Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL

June 19 is the last day of school this academic year for students.

However, all schools will remain closed and students will participate in learning at home through the end of the school year.

More information on learning at home can be found at dcps.dc.gov/ coronavirus.

PGCPS BRIEFS

Meals and groceries will be available for families at sites across the district.

For more information, visit coronavirus.dc.gov/food.

OTHER IMPORTANT DATES

June 29 Summer School Begins July 3 Independence Day Observed (No School for Students, Teachers, and Staff) July 4 Independence Day July 31 Summer School Ends Aug. 31 First day of school for students

CHANCELLOR FEREBEE #STAYHOMEDC

Even though the school year has ended, there are many ways to keep students engaged during the summer.

DCPS’ online portal (http://bit.ly/ DCPS_ICP) has summer enrichment courses for students of all grade levels.

SUMMER BREAK

Summer break is here and DCPS is planning for a safe and healthy return to school in the fall.

School officials are asking families to take a few minutes to share their thoughts on how schools can reopen strong at either http://bit.ly/ReopenStudentSurvey or http://coronavirus. dc.gov/OurSchools.

While the student survey is intended for students in grades 3 through 12, DCPS encourages all parents and guardians to share their feedback on the safe reopening of schools.

1-844-796-2797 - Learn more: http://coronavirus. dc.gov/testing

2020-21 DC PUBLIC SCHOOLS ENROLLMENT FORMS STAYHOMEDC

MYSCHOOLDC DEADLINE

D.C. residents can get tested for COVID-19 using the following resources: - one’s doctor or medical provider - hotline in English: 1-855-363-0333 - hotline in English & Spanish:

Although more information is forthcoming around the DCPS 202021 school year calendar, the school system encourages all families to complete their SY20-21 enrollment online at http://enrolldcps.dc.gov.

Compiled by Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer

change, so check for updates.

The Summer Programs Office’s email address is summerschool@pgcps.org.

showcase student work created in the 2019-2020 school year both prior and during the pandemic.

The MySchoolDC lottery has been extended to Monday, June 15.

SUMMER PROGRAMS

PGCPS Virtual Summer Learning Programs offer students opportunities for acceleration, enrichment, credit recovery, or original credit during the summer.

This summer, all programs will be offered virtually and there are no fees to participate. Summer offerings may

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL TEACHERS’ ART The last day of school for students EXHIBITS will be June 15. Teachers will end the school year on June 17.

Distance learning concluded on June 8. From June 9 to June 15, students will be allowed to complete make-up work as PGCPS transitions to summer.

An updated school calendar is available online at www.pgcps.org/ calendar.

ONLINE STUDENT EXHIBIT

5 PGCPS’ virtual art exhibit showcases student work created over the course of this school year. Students from early childhood to 12th grade are featured in this virtual exhibit. (PGCPS photo)

22 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

5 There are many ways to keep students engaged during the summer. (DCPS photo)

Through June 30, PGCPS’ virtual art exhibit showcases student work created over the course of this school year.

Students from early childhood to 12th grade are featured in the virtual exhibit.

Meanwhile, works from teachers are on display in the Prince George’s County Arts and Humanities Council’s online gallery.

The student exhibit is dedicated to

Art teachers from across the PGCPS system submitted work for the online teacher exhibit.

Works were made within the past year, either before or during the coronavirus pandemic.

GREEN SCHOOL CERTIFICATION

PGCPS continues to lead the state with highest number of new Maryland Green Schools certifications.

This year, 10 schools earned certification and 30 schools were recertified, raising the total number of Green Schools to 131.

Crossland High School, Chesapeake Math & IT (CMIT) Academy, CMIT North Middle School and Dwight D. Eisenhower Middle School joined six elementary schools in earning first-time certification: Hillcrest Heights, Hollywood, James Ryder Randall, Judge Sylvania

DCPS GOES TO COLLEGE

Mickeyla Clark had a hard time choosing from more than a dozen college acceptances, but she’s decided that Temple University will be her home for the next four years.

After excelling in the National Academy Foundation Career Academy at McKinley Technology High School, Mickeyla plans to major in electrical engineering.

WI Woods, Mount Rainier and Rosa Parks.

SCIENCE FAIR WINNERS

PGCPS recently conducted a virtual science fair to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of students as they completed STEM projects.

PGCPS students took three of the top four slots last month in the 72nd annual Prince George’s Area Science Fair. Student projects from public schools in three counties — Calvert, Prince George’s and St. Mary’s, as well as from several Prince George’s County charter and private schools, were showcased.

DIGITAL LIBRARY RESOURCES

PGCPS’s Research Portal provides students with online encyclopedias, full-text articles, primary resources, videos and more.

Access the entire ebooks collection of PGCPS through Sora. Connect the app to Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) for one point of access. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

EDUCATION

Military’s Racism Spurs Master Sgt.: ‘I am a Black Man … I am George Floyd’

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia The passion and pain that demonstrators around the world have expressed isn’t limited to civilians.

Even as President Donald Trump continues to threaten to use the military to quell uprisings across the nation, those charged with protecting and serving America too have experienced rampant racism in the ranks.

“Who am I? I am a Black man who happens to be the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force,” Chief Master Sgt. Kaleth Wright penned in a Facebook post that’s gone viral. “I am George Floyd…I am Philando Castile, I am Michael Brown, I am Alton Sterling, I am Tamir Rice … What happens all too often in this country to Black men who are subjected to police brutality that ends in death…could happen to me.”

Wright noted that “racism doesn’t care about rank.”

“Any black airman can still get killed by police. Believe me my heart starts racing like most other Black men in America when I see those blue lights behind me.”

Gen. Dave Goldfein, the Air Force chief of staff, wrote in a memo according to the Air Force Times that African Americans “have to confront the awful reality of racism — and acknowledge that it also exists in the Air Force.”

In the memo, Goldfein denounced the killing of George Floyd by police officers.

“Sometimes it’s explicit, sometimes it’s subtle, but we are not immune to the spectrum of racial prejudice, systemic discrimination and unconscious bias,” Goldfein wrote. “We see this in the apparent inequity in our application of military justice. We will not shy away from this; as leaders and as airmen we will own our part and

confront it head on.”

A scathing report on racial disparities written by the advocacy group, Protect our Defenders, revealed that the Air Force failed to follow through on recommendations to better report on racial disparities in its justice system that were uncovered by a 2017 report and a 2019 investigation by the Government Accountability Office.

The report claimed that the Air Force established a disparity working group to study the issue as far back as 2016, but the group met for only three months and its discoveries were ignored by service leadership.

Meanwhile, Chief Master Sgt. Wright stated his thoughts on what can be done to eliminate racism from the Air Force.

“I believe that we have not made much progress in this area of racial

No matter what pops up, getting care has never been easier

MILITARY Page 44

24

5 Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Kaleth Wright (military.com)

CALENDAR

in 15min

ALERT: Flu Symptoms in 15 Min

We’re here in Ward 5 seven days a week, and online 24/7 Get the care that’s right for you with Providence Health System.

Schedule routine care online with a Providence doctor. Or see a doctor online 24/7 — from wherever you are — with Ascension Online Care. No insurance required and available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Find it all at GetProvidenceDCCare.com

© Ascension 2020. All rights reserved.

Primary Care | Urgent Care | Online Care WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 23

Schools may be closed, but learning never stops.

Internet Essentials from Comcast is the nation’s largest program providing internet to low-income families, helping millions of students stay connected so they can be ready for anything.

Learn more at comcast.com/internetessentials

24 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

2020 Homeownership Supplement

Homeownership and COVID-19:

Security Your Family Can Trust

PRESENTED BY

TITLE SPONSOR

CONTRIBUTING SPONSORS

NEWSPAPER READING IS A HABIT

INTRODUCTION

DON’T BREAK THE HABIT!

READ THE WASHINGTON INFORMER YOUR WAY: n In Print – feel the ink between your fingers of

our Award Winning Print Edition

n On the Web – www.washingtoninformer.com

updated throughout the day, every day

n On your tablet n On your smartphone

5 Cerita Battles / Head of Retail Diverse Segments Wells Fargo Home Mortgage

n Facebook n Twitter n Weekly Email Blast – sign up at

www.washingtoninformer.com

202-561-4100 For advertising contact Ron Burke at rburke@washingtoninformer.com

...Informing you everyday in every way

In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark THE WASHINGTON INFORMER NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published weekly on each Thursday. Periodicals postage paid at Washington, D.C. and additional mailing offices. News and advertising deadline is Monday prior to publication. Announcements must be received two weeks prior to event. Copyright 2016

by The Washington Informer. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send change of addresses to The Washington Informer, 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20032. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee the return of photographs. Subscription rates are $45 per year, two years $60. Papers will be received not more than a week after publication. Make checks payable to: THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E Washington, D.C. 20032 Phone: 202 561-4100 Fax: 202 574-3785 news@washingtoninformer.com www.washingtoninformer.com

PUBLISHER Denise Rolark Barnes STAFF D. Kevin McNeir, Editor Ron Burke, Advertising/ Marketing Director Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor Lafayette Barnes, IV, Assistant Photo Editor John E. De Freitas, Sports Photo Editor Dorothy Rowley, Online Editor ZebraDesigns.net, Design & Layout Mable Neville, Bookkeeper Dr. Charles Vincent, Social Sightings columnist Tatiana Moten, Social Media Specialist Angie Johnson, Circulation REPORTERS Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, Timothy Cox, Will Ford (Prince George’s County Writer), Jacqueline Fuller, Hamil Harris, D. Kevin McNeir, Kui Mwai, Lee Ross, Dorothy Rowley, Brenda Siler, Lindiwe Vilakazi, Sarafina Wright, James Wright,

It’s Homebuying Season!

It’s homebuying season! Despite the economic challenges brought on by the coronavirus, there are people who are able to continue the process to make their goal of homeownership a reality. At the same time, we do realize that for many other families, financial setbacks during this difficult time have forced them to put the goal of owning a home on hold for now. That’s disheartening; however, there’s still an opportunity to learn more about the homeownership process and create a plan to reach your goal. I would like to remind you this Homeownership Month that a setback in your homeownership journey does not necessarily mean you have to abandon your dream of owning a home.

Wells Fargo is again proud to sponsor the Washington Informer’s Homeownership Month supplement, especially this year when things are very different for so many people. We want to take this opportunity to share information inside the publication that will help consumers protect themselves and provide guidance to keep moving toward that homeownership dream even if it has to be delayed for the time being.

For aspiring homeowners who are taking time to evaluate finances and determine the right path forward for homeownership, now is a good time to take advantage of resources that can help. For example, many organizations provide homebuyer counseling that can provide personalized guidance based on your situation to help you make better decisions for you during your homeownership journey. Homebuyer counseling is a one-on-one session with a HUD-approved counselor who can talk to you about your situation. Activities often include budgeting, identifying credit challenges, guidance to improve credit score, debt reduction strategies and helping to determine affordability. Wells Fargo also helps to offer financial tools that you can navigate on your own like the Hands on Banking® program at www.handsonbanking.com At Wells Fargo, we continue the important work of doing what we can to increase homeownership among African Americans. In the third year of our 10-year, $60 billion African-American lending commitment, we have helped more than 60,000 African-American families become homeowners and supplied $8.5 million to support homebuyer education and counseling efforts.

Owning a home remains a dream for many African American families and homeownership is the foundation for wealth building and strengthening our communities. Setbacks don’t mean you have to give up on that goal, but it’s important to use resources that are available to determine the best path forward.

We hope that everyone stays safe and healthy. HS

PHOTOGRAPHERS John E. DeFreitas, Ja’Mon Jackson, Shevry Lassiter, Roy Lewis, Jr., Robert R. Roberts, Anthony Tilghman

www.washingtoninformer.com / 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT

HS-2

WORDS FROM THE EDITOR

Home Sweet(er) Home Dr. Shantella Y. Sherman WI Special Editions Editor The COVID-19 pandemic has illuminated a plethora of both personal and global concerns as many of us have been forced for the first time in years, to sit still and reflect. While it has coaxed many into healthier routines that include cooking, exercising, and taking time to pray and meditate, for others, it has forced them to take more stock in their dwellings.

Truthfully, as we dash about our homes – being all we can be – rarely have we taken note of the damp growing down the basement wall, the minor (soon to be major) home repairs that require attention, or Truthfully, as we dash about our the lax security of our doors, windows, and patios.

In fact, home security – and fears associated with being burgled – have topped the lists of concerns homes – being all we can be – many Americans have expressed since the onset of rarely have we taken note of the nationwide quarantine.

“For the first time ever, I have had to leave my damp growing down the base- tweens alone in the house to get groceries or run errands, and it makes me a little anxious,” one mothment wall, the minor (soon to be er of twin 12-year-old daughters told me. “They would normally be in school, and since I didn’t want major) home repairs that require them in the stores with me without masks or gloves, I had to take a long look at the security system in my attention, or the lax security of home. I needed to determine how best to safeguard in the home alone.” our doors, windows, and patios. them Others worried that the pandemic would push desperate citizens into recklessness, where they

5 Dr. Shantella Sherman

would invade others’ homes for basic necessities like water, toilet paper, and food.

“My roommate and I became leery of anyone outside our apartment door – even if they were just passing by headed to the stairwell. Every noise made us believe we were sitting ducks about to be robbed,” another District resident told me. “We decided to install a home security camera and purchase a door security bar for the front door which has helped greatly.”

The anxiety is not unwarranted, as homes without security systems are up to 300 times more likely to be burgled than those with active security alarms. Additionally, 95 percent of home security owners are satisfied with their security systems and feel more relaxed as a result.

With ongoing civil unrest, however, many Black homeowners are making gun ownership a part of their home security as well.

Exercising their 2nd Amendment right to own and secure their property with firearms, African Americans have historically done so as a matter of their citizenship. Simple advice: If you must own a gun, do so responsibly. Keep all weapons in safe and secure places – preferably a gun safe with the ammunition stored elsewhere, but handy. Ensure that any children in the home are cautioned about handling the weapon(s), and be sure users have been trained thoroughly on the care and use of the weapon.

Our homes are our castles -- our spaces of respite, calm and peace. It has never been more important for homeowners to secure their homes and work to protect their families. But it is equally important that our homes sweet home, become even sweeter. This Washington Informer supplemental guide to securing your home is designed to answer questions you may have about both the security of your home and value of various security innovations.

Read, Learn, Enjoy.

Dr. S

5 Feeling safe in your home is critical to being able to call it sweet. (Courtesy photo)

H-3 HS-3

2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

These tips are Good to Consider for your Homeownership Journey Now ing you can do a lot of the groundwork from home. As a result of COVID-19, virtual tours and agent-led video walk-throughs and video chat tours have all been added to the mix of showing homes.

Lenders are available to serve you remotely, too, and are always available to have phone conversations about the lending process.

By Leonard Campbell, Branch Manager, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Homeownership is important to many Americans – both those buying for the first time and those wanting to make their next home purchase -- but the recent crisis may have many wondering how to proceed.

While the COVID-19 crisis has certainly caused some disruption to the traditional spring buying season, recent market data shows that many buyers and sellers are continuing to move forward with their home buying plans. If you’re a prospective homeowner, here are a few things to think about:

Recognizing extraordinary courage In challenging times, many people working together can do the greatest good. It’s an honor to be a member of this brave community, where so many give so much, every day, to keep all of us hopeful, safe, and strong.

Information is accurate as of date of printing and is subject to change without notice.

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801. AS5126981 Expires 07/2020

Take stock of your personal homebuying goals and finances.

Did the crisis change what you’re looking for at all? Is a home office more important or a backyard patio? What about your finances?

Do you feel secure in your job? Do you already have savings set aside for a down payment as well as for a rainy day fund?

Know what you can afford.

The recent health crisis reinforces the reality of economic ups and downs and the fact that disasters can happen without warning. It reinforces the importance of not overextending yourself in buying; you want to be able to weather any economic cycle. As you consider this, know that a bright spot is that mortgage rates are very low right now, which helps stretch your dollars when you decide to buy.

Start your house hunt from home. If you’re worried about venturing out, rest easy in know-

Understand your down payment options. There are still financing options available that don’t require you to put 20 percent down. Low down-payment options include our own yourFirst Mortgage® program and government programs like VA and FHA. How much you put down is a financial decision to weigh as you look at your own finances and personal situation. It’s important to note that putting more down can reduce your monthly payments, which can free up dollars for other parts of your budget, including savings.

Double down on your rainy day fund. It’s always been a good idea to have a little to fall back on.

Owning a home means you’ll have expenses for repairs and updates.

The economic uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 crisis reinforces the importance of having money to fall back on if you have an unexpected expense or loss in income.

Embrace digital tools. Just like shopping for your perfect house, you can apply for a home loan from your kitchen; you never really need to step into a bank. Many tasks can be handled online, from starting the loan applications to signing disclosures and uploading needed documents during the loan process.

The current crisis has many Americans reflecting on their living spaces and thinking about their long-term financial goals.

While no one knows exactly what will happen in the economy, if you are weighing whether buying is right for you, take a minute to focus in on your own unique goals, opportunities and circumstances and make the best decision for you. HS

www.washingtoninformer.com / 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT

HS-4

Home is where the heart is.

It’s also the heartbeat of a community.

A home is so much more than brick and mortar. It can feel like the heartbeat of your community. It says, “I belong here.” We’re invested in igniting that spirit. understand that successful homeownership helps make individuals, families, and communities stronger. That’s why we’re working hard to support homebuyers by preparing them to become homeowners. Let’s keep our communities growing strong together.

To learn more, call 1-866-875-7068. Or visit wellsfargo.com/mortgage

Information is accurate as of date of printing and is subject to change without notice.

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801. AS5144281 Expires 01/2021

H-5 HS-5

2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

Steer Clear of COVID-19 Scams with Some Helpful Tips Donna Greene Diverse Segments Market Consultant, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage The coronavirus has put a financial strain on many families and businesses. The government, financial institutions and other organizations are rallying to support those in need. As more support is offered to Americans and businesses that are struggling financially, the threat of fraud is increasing.

It is important for consumers and business owners to pay close attention to any communication they re-

ceive regarding COVID-19, especially as it relates to financial assistance.

Recognizing scams and knowing how to avoid them will help protect you from fraud.

Wells Fargo is proactively advancing our security, and the company continues to invest in account safety measures and customer education to help consumers and businesses during this time. Here are a few tips that can help keep your accounts and information secure.

you asking to verify or provide your financial information to get your stimulus checks faster. If you receive an unexpected request that appears to be from the IRS, do not respond, click on links or open attachments.

Also, be suspicious of any communication from an organization that claims it can help put a rush on your payment.

To learn more about economic impact payments, including eligibility and payment amounts, visit IRS. gov/coronavirus.

Watch out for schemes tied to economic impact payments The IRS will not call, email, or text

Beware of unexpected requests and offers for financial assistance Look out for emails and text messages that include an urgent request for you to update your information, verify your identity or take advantage of a special offer. Fraudulent financial aid and loan offers are also common on social media. You may be prompted to call a phone number, sign on to a spoofed website, or respond with personal or account information.

Be sure to look closely at the email address or text message for any COVID-19 communication you receive. On the surface, it may appear to be from a reputable or trusted source like your financial institution or a major nonprofit, but if the sender’s email domain looks different from other communications (e.g. “wells-fargo.info” instead of “wellsfargo.com”), then it could be a scam. For text messages, be cautious when receiving a text from an unknown phone number. Text scams may contain unusual language or text treatments, ID numbers, all caps or punctuation like exclamation points.

If you receive a suspicious request that appears to be from your bank or other legitimate company, do not respond, click on links or open at-

tachments. Call the number on the company’s website or the back of your debit or credit card to verify the request.

Verify a company or charity before opening your wallet Other popular schemes include medical supply scams and fraudulent donation sites that impersonate a company, charity, or government agency to convince you to make purchases or donations on spoofed websites or do business with a phony vendor. Do your research to help ensure you are working with a legitimate vendor or organization.

Running a small business? Take note of these additional tips First, be sure to reconcile accounts daily to detect suspicious activity.

Make sure to verify all account changes, including changes to payment instructions from vendors. If you receive a request to change payment details such as bank account or invoice information, verify the request using a different method of contact to make sure it’s authentic.

For example, if the vendor contacts you by email, confirm the information by phone. Be sure to use the information you have for the contact on file, not the contact information contained in the request you received.

If you detect it, report it.

For suspicious requests that claim to be from Wells Fargo: forward the email or send an email with the text message copy (no screenshots) to reportphish@wellsfargo.com.

You also can report scams to the Federal Trade Commission at www. ftc.gov/complaint.

HS

www.washingtoninformer.com / 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT

HS-6

Wells Fargo Exec Talks Forbearance Plans, Fraud Prevention for Mortgage Holders

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia Wells Fargo officials said the bank remains committed to providing the financial access, guidance, and support customers need to focus on theirs and their lovedones well-being.

Since the beginning of the novel coronavirus pandemic, Wells Fargo has suspended residential property foreclosure sales, evictions, and involuntary automobile repossessions.

On a case-by-case basis, the bank offers fee waivers, payment deferrals, and other expanded assistance for a credit card, auto, mortgage, small business, and personal lending customers who contact Wells Fargo.

“We have created many options for customers to engage with us,” said Carmen Bell, SVP, Home Lending Servicing Customer Contact and Default Decisioning, Wells Fargo.

“When COVID hit, we recognized the significant potential impact to consumers, we quickly expanded our options to engage,” Bell stated.

The engagement includes creating an easy-to-understand process within Wells Fargo online banking.

H-7 HS-7

“In a prevalent way when you log onto online banking you see an option asking if you need payment relief,” Bell said. “Customers are able to review if payment relief is right for them and have the ability to receive initial 3 months payment suspension online, without having to wait to speak to a Wells Fargo employee.

Customers then receive a confirmation letter in the mail outlining the forbearance. If Wells Fargo has a valid email address, customers will receive a confirmation online.

“We want to provide customers the ability to interact with us how, where and when they choose and so many customers in today’s environment choose to interact digitally,” Bell said.

