This Week's Edition -April 10, 2025

With D.C. Budget in Limbo, Families Anticipate the Worst Students,

Parents and Organizers Host Another

‘Recess at the Capitol’

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

With one recess behind them and another on the horizon, House leadership has yet to bring the District of Columbia Local Funds Act to the floor for a vote— a situation that’s further incensed a group of local organizers fighting to save D.C.’s budget. The District of Columbia Local Funds Act, if passed, protects the District’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget from a $1.1 billion budget cut mandated in a continuing resolution that Congress approved earlier this year. The Senate sent the District of Columbia

DC BUDGET Page 37

5Dionne Reeder (pictured), director of the Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative, is looking forward to collaborating with MPD and other D.C. agencies to prevent youth crime through the newly announced Juvenile Investigative Response Unit. (Courtesy Photo)

Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative and MPD to Collaborate on Crime Prevention, Youth Intervention

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

March marked six years since the Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative (FSFSC) celebrated the launch of its new headquarters one floor above Busboys & Poets on Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue in Southeast.

Since that move to Downtown Anacostia, FSFSC has continued its decades-long mis-

Thousands Take to the National Mall for Hands-Off March to Protest Trump-Era Setbacks Faith Leaders, Churchgoers Speak Out Against Attacks on Diversity, Democracy, Human Rights Patrons Visit a Smithsonian Museum under Siege

By Mya Trujillo WI Contributing Writer

Despite a divisive time for the nation and world, a historic day of action encouraged thousands of activists to take to the streets for the nationwide “Hands Off” protest, unifying people across cities in America. As the rallies offered a moment

‘HANDS OFF’ Page 37

Concerns Galore about Division, More Misinformation

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Keith Q.D. recently took his daughter to the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), which a recent Trump executive order alludes to as an institution part of “a widespread effort to rewrite our nation’s history.”

As Keith, a frequent NMAAHC visitor, explained to The Informer, the museum helps him continue a family tradition where elders give the youth authentic lessons in U.S. history.

“My parents… were part of the Great

5 President Donald J. Trump’s new executive order, titled “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,” alludes to the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), as part of “a widespread effort to rewrite our nation’s history.” (Courtesy Photo)

SOUTHEAST

5 Keya Chatterjee (left), executive director of Free DC, pictured here with Nee Nee Taylor of Harriet’s Wildest Dreams, is among the many activists demanding the Senate protects District budget autonomy. (Courtesy Photo/ Free DC, Instagram)

5 Father and son Leslie and Jasen Sowers at the “Hands Off” protest on April 5, speaking out to preserve the rights their ancestors fought for in order to protect younger generations. (Jacques Benovil/ The Washington Informer)

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STACY M. BROWN WI SENIOR

Trump Celebrates, Americans Suffer: President Says ‘This is a Great Time to Get Rich’

While layoffs sweep the nation, global markets unravel under the weight of sweeping new tariffs, and Americans watch their 401(k)s tank, President Donald Trump and his inner circle spent the weekend partying, golfing, and cashing in.

“Trump justified tariffs saying [the] U.S. is in the midst of a national emergency, then he left the White House for Florida, where his Doral resort is holding a LIV golf tournament financed by Saudi Arabia,” one social media user wrote calling out Trump directly by tagging his presidential and personal X accounts. “Guess the U.S. emergency is not important.”

From a Saudi-backed LIV Golf tournament at Trump National Doral, to a seven-figure fundraiser at Mar-a-Lago, the Trumps appeared unfazed by the financial collapse. As the economy craters, the Trump brand is booming.

The lavish weekend began as crowds gathered at the 643-room Trump Doral resort near Miami and at Mara-Lago, 70 miles north. Trump made his entrance aboard a military helicopter, chauffeured by his son Eric in a golf

cart straight to a luxury dinner. Later, the Saudi-funded LIV Golf league — backed by the kingdom’s $925 billion sovereign wealth fund — kicked off its fourth tournament at the Trump-owned property.

Meanwhile, at Mar-a-Lago, Trump hosted a high-dollar fundraiser dubbed the American Patriots Gala, drawing dignitaries like Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Argentina’s President Javier Milei.

The celebration came just days after Trump, wielding a Sharpie now sold for $3 in Mar-a-Lago gift shops, signed an executive order launching a sweeping new round of global tariffs. The fallout was immediate and catastrophic.

In just 48 hours, the S&P 500 lost $5 trillion in value. By Monday, the index had fallen 4%, entering bear market territory. The Nasdaq tumbled 4.5%, and the Dow dropped 1,200 points. Global indexes followed suit, triggering circuit breakers across Europe and Asia. Bitcoin, oil, and other commodities also sank.

WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

D.C. Attorney General Secures $100K Settlement After Property Owner Barred Young Adults and Felons from Renting

A major property owner in the District of Columbia has agreed to pay $100,000 and overhaul its rental practices after the Office of the Attorney General found it was illegally denying housing to anyone under 24 years old and to all applicants with felony convictions.

Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb announced that Apartment Income REIT LLC (AIR), along with its affiliated management entities, violated District laws by enforcing blanket bans at three apartment complexes—Latrobe Apartment Homes in Ward 2 and Upton Place and Vaughan Place Apartments in Ward 3.

The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) launched its investigation after receiving a tip from a member of the public. The Upton Place website

stated that “at least one leaseholder must be 24 years of age or older at the time of move-in and reside fulltime in the apartment” and that the property did not rent to applicants with felony convictions. The investigation revealed these policies were also in place at the other AIR-managed properties in the District.

The OAG determined that the policies violated the DC Human Rights Act (DCHRA), which bars housing discrimination based on age and other protected traits, and the Fair Criminal Records Screening for Housing Act (FCRSHA), which prohibits landlords from categorically rejecting applicants with criminal records without individualized consideration.

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

Whitewashing in Real Time: From Harriet Tubman to Target Stores NPS Restores Tubman’s Likeness

The U.S. National Park Service has now appeared to restore its original webpage on the history of the Underground Railroad after it was met with backlash for deleting a prominently featured photo of abolitionist and women’s suffragist Harriet Tubman, as well as segments of text describing the horrors of slavery.

Part of the restored text describes the 18th- and 19th-century Underground Railroad as “efforts of enslaved African Americans to gain their freedom by escaping bondage.” Tubman was one of the system’s bestknown “conductors.”