“When COVID first hit, there was so much uncertainty, customers wanted immediate assurance so that they had peace of mind. We wanted them to be assured that their mortgage payment would be okay until they knew more out their situation,” she said.

For homeowners fearful of the forbearance process or afraid of late mortgage payments, Bell said it’s crucial they reach out to Wells Fargo or respond through our digital options as early as possible.

“Our goal is to

help customers through challenging times and help them maintain homeownership. We do the proactive outbound calling. It’s not a collections type of call; it’s a check-in to see how we can assist them and if COVID has impacted them. We’re here to help you,” Bell noted.

“Some are just fearful of the process, and we try to relieve that fear by having a conversation with them whether that is digital or verbal,” she said.

Many customers weren’t initially sure, how the pandemic, and government officials began might affect them publicly encouraging everyone to call their mortgage provider, Bell said.

“In June, we will be reaching out to customers who received initial 3 months of forbearance that will be expiring to provide them options to extend forbearance additional 3 months if they still need more time to recover or if they are ready to resume making payments we will provide them options to make up the suspended payments.

Bell said Customers will have options based on their specific investor on their loan which They may have the option to do a repayment plan, so taking the three months of missed payments and adding them to your next 3 to 6 months of payments.”

However, Bell added that many might not choose that option because the pandemic has left many in a financial bind.

She said Wells Fargo would follow specific investor guidelines and their own portfolio to make the repayment process easier when customers are ready to resume payments.

Some guidelines will extend the term of the loan by the three months of the forbearance, while others will do a partial claim in which the missed payments are added to the end of the loan as a balloon payment.

“An example of a partial claim would be your payment was $1,000 per month. You’ll then have $3,000 placed in a non-interest bearing account that will be due at the end of your mortgage, such as if you pay off your mortgage or refinance,” Bell said.

Wells Fargo is aware that fraud continues to be a concern for most.

“There is, unfortunately, a lot of fraud in general. I haven’t personally seen any yet in this space although just over the weekend I was out to dinner with a friend who said she got an email from her bank asking her to verify all of her account information. She didn’t respond because she thought it odd that the bank would not have her information anyway. I advised her never to respond to those, always call or login to your secure account,” Bell said.

“We ask customers to be on the lookout for suspicious email or text messages that try to convince you as a consumer to share sensitive information such as username and password or someone who may have impersonated company security or a government agency. We will never ask personal information or login credentials through email or text,” she said.

“We also have a Wells Fargo Stories piece that provides more information about coronavirus fishing scams. https://stories.wf.com/beware-coronavirus-phishing-scams/ I would also just add that a consumer’s best avenue is always to engage with us directly or through an approved counselor such as all of the HUD counselors versus thinking that someone who’ll reach out to them will be more of a help than their servicer would.” HS

2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

5 Carmen Bell SVP, Home Lending Servicing Customer Contact and Default Decisioning Wells Fargo

What Is Forbearance?

Forbearance is a temporary postponement of mortgage payments. It is a form of repayment relief granted by the lender or creditor in lieu of forcing a property into foreclosure.

Loan owners and loan insurers may be willing to negotiate forbearance options because the losses generated by property foreclosure typically fall on them.

DCHFA Remains in the Business of Homeownership Christopher E. Donald Interim Executive Director As residents navigate stay-at-home orders and social distancing practices, the idea of “home” has become increasingly important. Since its founding more than 40 years ago the District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA) has been creating homeownership opportunities and advancing the value of homeownership. The agency wants people to know that their dreams of homeownership do not have to be put on hold at this time when housing is more critical than ever.

DCHFA remains a resource for aspiring Washington, D.C. homeowners as its employees continue to work from home under COVID-19 social distancing guidelines. DCHFA’s Single Family Homeownership Programs are fully operational during this time, helping people overcome the hurdles to homeownership.

The Single Family Programs di-

vision manages all of the Agency’s homeownership programs with the goal of expanding and retaining homeownership opportunities in the District of Columbia.

DCHFA offers the following programs: DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership in the city. This program offers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on first trust mortgages. You are not required to be a first-time homebuyer to qualify for DC Open Doors.

You must, however, be purchasing a home in the District.

The Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) provides an additional incentive for first-time homebuyers to purchase a home in the District of Columbia. An MCC provides qualified borrowers the ability to claim a Federal Tax Credit of 20 percent of the mortgage interest paid during each calendar year.

The Home Purchase Assistance Program (HPAP) provides interest free deferred loans for down payment and closing cost assistance up to $84,000 combined. DCHFA serves as a co-administrator of the DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) first-time homebuyer program. DCHFA administers HPAP applications for households meeting very low to low income criteria.

The Reverse Mortgage Insurance and Tax Payment Program (ReMIT) provides financial assistance to seniors 62 years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Qualified District homeowners can receive up to $25,000 in assistance. The borrower must be able to demonstrate ability to sustain payments going forward.

DC4ME PLUS provides mortgage assistance with optional

down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME PLUS is offered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations

provided the applicant/borrower’s employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.

For a full list of each program’s qualification guidelines and information on how to apply, visit www.dchfa.org/ homeownership.

HS

receive up to $25,000 to pay delinquent property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, condominium fees, homeowners association fees and certain property related expenses paid by your Servicer.

• Must be a District resident/homeowner • Residence must be secured by a Reverse Mortgage in borrower’s name • Subject property must be a primary residence located in the District • Have an annual income not to exceed $77,450 • Be ”at risk” of foreclosure due to unpaid property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, condo/HOA fees • Must demonstrate ability to sustain future tax and insurance payments, as required.

how to apply:

Housing Counseling Services (202) 265-2255

additional information remit@dchfa.org

www.washingtoninformer.com / 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT

HS-8

DC OPEN DOORS

Your key to homeownership in the District

The District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency’s Single Family Homeownership Programs are still available to provide you with the down payment and closing cost assistance you need to become a D.C. homeowner!

www.dchfa.org/homeownership H-9 HS-9

2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

Study Predicts Outcomes of Black Homeownership after COVID-19 U.S. Census Bureau Urban Institute The U.S. Census Bureau, in collaboration with five federal agencies, is in a unique position to produce data on the social and economic effects of COVID-19 on American households. The Household Pulse Survey (HPS) is designed to deploy quickly and efficiently, collecting data on a range of ways in which people’s lives have been impacted by the pandemic. Data will be disseminated in near real-time to inform federal and state response and recovery planning.

The Household Pulse Survey will ask individuals about their experiences in terms of employment status, spending patterns, food security, housing, physical and mental health, access to health care, and educational disruption. The questionnaire is a result of collaboration between the U.S. Census Bureau and the USDA Economic Research Service (ERS),

the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Questions identified as priorities for testing include those that were developed specifically to address the COVID-19 pandemic; items developed for potential future deployment to understand households’ decision-making in light of receiving economic stimulus payments; and questions deemed to be overly complex from a cognitive standpoint.

What the research found was that faster appreciation for low-price homes ma exacerbated income inequality and negatively impact Black homeownership.

The faster rise in low-price home prices impacts low-income homeowners and renters the hardest, specifically those in the bottom quartile of the income distribution. As

low-price home prices rise, would-be homebuyers with low incomes have trouble finding affordable homes, so they remain in the rental market, drive up rents, and increase the demand for and price of rental properties. As a result, the cost for both owning and renting has gone up substantially for low-income households, while their income growth has not kept pace with that of high-income households (those in the top quartile of the income distribution).

And according to Urban Institute, despite the labor market turmoil caused by COVID-19, home prices have largely remained where they were before the pandemic, as demand and supply shrank simultaneously.

But with rising unemployment and forbearance, lenders have tightened credit to avoid taking greater risks that may further strain their financial capacity.

Credit was already tight before COVID-19, and because of these

even stricter standards, low-income households will likely face greater difficulty accessing homeownership, even for homes within their financial reach. It’s likely that those with high incomes and credit scores will have more opportunities to buy homes and build housing wealth as the economy recovers from the COVID-19 shock.

Additionally, a greater share of low-income homeowners and renters are working in industries that are more vulnerable to the COVID-19 shock. Therefore, low-income homeowners may struggle more to sustain homeownership once the forbearance period is over, and many low-income renters are likely to lose the financial ability to become homeowners. At the same time, the home price trajectory is unlikely to change, as all households, both owners and renters, need a place to live. But the homeownership rate is expected to decrease, making it harder for many families to build wealth.

5 Many African-American homeowners may fair poorly following the COVID-19 pandemic without the aid of financial planners and banking assistance. (Courtesy photo)

If the supply constraints that existed before the pandemic remain unaddressed, both low-price home and rental prices will continue to increase faster than prices for highprice homes, widening residual income inequality between low- and high-income homeowner and renter households. This could also hurt the ability of low-income households to build financial strength and could make them more vulnerable to future economic shocks. HS

www.washingtoninformer.com / 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT

HS-10

THE POWER TO

make a difference At Bank of America, we help people accomplish the things that matter most to them.

Helping businesses grow the right way.

Supporting today’s entrepreneurs and tomorrow’s innovators.

Standing by the ones who day in and day out are putting in the hard work to make things happen.

What would you like the power to do?®

© 2020 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. | 2935529 | ESG-442-AD | 02/2020

H-11 HS-11

2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

Housing Market Update Bill Landon CEO George Mason Mortgage, LLC The spring housing market of 2020 is quite different compared to market trends from previous years.

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has affected all aspects of our daily routines including how we do business. Dave Stevens, CMB, and Advisor to the George Mason Mortgage (GMM) Board of Directors mentioned a quote from John Lennon at a recent virtual company meeting that coincides with what we are experiencing in our world today.

He shared, “There are decades where nothing happens and there are weeks when decades happen.”

This resonates with what we are

IMAGINE CREATING

YOUR OWN PATH HOME

experiencing and where we will be heading as a nation. It also relates to the mortgage industry as interest rates have remained low - even during this time of uncertainty.

Stevens also addressed the fact that technology resources will be coming out of the woodwork to bridge the gaps for homebuyers that exist during this period.

However, even with these changes in place, many homebuyers are questioning if this is the right time to make such a large investment or if a refinance makes sense right now on an existing mortgage. The good news is that home values did not plunge as a result of the pandemic. Rather, the industry is in a holding pattern. A vast majority of mortgage lenders and real estate agents firmly believe the market

will bounce back soon and consumer confidence will grow.

Though optimism is high for the markets to stabilize, there will be some short-term challenges within the market. Credit guidelines have tightened, there are higher credit scores on some products and larger down payments may slow down purchase business. Investors will continue to monitor the impact that forbearance may have on loan performance, but once we start to see people heading back to work we should start to see some relief in these guidelines.

Over the past two months, we have been learning how to adjust to a new norm. With modifications and safety protocol in place at George Mason Mortgage, many businesses like ours have been for-

tunate to remain open. We have implemented advanced technology solutions that allow homebuyers to continue with their transactions in a safe and efficient manner. We are consistently monitoring updates from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in conjunction with local and state officials in the markets we serve while also helping those directly affected by the pandemic.

George Mason Mortgage celebrates 40 years of business this year – a reminder of how far we have come and where we will continue to go even during challenging times. We are proud of our success and we are confident that our commitment to service will be stronger than ever before. We are all in this together. HS

Our Secure Digital Mortgage Application is Coupled with Experienced Mortgage Advisors.

George Mason Mortgage’s unique combination of digital options, mobile access, data verification and personal guidance provided by our expert mortgage advisors allows you to take the path that works best to get you home.

Contact us for a complimentary Guide to Buying Your First Home or to speak to one of our expert Mortgage Advisors.

Access Your Complimentary Guide: www.gmmllc.com/TakeTheLeap Speak with a Mortgage Advisor: www.gmmllc.com/MortgageAdvisor

ADVERTISING NOTICE – NOT A COMMITMENT TO LEND – SUBJECT TO PROGRAM AVAILABILITY. This is not a commitment to lend. All loan applications are subject to credit and property approval. Annual Percentage Rate (APR), programs, rates, fees, closing costs, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice and may vary depending upon credit history and transaction specifics. Other closing costs may be necessary. Flood and/or property hazard insurance may be required. To be eligible, buyer must meet minimum down payment, underwriting and program guidelines. George Mason Mortgage's NMLS ID is 153400.

www.washingtoninformer.com / 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT

HS-12

George Mason Mortgage is the Experienced, Local Lender You Need.

We understand what a home means for your personal financial story. Our lending specialists have the experience coupled with cutting edge technology to help you find the right loan option to make the dream of homeownership become reality.

Contact us for a complimentary Guide to Buying Your First Home or speak to one of our expert mortgage advisors.

Access Your Complimentary Guide: www.gmmllc.com/TakeTheLeap Contact a Mortgage Advisor: www.gmmllc.com/MortgageAdvisor ADVERTISING NOTICE – NOT A COMMITMENT TO LEND – SUBJECT TO PROGRAM AVAILABILITY. This is not a commitment to lend. All loan applications are subject to credit and property approval. Annual Percentage Rate (APR), programs, rates, fees, closing costs, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice and may vary depending upon credit history and transaction specifics. Other closing costs may be necessary. Flood and/or property hazard insurance may be required. To be eligible, buyer must meet minimum down payment, underwriting and program guidelines. George Mason Mortgage's NMLS ID is 153400.

H-13 HS-13

2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

Buying a Home During COVID-19 Michelle Fields-Hall Senior Loan Officer George Mason Mortgage LLC Home Buying in a Covid-19 World Purchasing a home is the largest and most exciting investment that many people make in their lifetime. The thought of purchasing a home can feel a bit overwhelming, especially as we navigate our way through the effects of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

A silver lining to these times is we have been given the gift of slowing down and reflecting on what matters the most. We were so used to the hustle and bustle of our daily routines, now we have some extra time to use to our advantage.

These factors could be great ben-

efits as you consider turning the dream of homeownership into reality. Here is more information about home buying in a Covid-19 world.

Budget & Affordability Review your finances and create a savings plan. Determine what your budget will be for your mortgage payment and how much of a down payment you can afford.

You may find it to be easier to save due to not having daily expenses such as gas, shopping and salons.

It is never too soon to speak with a mortgage lender to help you find your sweet spot of affordability.

Get educated With the extra time you may have, this is a great time to educate yourself on the home buying

process. There are many resources available at your fingertips such as online classes. There are first-time homebuyer programs with low or no down payment options available as well as grants for down payments and closing cost assistance.

Your mortgage lender can help you find the right fit for your unique financial story.

Your home buying dream team Having the right team of experience in your real estate agent and mortgage lender will give you the confidence and knowledge to guide you through the journey of buying your home. Listen to your team and your heart, mind and soul when choosing the home that’s right for you and your family.

The thought of purchasing a home can feel a bit overwhelming, especially as we navigate our way through the effects of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. A silver lining to these times is we have been given the gift of slowing down and reflecting on what matters the most.

Research neighborhoods Searching for homes online is a convenient (and safe!) method to find the home of your dreams.

This option enables a no-contact way for you to research neighborhoods, homes, schools and other amenities that are important to you. Once you have found a home, your real estate agent can provide additional information as well as making an appointment to view the home when the time is right. Make sure the home meets all the “must haves” on your list.

Things have changed After being pre-qualified by your mortgage lender and you have found the home of your dreams with your real estate agent, you will submit an offer on your new dream home – this hasn’t changed. What has changed is the technology available, home buying requirements and new security systems in place. Your real estate agent, mortgage lender, appraiser, home inspector and Title Company have all the resources to get you to the virtual closing table safely, and more importantly into your new home!

Now is a good time Rates continue to remain low and right now is still a great time to purchase a home. Remember, we are stronger together!

About George Mason Mortgage At George Mason Mortgage, we are here working for you. As a digital mortgage leader, we have the technology and security resources to make your home buying experience as smooth and safe as possible.

Staying connected is more important now than ever before and we are dedicated to being your go-to resource, right at your fingertips.

Contact me with any questions you may have or to get started on your journey home.

Michelle Fields-Hall Senior Loan Officer NMLS#: 270722 Phone: (443) 798-6112 Email: MFields-Hall@gmmllc.com https://www.gmmllc.com/ HS

www.washingtoninformer.com / 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT

HS-14

When the time is right for you, we will show you how 40 years of experience can provide the knowledge, technology and guidance you need to make the right decision for you and your family.

BENEFITS OF HOMEOWNERSHIP:  Security & Freedom  Forced Savings & Investment  Inflation Protection  Build Your Credit

Contact us for a complimentary Guide to Buying Your First Home or speak to one of our expert mortgage advisors.

Access Your Complimentary Guide: www.gmmllc.com/TakeTheLeap Contact a Mortgage Advisor: www.gmmllc.com/MortgageAdvisor ADVERTISING NOTICE – NOT A COMMITMENT TO LEND – SUBJECT TO PROGRAM AVAILABILITY. This is not a commitment to lend. All loan applications are subject to credit and property approval. Annual Percentage Rate (APR), programs, rates, fees, closing costs, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice and may vary depending upon credit history and transaction specifics. Other closing costs may be necessary. Flood and/or property hazard insurance may be required. To be eligible, buyer must meet minimum down payment, underwriting and program guidelines. George Mason Mortgage's NMLS ID is 153400.

H-15 HS-15 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

Options for Securing Your Apartment

By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer Millions of Americans opt to lease their living spaces each month, rather

than take on a mortgage. In doing so, they often overlook important opportunities to secure their apartments and their valuables in the same way as homeowners. Home security, according to many

experts includes choosing not only the safest location possible, but also outfitting the domicile for safety.

“Many D.C. residents are transient – they relocate with their jobs or are college

students who require housing that offers short-term leases. For this reason, security does not always take the priority it would were they purchasing a house,” banking agent Doris Garner-Gray, told the Informer. “There is no reason to compromise safety and security because you are renting.”

Here are a few helpful security measures for apartment leasers.

Choose a Secure Apartment Complex When selecting an apartment complex, be sure that it is one that takes the security of its tenants seriously. Both new and older communities utilize secure entry systems that keep outsiders from gaining access to apartments.

These include fob keys, fingerprint locks, and keypad codes. Only consider buildings for best security – especially if you will live alone.

Lock Your Doors, Windows and Patios It sounds only logical to shutter an apartment for safety, but Americans routinely neglect to lock their doors, windows, or patios, leaving them vulnerable to home invasion. Pay close attention to sliding doors that jump the track or are easily unlatched.

Doors should have deadbolt locks, peepholes, and for added protection, consider using a door security bar to deter intruders.

Set Up a Camera Inside Your Apartment Smart cams -- stand-alone devices that stream and record movement in your apartment during your absence can offer peace of mind for apartment

renters. Some switch on once you leave home using your mobile phone’s location to note your absence and record the space.

Install Wireless Alarm Systems Wireless alarms are the less expensive version of traditional home alarm systems and do not require wire installation or maintenance. Some systems sync with your smartphone and can ring you and law enforcement should there be a breach of your doors or windows.

Don’t Advertise Your Belongings A giveaway to burglars that an apartment has valuables are delivery boxes for items like televisions, computers, and exercise equipment left outside displaying your apartment number. Pick up or have hot ticket items delivered the same day as trash pickup to avoid being conspicuous about purchases. Barring that, tear or cut up oversized boxes and put them into sealed trash bags before taking to the dumpster. Also, be sure to keep curtains and blinds closed – especially on ground-level units where passersby can see directly into your unit.

Get and use a safe There are misgivings that owning a safe is only necessary if a person has high-end jewelry or cash money in their homes. Not true. A safe provides the best protection for any items you believe demand extra protection.

This should include important documents, credit cards, banking information, passports, and birth certificates, in addition to any expensive jewelry or cash. HS

www.washingtoninformer.com / 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT

HS-16

Groundswell’s Share PowerTM Community Solar Program What is community solar?

Community solar looks just like any another solar project you might have seen. The thing that makes it different is that community solar projects generate electricity that you can share. What that means is, for example, a local church could install a solar project on its own roof that provides electricity for its members, or an apartment building could install solar on its roof that provides electricity for the people who live in the building.

Before community solar came along, the only people who could enjoy solar power were people who owned their own roof, had a good credit score, and could afford the up-front payments.

Community solar means everyone, regardless of whether you rent or own or have good credit, can have access to solar energy.

Where is Groundswell building community solar projects?

Groundswell is building community solar projects in partnership with faith communities and other community-based organizations in the District, including solar projects on the rooftops of local churches in Wards 4, 5, and 7 so far. Some of the solar projects we’re building are part of the Solar for All DC program, which will provide 100% of the electricity generated for free to DC residents with a household income of less than $65,650. DC residents who enroll in Solar for All DC should save about $500 per year on their Pepco bill – so the savings are real.

We’re also building community solar projects that enable people to Share PowerTM, delivering the same deep utility bill savings to our neighbors

who need the savings the most.

How does Groundswell Share PowerTM? Groundswell’s Share PowerTM community solar program was directly inspired by asking ourselves how to “love our neighbors as ourselves” using the abundance of energy from the sun.

If you live in the District of Columbia and pay a Pepco bill, you can purchase locally generated electricity from one of Groundswell’s solar projects for less than $50 per month, which is about the same you pay the utility for dirty power. Groundswell then shares the solar savings generated from the project with income-qualified households to help cut their electricity bills in half. For example, for one of the community solar projects we’re building in DC Ward 5, for ev-

ery three families who sign up to get locally generated power, we’ll be able to enroll one income-qualified family who’ll be able to save about $500 per year.

We think it’s a wonderful way to work together as a community to lift each other up.

Why is sharing power with others so important?

The bottom line is that it’s expensive to be poor. All across America, including in Washington DC, the people who have the least household incomes have the highest utility bills.

In fact, nationally the poorest 20% of Americans pay 10% of more of their entire household income to keep the lights on.

Why? Because families who are working hard to make ends meet typically live in less energy efficient houses and apartments and have older appliances that

WHAT IS COMMUNITY SOLAR? Electric Bill

3

1

Total: ~~~~

OPEN

2 1

Groundswell installs a community solar project

2

Solar panels produce electricity that is shared among neighbors

3

You sign up with Groundswell to receive the locally generated power

Join Groundswell, get your energy from a local solar project, and Share Power™ with your neighbors today.

A portion of the energy generated is shared with qualified, low-income neighbors for free

Groundswell.org/informer

H-17 HS-17 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

use more energy.

That’s why Groundswell’s Share PowerTM program was created to enable neighbors to help neighbors. Families who want to get their power from a local solar project can, while at the same time, help local families who need energy savings cut their bills.

How does Groundswell create economic opportunity in our community?

Washington, DC is Groundswell’s hometown, and our vision is that solar power should be a “Made in DC” industry.

That’s just one reason why we hire locally and work with local minority and women-owned businesses to install our solar projects. The companies we work with are also committed to the community and practice what they preach by providing job training through their work. Finally, we shine a light on where and how the DC solar market needs to improve to represent the beautiful diversity of our neighborhoods.

The way we see it, the District has a thriving solar market thanks to its commitment to run on 100% clean, renewable energy. The solar industry projects that about $300 million will be invested to build solar projects in the District over the next five years, and every single solar panel will cut utility bills, create jobs, and build wealth.

But the question we will always ask is: for whom?

How do you sign up?

If you live in Washington, DC and you pay a Pepco bill, just go to our website at www.groundswell.org/informer and fill out the interest form on our home page and will be in touch with more details and community solar participation availability.

If you or someone you know is, or thinks they may be, income-qualified for free solar through the Solar for All DC program, please call our Customer Engagement Team at 443.598.6773.

HS

Recent and Recommended Books on Home Security

By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer One of the greatest deterrents when it comes to keeping a home safe is a home security alarm system. Given an opportunity to select from homes to target, burglars often bypass those outfitted with alarm systems. Several books address not only the need for home security, but also the added benefits to homeowners in installing systems and becoming proactive in protecting their homes. Here are a few of the Informer’s favorite.

WE’RE HERE TO HELP.

Fundamentals of Home Security: How to Improve the Security of Your Home

We know that we provide an essential service to you, and that you need access to your money, financial resources and real help, now more than ever. It’s why we continue to reach out to our clients, to listen, understand and respond. We encourage you to contact us with any financial needs you may have.

by Anthony Ekanem It has been reported that burglary and break-in happen almost every 15 seconds of the day. As a result, the chances of your home being at risk of a break-in are greatly increased, and it does not matter where you live in the world. When we talk of a break-in, people think of someone entering their home by breaking some windows or smashing down doors. Yet, there are things that extend an invitation to burglars and intruders to try at getting into your home. There are many places in the home that are vulnerable to attack by intruders. Therefore, you must put in place a routine that will give intruders and burglars fewer opportunities to attempt a break-in. This book discusses the weak areas in your home security which you should pay attention to, to prevent any kind of break-in from occurring.

Learn more at sandyspringbank.com/update or call 800.399.5919

Home Security Systems: Home Security Tips Revealed

by Joel Maughan This e-book offers sound advice on how to secure your home – and become security savvy in the process. When you take action to protect your home, your family will have the security they need to survive such harsh worldly conditions.

Taking action means to set up alarms, as well as securing your doors, windows, etc.

The more security you supply to your home, the better chance you will have. While there is no such thing as complete home security, there are measures you can take to protect your home.

Security Mom: An Unclassified Guide to Protecting Our Homeland and Your Home

by Juliette Kayyem PE RS ON A L | BU SINE S S | W E A LT H | IN S U R A NCE | MOR TG AG E Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. Sandy Spring Bank NMLS # 406382. Wealth and Insurance products are not FDIC insured, not guaranteed, and may lose value. Sandy Spring Bank and the SSB logo are registered trademarks of Sandy Spring Bank. © 2020 Sandy Spring Bank. All rights reserved.

SSB80_HereForYou_Wash Informer_3.85x7.5.indd 1

4/15/2020 5:14:47 PM

Stay Informed!

www.washingtoninformer.com

In her insider’s look at American emergency and disaster management, Kayyem distills years of professional experience into smart, manageable guidelines for keeping your family safe in an unpredictable world. From stocking up on coloring books to stashing duplicate copies of valuable papers out of state, Kayyem’s wisdom does more than just prepare us to survive in an age of mayhem—it empowers us to thrive. Security Mom is an utterly modern tale about the highs and lows of havingit-all parenthood and a candid, sometimes shocking, behind-the-scenes look inside the high-stakes world of national security. Kayyem uses the motto “don’t scare, prepare!”

Prepared Not Scared: Your Go-To Guide for Staying Safe in An Unsafe World

by Bill Stanton Prepared Not Scared, is the ultimate guidebook for protecting yourself and your family from the terrifying dangers surrounding us all. Written by Bill Stanton, arguably the nation’s most recognized and respected expert in personal security and protection, the book extracts more than 500 years of combined security experience and advice from experts in criminology, psychology, military science, self-defense, technology, and emergency preparedness. With each chapter you read, you will increase your chances of protecting yourself from ever becoming a victim of crimes including, child abduction, home invasion, and cybercrime. HS

www.washingtoninformer.com / 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT

HS-18

Six Must-Know Security Tips

By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer Don’t provide places for thieves to hide Trim trees and bushes that may give someone a place to hide or unnoticeable access to your windows. Trim any shrubs that are high enough to block a window or provide covering to those attempting to surveil your home.

1.

2.

Light your property with motion detectors or entry lighting to ensure you can see clearly those nooks and crannies that are normally very dark and may allow a thief access to your home under the cover of darkness.

Don’t let thieves know you are not home Years ago many Black families placed announcements in Black newspapers about their vacation plans – but also made it clear who from the neighborhood would be house-sitting in their absence. Today, through social media, many of announce we our plans and document it from the time we lock the front door until our planes touch down a week later. In the process, we give home invaders a trusty guide to our movements and essentially announce our homes are primed for break in. Save the vacation snaps until your return, have a friend house-sit, and / or entrust a friend or neighbor to pick up mail or check on the house daily.

3.

Install a home alarm system Alarms may deter burglaries, but also provide the added advantage of alerting neighbors and bringing law enforcement to your home quickly. Those systems that offer surveillance as well as the alarm, have been amazing at helping to track down would-be robbers by capturing their images for law enforcement.

4.

Take precautions to protect windows Ensure that windows have working locks and that windows are screened for extra protection. Also, if purchasing new windows for your home, invest in shatterproof glass to prevent invaders from breaking windows to gain entry. For the more frugal, consider adding a security film to windows.

Security window films are used to enhance the safety of regular glass by strengthening it. Security films for windows are used to help protect against break-ins, vandalism, accidents, terrorist bomb attacks, and natural disasters. This will prevent the glass from shattering upon breaking and may deter thieves from continuing their attempt to break in.

5.

Secure sliding glass doors Sliding glass doors have incredibly flimsy locks. A thief can easily pop them in an instant, giving quick access to your home. Installing a security bar for sliding doors would make gaining access to your home more difficult. This measure of protection is a must-have for all sliding doors and windows. HS

6.

H-19 HS-19 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

Culture of Fear Fosters Gun Sales, Feelings of Home Insecurity

By Shantella Y. Sherman WI Special Editions Editor “My wife and I already have three guns in the house, and even with the alarm system, I felt we needed the shotguns because of all of the social unrest,” Rockville-resident, Carl Edwards, Jr., told the Informer. “I will not risk someone entering my home and potentially hurting my family without being met with maximum resistance.”

Edwards is among the millions of Americans whose anxieties over both the Coronavirus pandemic and the social unrest following the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police, who have applied for gun permits or purchased firearms.

Americans bought more than 1.7 million firearms in May, according to estimates from industry analyst Small Arms Analytics & Forecasting. That is down from an estimated 1.8 million firearms in April, but an 80 percent yearover-year estimated increase. The FBI says it performed more than 3 million background checks in its NICS database in May, more than 700,000 more checks than it per-

formed in May 2019.

Georgia State University Law Professor Timothy Lytton studies gun violence and told KUNC analysts for Guns & America that gun sales are likely increasing over fears of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as a belief that in an emergency law enforcement will be unable to protect them.

“I think the current civil unrest is likely to stoke both of those fears even further and that we’re likely to see increased sales of firearms continuing on through the summer,” Lytton said.

That fear, discussed at length in a statement from American Psychological Association president, Sandra L. Shullman, described a “racism pandemic” that poses a threat to the mental stability of the nation.

“The deaths of innocent Black people targeted specifically because of their race — often by police officers — are both deeply shocking and shockingly routine. If you’re Black in America — and especially if you are a Black male – it’s not safe to go birding in Central Park, to meet friends at a Philadelphia Starbucks, to pick up trash in front

of your own home in Colorado or to go shopping almost anywhere,” Shullman said. “We are living in a racism pandemic, which is taking a heavy psychological toll on our African American citizens. The health consequences are dire. Racism is associated with a host of psychological consequences, including depression, anxiety, and other serious, sometimes debilitating conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use disorders. Moreover, the stress caused by racism can contribute to the development of cardiovascular and other physical diseases.”

Shullman said that studies show when police act in a procedurally just manner and treat people with dignity, respect, fairness and neutrality, people are more likely to comply with their directives and accept any outcome, favorable or unfavorable.

For Southwest D.C. resident, Julianne Agyepong, the anxiety created by COVID-19 and ongoing protests has redefined home security and what her family now considers a safe environment.

“My husband and I have three teens who are looking to us for di-

5 Members of the National African American Gun Association shoot firearms at an outdoor range. (Photo courtesy of NAAGA)

5 Guns sales it the U.S. have jumped drastically amid the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing civil unrest. (Courtesy photo)

rection, yet we really don’t know what to tell them as far as navigating that world around them right now. We tell them to be safe and be careful, to obey the law and not allow their emotions to dictate a situation, but even that is not a guarantee that they will make it back home to us safely if there is some renegade cop out there targeting Black youth,” Agyepong said. “What we can do is reassure them that when they are in this house, their parents are armed, they are safe, and their home is protected.”

Agyepong went on to say that while the focus tends to land on the anxiety of Black people, the real psychological issues in the nation belong to racist white Americans who have expressed their fears to her as feeling displaced in “their own country.”

“When you go to gun shops, gun shows, or to the firing range, you have these conversations with white people who are arming themselves against an imaginary boogeyman coming to disrupt their lives. They tend to be really chatty because they believe all gun owners are of the same ilk. That boogeyman – usually a Latino immigrant or Black thug – lives nowhere near them and could not be

less interested in them,” Agyepong said. “When I see that level of fear, anger and mental confusion, I’m clear about why gun sales in the nation and home security devices have skyrocketed.”

Ironically, crime has significantly declined since the onset of the pandemic, while the sale of firearms has risen over the same period of time.

Retired minister and civil rights activist B. Napoleon Clark told the Informer that while homeowners are quarantined inside their homes it lessens the potential for home invasion. Still, anxiety increases if families are glued to television programming about death, destruction, and chaos.

“Let’s face it, the greatest home security in the world is no match for your mind – your peace of mind that allows you to rest comfortably at night no matter what goes on out in the streets,” Clark said. “I have an alarm on my home and security cameras – I even have a couple of pistols. Still, I suggest that while folks are arming and alarming their homes, they also fit their surroundings with the Word of God to protect and defend themselves spiritually and emotionally.”

HS

www.washingtoninformer.com / 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT

HS-20

Mortgage Rates Are Low– What Does That Mean for Me?

By Maceo Clark, EagleBank Senior Mortgage Banker Nobody comes in saying they want a mortgage. They want a home. Lower interest rates - for home owners and potential buyers - can make a big impact by providing lower monthly payments.

For some, the current interest rate environment can mean the difference between owning a home and paying rent to a landlord. And for people who already have a mortgage, they could be thinking about refinancing for a lower interest rate.

Home Purchase and Low Rates Most programs for first-time home buyers have lower rates to begin with, and people do not need 3% down-payment to buy a first home. That said, people have to know what’s available. Some of the biggest tools I use to create and maintain strong relationships in the community are the wide range of loan options for people who want to buy a home in this area. EagleBank offers assistance programs that all provide financial help of some kind. These programs include the District’s programs HPAP and DC Open Doors, Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) grants from community banks like ours, Maryland Mortgage Program, and VA loans for veterans and active military.

How much people can receive usually depends on annual income and size of household. Babies, children, and grandparents living in the home count, and can expand a family’s ability to qualify for some programs.

I try to share any and all mortgage information that can help others. Last year, EagleBank started an initiative with the DC Government called “Work in DC, Buy in DC.” It offers substantial reductions in mortgage interest rates for DC government employees and first responders. This partnership with Mayor Bowser to provide more sustainable housing in the DC area is a prime example of new options for the people of the area for both first time and returning borrowers.

Low Rates and Refinancing People often wonder if refinancing

H-21 HS-21

makes sense for them during these challenging times. It does for people who are still receiving an income.

Lenders have to verify ability to repay the loan, and income verification is the primary method we use. Even most people who purchased their home a year ago can likely find a better rate than what was available in 2019. EagleBank Residential Lending is here to continue to support the community’s mortgage needs with a fully online loan process.

My sympathies to anyone who has lost income because of COVID-19. If you are in forbearance, there are resources to help.

Reach out to your current lender for guidance.

Loving Life as a Community Lender I value my roots as a community banker. I’m doing exactly what I love – getting to know my customers and their families and giving people the opportunity to buy a home in any kind of market. It makes me feel good to share how the numbers can complete a financial profile, so that’s why I am an active participant in first-time home buyer events such as the DC Housing Expo where I serve as a proud participant, informant, and advocate for home buyers.

EagleBank has been and will continue to be with our clients during promising and challenging times—that is what it means to be a community bank.

Maceo Clark talks with attendees to the 2019 DC Housing Expo (Courtesy photo)

Let’s work together.

Mortgage bankers build community.

EagleBank’s Residential Lending team offers competitive loan products and services, and options that answer the needs of Washington, DC’s home owners and buyers.

Contact us to learn more.

Maceo Clark (NMLS# 807001) has extensive experience in the mortgage industry as a community lender and loan originator. He is also a longtime volunteer youth soccer coach, so EagleBank’s partnership with DC United truly hits close to home. His ongoing goal as a lender is to provide the best mortgage options and achieve the highest levels of satisfaction for his customers. He can be reached at MClark@EagleBankCorp.com.

Contact us for more information about specific programs.

EagleBank is an Equal Housing Lender. NMLS# 440513 HS

2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

Maceo Clark

Senior Mortgage Banker NMLS# 807001

301.850.2655

EagleBankCorp.com 202.292.1568 All loan applications are subject to credit and property approval. NMLS# 440513

Innovations Galore: Wireless and Mobile Security Systems

By Lee Ross WI Staff Writer The Consumer Electronic Show (CES) is the world’s gathering place for all those who thrive on the business of consumer technologies. It has served as the proving ground for innovators and breakthrough technologies for 50 years — the global stage where next-generation innovations are introduced to the marketplace. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, it attracts the world’s business leaders and pioneering thinkers – and home security has been a major part of its showcases the last five years. CES® 2020 saw over 20,000 products unveiled with more than 4,400 exhibiting companies launching their latest tech products across more than 2.9 million net square feet of exhibit space.

“CES 2020 inspired and connected every major industry across the globe,” said Gary Shapiro, President and CEO of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)TM, owner and producer of CES. “The inno-

vation unveiled at CES 2020 will reshape industries, create jobs, fuel the global economy and improve lives around the world.”

Here are a few of the new innovations related to home security.

Blue by ADT – A New DIY Smart Home Security Brand from ADT ADT, a leading provider of security, automation, and smart home solutions serving consumer and business customers in the United States, unveiled new products and security services at the 2020 International CES earlier this year, designed to serve the lifestyles of more consumers, wherever they are, whether in their homes, apartments, cars, online or on the go.

Included was the new DIY smart home security brand and products, new smart home integrations for the award-winning ADT Command and Control smart home security system, and mobile security solutions that integrate with popular application-based services, such as Lyft. Among the new line ADT has retooled its DIY smart home se-

5 Alarm.com’s Wellcam and Wellness Insights offer new offerings monitor overall quality of life, informing caregivers and loved ones of evolving situations before they become emergencies. (Courtesy photo)

curity portfolio with the launch of a new brand, Blue by ADT, which will initially include three standalone smart cameras and a WiFi extender plus doorbell chime.

“We are proud to showcase ADT’s tech-forward and innovative products which, along with our strategic business partnerships, address the changing lifestyle

needs of today’s consumer,” said Jim DeVries, President and CEO of ADT. “Everyone has the right to feel safe, and in our evolving world, everything ADT does is purposefully designed to protect and connect what matters most to our customers.”

Alarm.com Empowers Independent Living with Wellcam™ and Wellness Insights Alarm.com, the leading platform for the intelligently connected property, announced at the 2019 CES a newly expanded Wellness product line focused on well-being and health. These new independent living offerings extend protection and peace of mind for families with loved ones living on their own. Wellness Insights, a CES Innovation Award Honoree, uses a suite of sensors and predictive analytics to learn activity patterns and detect changes that can indicate an emerging health issue or other quality of life concern.

Alarm.com also introduced Wellcam™, the first smart home video solution designed to connect families and empower healthy, independent living.

“Both Wellness Insights and Wellcam can extend safety to the people and things that matter most,” says Steve Chazin, Vice President of Product at Alarm. com. “We’re making it possible for Alarm.com customers to cast a wider safety net beyond their

homes, gaining peace of mind that their aging parents, children, and even pets are well cared for.”

Vivint Smart Home Helps Protect Packages with New Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro Vivint Smart Home, a leading smart home company, recently introduced the Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro, an AI-powered doorbell camera that intelligently detects packages and actively helps protect them from porch pirates and other potential threats. With more than a million packages stolen or that go missing from porches every day, the new doorbell camera provides homeowners with peace of mind by helping to prevent crime before it happens. The Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro has the industry’s first 180-degree vertical and horizontal field of view, along with a 1:1 aspect ratio, so you can see both the faces of tall visitors and packages left directly below the camera.

“Customers want us to do more than just record and report crime— they expect us to help prevent it,” said Matt Mahar, vice president of cameras at Vivint Smart Home.

“We’ve created a unique combination of intelligence, optics and deterrent features to deliver on that expectation. The new Vivint Doorbell Camera Pro, along with Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro and Vivint Car Guard, extends a blanket of protection from inside the home to the edges of your property.” HS

www.washingtoninformer.com / 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT

HS-22

Lowering Insurance Costs through Improved Security WI Staff Report Coverhound Insurance Learning Center Even when homeowners think they live in a safe neighborhood, they could be at risk for a burglary. If they find their possessions missing or damaged after a burglary, homeowners could file a claim with their insurance company. However, after experiencing a home theft several times, homeowners could see their insurance premiums rise.

By installing a home security system with burglar alarms, homeowners can deter thieves from breaking into their homes.

Ninety percent of convicted burglars said they would avoid homes with alarm systems.

With the frequency of home theft, homeowners should consider whether a security system is worth it, not only to protect their belongings, but also save on insurance.

If you install a monitored home alarm, there is less of a chance that you will be robbed and, therefore, that your insurance company will have to shell out thousands of dollars to cover your losses. Reduced risk for your provider means a reduced premium for you.

The risk-cost benefits of an alarm system don’t stop with crime reduction, either. There’s another reason for that insurance discount: fire safety. Modern alarm systems also help protect against fire damage, one of the costliest claims for insurance companies. In fact, fire and lightning claims account for almost 10 times the number of insurance claims of theft and burglary. So, protecting your home from fire damage means even less risk for your insurance company – and the reason for that serious discount on your homeowners’ insurance.

Here are five ways to reduce insurance costs with a security system: 1. Boost home safety Insurers may provide a dis-

count on insurance premiums if homeowners have a security system, which can help increase home safety. The decrease in incidents that could result in damaged properties could show insurance companies that homeowners are less of a risk and could qualify them for discounts.

2. Save up to 20 percent on insurance premiums -Homeowners could see their insurance premiums drop between 15 and 20 percent if they install a comprehensive home security system, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

Not only can they reduce their insurance costs, they can also save money on buying these security systems if they ask about discounts.

3. Lower risk of cost hikes To avoid higher insurance costs, homeowners should make sure that they carefully read their policies. Home insurance companies may decide to increase home insurance in case a burglary occurs, according to The Simple Dollar.

4. Reduce theft claim quota Security systems can also help save neighbors money by limiting the total theft claim quota.

The Simple Dollar recommended homeowners ensure their neighborhood has not reached their theft claim quota, or the number of thefts within a certain area.

5. Install systems with other safety features Additionally, homeowners can look for other safety features to lower their insurance premiums.

These include smoke alarms and deadbolts. The combination of a security system and other ways to protect their home could save them the stress of worrying about safety and money.

CoverHound specializes in online search tools to save on homeowners’ insurance.

HS

5 Insurance premiums are often reduced by having active alarm or security systems in place. (Courtesy photo)

Homeownership more affordable.

M&T has options to help you achieve homeownership.

You may be eligible for solutions to help: • • • •

Reduce the cash needed at closing Lower monthly payments Save thousands by paying less interest Qualify with a less-than-perfect credit history

Get started with one of our mortgage specialists by calling 1-888-253-0993 or visit us at mtb.com.

Equal Housing Lender.

Certain restrictions apply. Subject to credit and property approval. ©2020 M&T Bank. Member FDIC. NMLS# 381076. 43771-A 200519 VF Washington Informer: 5.85” x 5.5”

H-23 HS-23 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT / www.washingtoninformer.com

Helping you discover home Your home can be a place of solace and of joy, a haven to create fun memories with family, an office to work remotely, a gym to burn off steam and recharge. Whatever your reasons for becoming a homebuyer, we’re ready to help you every step of the way through: • personal support throughout the home financing process • low down payment options • online tools and resources for your convenience

No two homes are alike; no two buyers are either. We look forward to working together to help you achieve your unique home financing goals. Let’s connect.

To learn more, call 1-866-875-7068.