Previously, the photo and language were replaced with images of postage stamps and a reworded introduction that refers to the Underground Railroad as “one of the

most significant expressions of the American civil rights movement” that “bridged the divides of race.”

“Now the page emphasizes what it describes as “Black/ White Cooperation,” one social media user wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, on April 7. “DISGUSTING.”

The change followed an executive order signed by President Donald Trump last month directing the Smithsonian Institution to eliminate “divisive narratives.” A review by The Washington Post found that since Trump’s return to office, dozens of webpages across the National Park Service have been edited to soften or eliminate references to slavery, racial injustice, and the historical struggles of African Americans.

On the website for the Stone National Historic Site in

HOT TOPICS Page 5

In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark

More than 3,000 Sets of Free Windshield Wipers Distributed in Metro Area’s First Wiper Week

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

The Washington metropolitan area held its inaugural Wiper Week, April 1-5, an initiative emphasizing the critical correlation between windshield wipers and road safety.

Weather and road conditions can prevent windshield wipers from functioning correctly, causing hazardous conditions for drivers, passengers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. The new initiative works to combat dangerous driving through equipping drivers with one of the necessary tools to ensure clear vision while operating a vehicle: windshield wipers.

In 2023 alone, the National Capital Region had an estimated 327 traffic fatalities, 14,000+ injuries, and 53,000+ crashes, according to data from Metro Motor.

The statistics prompted Mayor Muriel Bowser to write a proclamation in observance of Wiper Week.

“Properly functioning windshield wipers ensure the clear visibility that is essential for safe driving and play a crucial role in preventing accidents and ensuring roadway safety,” Bowser wrote in the proclamation.

In a collaborative effort, partners for Wiper Week included Metro Motor, Mighty, Rain-X, Washington Area Bicyclists Association, National Capital Region Families for Safe Streets, Adaptive Driving Alliance, Cars “N” Coffee Bethesda, and Vision Zero-Safe Streets for Washington, D.C., offering programming throughout the D.C.,

HOT TOPIC from Page 4

Maryland, mentions of Declaration of Independence signer Thomas Stone owning enslaved people were removed. Elsewhere, references to “enslaved African Americans” were changed to “enslaved workers.” A page exploring Benjamin Franklin’s views on slavery and his slave ownership was taken offline.

The Defense Department also removed several webpages related to diversity and minority contributions to the U.S. military, including a tribute to Jackie Robinson’s Army service and content honoring the Tuskegee Airmen, the Navajo Code Talkers, and the Marines at Iwo Jima. Officials later

Maryland and Virginia region.

During the initiative, more than 3,000 vehicles were outfitted with new, free wipers at three sites: the District’s DMV Inspection Station; Westfield Montgomery Mall in Bethesda, Maryland; and Metro Motor in Arlington, Virginia.

After hearing Metro Motors needed a host for the event, Westfield Montgomery Mall—which boasted the most pre-registrants (more than 500) before the event— thought this was a significant community outreach activity, and proudly welcomed people across the area to take part in the event emphasizing the importance of road safety.

“It’s helping our community,” said Catherine Brady, Westfield marketing director, “which is something we’re very passionate about.”

A RAINY DAY AT MONTGOMERY MALL OFFERS

TOOLS, ADVICE

After seeing a promotion for Wiper Week on Facebook, Rockville resident Sophia Smith took to the April 4 mall event.

“No one has ever really emphasized wipers,” said Smith, before weighing in on the need for offering such an event at this time. “There’s more traffic on the road. People are being made to go back into the office.”

The rainy day also heightened the need for an initiative like Wiper Week.

Committed to the cause, Paul Ashe,

said some content would be republished after public outcry.

Nearly 400 books were removed from the library at the U.S. Naval Academy. The list includes Maya Angelou’s works “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” “Memorializing the Holocaust,” “Half American,” and “Pursuing Trayvon Martin.”

Officials cited Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s directive to eliminate books that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), however many activists and U.S. citizens have said the decision to ban certain books is shameful. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

more than 500 cars came to get free windshield wipers on April 4.

director of marketing for Metro Motor said, “We’re installing windshield wipers so we’re ready to get drenched today.”

Stephen Shire from Olney, Maryland had a great incentive for registering to attend the Wiper Week event at Montgomery Mall: the rubber on the passenger side wiper was worn out.

“When it rains, I can only see half of my windshield,” said Shire, who heard about the event on WTOP Radio.

During the well organized event at Montgomery Mall, drivers like Smith and Shire waited in two lanes and never had to exit their vehicles in order to receive the complimentary service.

Many drivers wondered how often

wipers should be replaced.

“It could be every six months or up to a year depending on the geographic region that you find yourself in,” said Ashe. “We’re using Rain-X and Mighty wipers, depending on what comes through today. Vehicles have different needs.”

WI

5Wiper Week took place from April 1-5 at three locations, including Westfield Montgomery Mall in Bethesda, Maryland, where

(Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

AROUND THE REGION

APRIL 10

facts

JOSEPHINE BAKER (LEFT) KAREEM ABDUL-JABBAR (BOTTOM) TIGER WOODS (RIGHT)

APRIL 10 - 16, 2025 SOURCE:

1975 – Golfer Lee Elder becomes the first African American to play in the Masters.

APRIL 11

1881 – Spelman College, one of the nation’s historically Black colleges and universities, is founded in Atlanta.

1899 – Percy Julian, a pioneering African American research chemist, is born in Montgomery, Alabama.

1908 – Jane Boldin, the first Black woman to serve as a judge in the United States, is born in Poughkeepsie, New York.

1966 – Emmett Ashford becomes the first Black umpire in Major League Baseball.

1968 – President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Fair Housing Act, which outlawed discrimination in the sale, rental or leasing of housing.

APRIL 12

1975 – Famed singer and entertainer Josephine Baker dies of a cerebral hemorrhage in Paris at 68.

1981 – Heavyweight boxing great Joe Louis dies of cardiac arrest in a Las Vegas-area hospital at 66.

1983 – Harold Washington becomes the first African American mayor of Chicago.

APRIL 13

1873 – The Colfax Riot, the largest racial massacre in U.S. history, takes place in Colfax, Louisiana, where approximately 150 Black men are killed by whites amid a highly contested gubernatorial election.