Or visit wellsfargo.com/mortgage

Information is accurate as of date of printing and is subject to change without notice.

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2020 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801. AS5144083 Expires 05/2021

www.washingtoninformer.com / 2020 WASHINGTON INFORMER HOMEOWNERSHIP SUPPLEMENT

HS-24

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

EDITORIAL

America Must Turn Away from its Evil Ways

George Floyd, the 46-year-old Black man murdered by a white Minneapolis police officer, was laid to rest Tuesday in his hometown of Houston. Floyd’s murder has been the catalyst of a movement that is galvanizing Americans – Black, White, Latinx, young and old, and now even those who stand apart from their fellow men and women in blue, and top military brass.

United, they are marching, organizing and speaking out on behalf of Black lives.

Every action over the past two weeks since Mr. Floyd died on May 25, under the pressure of a white police officer’s knee pressed down on his neck for more than 8 minutes, has resulted in a reaction focusing on the injustices Blacks have faced in America for more than 400 years.

Amid a COVID-19 pandemic that is disproportionately infecting and killing Black people, Mr. Floyd was reportedly among its non-symptomatic victims. Yet hundreds of thousands are protesting and marching around the globe with masks while confronting others without them in the name of justice for George Floyd.

The police encounter that led to Floyd’s untimely death is a common thread that connects him to centuries’ old violence and lynching of Black men. The protests and looting that erupted soon after the report of his death remind us of Blacks’ response enraged by a system that has historically and persistently treated them unjustly and unfairly.

Activists and politicians are now debating legislation that will better train police, reform policing, or defund police, while the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation is calling this the double pandemic – morbidity and mortality to unemployment and bankruptcy. Corporate America is pouring “guilt” dollars into coffers of civil rights organizations, while organizations such as the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies are strategizing to ensure employee hiring, contracting, and corporate leadership are addressed.

Also on the table are issues of housing discrimination, education inequality, and racism on college campuses, and job losses disproportionately impacting Black workers due to racism and compounded by the coronavirus pandemic.

We are extremely saddened over the loss of George Floyd and so many others who have lost their lives like him. We believe his living will not be in vain as long as the myriad of issues his death has brought to the forefront not only will demonstrate that Black Lives Matter but that America has turned away from its evil ways. WI

While Trump Celebrates Lower Unemployment, Blacks Left Behind, Again

As nationwide protests against police brutality continue following the murder of George Floyd’s death, another significant injustice could point to the surge of anger and frustration among African Americans: a rise in unemployment.

The Washington Informer, after the May report for unemployment was released last Friday, received a note from Trump liaison Paris Dennard, who is Black, which stated that the president had caused the best numbers for African-American unemployment in U.S. history.

However, the actual data points to a far different picture.

Yes, the unemployment rate surprisingly fell to 13.3 percent in May from April’s record of 14.7 percent, the Labor Department said, which was the highest since the Great Depression.

But while unemployment among white workers fell to 12.4 percent, unemployment for Black workers rose to 16.8 percent – the highest in more than a decade. Add the fact the Blacks have far less reserves on which to rely than whites and one can see why Trump’s and Dennard’s celebratory words ring hollow in the eyes of the majority of African Americans.

Truth be told, the numbers reveal that Blacks, as well as women and young people, continue to bear the brunt of the economic crisis sparked by the coronavirus pandemic.

“The pandemic and related job losses have been especially devastating for Black households,’” the Economic Policy Institute said in a recent report. “They have historically suffered from higher unemployment rates, lower wages, lower incomes and much less savings to fall back on, as well as significantly higher poverty rates than their white counterparts.”

Perhaps the president and his “spokesperson” were alluding to the fact that the spike in unemployment reversed what had been historic declines: Blacks had a record low unemployment rate of 5.4 percent in August. But this is not August.

The statistics were viewed with such optimism, that Trump suggested Friday that George Floyd, a black worker who lost his job because of the pandemic before dying at the hands of Minneapolis police, would be “smiling down” at the falling unemployment numbers.

Smiling? We think NOT! WI

TO THE EDITOR Picturing the Moment

Stay Focused on Voting

I wanted to shout out Washington Informer photographer Anthony Tilghman for capturing the protests of police killings and also keeping me up to date via Twitter with what’s happening in the District. The world needs to know more about Black photographers out here on the front lines.

With all that’s going on I almost forgot about local elections … almost. Glad to see that The Informer is still covering other news besides the many distractions. We must not forget about elections and voting. That’s what they want.

Linda Powell Washington, D.C.

Freda Vann Washington, D.C.

Readers' Mailbox

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

The Washington Informer welcomes letters to the editor about articles we publish or issues affecting the community. Write to: lsaxton@washingtoninformer. com or send to: 3117 Martin Luther King Jr Ave., SE, Washington, D.C. 20032. Please note that we are unable to publish letters that do not include a full name, address and phone number. We look forward to hearing from you.

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 25

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

By Daniel Kucin Jr.

Don’t Let it Happen Again; Floyd Lives on Eternally After drinking countless shots of whiskey and watching the news while reaching out to loved ones hearing how they have been coping with the loss of George Floyd, I knew it was the right time to break my silence.

Instead of taking to Twitter and saying cliché responses like ‘it’s wrong’ and that ‘systematic police brutality and racism has to stop,’ it was not enough for me to get excited about the future.

It is always a great time for a revo-

lution, and to make sure that Floyd’s death is not in vain, I believe that we, as a nation, need to take a calculated business approach to the situation.

When the President of the United States sits back and says nothing of substance about the countless lives that have been taken away from us unjustly, there needs to be a resurgence of a new-look civil rights movement.

A coalition of like-minded individuals backed by high-profile athletes and celebrities to not only send a message but also have a seat at the table to

take action for equality and force condemnation of police brutality moving forward through legislation.

I think back to Muhammad Ali, Jim Brown, Bill Russell and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who were not only pioneers in the world of sports, but also civil rights heroes for the greater good.

They risked it all as high-profile athletes and public figures to speak about racial injustice, culminating in the pivotal ‘Ali Summit’ in 1967.

Though that momentous conference sparked change, here we are now more than 50 years later

Guest Columnist

facing a new animal.

The world witnessed a police officer take his knee and shove it down on a man’s neck as Floyd cried for his mother dying on the street. As Floyd lost his life, that officer had a smug look on his face reminiscent of a hunter holding up the rack of a trophy buck in celebratory fashion as if nothing was going to happen to him.

It made me feel sick.

With the coronavirus pandemic sweeping the nation and many of Americans staying home and out of work, the difference is that ev-

eryone saw it this time.

No more ‘why would a police officer do that if the person was innocent’ or ‘he must have done something wrong.’ Like former NBA player, Stephen Jackson and friend of Floyd mentioned during a rally in Minneapolis: “When was murder ever worth it?”

Floyd’s death has to be the last straw so we can stop this once and for all. Talking about it will not change things. Protests won’t stop social in-

KUCIN Page 44

By Robert Louis Shepard

Can African Americans Remain Sheltered In Place?

There was an article published May 8, 2020 in The Atlantic by staff writer Adam Serwer. In the article, Serwer stated, and I quote, “The pandemic has exposed the bitter terms of our racial contract, which deems certain lives of greater value than others.”

I like Serwer’s term “racial contract.”

He used the sad and tragic death of

Ahmaud Arbery, the African American young man that was killed in Georgia by two white men as he jogged, to eloquently speak about the racial divide in this nation. Arbery now joins a long and growing list of African American men and women who have died at the hands of on- and off-duty white police officers and white common citizens with no sense of justice brought about in these cases.

Serwer titled his article, “The Coronavirus Was an Emergency Until Trump Found Out Who Was Dy-

ing.” With it being reported that African Americans contract and die from COVID-19 at a higher rate than any other ethnic group in society, the title of the article is somewhat unnerving.

Why is this?

As the country sets to reopen, will those in power find it necessary to put in place measures to keep whom they consider the highly affected group (African Americans) away from the more pristine segment (whites) in the society?

Could the unspoken racial contract give rise to new COVID-19 policies

Guest Columnist

calling for separation of African Americans from the dominant population to reduce the spread of the deadly virus?

Remember, the goal is to “keep society safe.”

While Serwer’s use of the term racial contract is new to me, what’s not new to me is implementation of the racial contract, which began when the first 19 Black slaves stepped onto the shores of America at Point Comfort, Virginia, near Jamestown, in 1619. COVID-19 is just the latest event that shines a bright spotlight on the racial contract

with clarity, revealing that this reality is a part of the DNA fabric of America, which is why Serwer can accurately use the expression, “our racial contract” in the subheading to his article. The question then is, “Are African Americans considered part of the society that is trying to be kept safe?”

With this background I will take a journey that some will not be able to go with me on for belief that it is too far to the left. That’s okay. But I believe if what follows was put into practice on a

SHEPARD Page 45

By Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr.

A Lynching in Broad Daylight Three police officers stood and watched as a fourth, Derek Chauvin, knelt on George Floyd’s neck. They watched for 8 minutes and 46 seconds, with Floyd unresponsive for 2 minutes and 53 seconds of that, according to the criminal complaint against Chauvin.

They did nothing to stop the murder.

Their silence was as much an act of violence as Chauvin’s knee. And if there

26 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

were no video recording of the murder, they likely would have upheld the Code Blue loyalty, and lied about what happened.

Floyd’s murder sparked peaceful demonstrations in cities across the country, demonstrations that, in Minneapolis and a few other places, turned toward riots. Chauvin and his co-conspirators weren’t immediately arrested for the murder. Had Floyd, an African American, done this to a white person, he likely would have been jailed immediately, with a bond too high to reach.

For too long, for too often, African

Americans have been brutalized without consequence. Floyd’s plea for mercy — “I can’t breathe” — was an echo of Eric Garner’s last words. Laquan McDonald, Tamir Rice, Trayvon Martin, too often the killers walk free. The signs say Black Lives Matter. Yet the very people who are supposed to protect us too often, in too many places, don’t seem to agree.

Instead of accountability, police have been given impunity. There were 17 complaints filed against Chauvin in his 19 years on the force. Only one resulted in even a reprimand.

Too few of the police live in the communities they patrol. Too many see themselves as enforcers, not protectors.

There are only a few bad apples, we are told. But the Code Blue wall of silence protects the abusers, and too often rots the entire barrel. Young officers learn that if they want to advance, if they want better assignments, better pay, more security, they have to fit in. And the rot keeps spreading.

The demonstrations are necessary.

The rioting understandable but regrettable. Already, the damage done to property, the exchanges with the police

becomes the subject, not the agenda that is necessary to focus on the outbreaks of rage that are inevitable.

“In the final analysis, the riot is the language of the unheard,” Dr. King taught us, “What is it that America has failed to hear?”

In the last years of the Obama administration, peaceful Black Lives Matter demonstrations occurred in cities across the country. In a stunning display of discipline and self-control, demonstrators protested police bru-

JACKSON Page 45

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS Guest Columnist

By Ravi K. Perry

An Open Letter to Black Washington Redskins Fans

The murder of George Floyd has pierced the consciousness of the nation. In the sports world, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell apologized for ignoring the nonviolent kneeling protests against police brutality toward Black people: “Without black players there would be no National Football League … and the protests around the

country are emblematic of the centuries of silence, inequality and oppression of black players, coaches, fans and staff.”

Goodell failed to mention Colin Kaepernick, the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback whom the NFL blackballed from a playing career exactly because back in 2016 he protested against police brutality by kneeling during the national anthem.

Goodell claims the league will commit itself to addressing systemic racism issues going forward. Despite how ri-

Guest Columnist

diculously long it has taken just to get Goodell to say what he did recently, if they are listening now, and if the NFL truly wants to fight systemic racism, it is time for Black Americans to stand in solidarity with the oppression of Native Americans. The systemic issues facing the NFL include race, ethnicity and sexuality.

The responsibility is on the NFL leadership and its white, older team owners to right wrongs. Kaepernick’s protests have brought to bear the vio-

lent racism Black people experience at the hands of police. His leadership has shown that Black folk still are our own best advocates - that even in the midst of our oppression, we can and should still rise up — or kneel — and tell the world how they treat us.

Meanwhile, despite repeated calls for change, the NFL has insisted on keeping team names that are insensitive to Native Americans. Here in majority-Black Washington, D.C., the chocolate city with the new Black

“Those who commit the murders write the reports, and hence these lasting blots upon the honor of a nation cause but a faint ripple on the outside world. They arouse no great indignation and call forth no adequate demand for justice.” — Ida B. Wells The casual brutality of a white officer’s knee squeezing the life from a helpless Black man in handcuffs, caught on a gruesome video, underlies Amy Cooper’s smug tone as she an-

Askia-At-Large

PERRY Page 46

By Marc H. Morial

George Floyd’s Killers and the Vigilantes Who Share Their Beliefs Don’t Deserve Benefit of the Doubt nounces her intention to lodge a false police complaint against a Black man who’d inconvenienced her.

“I’m going to tell them there’s an African American man threatening my life,” she announces as she is recorded by the man who’d simply asked her to leash her dog as required in that area of Central Park. Unspoken, but understood, is her certainty that her word, the word of a white woman, would be accepted without question.

She has no doubt about this, even as she glares directly into the camera that is documenting her lie.

Lives Matter Plaza on the road to the White House, our NFL team bears the name “Redskins,” a flagrant example of insulting ethnocentrism toward America’s first people. The backlash because of the name has been fierce for a long time but no action has been taken. The National Congress of American Indians of the United States (NCAI) has called for the Redskins to not return to play in the District (their current stadium is

Her certainty that a Black man’s guilt will be presumed, and white lies accepted, was shared by the Minneapolis police officer who taunted George Floyd while he crushed his neck beneath his knee for eight long minutes.

It was shared by the officers who stood by, passively, while Floyd begged for his life and onlookers pleaded for the assault to end. Even though they knew they were being recorded, they filed a police report that was wholly refuted by video — they were that certain.

That certainty was shared by the white men who chased down Ah-

maud Arbery and ruthlessly shot him in the street, claiming with no evidence that he was a burglar.

It has long been the agonizing truth that, without video evidence to the contrary, police who shoot unarmed Black people will always be given the benefit of the doubt. Some white officers — and self-appointed vigilantes - are so accustomed to the benefit of the doubt that even their knowledge of video evidence does not faze them.

Minneapolis has erupted in outrage. The primal scream of anguish — what Martin Luther King Jr. called

“the language of the unheard” — reverberates across the nation. We pray for those who have taken to the streets, that they will refrain from violence — and for the police who are responding, that they exercise restraint and de-escalate tensions.

The officers who participated in the deadly assault of George Floyd were fired within 24 hours, and shortly after the National Urban League and the Urban League of the Twin Cities demanded their names, have been identified. They are Derek Chauvin, Thomas Lane, Tou Thao and J. Alexander Kueng.

These men no longer deserve the

MORIAL Page 46

By Askia Muhammad

Bowser, 2, Trump, 0

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has joined the ranks of April Ryan, Yamiche Alcindor and other Black women who have bettered Donald J. Trump in mortal hand-to-hand combat.

Mr. COVID-45 is known for his potty mouth and feigned toxic masculinity, especially when it comes to Black female adversaries, but he’s only managed to score a series of humiliating

defeats against the SisStars.

In the latest round, Dude withdrew federal troops from D.C., after widespread complaints about their presence, lacking anything approaching an emergency justifying them, and after Bowser went all Third Amendment to the Constitution upside his head, ordering the troops to vacate the hotels where they had been quartered. “No Soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the Owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law,” the

amendment reads.

Bowser, 1. Trump, 0.

COVID-45 would have had a good week, and scored a big win when the Labor Department announced a reduction in unemployment claims during the month of May to 13 million, rather than the expected surge to 20 million jobless. The only thing is, he got smacked around so viciously by his former Defense secretary, retired Gen. James Mattis, and his former chief of staff, retired Gen. John Kelly, that even with the surging stock market which

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

the jobless numbers produced, his positive gain was wiped out.

Just as Dude tried to wallow in military symbols, threatening to deploy “vicious dogs” and “ominous weapons” against peaceful protestors complaining of police brutality outside the White House, the two former high-ranking administration officials publicly rebuked him.

“Donald Trump is the first president in my lifetime who does not try to unite the American people — does not even pretend to try,” Mattis said in

a statement sent to reporters on June 3.

“Instead he tries to divide us. We are witnessing the consequences of three years of this deliberate effort. We are witnessing the consequences of three years without mature leadership. We need to unite around a common purpose. And it starts by guaranteeing that all of us are equal before the law.”

Beatdown!

Earlier in the week, after he was humiliated about reports that he snuck

ASKIA Page 46 JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 27

LIFESTYLE Ward 7 Youth Saluted for Essays Confronting Violence

District AG Karl Racine Continues Support of ‘Do the Write Thing’ Contest

By D. Kevin McNeir WI Editor, @dkevinmcneir Attorney General Karl A. Racine recently announced Amari Edmonds and Tyler Willis as the District’s winners for the “Do the Write Thing” Challenge, a national anti-violence essay contest. Both winners are eighth grade students from D.C. Prep Benning Middle School, a charter school in Ward 7.

This year marks the Office of the Attorney General’s [OAG] fourth year sponsoring the contest in D.C., which offers young people a platform to speak out about violence and make recommendations about how to stop it. Over 240 District middle schoolers submitted essays to OAG. On Friday, June 5, OAG will honor the winners and other essayists in a public virtual celebration (register atoag.dc.gov/DTWTCeremony).

“These essays paint a sobering contrast: the pain and trauma violence inflicts on our youth and the strength and tenacity of this generation to put an end to it,” Racine said. “Congratulations to Amari and Tyler and all District students who wrote such impactful essays and thank you to all parents and school officials for encouraging your children and students to participate.

Now more than ever, as our nation grapples with important questions about our future, it is critical that we listen to young people.”

The “Do the Write Thing” Challenge is a national essay contest that gives middle school students the chance to speak out about how violence affects their lives and share their ideas about what must be done

28 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

to stop it. The contest is an initiative of the National Campaign to Stop Violence, a non-profit comprised of community, business and governmental leaders who have come together to reduce youth violence across the country.

OAG has been the District’s local sponsor for the program since 2016, marking this year as the fouryear anniversary. Over 240 students from 13 schools submitted essays this year, a 30 percent increase from 2019. D.C. Prep Benning had nearly 100 essayists, the largest of any participating school. Charles Hart Middle School, a D.C. Public School of Ward 8, had nearly 40 essayists, the second largest of any participating school. Other participating schools include: Sousa Middle School, Ida B. Wells Middle School, Brookland Middle School, Excel Academy, Paul Public Charter School, Columbia Heights Educational Campus, Howard University Middle School, Jefferson Middle School Academy, KIPP D.C. Will Academy, KIPP D.C. Valor Academy, and Kingsman Academy.

“We are inspired by the leadership demonstrated by all of the students who participated in the ‘Do the Write Thing’ Challenge – the vision they have for a better future gives us hope that more is possible for our children and community,” said Laura Maestas, CEO of D.C. Prep. “We are particularly proud of Tyler Willis and Amari Edmonds, who write with intelligence, eloquence and passion about the urgency of ending gun violence. Their voices are essential on this important health and safety issue.”

“When I asked my students to

participate in the ‘Do the Write Thing’ Challenge, it was not to win an award or for the accolades,” said Donsha Watkins, social studies teacher a D.C. Prep Benning Middle School. “It was to allow them to utilize their voice in a society that so often tries to silence them. It was to give them a chance to speak upon the adverse effects of gun violence that plagues our communities daily.

I am beyond proud of all the participants. The power to write and create your own narratives is a step closer to liberation.”

Amari wrote a powerful and personal essay about the impact of losing both her father and her friend to gun violence. She writes about the impact violence has had on her personally and on the District, and suggests that to break cycles of violence, we need to do more to support and educate Black children.

“All my life I’ve been taught to hold the ones I love close to me because they can be here today and gone tomorrow,” she wrote. “I’ve grown up with children and saw them one day and found out they were dead the next. Gun violence is snatching my friends and family from me left and right.”

REPARATIONS from Page 20 parents, it was the same lash that came down on theirs.”

Johnson said all Black Americans are due damages, which isn’t to be confused with justice.

“You can’t put a number on what you call true justice,” he said. “How do you put a number on somebody who was tossed off a slave ship in the Atlantic, somebody who was raped, somebody who was whipped every day? … What is justice for that? But it ends up being, is there a number to bring us equal to what everybody else in this country has?”

Johnson said that’s where damages come in. To provide compensation for losses and suffering.

“In the case of slaves it was loss of their economic benefit and of course lots of suffering. That’s why I’m advocating money, not a social program, not another bureaucracy, not another poverty program.

Show me the money.”

In Johnson’s manifesto that he released to the public he asserts that reparations aren’t unprecedented abroad or even in the United States.

“It has been done. The Germans provided reparations for Jews.

The country apologized and gave

5 (Courtesy photo)

A copy of Amari’s essay is at: https://oag.dc.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Amari-Edmonds-DTWT-Winning-Essay.pdf.

Tyler submitted his creative and compelling essay in the form of a poem. His family and neighbors have been victims to gun violence.

Throughout his poem he references the divergent paths a young life can take without a support system and

the power of song as a metaphor for healing and strength.

A copy of Tyler’s poem is at: https://oag.dc.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Tyler-Willis-DTWT-Winning-Essay.pdf.

Excerpts from other essayists are available here: https://oag. dc.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/ DTWT-Challenge-Student-Essay-Excerpts.pdf WI

reparations to Japanese Americans when they were in interment camps during World War II. Even the American Indians, the almost total annihilation they suffered at the hands of white settlers and white people … they were given their reservation land.”

“So reparations is a standard thing that is done to repair damages for people, but it’s usually done by the people who have the power to do it.”

The reparations conversation by people in power isn’t new. But up until recently it’s been what most consider lip service on an issue that divides Americans by color and political party.

Last summer, Congress held a historic hearing to consider H.R. 40, a bill that would create a commission to address the lingering effects of slavery and serve as an “apology.”

Prominent Black figures such as award-winning writer Ta-Nehisi Coates, who has written extensively on the topic, actor Danny Glover and Sen. Cory Booker testified to the House Judiciary Committee about the horrors of slavery and its trickle down effects on Black Americans.

There were also Black witnesses who opposed reparations like retired football player Burgess Owens, a Republican who recently announced he’s running for a congressional seat in Utah. He said that Black people have become successful like no other because of the great opportunity to live the American dream.

“Let’s not steal that from our kids by telling them they can’t do it,” Burgess told the panel.

The first form of reparations for Black Americans goes back to 1865 when former slaves were awarded 400,000 acres of coastal land by a special order. But after President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated noted racist Andrew Johnson took office and rescinded the order.

Through the centuries the case for reparations would come up for discussion with national lawmakers and fizzle out again.

In 1989, former Rep. John Conyers Jr. introduced legislation to create a commission to develop proposals for reparations every year for nearly 30 years before retiring.

But in 2016, former President Barack Obama opposed repara-

REPARATIONS Page 43

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LIFESTYLE

Pastors Pray for Justice, Press AG on Police Conduct

By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer

Just as Martin Luther King Jr. and others prayed for change and social justice decades ago, a new coalition of pastors called on a higher power outside the Justice Department headquarters Sunday amid nationwide unrest following the police-related death of a Black man in Minneapolis.

The ministers urged Attorney General William Barr to be more aggressive in investigating incidents within police departments across the country in which many have been targeted because of the color of their skin.

“We want hold the police departments accountable for the conduct displayed in police departments across the country,” said Rev. L.K. Floyd, pastor of the Heart Changers Baptist Church in Silver Spring, Maryland. “This should be called

the Department of Injustice because, [as] Dr. Martin Luther King said, ‘Injustice anywhere is a threat to just everywhere.’”

The group of pastors demonstrated outside the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building in D.C. — somewhat fitting because Kennedy, who was President Johnson’s attorney general, filed suit in September 1964 against officials in Selma, Ala., for violating the Civil Rights Act. Kennedy asked a special three‐ judge federal panel to prevent the police from unjustly “arresting, jailing, punishing or threatening” anyone attempting to exercise their civil rights.

In contrast, President Trump in 2016 selected former Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions to be his attorney general, and Sessions wasted little time in gutting long-standing provisions of the Voting Rights Act before he was replaced by Barr

for recusing himself from special counsel Robert Mueller’s probe of Russian interference in the 2016 election.

Last week, Black Lives Matter and several other civil rights groups filed suit against Trump and Barr for attacking protesters assembled in D.C.’s Lafayette Square moments before the president walked to nearby St. John’s Episcopal Church for a much-maligned photo-op.

At Lafayette Square, located near the White House and long a popular spot for protests, Barr ordered federal agents to disperse a crowd of peaceful demonstrators protesting the death of George Floyd, a Black man who died last month while in police custody in Minneapolis.

The agents, carrying riot shields and wearing riot gear, pushed and fired tear gas and rubber bullets at the protesters shortly before

5 Local ministers preach the gospel of truth. (Hamil R. Harris/The Washington Informer)

Trump came to the church with Bible in hand.

While former Secretary of State Colin Powell criticized the move by the Trump White House, Barr said on CBS’ “Face the Nation” Sunday

that his actions were justified.

“They were not peaceful protesters,” Barr said. “And that’s one of the big lies that the media seems to be perpetrating at this point.”

WI

GOT SYMPTOMS? DON’T DELAY, CALL TODAY! To learn more about

FREE COVID-19 TESTING, call your doctor or call the COVID-19 testing hotline at

1-855-363-0333

CORONAVIRUS.DC.GOV WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 29

LIFESTYLE

‘Ain’t I a Woman?’ Sojourner Truth Proved the Strongest of All

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia This is part of an ongoing Washington Informer series about the Women’s Suffrage Movement and an initiative that includes Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes that will use the lens of history, the fabric of art and culture and the venue of the public square to shine a light into dark places, equipping all with a compass to chart the way forward. The initiative lives in the

institutional home of the Washington Informer Charities.

At the 1851 Women’s Rights Convention held in Akron, Ohio, Sojourner Truth delivered what is now recognized as one of the most famous abolitionist and women’s rights speeches in American history, “Ain’t I a Woman?”

“Nobody ever helps me into carriages, or over mud-puddles, or gives me any best place! And ain’t I a woman? Look at me! Look at my arm! I have plowed and planted, and gathered into barns, and no

man could head me! And ain’t I a woman?

“I could work as much and eat as much as a man — when I could get it — and bear the lash as well!

And ain’t I a woman? I have borne thirteen children, and seen most all sold off to slavery, and when I cried out with my mother’s grief, none but Jesus heard me! And ain’t I a woman?”

Sojourner Truth would continue to speak out for the rights of African Americans and women during and after the Civil War.

Daland Transportation LLC

Born an enslaved person near Kingston, New York in approximately 1797, Sojourner Truth’s given name was Isabella Baumfree.

She labored for four masters and in 1826 took her freedom from John Dumont, her last owner.

Soon after, Truth moved to New York, where she worked as a household helper, and then joined a millennial spiritual community, “The Kingdom,” according to the Sojourner Truth Memorial Committee.

When the group disbanded in scandal in 1835, she went to court and proved libel, thus preserving her reputation. When she left New York, she changed her name to Sojourner Truth and eventually made her way to Florence, Massachusetts.

In 1843, Truth joined the Northampton Association of Education and Industry, a utopian community dedicated to equality and justice.

While the Northampton Association was a relatively short-lived experiment as a formal community, its existence gave testimony to that special human spirit which seeks to increase justice and improve society, to promote – as its founders wrote – “advancement in truth and goodness,” according to the committee.

The National Women’s History Museum explains that, as an itinerant preacher, Truth would eventually meet abolitionists William Lloyd Garrison and Frederick Douglass.

Garrison’s anti-slavery organization encouraged Truth to give speeches about the evils of slavery.

She never learned to read or write, according to researchers at the National Women’s History Museum.

In 1850, she dictated what would become her autobiography – The Narrative of Sojourner Truth – to Olive Gilbert, who assisted in its publication.

Truth survived on sales of the book, which also brought her national recognition. She met women’s rights activists, including Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony, as well as temperance advocates – both causes she quickly championed.

In 1851, Truth began a lecture tour that included a women’s rights conference in Akron, Ohio, where she delivered her famous “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech, challenging prevailing notions of racial and gender inferiority and inequality by reminding listeners of her combined strength (Truth was nearly six feet tall) and gender status.

“If the first woman God ever made was strong enough to turn the world upside down all alone, these women together ought to be able to turn it back , and get it right side up again!

And now they is asking to do it, the men better let them,” Truth uttered during her famous speech.

She concluded: “Obliged to you for hearing me, and now old Sojourner ain’t got nothing more to say.”

Truth died in 1883 in Battle Creek, Michigan. WI

Our mission at Daland Transportation LLC is to provide professional, timely, safe, and above standard transportation services to our clients in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Daland Transportation’s primary goal is to leave each passenger memorable and comfortable with experience.

We provide a super clean and sanitized environment for every ride. Our business is built upon personal referrals from our many satisfied clients.

We strive each day to make everyone’s journey unforgettable. We are proudly a local and minority owned small business in Washington DC. Book your ride with us today for as low as $79 both ways @ DaLandTransportation.com or call (or text) 240-398-0771 5 An 1864 photo of Sojourner Truth/wikicommons

30 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Strengthening our commitment to Greater Washington, D.C. Throughout our community, we see families, neighbors, businesses and teammates working together more than ever.

To help, we added $100 million to our ongoing support to organizations making a difference — national and local nonprofits addressing critical needs here, including Howard University and Capital Area Food Bank. The funds will help increase medical response capacity, focus on vulnerable populations and address food insecurity. We’re also providing $250 million in capital to Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) loan funds and CDFIand minority-owned banks to extend assistance to more small businesses.

As your neighbors in Greater Washington, D.C., we are all in this together. Our thoughts are with all of you and your families.

Lawrence Di Rita Greater Washington, D.C. Market President To see how we’re supporting our local communities, please visit bankofamerica.com/community.

Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. © 2020 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 31

LIFESTYLE

D.C. Prepared for Western Hemisphere’s Hurricane Season, Officials Say

By James Wright WI Staff Writer @Jamesdcwrighter

5 A couple boards up the door of their house in preparation for a hurricane.

(Courtesy photo/businessinsider.com)

With weather experts calling for a slightly above-average hurricane season this year as the District grapples with the coronavirus pandemic, the city officials and the region’s chapter of the American Red Cross map out the plan for if a catastrophic storm were to hit the region.

Leaders of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s

The Black Coalition Against COVID-19 Presents

#iMask4DC A Video Festival and Competition

• Produce a thirty second video on your smart phone • Learn how via online workshops • Show and say “why you wear a mask”

Submission deadline — noon: June 20th Cash prizes — 3 winners Open to All — individuals and families Help reduce the community spread of COVID-19.

For details, go to www.blackcoalitionagainstcovid.org

It ain’t over!

In partnership with THEARC Theater, Howard University Department of Theatre Arts, The Washington Informer Newspaper, WHUR and WPFW radio stations

32 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service, said on May 21 at its annual briefing before the hurricane season — which starts on June 1 and lasts until the end of November — that a 60 percent chance exists for an above normal cyclone season in the Atlantic Ocean. The center predicts a likely range of 13-19 named storms (39 miles per hour winds or higher), of which 6-10 could become hurricanes (winds 74 miles per hour or higher) including 3-6 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5 with winds 111 miles per hour).

Hurricanes that have significantly affected the District in recent years are Hurricane Isabel in 2003 that caused widespread damage in the city to the amount of $125 million and Hurricane Sandy in 2012 that shut down the District and federal governments for a few days.

Christopher Rodriguez, director of the District’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management Administration, which handles the city’s response to natural disasters, said his agency stands ready for a hurricane even amid the pandemic.

“The 2020 hurricane season has started and we have already had three tropical storms, Arthur, Bertha and Cristobal and two of those started before June 1,” Rodriguez said. “We have contingency plans in place to help residents get the help they need to be safe if a hurricane comes and we are able to do what is needed to fight COVID-19 too. We can walk and chew gum at the same time. We

have held workshops with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on this.”

If a hurricane hits the city, FEMA won’t be the only partner that Rodriguez’s agency will be working with.

Paul Carden, senior disaster program manager for government relations for the national capital and greater Chesapeake region of the American Red Cross, said his organization has a working relationship with the District government and will assist it with hurricane relief and fighting the coronavirus pandemic simultaneously.

“As an organization operating in a COVID-19 environment, we have had to deal with floods and tornadoes in complicated situations,” Carden said. “We want to make sure that people are safe especially those who are infected and see that they don’t infect other people. When our volunteers and staffers go out in the field, they wear masks as do our clients.

“As far as operations go, if a hurricane were to take place in D.C., we would open up a shelter with the support of the D.C. government,” he said. “That shelter may consist of a motel, a university campus or a camp set up. In reference to COVID-19, we would do a health check and take temperatures of people displaced by the hurricane. If someone has COVID-19, we would isolate them and make sure everyone practices social distancing. Our staff would have personal protective equipment and soap and water to wash their hands regularly, too.” WI

D.C. Homeland Security Details Emergency Kit ‘Must-Haves’

By James Wright WI Staff Writer @Jamesdcwrighter If a hurricane comes to the District amid the coronavirus pandemic, federal and local disaster relief officials encourage residents to be ready to do the necessary things to stay alive until the storm passes and assistance becomes available.

“Natural disasters won’t wait, so I encourage you to keep COVID-19 in mind when revis-

ing or making your plan for you and your loved ones, and don’t forget your pets,” said Carlos J. Castillo, acting deputy administrator for resilience at the Federal Emergency Management Administration.

On the D.C. Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management Administration’s website, it has guidelines for residents to follow if a hurricane hits city.

EMERGENCY KIT Page 44

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

T:9.875” S:9.375”

Let the summer play. summer with Xfinity. This Black Music Month, whether you’re summering in or celebrating out, catch music-themed movies, enjoy your favorite music networks, and stream top apps like Pandora, Music Choice and more right to your TV. This is what summer sounds like. And no matter what it brings, Xfinity Black Film & TV has your soundtrack. Simple. Easy. Awesome.

Visit xfinity.com/discovermore to learn more.

Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Xfinity TV service subscription required.

600

L

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

CLIENT

COMCAST

FILE NAME: CMCCO20037M14_9.875X10.935_BMM_WashingtonInfo_v03.indd

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 33

T:10.935”

S:10.435”

Celebrate all the legends and soon-to-be legendary music that heats up

LIFESTYLE Museums, Libraries Define Roles Amid Current Turmoil in U.S.

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

5 Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden (Courtesy photo)

The coronavirus pandemic turned Americans’ lives topsy-turvy more than three months ago, though few realized to what extent the disruption would go. Usual day-to-day tasks were no longer the priority — life-threatening health risks were now top of mind.

But then centuries of history smacked the country in its face. The killings of innocent Black people by the police let the world know there still is so much work to be done regarding equal justice.

Where do cultural institu-

DA BEAT 97.3 I’m James Bryant, aka “DJ Kash Monee”, and I’m in the business for the long haul by pushing my passion of DJ’ng to another level. I first became fascinated with the art and technique of scratching records at the age of 15. I mastered my skills through trial and error and by practicing every day and night.

Now that I’m a certified veteran of the DJ game, I made a commitment to use the wisdom gained, to help enhance the visibility of independent artists by starting my own radio station.

DA BEAT 97.3 LPFM is a dedicated online platform for independent artists to be heard.

My work has been recognized on the Billboard Music Charts, graced the covers of magazines, won numerous awards, and along the way, interviewed countless celebrities, but being the CEO of my own radio station that gives independent artists a platform for success, is by far, my greatest achievement.

Overall, I feel it’s been my love and knowledge of music has been my biggest contributors. You have to have a passion for your craft and dedicate yourself to it.

In addition to running DA BEAT 97.3 LPFM I’m working on launching another station named BlazinSk. BlazinSk will be a radio station - it will be a step up from a normal podcast - that is more uncensored in support of independent artists ways of expression.

I also recently expanded my empire by a partner of 3G Hair Boutique and Soul Creators Café. It is my hope that together we will create community opportunities. Stay tuned!

Tune in and support DA BEAT 97.3 today! Download the app today! Visit the Google Play Store and download “LIVE365”! After the download is completed please search “DABEAT”, then play and enjoy.

34 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

tions like libraries and museums fit amid this turmoil? How do these important individuals and institutions survive?

“Cultural institutions can offer historical context,” said Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden. “These institutions are reexamining and continuing to look at how we present information and history to our publics making sure we are part of a solution.”

That was the opening statement from Hayden for the virtual discussions, “Cultural Institutions at Times of Social Unrest.”

She recently had the conversation with Smithsonian Institution Secretary Lonnie Bunch.

Bunch received notoriety as the founding director of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American and History and Culture. As Smithsonian secretary, he now leads the world’s largest museum and research complex that includes 19 museums, nine research centers, and other affiliates around the world.

The Library of Congress is the oldest federal cultural institution, the largest library in the world, and serves as the research arm for the U.S. Congress. That both cultural organizations are led by African Americans is history-making during this unprecedented time in history.

“I believe that cultural institutions are the glue that hold the country together,” Bunch said.

“They are the place people look to for trust and guidance. It is important to use that trust to help people find ways to understand this moment, to find some optimism, to find some hope.”

Bunch continued with saying cultural institutions can help the country address what has always been the great chasm of race and institutional racism. By explaining what America is experiencing now is not a unique moment, but there are unique characteristics.

“Whether you go back through the history of slavery, lynching, or riots there is always a struggle between democracy and fairness, and the discrimi-

nation and violence to enforce that,” Bunch said. “But people need to know this is a moment where we are seeing things differently. You see a multiracial group of people protesting to show this is not a Black problem, it is an American problem.”

Both Bunch and Hayden said they find hope in the history that is housed inside the Library of Congress and the Smithsonian Institution.

“That hope comes from seeing positive things did come from that negative history,” Hayden said. “What’s inspiring for me is that many of the people that are part of this now, are younger.”

On the involvement of today’s youth, Hayden reflected on Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.).

“They think they can have a role,” she said. “When you think about John Lewis, he put on that backpack and he was only 21.”

Hayden and Bunch agree there is strength is seeing images. Together, they went to purchase the first known photograph of Harriet Tubman, which was used in the 2019 movie “Harriet.” Before that photograph, most images of Tubman were of her as an older woman, bent over.

Bunch said it was difficult to see Tubman as “Moses” leading people to freedom from those pictures of her as an older person, but the image of a young Tubman showed her as a woman of style, with a look in her eye.

“In some ways, the great strength is the marriage of the written word, good scholarship, good books, and the visual,” Bunch said. “What that does is to immediately make it accessible to people. You see an image and it is transformative. Imaginary is what helps history come alive.”

The Library of Congress digital assets and resources can be found at loc.gov. The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture recently launched its “Talking About Race” web portal at https://bit.ly/ NMAAHCTalkRace.

WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

LIFESTYLE

wi book review “Grand: A Grandparent’s Wisdom for a Happy Life”

By Charles Johnson c.2020, Hanover Square Press $19.99 160 pages

By Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer That little face holds so much expectation.

You meet the eyes of your grandchild, and you know you have a big job ahead of you. She expects you to love her as much as she loves you, and you do.

He figures you’ll have fun together, and you will. They expect, quite frankly, to be spoiled a little, and that’ll happen, too. And with the new book “Grand” by Charles Johnson, a few lessons might be taught along the way …

Some years ago, when Charles Johnson helped design the elegant room that would be his home office, he had certain things in mind. Not one of them was that his grandson, Emery, would take the room as “his” office but that’s what happened, and that’s OK. The boy is an obvious delight.

Emery’s thoughts, his willingness to share his world, and his points of view make Johnson proud; their relationship is easy and solid. This gives Johnson a case of comparison between Emory and his ancestors, and lesson-filled stories to tell: Emery loves books, though reading was denied to his forebears. At age 8, he doesn’t have to work like his great-granduncle did. He has nearly unlimited opportunities, unlike his great-grandfather.

And yet, as a Black man, Johnson knows that there are other lessons he needs to teach his grandson, lessons that go outside history and into the future.

Be yourself, he’ll tell Emery, and know that the world has never seen anyone exactly like you. Don’t chase perfection because nothing is ever perfect. Give dimension to your life by finding your purpose, take care of yourself, and care for others. Know that you’ll suffer, and that others will suffer, too. Look for beauty in life every day, even if it lies inside pain. Remember the “three gatekeepers” before you speak. Never be complacent with your skills, never stop learning, never stop being creative or curious.

And know that there are three kinds of love. If you’re lucky, you’ll experience each one.

When you found out that you were going to be a grandparent, do you remember how your mind raced with all the things you wanted to do with your grandbaby?

Add 10 more to that list after you’ve read “Grand,” but take a deep breath first.

Author Charles Johnson writes with a quiet reserve here that borders on gravity in the lessons he has — and that you can offer — to a grandchild.

That seriousness is often further weighed heavily with Buddhist teachings and philosophy that can turn downright sombre sometimes and the text, though certainly filled with love and wisdom that ultimately leads to joy, can feel as though it begs for a lighter hand. Beware, too, that these sentiments aren’t meant for sudden talks: they’re lessons that start early and continue for decades.

Even so, there are lessons here for elders as much as for their littles and despite its occasional excess depth, you should easily be able to proceed as you need. With the right mindset and “Grand,” you can expect good things.

WI

horoscopes

JUNE 11 -17, 2020

ARIES Today’s a day to help others. The best use of this energy is to work with a spiritual organization, visit a friend in the hospital (if possible), or dish out food at the local food bank. Any activities involved with reaching out to the community with your generous heart is beneficial for your mind, body, and spirit. Otherwise, you could be quite tired today so after your charitable work, you might need a nap.

Lucky Numbers: 4, 18, 21 TAURUS It’s time to look with an objective eye at your spending habits. You may have a closet filled with things that don’t fit or still have the tags on them. These things represent mistakes and weigh on you more than you know. Gather up what you can return and get that task done. Send the rest off to charity.

Lucky Numbers: 7, 22, 24 GEMINI Today, through something you see in the media or hear from a friend, you have a view of limitless potential. There are no four walls that can hold you. You can see how, through changes, you could live a different lifestyle. Use this rare aspect today to get a vision of where you could be in the future. Lucky Numbers: 2, 31, 44 CANCER If you’re a Cancer looking for love, you may realize today that you are the one holding back the energy. It’s understandable to want to protect your heart, but you’re stronger than you give yourself credit for. Let go of the past and move forward either by reaching out to someone you’re interested in or putting yourself out there in social situations to meet someone new. Lucky Numbers: 8, 12, 36 LEO It’s likely today you will be tempted to go back to an old behavior. You may be trying to give yourself a loophole so you can indulge in what you want to do. But recognize this aspect is temporary and if you can hold on for a little while you’ll be very happy and proud of yourself. Lucky Numbers: 19, 34, 35 VIRGO Today it’s wise to be careful when horsing around with others. Avoid playing practical jokes on your relatives or friends. On the other hand, today’s a great day to try out improv comedy or to do an open mic night at a local bar. Put your humor onstage rather than poking fun at a family member around the dinner table. Lucky Numbers: 9, 35, 52 LIBRA Today, you may be asking yourself why you are drawn to things that are not beneficial to you.