1964 – Sidney Poitier becomes the first African American to win the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as a construction worker who helps build

a chapel in “Lilies of the Field.”

1997 – Golf great Tiger Woods wins the Masters, becoming the youngest and the first non-white player to win the tournament.

APRIL 14

1775 – The Society for the Relief of Free Negroes Unlawfully Held in Bondage, the first American abolition society, is founded in Philadelphia.

APRIL 15

1889 – Social and civil activist A. Philip Randolph, who organized and led the first predominantly Black labor union, is born in Crescent City, Florida.

1896 – Booker T. Washington receives an honorary degree from Harvard University.

1915 – Walter Washington, the first mayor of Washington, D.C., is born in Dawson, Georgia.

1926 – Norma Sklarek, the first Black woman to be licensed as an architect in the United States, is born in Harlem, New York.

APRIL 16

1862 – The District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act, or simply Compensated Emancipation Act, a law that ended slavery in D.C. by paying slave owners for releasing their slaves, is signed by President Abraham Lincoln.

1864 – Internationally known singer Flora Batson, known as “The Double-Voiced Queen of Song,” is born in Washington, D.C.

1947 – Basketball Hall of Fame center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is born in New York City.

1994 – Ralph Ellison, author of “Invisible Man,” dies in New York City at 81 of pancreatic cancer.

view

P INT

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

Reflecting on the past, what advice would you give to your younger self?

CHASITY ANDERSON / WASHINGTON, D.C.

JENNIFER WELLS / LAWRENCE, N.J You are enough!

This will pass. Let them be. Keep pressing on. Just do you!

SHAILYN STAMPER / WASHINGTON, D.C

LAKISHA HOWARD / PHILADELPHIA, PENN.

How you start is not how you have to finish!

“Do it anyway!” I missed so many experiences/opportunities because I was scared or let someone else talk me out of it.

N. ROY / WASHINGTON, D.C

Don’t be afraid. Go for it. Speak your mind. Start saving now. Needs over wants. Don’t give up, and trust the process. Trust the Lord and just keep praying.

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Our staff is made up of writers, just like you. We are dedicated to making publishing dreams come true. Trusted by authors for nearly 100 years, Dorrance has made countless authors’ dreams come true.

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Residents Outraged at Trump-Appointed U.S. Attorney Plan ‘Make D.C. Safe Again’

Critics Say Initiative Targets Black Men

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

The Trump administration’s push to enforce a controversial executive order “Make D.C. Safe Again,” has sparked outrage among residents, community leaders, and legal advocates in the District following an announcement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office charging 18 individuals — all of them Black men — with federal firearms violations in March alone.

Interim U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., appointed under President Donald Trump’s return to power, announced the surge in prosecutions as part of the administration’s law-andorder agenda focused on harsher penalties and transferring local gun possession cases to federal court.

“The United States Attorney’s Office is continuing its work to Make D.C. Safe Again by aggressively prosecuting violent offenders, adopting eligible Superior Court cases into District Court, and coordinating federal and local resources,” Martin said in a statement. “Our efforts directly support the president’s executive order to restore law and order in the District.”

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Metropolitan Police Department are key partners in the initiative. ATF Washington Field Division Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood declared, “We remain steadfast in our mission of fighting violent crime in D.C.”

However, critics point out that none of the 18 individuals charged last month were accused of committing violent crimes. Instead, the cases include arrests stemming from traffic stops and street encounters in neighborhoods like Southeast and Logan Circle.

In one case, a man was arrested after officers claimed a gun fell from his pocket as he walked away from a liquor store. Another was apprehended after running from police while smoking marijuana. A separate case involved three men arrested in a vehicle containing red Solo cups, an open bottle of tequila, and firearms.

Defense attorneys and residents have raised serious concerns about racial targeting and the broader implications of moving cases from local court to federal court. This change allows for harsher sentences and eliminates access to D.C.’s Youth Rehabilitation Act. That Act provides first-time offenders under 25 with an opportunity for lighter sentencing and the chance to have their records sealed after completing their sentence.

“This crackdown is locking up only young Black men,” veteran D.C. attorney Heather Shaner said in a published report. “I’m just so sick of seeing these young men being stopped, and a gun is found in the car with each of these kids, and yet the cops had no

reason to go into the car. Or an officer thinks he sees a bulge and stops and frisks them. They’re driving while Black or walking while Black.”

According to data from the U.S. Sentencing Commission, D.C.’s federal court averaged just four firearms-related sentences per month from 2014 through 2023 — 93% of them Black individuals. The 18 charged in March under the Trump administration’s executive order mark more than double the usual number.

Community members say the initiative mirrors a 2020 effort that also disproportionately impacted Black neighborhoods in the District. At a recent community meeting hosted by the Anacostia Coordinating Council, Martin faced pointed questions and audible frustration from more than 200 residents gathered in Southeast D.C.

Lamont Mitchell, chairman of the Council, called on Martin and federal law enforcement to go after gun suppliers instead of neighborhood residents.

“We have a plethora of gun violence in this city and in our community, yes,” Mitchell said. “But what are you planning to do to intervene with these gun shipments?” WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5District residents seek answers from U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr. (far right on stage) during a recent Anacostia Coordinating Council meeting. Many local leaders and residents are frustrated with Martin’s “Make D.C. Safe Again” plan, which they say targets Black men as 18 individuals, all Black were charged with federal violations in March alone. (WI File Photo/Robert R. Roberts)

Busy Time for Rep. Norton as She Champions Local Control, Quality of Life for D.C. Residents

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

The first week of April was a busy time for Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), who was deep in the trenches fighting for the District she has long represented—pushing forward on multiple fronts that impact the daily lives of more than 700,000 Washingtonians.

Norton, a senior member of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit, has introduced a new bill aimed squarely at improving the quality of life for residents living near train corridors.

Her legislation, the Train Noise and Vibrations Reduction Act of 2025, calls on the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to submit detailed recommendations to Congress on how to reduce train noise and vibrations near homes— and provide cost estimates for each proposal.

“D.C. residents are increasingly contacting me about the negative impact train noise and vibrations are having on their health, quality of life, and even the structural integrity of their homes,” Norton said. “Although trains provide an essential mode of transportation, Congress should examine whether there are viable, cost-effective ways to mitigate the harms caused by long-term train noise and vibrations.”

Under the proposed bill, the GAO would assess factors such as train speed and frequency, operational hours, track and train modifications, proximity of tracks to homes, and other noise mitigation strategies. The findings and recommendations would be due within one year of the bill’s enactment.

“I have convened community meetings with the Federal Railroad Administration, the D.C. Department of Transportation, and the Federal Highway Administration to examine how to reduce train noise and vibrations,” Norton said in her official statement introducing the bill. “A GAO report can

help us identify viable, long-term solutions for communities.”

But while pushing for practical solutions to improve living conditions in the District, Norton is also fending off what she characterizes as politically motivated attempts to undermine D.C.’s autonomy.

Just days before, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) introduced a bill to rename a stretch of 18th Street NW in Dupont Circle as “Jimmy Lai Way,” in honor of the jailed Hong Kong democracy activist. Norton swiftly responded, saying the move amounted to congressional overreach into local D.C. affairs.

“By renaming the street in honor of Jimmy Lai, we show solidarity and offer our continued support for this champion of democracy and human rights and all those in Hong Kong arbitrarily detained simply for exercising rights the Chinese Communist Party guaranteed them in an international treaty,” said Smith. “Yesterday’s sanctions underscore that freedom for the people of Hong Kong is a priority for the Trump Administration. President Trump boldly promised to gain Jimmy Lai’s release, raising the stakes for the Hong Kong and Beijing governments.”

However, Norton pushed back.

“No matter how well-intentioned an initiative is, it is never appropriate for members of Congress not elected by D.C. residents to legislate on local D.C. matters, particularly quintessentially local ones like street names,” Norton said. “D.C. is not a blank slate for Congress to fill in as it pleases.”

She reminded lawmakers that D.C. residents pay more federal taxes per capita than any state and deserve full self-governance.

“There are more than 700,000 D.C. residents who live here permanently, who elected me to serve them in Congress, and who are worthy and capable of self-government,” she said. “Rep. Smith was elected to serve the interests of his constituents in New Jersey, who stand to gain nothing from his recent encroachments on D.C.’s right to govern itself.”

AROUND THE REGION

Smith also attempted to nullify the District’s Insurance Regulation Amendment Act of 2024 through a disapproval resolution. However, Norton pointed out that the congressional review period under the Home Rule Act had already expired, rendering the resolution ineffective even if passed.

“There is never justification for Congress overturning laws enacted by D.C., but Rep. Smith’s disapproval resolution comes too late to be effective,” Norton said. “Moreover, Rep. Smith was elected to serve the interests of his constituents in New Jersey, who stand to gain nothing from this fumbled attempted attack on D.C. home rule.” WI

4Eleanor Holmes Norton is deep in the fight for the District she has long represented—pushing forward on multiple fronts that impact the daily lives of more than 700,000 Washingtonians. (WI File Photo)

If you’re a DC resident aged 55+,

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The National Cherry Blossom Festival took over the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood for Petalpalooza®, presented by Chase. The fun, day-long, all-ages celebration brought performances to multiple outdoor stages, interactive art installations through the Petalpalooza Art Walk, and more, all along the banks of the Anacostia River. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

Thomas Vines reads the latest news in The Washington Informer. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

https://www

NAREB’s National Campaign Focuses on Building Intergenerational Wealth

Five DMV Sites Host National Building Black Wealth Tour, Laurel Business Owner Says Homeownership is Healthy

By Zerline Hughes Spruill WI Staff Writer

Growing up, Ginger Plummer Mair’s father, a property manager and buyer, drilled down the importance of having three steady forms of income.

Soon after graduating from Howard University, she heeded his advice.

She purchased her first home in Upper Marlboro by age 25, began investing in stocks, and started Ginger Roots, a tea and herb apothecary as a home business which turned into a storefront in the Laurel Shopping Center in 2024.

On Saturday, April 12 in Prince George’s County, during the National Association of Real Estate Brokers’ (NAREB) Building Black Wealth 100 City Tour, Plummer Mair will share with community members her philosophy on homeownership as an act of self and health care, in addition to a step toward achieving generational wealth.

“Homeownership is more than just the four walls around your body,” said Plummer Mair, 46. “As an herbalist, I see housing not only as shelter but a space for healing, self sufficiency and legacy. If we think about 2020 and the pandemic where we were isolated, stuck in the house and didn’t have access to conventional, modern drugs, many people turned to holistic medicine, and just what was grown in our neighborhoods as an option for therapeutic healing.”

NAREB chapters throughout the country kicked off its Building Black Wealth Tour earlier this week with virtual and in-person events, including Sunday worship and an advocacy day, a moment to share the organization’s State of Black Housing report with legislators and community members.

Friday is Financial Fellowship Day, a call to support Black businesses featuring a scavenger hunt.

It all culminates Saturday with Black Wealth Day when NAREB leaders and guest speakers will educate communities about building generational wealth in an effort to close the racial wealth gap and ensure economic stability for individuals and families.

shop topics will include mortgage education and financial planning, assistance programs and resources, wellness, prayer and access to mental health support, estate planning and financial empowerment, legal guidance on wealth preservation, and homeownership accountability.

“Where you live and even what materials your house is built with has a huge factor in your health,” said Plummer Mair, who will focus her discussion on wellness. “Materials that are sustainable create healthier living environments and less long-term medical expenses. Those are considerations we should make when purchasing a home. When families have access to land, they can look at how to grow on their land and then when it’s time to pass down their homes, they are also passing down land, the resources around it, natural remedies, and the power to thrive.”

Five cities in the DMV are hosting in-person events Saturday, including: Washington, D.C., Woodbridge, Virginia, and Maryland stops in Glenn Dale, Silver Spring, and Fort Washington. Events will also be livestreamed.

“This is an opportunity for a reset in our community,” said Charisse Callender-Scott, vice president and treasures of Prince George’s Realtist, an NAREB affiliate. “That’s the spirit of which is coming out of this effort. This is an opportunity to have one-on-ones with realtist professionals, mental health professionals and attorneys. Sometimes, we just need a safe space to share what happened, what our story is and get the guidance needed to finish the next chapter of your story. This is the environment we are hoping to create during the Black Wealth Tour.”