This could be certain foods or sitting on the sofa instead of exercising. This may even extend to certain individuals you are drawn to. Neptune in Pisces gives you an opportunity to redefine your story. Instead of focusing on what you’re doing, this aspect is asking you to put attention on how you’re being. Lucky Numbers: 12, 13, 28 SCORPIO You’re resolute today, sure of your position. You have your personal compass pointing you in a direction to go. This means that information coming in from the outside, especially from family members, doesn’t have much of an ability to sway you today. But with Venus retrograde, it may be a good idea to look again at the data others are presenting. Lucky Numbers: 22, 24, 50 SAGITTARIUS This is a good time to connect with others to create profitable partnerships. Look for collaborations you can do by reaching out to influencers through direct messages. The intensity of this aspect says to shoot high for big rewards. Expect there to be a high percentage of misses but when the bull’s-eye happens you be thanking yourself. Lucky Numbers: 2, 4, 30 CAPRICORN This is a good day to do meditation of all kinds. You can have a mind-altering experience actually reaching a theta state with this rare aspect. This aspect is also good for creating a vision board or thinking of goals that could change the world. Put off critical thinking and decision-making for another day. Lucky Numbers: 1, 15, 17 AQUARIUS Keep a watchful eye on the dam that holds your liquid assets because there could be a burst of shopping today. That said, this is a great day for some money magic. Light a metallic gold candle to attract large sums of money or sprinkle cinnamon on your front porch to attract business opportunities.

Lucky Numbers: 5, 9, 47 PISCES Today, you can reach out to others and the barriers between you and that person fade away.

Reach out through direct message or email. Focus on many people rather than just one. This energy could be used for connecting for the purpose of relationship or for career. This rare aspect comes about once every two years and so it’s a special window of opportunity you don’t want to miss. Lucky Numbers: 6, 23, 43

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 35

MOTHERS from Page 1 between K Street and Lafayette Plaza that D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) designated as a safe haven for protests — could relieve what she recounted as the painful memory of learning that Byrd, perhaps after not having a chance to make at least one phone call, died while in police custody for marijuana possession.

As she explores the possibility of joining a class action lawsuit with others whose family members also died while detained at the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) headquarters, Johnson continues to express her desire that Bowser pushes policy changes that not only curb police departments’ power, but further solidify the message the mayor conveyed with the unveiling of a large Black Lives Matter mural.

“There needs to be accountability because Mayor Bowser is contributing to the oppression and killing of Black people,” Johnson told The Informer. “The mural was a good first step.

It’s good to claim your territory but let’s do the more meaningful work to make sure no more Black bodies are victimized by MPD. Definitely don’t build another jail. It doesn’t make sense [that] they’re not responsible for you in their custody.”

The D.C. Council voted on emergency legislation this week that would ban officers’ use of chokeholds, ease the release of body camera footage, reveal the names of those involved in officer-related shootings, and reform the District’s police oversight agency.

36 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

Kenithia Alston, mother of Marqueese Alston, a young man shot and killed by D.C. police officers in 2018, counted among those who expressed support for the bill, authored by Council member Charles Allen (D).

She spent last weekend downtown with protesters and go-go revelers speaking about the difficulty she faced over the past two years attempting to access MPD body camera footage from the night of her son’s death.

On Friday, Bowser didn’t respond to an inquiry about the late Alston.

Days later, she declined to say whether the District would remove the latest addition to the mural — “Defund the Police” written at the very end of “Black Lives Matter” with an equal sign between both phrases. This act, done the previous night, followed a flurry of frustration expressed over the weekend by activists and residents perturbed by police-community relations, economic inequity, and housing insecurity during Bowser’s tenure.

However, some people, like Bridzette Lane, might argue that Black people, in D.C. and elsewhere, had been dealing with these issues long before Bowser took office. Lane, a D.C. resident and mother of the late Ralphael Briscoe, said she rarely gets through the entirety of social media videos without thinking about the circumstances of her son’s death.

In 2011, MPD officers shot Briscoe, 18, in the back during a chase on Elvans Street in Southeast that was caught on a street camera. A jury acquitted the police officers four years later after a trial centered on whether

Briscoe had a weapon or if officers confused his finger and cellphone for one. Lane has since lent her voice to causes involving victims of police brutality.

“You relive what happened to your child over and over again,” Lane said.

She too disregarded the Black Lives Matter mural as a show of power against President Donald Trump (R), but remained hopeful about the eventual passage of laws that ensured the transparency of police shooting investigations and the prosecution of police officers who shoot and kill Black people during encounters.

To that point, Lane expressed solidarity with the Alston family in their fight for body camera footage from the night of June 12, 2018.

“The mayor is still not answering questions,” Lane said. “She makes it seem like the MPD has their act together and hasn’t done anything wrong regarding police brutality against Black citizens.

“It hurts my heart that someone else’s family is going through that,” she continued. “[Bowser] should answer the questions honestly and openly to the families as well as to the public. If she believes that Black lives matter, then she should answer the questions and give the parents what they’re asking for.”

Stop-and-frisk data released by MPD in September showed that Black people, who account for less than half of the District’s population, represented 70 percent of police stops, on foot and otherwise, within a four-week period. When it came to traffic stops, Black people counted

5K

5 Kenethia Alston, mother of Marqueese Alston who was shot and killed by D.C. police officers in 2018, joins protesters against police brutality last weekend. (Courtesy photo/Facebook grab)

among nearly 90 percent of motorists stopped by police in situations ending with the driver avoiding a ticket.

Whether out in the streets or in the confines of their apartment complex, Black people in District have anxiety about crossing paths with law enforcement. The 2015 death of Alonzo Smith, for instance, shed light on how special police officers — privately commissioned officers with

domain over the area they’ve been hired to guard — at Marbury Plaza in Southeast and other apartment complexes and housing communities perpetuate violence against tenants and visitors.

Beverly Smith, the late Smith’s mother and founding member of Pan-African Community Action, a grassroots group formed in the aftermath of his death, said that, amid the calls to defund MPD, she has aimed through her online campaign to remind people that, four years ago as of June 9, Bowser proposed changes to special police officer training protocol that haven’t since been implemented.

A petition currently in circulation aims to actualize that goal and, as Smith told The Informer, make sure that Bowser’s platitudes to Black people — including her statements against Trump and the painting of the “Black Lives Matter” mural — are followed by tangible policy changes of great benefit to people like her son.

“Bowser and [MPD] Newsham made a public statement against the Minneapolis Police Department and the way they murdered George Floyd, but I look at that and think about the audacity of them to speak out against that police department,” Smith said. “[In 2015], Bowser said my son’s murder was justified [and] there wasn’t even an investigation.

That’s hypocrisy.” WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

SPORTS Baltimore Ravens Donate $1 Million to Support Social Justice Reform

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia As demonstrations in the wake of the police killing of George Floyd continue across the country, athletes and owners of major U.S. sports teams have raised their voices in solidarity with protesters.

The Baltimore Ravens have been

no exception.

On June 1, Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti announced that the team and his Stephen and Renee Bisciotti Foundation were jointly committing $1 million to support social justice reform throughout the Baltimore community.

Bisciotti announced that a committee of current and former Ravens players will determine which

Baltimore-area programs will directly benefit from the contribution.

“There is nothing I can say to ease the pain felt by African-American communities across our country. No words will repair the damage that has been done,” Bisciotti said. “Like many people, I am sickened, disheartened and shaken by the acts of racism that continue to overwhelm our society. The most recent killing, involving George Floyd, is yet another tragic example of the discrimination that African-Americans face each day.”

Between 2013 and 2019, police in the United States killed 7,666 people, according to data compiled by Mapping Police Violence, a research and advocacy group.

That number includes 80 Maryland residents.

On May 25, Floyd, a 46-yearold Black man, was killed in while in Minneapolis police custody. His death has prompted thousands of protesters to march in cities around the world, demanding justice and an end to police violence.

Mapping Police Violence noted

5 Baltimore Ravens logo

that the number of police killings in the U.S. disproportionately affects African Americans. Despite only making up 13 percent of the U.S. population, Blacks are two and a half times as likely as whites to be killed by the police.

“Now, more than ever, we must all strengthen our pursuit of positive change, as we stand with peaceful protestors around the country,” Bisciotti said. “We must all seek to understand by listening

better and learning more. We must all discover new ways to unite. We must all work to break the cycle of systematic racial injustice.

“Our players have been — and will continue to be — at the forefront of this change,” he said. “We believe in their commitment to furthering social justice and invoking meaningful change. We stand side by side with them, in full support.”

WI

Wizards Could Reach Postseason Play for First Time Since 2018

By Daniel Kucin, Jr. WI Contributing Writer danielkucin88

Before COVID-19 ripped through the nation, the Washington Wizards were just 5 1/2 games back from the eighth spot in the NBA Eastern Conference prior to stoppage of play on March 12.

Now, as the NBA finalizes plan

for a new 22-team format, bringing basketball back after its unexpected hiatus, the Wizards (24-40) have a legitimate shot to reach the postseason for the first time since 2018.

“The Board’s approval of the restart format is a necessary step toward resuming the NBA season,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. “While the COVID-19 pandemic presents for-

5 Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal looks to lead his team to the postseason for the first time since 2018. (Photo by Daniel Kucin, Jr./The Washington Informer)

midable challenges, we are hopeful of finishing the season in a safe and responsible manner based on strict protocols now being finalized with public health officials and medical experts. We also recognize that as we prepare to resume play, our society is reeling from recent tragedies of racial violence and injustice, and we will continue to work closely with our teams and players to use our collective resources and influence to address these issues in very real and concrete ways.”

The NBA selected 13 Western Conference and nine Eastern Conference squads including Washington. If the Wizards slip into eighth place currently held by the Orlando Magic (30-35), they will secure a spot in the playoffs.

Most of the 22 teams will play 72 or 73 games after the eight “seeding games” are added to their regular-season game total in Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort.

There could be a possible play-in tournament for the eighth seed and final spot in the playoffs. The playin scenario could occur for the last spot in each conference if the No. 9 seed is within four games of No. 8.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

If the team with the eighth-best record in its conference is more than four games ahead of the team with the ninth-best record in the same conference, no play-in tournament would be necessary.

However, if the team with the eighth-best record in its conference is four games or fewer ahead of the team with the ninth-best record in the same conference, then we’ll have a battle for the final spot.

Afterwards, a match between those two teams would ensue in a best-of-two series where the No. 9 seed would have to win two headto-head matchups to take over the No. 8 spot.

The games are tentatively scheduled for July 31, and the NBA Draft is projected to start on Aug. 31. The playoff format will remain the same in a best-of-seven series leading up to and including the 2020 NBA Finals.

Wizards guard Bradley Beal is coming off of one of his most productive seasons, totaling career highs in points per game (30.5) and assists with 6.1 per game.

The Wizards will look to rely on him to secure a playoff spot without

the services perennial all-star point guard John Wall.

Wall has been nursing an Achilles injury that will indeed sideline him for the rest of the season. Wall confirmed with multiple outlets that he is “110 percent” but will not play the remainder of the season.

The former Kentucky Wildcat has been a shining star for the Wizards during the duration of his career but has not played a game since December 26, 2018.

The five-time NBA All-Star averaged 20.7 points, 8.7 assists and 1.5 steals during a 32-game stint (20182019 season) before suffering that injury, which required surgery.

However, Beal has emerged as the man in Washington being the leading scorer and facilitator during his absence. Nevertheless, the Wizards have their work cut out for them on the road at a neutral site as Washington went just 8-24 on the road this season.

It will be a tough row for this young unit as only the Atlanta Hawks (20-47) allowed more points per game defensively than the Wizards in the Eastern Conference up to this point. WI

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 37

Blazing Fast Internet!

ADD TO YOUR PACKAGE FOR ONLY

19.99

$

/mo.

where available

2-YEAR TV PRICE GUARANTEE America’s Top 120 Package

MO.

190 CHANNELS

Including Local Channels!

CALL TODAY - For $100 Gift Card Promo Code: DISH100 for 12 Mos.

1-855-402-3370

Offer ends 7/15/20.

All offers require credit qualification, 24-month commitment with early termination fee and eAutoPay. Prices include Hopper Duo for qualifying customers. Hopper, Hopper w/Sling or Hopper 3 $5/mo. more. Upfront fees may apply based on credit qualification.

MOLD, MOLD, MILDEW & WATER LEAKAGE IN YOUR BASEMENT CAUSES HEALTH AND FOUNDATION DAMAGE.

WHAT CAN BE DONE TO FIX THE PROBLEM? WE WILL GIVE YOU A FREE EVALUATION, ESTIMATE & A FAIR PRICE.

CALL (800) 420-7783 FOR 20% OFF!!!

CALL NOW AND RECEIVE 20% DISCOUNT WITH YOUR FREE ESTIMATE OVER THOUSANDS OF BASEMENTS REPAIRED IN THIS AREA.

Expert Software Development Higher Quality Than In-House Lower Cost Than In-House Faster Than In-House

Ask us how!

TOLL FREE USA/CANADA

Experience the Difference

1-888-859-4853 itbgn.com/projects

LASER HAIR REMOVAL - IN A TUBE! NEW! Hairfree gets rid of unwanted hair and kills the root to stop new hair growth. Works like laser hair removal - in a tube - for a fraction of the cost!

Puts an end to non-stop shaving, plucking and waxing.

Be hair-free in 30 days! 100% money-back guarantee.

Order by phone: 323-405-3331 (lines open 24/7) Buy online: www.hair-free-hair-remover.com www.hair-f PROMO: 10% & FREE shipping with code: CN9

Are You Still Paying Too Much For Your Medications?

You can save up to 97% when you fill your prescriptions with our Canadian and International prescription service.

Their Price

CrestorTM

914.18

$

Typical US Brand Price

for 40mg x 100

Our Price

Rosuvastatin* $

148

Generic equivalent of CrestorTM Generic price for for 40mg x 100

Get An Extra $15 Off & Free Shipping On Your 1st Order!

Call the number below and save an additional $15 plus get free shipping on your first prescription order with Canada Drug Center. Expires December 31, 2017.

Offer is valid for prescription orders only and can not be used in conjunction with any other offers. Valid for new customers only. One time use per household.

Use code 15FREE to receive this special offer.

Toll free: 855-541-5141

Please note that we do not carry controlled substances and a valid prescription is required for all prescription medication orders.

Use of these services is subject to the Terms of Use and accompanying policies at www.canadadrugcenter.com.

38 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

MURAL from Page 1 selves. You see a criminal and [the] community gathers to find and punish that criminal,” Khalafalla, a nonprofit sector employee of Sudanese descent, told The Informer as she distributed snacks to protesters stationed at Freedom Plaza on Saturday.

“Why do the police and national guardsmen have guns?” she added.

“When I see a police officer, I stop breathing. You get scared of the repercussions. My two little brothers carry suits in the back of their car so the police know they’re educated, but they don’t care about any of that.”

Sixteenth Street’s transformation to Black Lives Matter Plaza comes days after Black Lives Matter DC filed a lawsuit against the Bowser and Trump administrations over the curfew imposed last week and the use of tear gas on protesters by the White House, respectively. In the wake of the mural’s unveiling, and much to the chagrin of those calling for unity, the group condemned it as a performative act of a mayor who has embraced gentrification and police militarization.

On Saturday, hours after the sun had set on the nation’s capital and revelers stopped grooving to go-go band TOB during a parade hosted by LongLiveGoGo, members of Black Lives Matter DC conducted an art project that altered the meaning of the “Black Lives Matter” mural. The new version, which reads “Black Lives Matter = Defund the Police,” hinted at the group’s frustration with Bowser and the Metropolitan Police Department, to which she has allocated an additional $45 million in her fiscal 2021 budget.

In demanding the defunding of MPD, decriminalization of sex work, charges dropped against protesters, police-free schools, and the abolishment of jails and prisons, Black Lives Matter DC alluded to Jeffery Price, D’Quan Young, Marqueese Alston, Terrence Sterling and Ralphael Briscoe, all Black men who were were shot and killed over the past decade during encounters with MPD. The group also condemned Bowser’s reduction of funding for the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (ONSE), through which the District implemented the Neighborhood Engagement Achieves Results Act. “We rebuke the notion that we

5 16th Street Northwest now bears the name Black Lives Matter Plaza. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

Keyonna Jones, executive director of the Congress Heights Arts & Culture Center (CHACC), counted among the creatives who painted the now-world famous mural throughout much of the night and early morning. must celebrate crumbs the mayor gives D.C. residents without engaging critically in why we settle for art but not housing, street signs but not investments in the actual things that keep communities safe,” Black Lives Matter DC said in its statement.

“If our attempts to hold this administration accountable for what we believe are multiple failures of leadership turns people away then we will stand alone,” the statement continued. “We are clear in our commitment that liberation for all Black people and real change to the conditions that keep us locked up and out will not be swayed even if people disagree with our stance.”

The District’s Black Lives Matter mural represents a collaboration between city government and local creatives.

Keyonna Jones, executive director of the Congress Heights Arts & Culture Center (CHACC), counted among the creatives who painted the now-world famous mural throughout much of the night and early morning. She said the mural aligned with the values and projects she promotes from CHACC’s base in Congress Heights.

As the project near the final stages and more people funneled into downtown on their morning commutes, inquisitive passersby eventually assisted Jones and her comrades, especially after learning about the concept. Jones said that aspect of the experience — and the ripple effect of the Black Lives Matter mural — revealed a key lesson: regardless of where one stands on the issues, widespread change begins with self.

“I understand both of these thoughts can coexist in the same space — where I know I painted the mural, but [also] know there’s work to be done,” Jones told The Informer. “I hope that people will start looking around to see what they can do.

“Change is healing and it starts internally and on to the next phases to become communal,” she said. “This experience shows that.

If people realize that process, then they take the same road.”

WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

RELIGION the religion corner WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Let My People Go! Go down Moses way down in Egypt land/Tell old Pharaoh to let my people go/ When Israel was in Egypt land/Let my people go/Oppressed so hard they could not stand/Let my people go! — “Go Down Moses” The Shutdown is the name of a nationwide economic boycott of corporate America of which I’m a participant. Our goal is to force American political leadership to the negotiating table in order to bring about the end of police brutality and to institute true police reform nationwide. They cannot keep killing us!

As a nationwide boycott of corporate America, it is designed to hit the American power structure where it hurts most: its bank account! The boycott allows protesters to continue to buy essentials such as gas, groceries and medical supplies. However, this committee is asking Blacks to purchase any other products from a Black-owned and -operated business or another small business of their choice.

A nationwide database of Black-owned and -operated businesses will soon be available on our website (www.economicshutdown.org).

Designed to bring an end to police brutality and racial profiling across the country, the boycott is designed to force all political leaders to end political rhetoric and lip service they’ve given this issue, and institute national legisla-

tion to end police brutality and reform all police departments.

We invite everyone — Black, white, Asian, Latino, young and old — to join this protest. We are looking to unite with Black Lives Matter, White People 4 Blacks, the NAACP and others who seek to end police brutality across this nation.

This is NOT a protest against whiteowned or non-Black small businesses.

This is a protest against major U.S. corporations and is designed to force our political leaders to the negotiating table.

It is NOT a protest designed to bring about hurt or to divide our nation but to bring about much-needed change in our society. This protest is NOT designed to replace marching against police brutality; we are supplementing with this nationwide campaign to add a viable alternative to those who chose not to protest, and it is an additional option for those who are marching.

HERE IS OUR 10 POINT PLAN:

1. Push for national legislation outlining legal responsibility of police officers to intervene and report on misconduct under color of authority.

2. Submit legislation on removal of choke and strangle holds as a policing tool (America never approved an anti-lynching bill) this is that moment.

3. Effect state and local government implementation of a balanced workforce plan - a direct correlation between the ethnic and racial make-up of the police force, the demographics of that community. (Reduce policing by occupation).

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

4. Develop and implement an independent, national review board consisting of grassroots members of the African-American community, including attorneys, and law enforcement officials to monitor police behavior around the country, including a national police complaints database, to collect data, identify the bad actors and locations, seek prosecution of offenders to the fullest extent of the law.

5. Implement ROTC based programs, in every school District, to facilitate recruitment of local minority police cadets.

6. Earmark $2,500 in “Reentry funds” for released inmates for initial housing stability, job obtainment for easier transition back into society.

7. Include Black Lives Matter and other community policing organizations in your contribution campaigns.

8. Develop a candidates’ profile of local council members, judges, attorney generals, police chiefs and mayors to support (Adopt the electoral tactics of Emily’s List).

9. Develop venture capital organizations to fund Black businesses and community-based organizations.

10. Develop a replicable entrepreneurship tool kit that lay out the steps to business formation.

Join TEP Gardner, Shuaib Mitchell, Darryl Wiggins, Lionel Green, Nana Malaya, Partners of Hope/Columbus Ohio, and me, Lyndia Grant, in this protest (www.economicshutdown. org and facebook.com/ECONOMICSHUTDOWN).

WI

John F. Johnson Reverend Dr.

5101 14th Street, NW / Washington, DC 20011 Phone: 202-726-2220 Fax: 202-726-9089

1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005

“A Church with a past to remember – and a future to mold” www.mtzbcdc.org

EMPLOYMENT LAWYERS MCCOLLUM & ASSOCIATES, LLC ADA, Age Discrimination, Benefits, Civil Rights, COBRA, Contracts, Deaf Law, Defamation, Disability Law, Discipline, Discrimination, FMLA, FLSA, FOIA, Family Responsibility, Harassment, HIPPA, OSHA, National Origin Discrimination, Non-Compete, Race Discrimination, Rehabilitation Act, Retaliation, Severance Agreements, Sexual Harassment, Torts, Whistleblowing, Wage-and-Hour, Wrongful Discharge SERVING MARYLAND, DC, & NORTH CAROLINA

www.jmlaw.net

(301) 864-6070

jmccollum@jmlaw.net

Mount Olivet Lutheran Church

Reverend John W. Davis Pastor

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service - 8:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

Children’s Church - 11:00 a.m. (1st & 3rd Sundays) Communion - 10 a.m. 4th Sunday Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. (4th Sunday 8:15 a.m.)

Prayer Meeting & Bible Study - Wednesday 7:00 p.m.