WHAT TO EXPECT, GAIN FROM THE BLACK WEALTH TOUR

The tour sites will include education stations, financial checkups, mental health resources and workshops and discussions highlighting community-driven solutions to empower attendees with actionable steps to thrive despite today’s obstacles.

In Prince George’s County, work-

Shirvan Joseph, a mortgage banker for FitzGerald Financial Group/ TowneBank Mortgage will educate attendees on first-time home buying. He said developments in technology will allow people to use a QR code on Saturday to pre-qualify attendees in just 20 minutes.

“This is an opportunity for people to understand the process and terminology,” said Joseph, who has been in the field for 39 years. “If you’re concerned about setting up your family for security, shame on you for not participating.”

The dismantling of key legislation that has historically supported Black wealth creation makes events like this critical to ensuring economic stability for future generations, said NAREB officials.

While the real estate industry is influx with rising interest rates, a waning supply of homes and an unpredictable job market particularly for federal government employees, residents may be thinking this is not the right climate to consider purchasing, refinancing or even attending an event encouraging investing in property. However, Shirvan said not to fret. WI

Read more on washingtoninfromer.com.

5Ginger Plummer Mair represents the best ofgenerational wealth as a homeowner who has created several income sstreams, including her herbal shop. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Prince George’s County Political Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

MARYLAND HOUSE OF DELEGATES AND SENATE AGREE ON $67 BILLION BUDGET

In the closing days of Maryland’s legislative session, the House of Delegates and Senate agreed on a balanced $67 billion budget, which will include roughly $1.6 billion in additional revenues and roughly $2 billion in spending cuts.

This budget closes a $3.3 billion budget deficit, and Gov. Wes Moore touts that most Marylanders will not see a tax increase under his budget.

Some of the new revenues following the April 4 budget agreement will come from increasing the tax on sports betting 15% to 20%, the sales tax on recreational cannabis from 9% to 12%, and higher taxes for Marylanders making over $500,000 annually.

There will also be a 6% sales tax levied on vending machine purchases and a $5 tax on tires will go to the state’s Transportation Trust Fund.

“We made sure our core programs are solid and funded. In the process, we’ve been grownups. A big difference, I think from what you see at the federal level,” said Del. Ben Barnes (DDistrict 21), who serves as the House Appropriations chair. “We know we had to take cuts, and we took about $2 billion in cuts, but we also raised revenues to make sure our core values are protected and funded.”

Moore’s budget also cut nearly $30 million from services to disabled Marylanders, which has been met with criticism by advocates and families of those affected.

During late negotiations, Senate President Bill Ferguson (D- District 46) cautioned that some severe cuts were potentially on the table, including cutting dental coverage for Marylanders on Medicaid and a significant

reduction to food assistance.

“We are constitutionally required to balance our budget. We will, and we are going to make additional cuts. We are at the place now where we are talking about core service provision of the social safety net that’s impacted if we just had a cuts only approach,” said Ferguson. “And so yes, it is scary, and we know that. This is what we should be counting on government to be able to provide. And I believe most Marylanders agree.”

The state also passed a 3% tax on IT services, expected to bring in $500 million in annual revenue. Some of the quantum computing businesses that operate in College Park, including Ion Q, have been given exemptions to this new tax.

During budget discussions, more than 400 business representatives spoke before a committee to argue that the proposed business-to-business (B2B) service tax would harm their businesses and lead to rising costs on consumers. Moore stated he was not in favor of the B2B tax or a proposed soda tax.

The governor initially supported expanding alcohol sales to grocery stores, but the bill did not pass through the General Assembly and Moore did not support the legislation.

Following the opening months of the Trump Administration’s efforts to cut federal spending and reduce the federal workforce, Maryland’s future budget picture is only worsening. A Board of Revenues estimate in early March predicted a $280 million reduction in annual revenues and the projected $3 billion budget deficit that was patched this year will grow in

coming years.

Moody’s, a credit rating agency, recently reported that Maryland is the state that is the most at-risk of economic repercussions as a result of Trump Administration actions.

The rainy day fund will retain $2.1 billion following the budget agreement. Last year, the General Assembly passed a $63 billion budget.

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S CUTS REMOVE HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS FROM MARYLAND SCHOOLS

Following the Trump Administration’s massive cuts to education funding through the American Rescue Plan (ARP), Maryland schools have lost hundreds of millions in funding.

Much of this funding has already been allocated and several school districts have reported that they are suspending services immediately.

Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) is pausing some mental health and immunization services, specialized tutoring, and ongoing construction projects such as roofing and air-conditioning repairs as a result of these cuts.

“We have been advised to freeze any remaining spending tied to these funds. Impacts could potentially include halting programs already in progress, canceling or scaling back mental health services and teacher training and resources, and pausing construction projects indefinite-

ly,” read a statement from PGCPS. “However, we are financially obligated to pay vendors for goods and services already rendered. We urge the U.S. Department of Education to honor its commitment and ensure school districts can continue providing the services our students need to succeed.”

Linda McMahon, secretary of the Department of Education, stated that extending deadlines for COVID-related grants years after the COVID pandemic ended “is not consistent.”

She told Maryland’s government on March 28 that the department, which placed 4,133 workers on administrative leave the week before, is withholding up to $418 million in pandemic recovery funds, causing a $305 million deficit in the current year’s education budget.

University of Maryland assistant professor Keisha Allen told the Diamondback, the college’s newspaper, that federal cuts will weaken public education and limit access to higher education, particularly for historically marginalized communities.

Congressman Glenn Ivey (D- District 4) explained the cuts reduced $95 million from PGCPS almost immediately.

“The fact they could come back and try to claw back the money or not reimburse for commitments that are already made, I think, frankly, is illegal,” said Ivey. “It looks like the stuff he used to do as a private citizen. He’d hire people to do millions of dollars worth of work and then just stiff them. But here, you’re not just stiffing vendors, you’re stiffing school kids.” WI

5Speaker Adrienne Jones (pictured center) presiding over the House of Delegates during the closing days of Maryland’s 447th legislative session. (Anthony Tilghman /The Washington Informer)

5Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson during the annual celebratory Sine Die, signaling the end of the legislative session. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

Prince George’s County Local Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

FORMER FAA OFFICIAL

SHANNETTA GRIFFIN APPOINTED TO LEAD MARYLAND AVIATION ADMINISTRATION

Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld named Shannetta Griffin as the new executive director and CEO of the Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA), which oversees the management, operations, and maintenance of BWI Airport, Baltimore County’s Martin State Airport, and the state’s regional aviation assistance program.