(301) 864-6070

Service and Times Divine Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday “Friendliest Church in the City” Website: mountolivetdc.org Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 39

RELIGION The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church

Pilgrim Baptist Church

Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor

Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor

9161 Hampton Overlook Capitol Heights, MD 20743 Phone: 301-350-2200 / Fax: 301-499-8724

700 I Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002 (202) 547-8849

Service and Times Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 AM 7 10:00 AM Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com Motto: “We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”

Blessed Word of Life Church

Service and Times Worship Sundays: 7:30 & 11:00 AM 5th Sundays: 9:30 AM 3rd Sundays: Baptism & Holy Communion Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @ Noon & 6:30 PM www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org

Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ

Church of Living Waters

Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church

Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor 4915 Wheeler Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-894-6464 Service and Times Sunday Service: 8:30am& 11:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM Communion Service: First Sunday www.livingwatersmd.org

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr., / Pastor 2498 Alabama Ave., SE - Washington D.C. 20020 Office: (202) 889-7296 / Fax: (202) 889-2198 - www.acamec.org Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 8:00am and 11:00 AM Sunday Church School - 9:15am & Sunday Adult Forum Bible Study - 10:30 AM 2nd & 4th Monday Women’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday Jr./Sr. Bible Study: 10:00 AM Tuesday Topical Bible Study: 6:30 PM Tuesday New Beginnings Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Pastoral Bible Study: 6:30 PM Wednesday Children’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Thursday Men’s Bible Study: 6:30 PM Friday before 1st Sunday Praise & Worship Service: 6:30 PM Saturday Adult Bible Study: 10:00 AM “The Amazing, Awesome, Audacious Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church”

Third Street Church of God

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

Rev. Dr. Alice Greene Interim Pastor

Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. Senior Pastor

Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders, Th.D. Senior Pastor

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

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

5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301-899-8885 – fax 301-899-2555 Services and Times Sunday Early Morning Worship: 7:45 AM Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship: 10:45 AM Tuesday: 7:00pm/Kingdom Building Bible Institute Wednesday , 12:30 PM Mid-Day Bible Study Wednesday: Prayer/Praise/Bible Study-7:30 PM Baptism & Communion Service: 4th Sunday – 10:30 AM

1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202-347-5889 office / 202-638-1803 fax

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

Campbell AME Church Rev. Dr. Henry Y. White 2562 MLK Jr. Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Adm. Office 202-678-2263 Email: Campbell@mycame.org Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 AM Bible Study Wednesday: 12:00 Noon Wednesday: 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 PM “Reaching Up To Reach Out” Mailing Address : Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE - Washington, DC 20020

Turning Hearts Church Virgil K. Thomas, Sr. Senior Pastor/ Teacher 421 Alabama Ave. SE Washington, DC 20032 Phone: 202-746-0113 Fax: 301-843-2445 Service and Times Sunday School: 10:15 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11;15 AM Children’s Church: 11:15 AM Tuesday Bible Study: 6:30 PM Motto : “A Great Commitment to the Great Commandment” Website: www.turningheartschurchdc.org Email: gr8luv4u2@gmail.com

40 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

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

“We are one in the Spirit” www.ssbc5757.org / E-mail: ssbc5757@verizon.net

Services and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM “Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org

Crusader Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor 800 I Street, NE - Washington, DC 20002 202-548-0707 - Fax No. 202-548-0703 Service and Times Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:45 AM Men’s Monday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00 PM Women’s Ministry Bible Study: 3rd Friday -7:00 PM Computer Classes: Announced Family and Marital Counseling by appointment E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org / “God is Love”

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

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

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

Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net

St Marks Baptist Come Worship with us...

Dr. Raymond T. Matthews Pastor and First Lady Marcia Matthews St. Mark's Baptist Church 624 Underwood Street, NW Washington, dc 20011 Services and Times Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wed. Noon Day prayer service Thur. Prayer service: 6:45 PM Thur. Bible Study: 7:15 PM

Twelfth Street Christian Church Reverend Dr. Paul H. Saddler Senior Pastor (Disciples of Christ) 1812 12th Street, NW - Washington, DC 20009 Phone: 202-265-4494 Fax: 202 265 4340 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion every Sunday: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 10:00 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 12 Noon Pastor’s Bible Study Tuesday: 6:30 PM Motto: “Discover Something Wonderful” Website: 12thscc.org / Email: Twelfthstcc@aol.com

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

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

RELIGION Shabbath Commandment Church Bishop Adrian A. Taylor, Sr. Pastor 7801 Livingston Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-534-5471 Service and Times Sabbath School 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 AM Service 11:00 AM Praise & Worship Preaching 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM Motto: “A Church Keeping It Real for Real.”

Website: Shabbathcommandmentchruch.org Email: Praisebetoyhwh@gmail.com

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

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

All Nations Baptist Church Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor 2001 North Capitol St, N.E. - Washington, DC 20002 Phone (202) 832-9591 Service and Times Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM Christian Education / School of Biblical Knowledge Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards

Israel Baptist Church

Rev. Daryl F. Bell Pastor 2324 Ontario Road, NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 232-1730 Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Baptismal Service: 1st Sunday – 9:30 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday – 11:00 AM Prayer Meeting & Bible Study: Wednesday -7:30 PM “Where Jesus is the King”

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor

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

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

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

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith

Lincoln Park United Methodist Church Rev. Richard B. Black Pastor

Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

1251 Saratoga Ave., NE Washington, DC 20018 (202) 269-0288

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

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM

Mount Moriah Baptist Church Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor

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

Service and Times Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 PM Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 PM Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged.

The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42

New Commandment Baptist Church

Eastern Community Baptist Church Damion M. Briggs Pastor

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rehoboth Baptist Church

Reverend Peter R. Blue Sr. Pastor

Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor

2001 Brooks Drive District Heights MD. 20744 240.838.7074

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

Service and Times Sunday Worship Experience: 10:15am Sunday School: 9:00am Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Morning Noontime Bible Study: Tuesday @ 12:00pm Prayer Meeting/Bible Study: Tuesday @7:00pm Theme: "Building On A Firm Foundation"

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

Email: revprbstmbc@gmail.com Website: www.stmatthewsbaptist.org

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

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

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

Foggy Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 - Fax : 202-338-4958

Shiloh Baptist Church

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church Dr. Joseph D. Turner / Senior Pastor 2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 - Fax 202-678-3304 Service and Times Early Worship Service: 8:00 AM Worship Service: 11:00 AM New Member’s Class: 9:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday, 11:00 AM Church School: 9:45 AM Wednesday 12:00pm Bible Study Prayer, Praise and Bible Study: 7:00 PM Saturday Bible Study: 11:00 AM Baptism 4th Sunday: 11:00 AM “Empowered to love and Challenged to Lead a Multitude of Souls to Christ”

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

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

Christ Embassy DC

Kelechi Ajieren Coordinator 6839 Eastern Avenue, R1 Takoma Park, MD 20912 (202) 556-7065 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Friday Evening Service: 7:00 PM ; Last Friday “…Giving Your Life a Meaning” www.Christembassydc.org Christ.embassy.dc@hotmail.com

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

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. Wallace Charles Smith Pastor

Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor

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

9th & P Street, N.W. - W. D.C. 20001 (202) 232-4288

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

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

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

Service and Times First Sunday Worship Service (one service): 10:00 AM Second, Third, Fourth, and Fifth Sunday Worship service: 7:45 AM and 10:55 AM Sunday Church School/Bible Study: 9:30 AM Thursday Prayer Service: 6:30 PM

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

Email: sbc@shilohbaptist.org Website: shilohbaptist.org

Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist

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

Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert Senior Pastor

Email Address: admin@pbc712.org

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

Holy Trinity United Baptist Church

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor

Rev. Dr. Jerryl V. Moody Pastor-Elect

Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org Email: mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org

St. Matthews Baptist Church

Emmanuel Baptist Church

King Emmanuel Baptist Church

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

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

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

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 41

LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2020 ADM 000212 Bertha J. Alston Decedent Howard Haley, Esq. The Haley Firm, PC 7600 Georgia Ave., NW #405 Washington, DC 20012 Attorney

LEGAL NOTICES SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2020 ADM 000100 Annabelle Humes Decedent Brett Cohen 7910 Woodmont Avenue, # 1430 Bethesda, Maryland 20814-7047 Attorney

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

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

Janet Alston, whose address is 813 30th St. SE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bertha J. Alston who died on April 2, 2019 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., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/28/2020. 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 11/28/2020, 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.

Brett Cohen, whose address is 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 1430, Bethesda, Maryland 20814-7047, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Annabelle Humes who died on July 17, 2019 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., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/21/2020. 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 11/21/2020, 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: 5/28/2020 Janet Alston Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Date of first publication: 5/21/2020 Brett Cohen Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

CL ASSIFIEDS Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the following classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it s illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. 800 numbers may or may not reach Canada.

MEDIABIDS MISCELLANEOUS SAVE 67% PLUS 4 FREE BURGERS - The Favorite Feast - ONLY $49.99. ORDER Today 1-888-318-1190 Use Code 48643VFW or www.OmahaSteaks.com/ ffmb93

Do you know your Testosterone Levels? Call 888-692-5146 and ask about our test kits and get a FREE Trial of Progene All-Natural Testosterone Supplement

READERS & MUSIC LOVERS. 100 Greatest Novels (audio books) ONLY $99.00 (plus s h.) Includes MP3 Player & Accessories.

BONUS: 50 Classical Music Works & Money Back Guarantee. Call Today! 1-866-680-1822 Any laptop repaired just $79. Macs too. REALLY! FREE Fedex shipping! $69 extra for screen or motherboard replacement. CALL Authorized Laptop Repair Specialists 1-866-437-6184 Ever Consider a Reverse Mortgage? At least 62 years old? Stay in your home & Increase cash flow! Safe & Effective! Call Now for your FREE DVD! Call Now 888-420-4716 READERS & MUSIC LOVERS. 100 Greatest Novels (audio books) ONLY $99.00 (plus s h.) Includes MP3 Player & Accessories.

BONUS: 50 Classical Music Works & Money Back Guarantee. Call Today! 1-866-680-1822 Personalized holiday gifts for Everyone on your list! Save 20 percent off qualifying products from Personal Creations! To redeem this offer, visit www.PersonalCreations.com/Beauty or Call 1-888-732-0679 Diabetes/Cholesterol/Weight Loss Natural Product for Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and weight. Physician recommended, backed by Human Clinical Studies with fast acting results within 30 days.

Call to hear about our special offer 866-640-5982

Sharon K. Foster Decedent

Helen P. McCormick Decedent

Aimee Griffin, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Ave. NW Ste. 440 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney

Bradley A. Thomas, Esq. 1629 K Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006-1631 Attorney

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

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

Aimee D. Griffin, whose address is 1210 Congress St. SE, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sharon K. Foster who died on September 21, 2017 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 11/21/2020. 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 11/21/2020, 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.

Joseph P. McCormick, II, whose address is 6011 3rd Street, NE, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Helen P. McCormick who died on April 23, 2016 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., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/4/2020. 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 12/4/2020, 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.

AUTOS WANTED CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! All Makes/Models 2002-2019! Any Condition. Running or Not. Top $$$ Paid! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call Now: 1-888-985-1806

Date of first publication: 5/21/2020

Date of first publication: 6/4/2020

Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author’s Guide 1-877-626-2213

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Washington Informer

42 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

Stay in your home longer with an American Standard Walk-In Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-855-4813969 or visit www.walkintubquote.com/national **STOP STRUGGLING ON THE STAIRS** Give your life a lift with an ACORN STAIRLIFT! Call now for $250 OFF your stairlift purchase and FREE DVD & brochure! 1-866-471-1334 HughesNet Satellite Internet - 25mbps starting at $49.99/mo! Get More Data FREE Off-Peak Data. FAST download speeds. WiFi built in! FREE Standard Installation for lease customers! Limited Time, Call 1-855-973-9254

Cross country Moving, Long distance Moving Company, out of state move $799 Long Distance Movers. Get Free quote on your Long distance move. 1-844-452-1706

2020 ADM 000247

TRUE TEST COPY

!! OLD GUITARS WANTED!! GIBSON, FENDER, MARTIN, Etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. TOP DOLLAR PAID. CALL TOLL FREE 1-866-433-8277

ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a FREE talking meter and diabetic testing supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking!

Call 888-421-1874

2019 ADM 000226

TRUE TEST COPY

Two great new offers from AT&T Wireless! Ask how to get the Next Generation Samsung Galaxy S10e FREE. FREE iPhone with AT&T’s Buy one, Give One. While supplies last! CALL 1-866-565-8452 or www.freephonesnow.com//cadnet

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-402-0373

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

Joseph P. McCormick, II Personal Representative

dental50plus.com/cadnet #6258

Diabetes/Cholesterol/Weight Loss Bergamonte, a Natural Product for Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and weight. Physician recommended, backed by Human Clinical Studies with amazing results. Call today and save 15 percent off your first bottle! 866-640-5982

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

Aimee D. Griffin Personal Representative

CL ASSIFIEDS

ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a FREE Talking Meter and diabetic testing supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking!

Call 888-421-1874 SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. You WIN or Pay Us Nothing. Contact Disability Group, Inc. Today! BBB Accredited. Call For Your FREE Book & Consultation. 888-649-5110 Attention Joint & Muscle Pain Sufferers: Clinically proven all-natural supplement helps reduce pain and enhance mobility. Call 888-760-5952 to try Hydraflexin RISK-FREE for 90 days.

HEAT YOUR HOME FOR 5¢ AN HOUR! Portable infrared iHeater heats 1000 sq. ft. Slashes your heating bills by 50%. FREE Shipping too! Use claim code 6239 WAS $499 NOW $279 Call 1-866-784-5182 CADNET

HEALTH & FITNESS GENERIC VIAGRA and CIALIS! 100 Pills $99.00 FREE Shipping!

100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-889-5515 MISCELLANEOUS Earthlink High Speed Internet. As Low As $14.95/month (for the first 3 months.) Reliable High Speed Fiber Optic Technology.

Stream Videos, Music and More! Call Earthlink Today 1-855520-7938 Applying for Social Security Disability or Appealing a Denied Claim? Call Bill Gordon & Assoc., Social Security Disability Attorneys, 1-855-498-6323! FREE Consultations. Local Attorneys Nationwide [Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)]

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare!

Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 888-609-2189 DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company.

Coverage for [350+ ] procedures. Real dental insurance -NOT just a discount plan. [Don’t wait!] Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-877-308-2834 www.

CL ASSIFIEDS Attention: Oxygen Users! Gain freedom with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator! No more heavy tanks and refills! Guaranteed Lowest Prices! Call the Oxygen Concentrator Store: 866-994-1121 MISCELLANEOUS: FOR SALE Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - $99 + FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 855-820-2858 SERVICES-MISCELLANEOUS Increase your customer base and get great results by placing your ads in the MDDC – Classified Advertising network! Call today 410-212-0616 Ask for Multi-Media Specialist -Wanda & watch your results grow.

NATIONAL ADVERTISING NETWORK, INC. (NANI) AUTOMOTIVE Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800245-0398 CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! 2002 and Newer! Any Condition. Running or Not. Competitive Offer! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide!

Call Now: 1-888-416-2330.

EDUCATION/CAREER TRAINING AIRLINES ARE HIRING - Get FAA approved hands on Aviation mechanic training. Financial Aid for qualified students - Career placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 888-686-1704

Call Empire Today® to schedule a FREE in-home estimate on Carpeting & Flooring. Call Today! 1-855-404-2366

TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING! Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get Trained, Certified & ready to work in months! Call 888-572-6790. (M-F 8am-6pm ET)

DISH Network $59.99 For 190 Channels! Add High Speed Internet for ONLY $19.95/month. Call Today for $100 Gift Card!

Best Value & Technology. FREE Installation. Call 1-855-837-9146 (some restrictions apply)

COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Now offering a $10,000 scholarship qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! 888-449-1713 (M-F 8am-6pm ET)

WANTED TO BUY Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201

HEALTH/MEDICAL VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 100 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-4455928 Hablamos Espanol

MID ATLANTIC COMMUNITY PAPERS ASSOCIATION CLASSIFIED NETWORK (MACNET) ANNOUNCEMENTS SELL YOUR ANTIQUE OR CLASSIC CAR. Advertise with us. You choose where you want to advertise. 800-450-6631 visit macnetonline.com for details.

AUTOS/CARS FOR SALE [WANTED] CARS/TRUCKS!! All Makes/Models 2002-2018! Any Condition. Running or Not. Competitive Offer! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call 1-888-368-1016 BUILDING MATERIALS/MISC. FOR SALE Metal Roofing & Siding. Biggest selection in the area. Low Prices Cut to length. Good Quality but sold as secondary 717 445-5222 FOR SALE SELLING A FARM OR HOUSE? Advertise it here and neighboring publications. We can help you. Contact MACnet MEDIA @ 800450-6631 or visit our site at MACnetOnline.com HEALTH/MEDICAL VIAGRA & CIALIS! 60 pills for $99. 100 pills for $150. FREE shipping. Money back guaranteed! 1-844-596-4376 INSURANCE SAVE BIG on HOME INSURANCE! Compare 20 A-rated insurances companies. Get a quote within minutes. Average savings of $444/ year! Call 877-270-4283! (M-F 8am-8pm Central) MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE DISH TV $59.99 FOR 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. 1-855-270-5098.

WANTED AMERICAN & FOREIGN CARS $$ PAYING CASH $$ For Classic & Collector Cars 717-577-8206

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company.

Coverage for 350 procedures. Real dental insurance. NOT just a discount plan. [Don’t wait!] Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-888-623-3036 www. dental50plus.com/58 #6258 Still paying too much for your MEDICATION? Save up to 90% on RX refill! Order today and receive free shipping on 1st order prescription required. Call 1-888-906-1529 Recently diagnosed with LUNG CANCER and 60+ years old? Call now! You and your family may be entitled to a SIGNIFICANT CASH AWARD. Call 877-648-6308 today. Free Consultation. No Risk.

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. FREE information kit. Call 877-929-9587 MISCELLANEOUS CASH FOR CARS: We Buy Any Condition Vehicle, 2002 and Newer.

Nationwide Free Pick Up! Call Now: 1-800-864-5960.

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019.

Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 844-909-3339 BOY SCOUT COMPENSATION FUND - Anyone that was inappropriately touched by a Scout leader deserves justice and financial compensation! Victims may be eligible for a significant cash settlement. Time to file is limited. Call Now! 833-729-0164 Need some cash? Sell us your unwanted gold, jewelry, watches & diamonds. Call GOLD GEEK 1-844-209-9872 or visit www.

GetGoldGeek.com/nani BBB A+ Rated. Request your 100% FREE, no risk, no strings attached appraisal kit. Call today!

MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK

Only the Highest quality CBD products from AceWellness! We guarantee highest quality, most competitive pricing on CBD products. Softgels, Oils, Skincare, Vape & more. Coupon Code: PRINT20 1-855-681-3113

ANNOUNCEMENTS/NOTICES Recently diagnosed with LUNG CANCER and 60+ years old? Call now! You and your family may be entitled to a SIGNIFICANT CASH AWARD. Call 855-404-8251 today. Free Consultation. No Risk.

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-995-2490

AUTOMOBILE DONATIONS DONATE AUTOS, TRUCKS, RVs Lutheran Mission Society of MD. Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044.

410-636-0123 www.CompassionPlace.org

Stay in your home longer with an American Standard Walk-In Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-855534-6198

BUSINESS SERVICES Bulk advertising at its best: advertise in over 70 newspapers and reach millions of readers with ONE call. Broaden your reach and get results for pennies per reader. Call Wanda at 410-212-0616 or email wsmith@mddcpress.com.

EDUCATION/INSTRUCTION TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING! Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get Trained, Certified & ready to work in months! Call 888-453-2456. (M-F 8am-6pm ET) FINANCIAL SERVICE Over $10K in debt? Be debt free in 24-48 months. Pay a fraction of what you owe. A+ BBB rated. Call National Debt Relief 866-572-8948.

AT&T Internet. Starting at $40/month w/12-mo agmt. Includes 1 TB of data per month. Get More For Your High-Speed Internet Thing.

Ask us how to bundle and SAVE! Geo & svc restrictions apply. Call us today 1-888-796-8850 DIRECTV NOW. No Satellite Needed. $40/month. 65 Channels.

Stream Breaking News, Live Events, Sports & On Demand Titles.

No Annual Contract. No Commitment. CALL 1-866-825-6523 DISH TV $59.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet.

Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote.

Some restrictions apply. 1-833-872-2545.

NEW AUTHORS WANTED! Page Publishing will help you self-publish your own book. FREE author submission kit! Limited offer! Why wait? Call now: 866-951-7214

HEALTH/MEDICAL SUPPLIES

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

REPARATIONS from Page 28 tions, calling the idea impractical, The New York Times reported.

Johnson believes most people, Black and white, alike oppose reparations because they don’t get the impact of free labor and how it gave the United States its standing today.

“What they don’t understand is the fact that labor is wealth,” Johnson said. “And if your wealth is taken from you and used by somebody else for their wealth that’s robbing you of equal opportunity and your future and the future of your children. Because when slaves worked, they just didn’t work to work, they worked to build buildings, to plow fields. And those fields grew cotton.

Cotton was sold in the north, the south and everyplace else. And that money came back to the plantation owners.”

Johnson said the money generated by slaves was used to buy timberlands, rights of ways to roads and railroads, thus enabling whites to become very wealthy, very quickly.

“So this was an economic tragedy that was imposed upon us as much as it was an emotional, traumatic thing,” he said.

Johnson believes the powers that be are aware of these facts, but racism still stands in the way.

“They think that if I give Black people money they’ll waste it, they’ll spend it and whatever. That’s the issue,” he said. “They can’t face the fact that Black people, if given wealth, will decide for themselves how they will utilize that wealth.

The argument that Black people will not be able to manage is just the vestiges of slavery that’s still there in whites and unfortunately in many of our Black brothers and

Johnson said the money generated by slaves was used to buy timberlands, rights of ways to roads and railroads, thus enabling whites to become very wealthy, very quickly. sisters.”

Johnson believes police killings of Black males that have risen to national news coverage including the recent killing of George Floyd is an effect of Black people being locked out of wealth.

“Michael Brown in Ferguson came in contact with the police because he stole cigarillos — property,” he said. “Eric Garner in New York came in contact with the police because he was selling loose cigarettes — state property. Floyd came in contact with the police because they say, alleged he wrote a bad a check or he carried a $20 fraudulent bill — property.