Governor Wes Moore (D) touted this appointment with pride.

“Her leadership will take Maryland to new heights, ensuring our airports continue to generate economic growth and provide safe, reliable, and convenient travel

experiences,” Moore wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Griffin has decades of experi ence as a professional engineer. She was previously appointed as the associate administrator of Airports for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on June 7, 2021, by former President Joe Biden (D) and Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg.

She also served as the chief commercial officer for the Columbus Regional Airport Authority.

“I have full confidence in Shannetta to lead MAA and help grow BWI Marshall Airport, one of Maryland’s most significant economic engines,” said Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld following her April 4 appointment. “Her proven leadership and commitment to promoting safety, fostering economic growth and providing premiere customer service ensures BWI Marshall remains one of the top airports in the region.”

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5Maryland Gov. Wes Moore celebrates the appointment of former Federal Aviation Association official Shannetta Griffin to lead the Maryland Aviation Administration. (Courtesy Photo/X)

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

WORK WHERE YOU PLAY,

THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2025, 12 NOON-6 PM The Show Place Arena 14900 Pennsylvania Avenue, Upper Marlboro 20772

CONGRESSMAN GLENN IVEY MARYLAND’S FOURTH DISTRICT

JOLENE IVEY PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY COUNCIL AT-LARGE MEMBER

Prince George’s County Local Updates

LOCAL from Page 13

FEDERAL JUDGE RULES PRINCE GEORGE’S RESIDENT ILLEGALLY DEPORTED TO EL SALVADOR, COMMUNITY RALLIES FOR RETURN

Dozens gathered at the Greenbelt courthouse to hear the ruling for Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Hyattsville resident who was deported to El Salvador by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, awaiting to learn if he could return to his family. Cheers erupted upon District Judge Paula Xinis’ ruling to bring him home. President Donald Trump (R) has asked the Supreme Court to block this ruling.

Immigrant advocacy and assistance organization CASA de Maryland demanded the return of Abrego Garcia, who was given legal protections in 2019 based on fear of danger if he were returned to El Salvador.

“CASA is outraged that ICE deported CASA member Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia in vi-

olation of a court order and at grave personal danger. In 2019, a judge issued an order prohibiting the government from deporting Kilmar to El Salvador based on the risk of persecution Kilmar would confront if returned to El Salvador. That order still stands,” said CASA in a public statement. “Yet, in an act that they now refer to as an ‘administrative error,’ ICE ignored that court order, and disappeared him into a notorious Salvadoran prison. Kilmar joined three planeloads of deportees; many of whom – like Kilmar – have never been charged with a crime.”

Xinis’ ruling emphasizes Abrego Garcia’s swift return home.

“If there was ever a case for an emergency stay pending appeal, this would be it. Abrego Garcia is presently being held in El Salvador, by the El Salvadoran government. The United States does not have control over Abrego Garcia. Or the sovereign nation of El Salvador,” read the federal judge’s ruling. “Nevertheless, the court’s injunction commands that… somehow, Abrego Garcia’s return to the United States in— give or take— one business day. That order is indefensible.”

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5Dozens gather at the Greenbelt courthouse to advocate for the return of Hyattsville resident Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, who a judge ruled was illegallydeported to El Salvador. (Courtesy Photo/CASA)

Aimee D. Griffin, Esq

It was 60 years ago that the Washington Informer entered the stage of sharing news about and for the Black community of the Washington DC metropolitan area. The vision of Calvin and Wilhemina Rolark, to be able to shape the narrative in 1964 of the community by the people who are living the story came to life in the Washington Informer. Entrepreneurship is not easy. It’s even more difficult when you are doing something to represent the people who are often disadvan-

Celebrating Legacy at the Informer

taged and marginalized. The resources are not easy to be pooled for those with less discretionary income. However, it wasn’t their dream because it was easy. It was a dream because they saw a need and decided to be the vehicle to meet the need.

The Rolarks were community activists through politics and publishing they were making and recording history.

The mantel was passed to Denise Rolark Barnes upon the passing of her father. Denise is committed to continue the important work that her family had begun and has incorporated the next generation into the work with her son Lafayette as the publisher of the Washington Informer Bridge DC that informs the next generation.

The commitment to legacy building as exemplified by the Rolark heirs is not something that comes easily. It takes intentionality to build on a dream and decision to create values that can be thoughtfully passed on.

The Washington Informer has had

more than 60 years of bringing news and information that makes a difference to the community that may not be shared through the typical channels and through a lens of people who are culturally aligned with the readers.

Denise grew up with the newspaper and understood completely the mission, goal and purpose. She shared the goals and committed her professional life to standing in the mission. While it was not easy, she saw the need and walk in that purpose.

The Washington Informer is a voice for the community. As we reflect on the times that we are currently facing, it is familiar to the struggles that the Black community was fighting 60 years ago. It was a bit more than 60 years ago that we had the March on Washington to advocate for civil and economic rights.

Aimee D. Griffin, Esq. Life and Legacy Counselors

1401 Mercantile Lane, Ste 271, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774 5335 Wisconsin Ave NW Ste 440 Washington, DC 20015 1100 N. Glebe Road, Ste 1010, Arlington, VA 22201 www.yourestateplanningattorney.com (855) 574-8481 connects all locations

There is a renewed frustration and advocacy for civil and economic rights with the current administration. There is indeed a call for another protest this month with civil and economic rights as the focus.

The legacy that The Washington Informer has established with a commitment for being a voice for the voiceless is applauded and appreciated. We celebrate the effort that may feel unappreciated but needed during this time.

I personally thank the Rolark Barnes family for the sacrifice of time, talent and treasure to build a legacy that supports not a family but a community and a country.

Dreaming of homeownership?

DC4ME provides D.C. government employees, including independent agencies and other government-based instrumentatlities, a first trust mortgage at a reduced interest rate.