“If Michael Brown, George Floyd had high-paying jobs, like the white folks do, it is very possible that Michael Brown would have paid for his cigarillos instead of stealing,” he said. “It’s the lack of opportunity, wealth and a police force that’s taught to protect property no matter how small it is.”

Johnson said the protests that in some cases have turned into looting are a result of the same issue.

“There are some people out there that are just tired of being treated with injustice. And the injustice is magnified if you have no job, no hope, you see everything on televi-

sion and the wealth of this nation,” he said. “You read about all of this wealth that you don’t have it. You’re frustrated, you can’t work, you can’t protect your family. You are just demoralized. And you go out and start protesting. ‘They got it. I ain’t got it. I ain’t got no opportunity to get it. I’m gon’ take it.’ And that’s where you get the looting.

“We can sit back and mourn George Floyd’s death. We can insist that they bring those cops to justice,” Johnson said. “But the fact of the matter is that is not going to change the lives of any of those Black folks running in and out of stores grabbing shoes, grabbing cellphones, grabbing liquor, whatever it is. It’s not going to change their lives. And as sure as we’re talking, there will be another George Floyd.”

Johnson said he, a fairly comfortable and wealthy man, is taking up the cause for reparations because he’s not intimidated and he knows the power of investment.

“When you grow up in a capitalist society and you become successful because someone gave you capital or invested in you money … you saw what you were able to do with that money to create wealth for yourself and others,” he said. “It compels you to say, ‘Why don’t I try to make this happen for everybody?’

“I mean, I started BET on a $500,000 investment sold it for $4 billion approximately, so when you see how it works and you say gee as a Black guy who grew up in a family of 10 kids, look what I did,” Johnson said. “So why would I deny that same opportunity to people who are owed that opportunity?”

WI

Become a Published Author with Dorrance.

We want to read your book!

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.

Complete Book Publishing Services FIVE EASY STEPS TO PUBLICATION: 1. Consultation

4. Distribution

2. Book Production 5. Merchandising and Fulfillment 3. Promotion

Call now to receive your FREE Author’s Guide

877-420-7280

or www.dorranceinfo.com/informer

HOW ARE ATTORNEYS GETTING PAID? “Why are so many attorneys becoming Independent Contractors?”

Call (641)715-3900 EXT.333986#

(Recorded Message – 10 Minutes)

Interested attorneys should email contact information for more details to: abusinessprofessional@gmail.com

Real hot chat now.

30 MINUTES FREE TRIAL 866-728-3876

18+ WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 43

SAFETY from Page 13 four topics: road safety, domestic violence, sex trafficking and gun violence.

Each pre-recorded session last no more than 35 minutes with statistics, statements from regional lawmakers and advice on each topic.

The first subject became the first public project Anderson-Walker launched last year called “#DrivingItHome” initiative with a focus to improve driving in the county.

State officials marked Route 210 in her district as the most dangerous road in Maryland because of the road-related crashes and vehicular deaths.Brandi Bridgett spoke about the tragic death of her husband, Eric, who was killed in 2013 by a driver who hit him as he walked along Kirby Road in Clinton. Eric Bridgett, a former Marine, walked as he left his job as a cook.

“That day change my life and the life of my three small children forever,” Bridgett said in the video.

“Today, it’s still an unsolved case.

We have been through deployments. We’ve been through Afghanistan [and] Iraq. You’re walking home from work and someone took you from me. How does that happen?”

The domestic violence video featured information and signs of abuse from two individuals with Community Crisis Services, Gabrielle Parson and Maya Brown.

County officials and domestic violence advocates have said the virus increased more domestic violence calls and incidents due to stay-at-home orders implemented and some people not labeled essential workers by the state and must work from their residence.

Part of the video explained and highlighted differences between a protective order and an extreme risk protective order, also known as an ERPO.

Parson, a victim services coordinator, said both orders are similar.

Besides a current or former spouse, an extreme order can also be filed by a law enforcement officer and a medical professional who has examined the respondent.

In addition, extreme orders can be filed at the county’s District Court and the commissioner’s office in Upper Marlboro or Hyattsville.

She also suggested for those who file to protective orders make copies in a vehicle, a child’s school or day care, job and even church.

“It’s good that you have an extra copy at the places you visit on a regular basis,” Parson said.

Residents in need of help can call the domestic violence hotline at 301-731-1203.

For more information and to review any of the four sessions, go to Anderson-Walker’s YouTube channel.

WI

MILITARY from Page 23 injustice and diversity among our ranks,” Wright wrote. “This is why I’m working with General Goldfein, first and foremost to have a full and thorough independent review of our military justice system.

We will look to uncover where the problem lies, and how we can fix it.

“You might think you know what it’s like to grow up, exist, survive and even thrive in this country as a Black person,” he wrote.

“But let me tell you, regardless of how many Black friends you have, or how Black your neighborhood was, or if your spouse or in-laws

44 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

“You might think you know what it’s like to grow up, exist, survive and even thrive in this country as a Black person. But let me tell you, regardless of how many Black friends you have, or how Black your neighborhood was, or if your spouse or in-laws are Black …you don’t know.” are Black…you don’t know. You don’t know the anxiety, the despair, the heartache, the fear, the

rage and the disappointment that comes with living in this country, our country every single day.” WI

EMERGENCY KIT from Page 32 A hurricane kit should consist of one gallon of water per person in a household for consumption and sanitation, a three-day supply of nonperishable food, batteries, a flashlight, whistle, dusk mask, plastic sheeting and duct tape.

The kit needs to have moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties as well as a fire extinguisher and an extra cellphone charger.

A first aid kit should be available in case of medical emergencies for injuries and prescription medication and eyewear if needed. Items related to daily life such as insurance policies, copies of driver’s licenses, Social Security cards, birth certificates and bank account information should also be available. These materials should be stored safely, the website said.

Cash or change should be on hand because of the strong possibility that automatic teller machines may not be functional due to the inclement weather. Copies

KUCIN from Page 26 justice and police brutality. Though I believe it is necessary to have peaceful demonstrations and critical activism, there needs to be a takeaway from it all, so these actions never happen again.

My suggestion is to hold every police force in the nation accountable by using this movement and leadership to formulate a plan to punish those officers with stiffer sentences who are not serving and protecting the men, women and children of America the right way.

If our tax money is used to pay salaries and support those police forces, we deserve better, and a slap on the wrist empowers the ‘bad apples’ to continue to destroy the fabric of our country.

Obviously, not all police officers are bad people, but there needs to be a standard set. I’m afraid that once life gets back to normal and we have sports to take us away our everyday issues to escape from reality, Floyd will be just another statistic in the history books covered up by the pandemic.

Don’t let it happen.

Though this is one of the hardest columns for me to write in my life, I feel like whatever the suggestion is of a plan for change, that it has to happen with a seat at the table with a business plan to stop the madness.

My idea for enacting a bill into law to force harsher crimes against

5 Paul Carden, American Red Cross (Courtesy photo/Twitter grab)

of local maps and emergency contact numbers should be available, also. If a vehicle can be utilized, jumper cables are useful as well as a rain poncho and umbrella, road flares and a full tank of gas. WI police officers for such atrocities is merely a suggestion to thwart if not stop police brutality and the senseless murder from those who are supposed to protect us. The system is flawed, and there needs to be a demand for accountability that can be equatable, valued and, most importantly, enforced.

However, this piece is also a call to action for athletes to come together with other public figures to force accountability with that demand.

If NFL first-round pick Joe Burrow is willing to risk losing endorsement deals for doing what is right and countless others join together with a plan for change, whatever it be, it needs to happen now.

Thinking back at what former San Fransico 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick did for the awareness of police brutality and injustice still resonates in my mind today.

He was letting us know that this is happening every day, but somehow, he became the enemy. Since we didn’t listen and force the narrative, now we all had to witness a man lose his life with an officer kneeling in Kaepernick’s symbolic pose.

My response is to keep pushing, get out there, question leadership if their actions are not right, hold your public servants and politicians to standards, and, most importantly, honor Floyd’s life not by the man he was but by what he’ll do for our future. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

SHEPARD from Page 26

■ Executive Presentation Coaching ■

Media Training

■ Image Branding ■ On-Camera Coaching Doris McMillon President

.saded /www om ennis.c

for top-end tax cuts, for bailing out banks and CEOs, for waging endless wars across the world. There is never enough money to fund the gap.

And so the anger and frustration build, kindling ready to ignite. And time after time, an act of outrageous police brutality sets the kindling aflame.

The demonstrators are showing courage. We’ve also seen, in a few cities, police leaders show real leadership and wisdom. I pray that all also show caution. We demonstrate not only against the threat of Code Blue, but in the time of COVID-19. Masks, social distancing, care for one another are vital so the demonstrations for life don’t end up sacrificing lives to the virus.

Let us help you develop the communication skills to compete and win!

Dennis

tality and murders peacefully, shutting down major thoroughfares.

The Obama administration began an effort to encourage police reform.

The sentence disparities between crack and cocaine — the “black” drug and the “white” drug — were reduced.

Transfers of military weaponry to police forces were restricted. The Obama Justice Department entered into a series of consent decrees with more than a dozen police departments to encourage them to change their practices — to become more a guardian than an occupier. The consent decrees couldn’t root out racism, or dismiss the sadistic or the disturbed, but they could encourage a change in tactics, and perhaps in attitudes.

When Trump was elected, he immediately torpedoed the reforms, and terminated the consent decrees. He reopened the spigot on military weaponry and encouraged the police directly to get tough with offenders.

Last October, Bob Kroll, the president of the Minneapolis Police Union, appeared at a Trump rally to celebrate the president for freeing the police from the mild reforms of the Obama years.

“The Obama administration and

the handcuffing and oppression of police was despicable,” he told the crowd.

“The first thing President Trump did when he took office was turn that around, letting the cops do their job, put the handcuffs on the criminals instead of us.”

Those trumpeting law and order offer African Americans neither.

Those peaceful protests were met with harsh reaction. The voices were not heard. And now, Minneapolis is in flames and the streets of America’s cities are filled with protesters.

What America has failed to hear — decade after decade — is the demand for equal justice under the law, the demand for equal opportunity, the call for basic rights — not only for African Americans but for all — the rights to a livable wage, decent housing, health care, a safe environment, a protective, not a dangerous police force. The suffering is real; the gap documented over and over, most recently as poverty, hunger and illness makes African Americans disproportionately the victims of the coronavirus.

This isn’t complicated. The solutions are known. From the Kerner Commission in 1968 on, the analyses have been done; the needed reforms detailed — and shelved. There is money enough

You Can Say It Like A Pro!

: Sade

JACKSON from Page 26

dous boost to America’s economy. The latest reports on African American buying power reveal that African American consumers spend more than $1.2 trillion a year. Withholding just a small fraction of this buying power from the economy will definitely be noticed.

Taking a drastic and radical stand like what is proposed here will prompt the business community and other fair minded persons in society to join with African Americans in the push for a more fair and just society. If not, what do African Americans have to lose by withholding their financial resources a little while longer? History demonstrates that African Americans have made tremendous progress while living with the racial contract since their arrival in America, and there is no indication that they will not continue to make positive, incremental progress.

What’s presented here is radical.

But continually being subjected to the racial contract in America and African Americans continuing to move about as though all is well has brought me to a point like the one civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer came to in her day when she said, “I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired.”

For me, I am “fed up with being fed up” with how African Americans are treated in America. WI

Photo

massive scale it could help uplift African Americans everywhere.

As a race, African Americans have never been valued in America. Collectively, the race is looked upon as a liability, whose presence causes an embarrassment to society and is often deemed as having no redeemable asset value in any form. To that end, while opening back up the country will benefit the dominant ethnic group, African Americans are not part of the reasoning for the push to reopen the country.

This shelter-in-place, or lockdown, mode shows African Americans that they can live with less movement and with less spending. The question is, can African Americans continue in a shelter-in-place mode right now, and not rush back out to join the reopening that is mainly for white America? And, can African Americans stay in lockdown mode a while longer and avoid crowding back in so soon and begin heavy “SPENDING”?

Personally, I will share how the front side of COVID-19 is preparing me for the backside of the coronavirus. This lockdown shows me that I can live with less movement and with less spending which results in more saving in many areas of my life. To date, financial re-

sources on gas spending have been saved, there has been less wear and tear on my automobiles and on my body, and I have been able to enjoy a higher level of peace of mind.

I’ve concluded that remaining in my lockdown mode longer is doable.

If, as African Americans, we spend at the rate that economic reports say we do, the broader establishment would soon feel our collective absence from the marketplace economically, if such a stand was taken. I believe that economic fallout from such action could be used to leverage a better outcome for the African Americans, especially relating to demonstrating a higher degree of self-sufficiency among the race.

No, the less fortunate among us were not overlooked in this writing. For some in our community, the lockdown has exposed them to even more challenges than they had prior to COVID-19 and staying in a lockdown mode may not be an option. With 16.7% of African Americans out of work, for some an immediate return to the marketplace is a must. Despite that fact, for many others the pressure to jump back in is not as great.

Just as the African American vote impacts the outcome of an election, reports show that the infusion of African American dollars provides a tremen-

C O M M U N I C A T I O N S

301.292.9141/FAX 301.292.9142/Mobile 703.819.0920 doris@mcmilloncommunications.com/www.mcmilloncommunications.com

BE DEBT FREE in 24–48 months!

If you owe more than $10,000 in credit card or other debt, see how we can help.

Call today:

1-888-318-8155 ACCREDITED BUSINESS ®

AIRLINE CAREERS Get FAA approved maintenance training at campuses coast to coast. Job placement assistance.

Financial Aid for qualifying students. Military friendly.

Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance

800-481-7894

In the midst of a pandemic, some march in the hope that America will listen. Some march without hope but because silence is no longer acceptable.

Yes, Minneapolis needs to charge, try and convict the murderer and his accomplices. Yes, the Minneapolis police force needs to cleanse itself, inside and out.

America too needs to listen and to change.

We will come together, or we will surely come apart. WI

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 45

Lutheran Mission Society

Alan Amrhine, Communications Director Lutheran Mission Society

“MDDC has connected donors with the LMS Vehicle Donation Program for over six years! Great exposure, cost effective, and Wanda is so helpful.”

Attention: VIAGRA & CIALIS Users There’s a More Affordable & Effective Alternative to U.S. Pharmacy High Prices!

For discreet home delivery, CALL NOW!

800-995-1351

50 Pill Special:

Only $99 Plus Free Shipping!

Operators Available 24/7!

Pick a state! , any state MDDC Press works with fellow press associations across the country to give you the best possible buys on advertising wherever you need it. We take care of scheduling and placement at no extra cost to you, and you save time and money. Call Wanda Smith at ext. 6 today.

Press Service 2000 Capital Drive, Annapolis, MD 21401

Subscribe!

1-855-721-6332 www.mddcpress.com

There are many reasons to read The Washington Informer...

Each week you’ll get news from The District of Columbia, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Northern Virginia.

You will discover Arts and Entertainment, Social Tidbits, Religion, Sports, People’s Viewpoints, Letters to the Editor, Classified Ads and more!

And best of all… No crime, no dirty gossip, just positive news and information each week, which is why…

The Washington Informer is all about you!

Name.......................................................................................................

Address...................................................................................................

City, State, Zip.........................................................................................

Phone number (daytime).........................................................................

Yes! I want to subscribe for: n1 year/$45.00 n 2years/$60.00 Method of payment: n Check Enclosed n Visa/MasterCard Credit card number..................................................................................

Signature........................................................................................

46 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

PERRY from Page 27 in Maryland) until the team changes its name.

Last week the Redskins did make a statement on race and police brutality.

The Redskins were one of several sports franchises to share a black square on their social media account as part of the “#BlackoutTuesday” campaign. It wasn’t nearly enough. As Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) said in response to their statement on Twitter: “Want to really stand for racial justice?

Change your name.”

Arguments against the change have been fueled by surveys. A 2019 webbased survey of 500 self-identified Native Americans that was reported in The Washington Post found that 68% of those polled were not offended by the Washington Redskins’ name. A 2016 Washington Post survey of 504 self-identified Native Americans found that nine in 10 Native Americans polled claimed weren’t bothered by the name.

These polls have been used to silence Native people and generalize falsely to the broader Native community.

Though other polls have found that people who identify most with being Native American are the ones most likely to feel harmed by the contin-

MORIAL from Page 27 benefit of the doubt. Their word can no long be trusted. Their records — which, in the case of Chauvin and Thao, include a disturbing number of use-of-force incidents and civilian complaints — must be thoroughly examined for evidence of the racism and inhumanity they displayed during

ASKIA from Page 27 into the doomsday bunker in the White House basement, seeking shelter after protestors breached a fence on the eastern perimeter of the grounds near the Treasury Department, he sought to regain his mojo by promenading through Lafayette Square to St. John’s Episcopal Church where he posed outside holding a Bible.

He did not need to go inside (he hasn’t attended that or most any other church very often during his three and a half years in office), and he was decidedly unwelcome by church officials, if he had wanted to go in. He had made matters worse by having law-abiding, peaceful demonstrators cleared from the area with tear gas and flash grenades, so he could calmly stroll for that photo-op — the Bible-thumping “Jesus President.”

A group of nine New England Epis-

ued use of stereotypical Native American team names and mascots, polls shouldn’t matter. Civil rights can’t wait until the public agrees.

The NFL has a lot of work to do to address systemic discrimination. Roger Goodell and NFL owners have the weight on their shoulders. But history has shown that they don’t know what to do or how to do it. With Goodell at the helm, the NFL rejected peaceful protests against police brutality. They blackballed Kaepernick from a job even as team after team clearly needed a good quarterback. NFL players like Cowboys defensive end Ryan Russell that have come out for being bisexual or gay have been ignored. Despite the ongoing efforts of activists like openly gay former football player Wade Davis, most teams have not engaged in dialogue.

While NFL is a majority-Black organization with a significantly Black fan base, to be clear, the responsibility to eradicate systemic oppression is not ours. But we can expedite their “evolution.” Frankly, George Floyd’s murder has now made it politically expedient for leaders to get on the right side of history once and for all.

We know the horrors inflicted upon us by the state since 1619. We’ve seen

“12 Years a Slave,” “Roots,” “Eyes on the Prize,” “Black Panther,” “The Color Purple” and “Do the Right Thing.” We should never turn around — even implicitly — and do what was done to us to Native Americans.

Yes, we were brought here in shackles and toiled the land and built the cities.

The land on which we were property belonged to Native Americans.

But we love our sports. So, in 2012, Richmond, a city that is 50% Black where the Redskins practice offseason, agreed to an eight-year, $10 million contract to build the training center.

To cover the deal, Richmond officials deferred millions of dollars from school improvements, in a district that is majority-Black.

And obviously, most of the Redskins roster is Black, too. While the total fanbase may not be majority-Black, our voices, as we have shown in movements time and time again, even when outnumbered, can have powerful impact.

Let’s help our Native American brothers and sisters. Just like Blacks should not be fired and exploited for NFL profit in the face of police brutality, Natives should not be ridiculed for commercial profit in one of the country’s Blackest cities. WI

George Floyd’s deadly assault.

The National Urban League and the Urban League of the Twin Cities further demand: - Criminal prosecution of the four former police officers.

- Immediate public release of all bodycam footage of the incident captured by MPD and Minneapolis Parks Police.

- Appointment of an experienced, independent expert from outside the department to investigate the conduct of the four officers.

This nation is haunted by the souls of the thousands of Black men and women whose killers never were brought to justice. We owe it to them to see justice done for George Floyd.

WI

copal bishops called the stunt “disgraceful and morally repugnant.” Another, Robert Hendrickson of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Tucson, wrote on Twitter, “This is an awful man, waving a book he hasn’t read, in front of a church he doesn’t attend, invoking laws he doesn’t understand, against fellow Americans he sees as enemies, wielding a military he dodged serving, to protect power he gained via accepting foreign interference, exploiting fear and anger he loves to stoke, after failing to address a pandemic he was warned about, and building it all on a bed of constant lies and childish inanity.”

His trip the next day to the Saint John Paul II National Shrine in Washington with first lady Melania Trump was against the expressed wishes of the Washington Archbishop.

“I find it baffling and reprehensible that any Catholic facility would allow itself to be so egregiously misused and

manipulated in a fashion that violates our religious principles, which call us to defend the rights of all people even those with whom we might disagree,” Archbishop Wilton Gregory said in a statement.

So, Trump was scoreless for the week, even when he branded Bowser “incompetent.” But then she executed a masterful move. Rallying the full force of District agencies, she painted the pavement on the two blocks of 16th Street between K and H streets approaching Dude’s residence with 50-foot-tall letters reading “BLACK LIVES MATTER,” and had street signs installed declaring the space “Black Lives Matter Plaza.”

Checkmate! A slam dunk, right in his face!

That was The Week That Was for Mayor Muriel, and That Wasn’t for Donald J. WI

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

YOU’RE ALWAYS A WINNER WHEN YOU PLAY RESPONSIBLY. Playing the Maryland Lottery is fun, but please play within your limits.

For confidential help with gambling problems, please visit mdgamblinghelp.org or call 1-800-GAMBLER. You must be 18 to play.

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

JUNE 11 - 17, 2020 47

Let the summer play.

Celebrate all the legends and soon-to-be legendary music that heats up summer with Xfinity. This Black Music Month, whether you’re summering in or celebrating out, catch music-themed movies, enjoy your favorite music networks, and stream top apps like Pandora, Music Choice and more right to your TV. This is what summer sounds like. And no matter what it brings, Xfinity Black Film & TV has your soundtrack. Simple. Easy. Awesome.

Visit xfinity.com/discovermore to learn more.

Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Xfinity TV service subscription required. NPA231658-0001 NED AA BMM V3

137327_NPA231658-0001 BMM 9.875x10.935 Washington V3.indd 1

48 - JUNE 11 - 17, 2020

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

5/19/20 3:21 PM