BUSINESS

By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

THE OCC RECOGNIZES

APRIL AS NATIONAL FINANCIAL LITERACY MONTH

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) recognizes April as National Financial Literacy Month and encourages national banks and federal savings associations to support efforts to improve the financial literacy and fiscal health of their customers.

“National Financial Literacy Month emphasizes the importance of helping consumers increase their knowledge and skills to make sound financial choices, enabling them to build wealth now and into the future,” said Acting Comptroller of the Currency Rodney E. Hood.

The OCC is dedicated to making resources available to help banks support financial literacy education and services. The office encourages banks

briefs

to promote financial literacy with high-quality financial education programs and resources, and by identifying opportunities to expand access to services to customers.

The agency also has community affairs officers across the nation to assist banks in supporting quality financial literacy education, services, and resources in their communities.

Last year, under the Biden administration, the OCC celebrated April as “National Financial Capability Month.”

“The OCC is dedicated to equipping banks with the necessary resources to deliver top- tier financial literacy education and service,” according to an April 2024 post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

No matter the name, the priorities of the month-long celebration remain education and empowerment.

“During National Financial Literacy Month, we encourage banks to

5 Monica Goldson is the president and CEO of Junior Achievement of Greater Washington. (Courtesy Photo/Junior Achievement of Greater Washington)

consider innovative strategies to educate and empower consumers to use capital wisely, build financial assets,” said Hood, “and understand and avoid increasingly sophisticated financial frauds and scams.” WI

DCHA NAMES VETERANS TO KEY POSTS

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) has announced the naming of experienced affordable housing industry professionals to top positions in the Public Housing Program.

Carolyn Kornegay Punter has been appointed as senior vice president of Property Management Operations (PMO), Christal Williams as senior vice president of Human Resources and Labor Relations, and Faith Rogers as senior advisor to the executive director, expanding the agency’s policy expertise.

“Each new appointee brings a commitment to collaboration, a history of innovation and a deep knowledge of their field to DCHA,” said Executive Director Keith Pettigrew. “By adding these insightful and dedicated leaders to our team, DCHA is better positioned to effectively and efficiently serve D.C. families and uphold our mission to provide quality affordable housing.”

This is a homecoming for Punter, who returns to DCHA from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), where she served as the regional director for the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity for the Mid-Atlantic region.

As senior vice president of PMO, Punter’s duties will include directing on-site managerial staff; monitoring

5 Keith Pettigrew is the executive director of the District of Columbia Housing Agency. (Courtesy Photo/ DCHA)

compliance with federal, local and agency regulations and procedures; ensuring efficient property administration; and advising executive leadership on short- and long-term property operations.

Punter will begin leading PMO on April 14.

Williams brings an extensive background in human resources and labor relations to DCHA. Immediately prior to joining the agency, she was the deputy chief human capital officer at the Architect of the U.S. Capitol.

A graduate of The George Washington University Law School, Williams’ professional history also includes serving as the director of human resources for the District’s Department of Transportation, the senior employee and labor relations advisor for D.C. Water, and legal counsel for the Office of Labor Relations and Collective Bargaining within the Executive Office of the Mayor.

Rogers also comes to DCHA from HUD, where she led operational strategy as chief operating officer, a presidential appointment. With a juris doctorate from Howard University and a background working in the private sector and federal government, Rogers adds depth to DCHA policy matters and intergovernmental relations.

As senior advisor to the executive director, Rogers will establish and maintain relationships with stakeholders; support internal coordination in response to stakeholder issues; and lead collaborations among federal officials, local government and DCHA to ensure preparation for the impact of any policy or regulatory changes.

Williams and Rogers began with DCHA on March 24.

“The Board of Commissioners is thrilled that these well-qualified

and impressive professionals are now contributing to the advancement of DCHA,” said Board Chair Raymond Skinner. “We look forward to utilizing their vast knowledge and experience as we continue to improve DCHA operations and generate positive outcomes for the families we serve.” WI

TEENS ARE ‘TERRIFIED’ OF FINANCIAL FUTURE: STUDY

A new study reveals that 43% of teens aged 13-18 are worried they won’t have enough money to cover their future needs and goals, despite more high schools offering financial literacy courses.

The survey by Junior Achievement and MissionSquare Retirement’s Foundation found 45% of high schoolers took a personal finance or financial literacy class at school, up from 31% in 2024. While 64% of students who took these courses rated them extremely or very helpful, the data shows significant knowledge gaps remain.

The survey also revealed that:

• 68% of teens believe saving for retirement is something they can think about later in life.

• 43% think an 18% interest rate on debt is manageable and can pay off over time.

• 80% have never heard of FICO credit scores or do not fully understand their purpose.

• Teens’ three most appealing investing strategies are savings accounts, side hustle and keeping cash at home.

• When receiving money, only 36% save for their future, 23% save for education and 13% invest.

Junior Achievement offers rigorous multi-year curriculum aligned with state educational standards across nearly 100 organizations nationwide. Their programs cover personal finance, investing, economics, entrepreneurship, career planning and creative thinking.

The Wakefield Research study surveyed 1,000 nationally representative U.S. teens between Feb. 3-10, with a sampling variation of plus or minus 3.1%.

“With more states adopting financial literacy requirements, the research suggests that not all courses are achieving their full potential,” said Dr. Monica Goldson, Junior Achievement of Greater Washington president and CEO. “Financial literacy programs must embrace evidence-based strategies that not only deepen knowledge but also shape positive attitudes and behaviors.” WI @JamesWrightJr10

Mayor Bowser Responds to Trump’s Tariffs, Musk’s DOGE Cuts

By Demarco Rush WI Contributing Writer

While highlighting local businesses in Northwest, D.C. on Monday, April 7, District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser discussed the potential effects the Trump administration’s newly implemented tariffs on foreign imports could have on the nation’s capital.

“We don’t know the impacts but we are monitoring it closely,” said Bowser, considering District residents and entrepreneurs as she toured businesses at The Parks at Walter Reed. “We regard small businesses and their growth as important to our growth agenda.”

Bowser’s tour of the Northwest businesses came after announcing a $500,000 investment through the Walter Reed Retail Opportunity Grant to “support businesses activating retail areas on The Parks at Walter Reed campus.”

The tour started at the DC PopUp, a collective of women and mi-

nority-owned businesses part of the D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development’s Made in DC Program.

Open businesses at The Parks at Walter Reed include: The Charmery, Chase Bank, DC Pop-Up, District Dogs, Livewell Animal Hospital at the Parks, JINYA, Juneberry Garage, Nail Saloon, Starbucks, and Whole Foods. In addition, other businesses are coming to the Walter Reed campus, including: Blue’s Coffee Shop, McCuiston Group Pediatrics and Lactation, Pere Wine Bar, Slice and Pie, Tropical Smoothie Café, and True Value Hardware.

Rahama Wright, curator of DC Pop-Up and CEO of Shea Yeleen, was ecstatic about the opportunity to showcase local small businesses.

“We are incredibly grateful to Mayor Bowser and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development for awarding this grant,” Wright told the Informer.

“They reached out to us and asked if we wanted to do the pop up here and we, of course said, ‘we would love to!’”

While she is appreciative of the opportunities provided through the grant funding and curating DC Pop Up, Wright, like many Washintonians, is worried about the Trump administration’s tariffs affecting residents and businesses.

“I think everyone’s going to be impacted,” Wright said. “In this time of uncertainty, all businesses are going to be impacted but for small businesses, it’s going to be much more difficult to overcome. Simply because they don’t have theresources to address external challenges related to the tariff situation.”

WORKING TO PROTECT DISTRICT RESIDENTS, BRACING FOR ECONOMIC CRISIS

As Bowser met and listened to entrepreneurs and District workers, she also reacted to the cuts made by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, to

downsize the federal government and cut spending it deems as “waste, fraud and abuse.”

“What we already know from these DOGE cuts to the federal government is that we may have up to 40,000 people who don’t have their jobs,” she said.

The mayor emphasized the importance of keeping federal workers that have been laid off in the District.

“We want to retain those residents, we want them to stay here and get new jobs here,” she said. “We want them to continue to send their kids to our schools and shop at our businesses.”

As President Donald Trump’s April

2 “Liberation Day” tariffs begin – after declaring a 10% baseline tax on imports from all countries, and higher rates for dozens of nations that run trade surpluses with the U.S. – Bowser explained how the District could be affected by the uncertainty.

“When our residents are impacted, the city impacted,” Bowser said. “If people lose jobs, if there is not as much investment income, all of those things impact revenue to the city, it’s a cascading effect on other investments as well.” WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

THE RIGHT MORTGAGE AWAITS.

5 Mayor Muriel Bowser speaks to the audience at the DC Pop Up at The Parks at Walter Reed Campus in Northwest, D.C., where she toured local businesses. (Demarco Rush/The Washington Informer)

NATIONAL

Harris, Obama, Booker Step Up as Resistance Against Trump Takes Shape

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Former President Barack Obama and former Vice President Kamala Harris have entered the public fray, joining Democratic voices like New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker and Texas Rep. Jasmine Crockett in confronting Republican President Donald Trump and his administration’s sweeping changes head-on.

After months of relative silence following her defeat to Trump last November, Harris returned to the spotlight Thursday during a rare appearance at the Leading Women Defined conference at a seaside resort in Dana Point, California.

According to The Los Angeles Times, she didn’t mention Trump by name but spoke forcefully about the anxiety many Americans are experiencing under his new adminis-

tration.

“There is a sense of fear that is taking hold in our country, and I understand it,” Harris said. “These are the things that we are witnessing each day in these last few months in our country, and it understandably creates a great sense of fear. Because, you know, there were many things that we knew would happen, many things.”

Then she delivered a line that was quite pointed.

“I’m not here to say, ‘I told you so,’” she continued, to a roar of laughter. “I swore I wasn’t going to say that.”

The appearance marked a shift in tone for Harris, who has been weighing a potential run for governor of California in 2026 or waiting until 2028 for another shot at the presidency. Still, she clarified that her political silence hasn’t equated to

surrender.

“We can’t go out there and do battle if we don’t take care of ourselves and each other,” Harris told the crowd. “I’ll see you out there. I’m not going anywhere.”

Obama, meanwhile, broke his silence during an appearance at Hamilton College in New York, offering one of his sharpest public critiques yet of Trump’s second administration. He condemned Trump’s attempts to reshape the federal government, stifle dissent, and punish those who oppose his policies.

“So, this is the first time I’ve

Director on Leave as Trump Order Targets African American History Museum and Cultural Institutions

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Kevin Young, the director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), is currently on personal leave and not leading the museum, according to Smithsonian officials.

The leave began on March 14 and will continue for an “undetermined period,” according to Kevin Gover, the Smithsonian’s under-secretary for museums and culture. Shanita Brackett, the museum’s associate director of operations, has stepped in as acting director.

Young has served as director since January 2021, succeeding Lonnie

G. Bunch III after Bunch became Secretary of the Smithsonian. Under Young’s leadership, the museum launched a digital “Searchable Museum” in the fall of 2021 and kicked off its $350 million “Living History” campaign the following year.

His unexpected leave comes as former President Donald Trump escalates efforts to reshape national cultural narratives. A recent executive order issued by Trump directs Vice President J.D. Vance to work with the Smithsonian Board of Regents on content oversight. That directive has alarmed museum officials, historians, and members of the Black community, who see it as a direct attempt to influence how history is presented—particularly Black history.

The order has cast a spotlight on the NMAAHC, which opened in 2016 under Bunch’s leadership. Once praised for unearthing America’s untold Black stories, the museum is now facing political scrutiny for content Trump labeled as divisive and anti-patriotic.

Bunch addressed the situation in a memo to Smithsonian staff, writing that the institution “will continue to showcase world-class exhibits, collections, and objects, rooted in expertise and accuracy.”

He wrote that the Smithsonian “remains steadfast in our mission to bring history, science, education, re-

been speaking publicly for a while,” Obama said. “I’ve been watching for a little bit.”

He put Trump’s actions into perspective.

“Imagine if I had done any of this,” Obama added. “It’s unimaginable that the same parties that are silent now would have tolerated behavior like that from me or a whole bunch of my predecessors.”

While calling Trump’s proposed tariffs bad for America, Obama said his larger concern lies with what he described as the White House’s alarming overreach.

“I’m more deeply concerned with a federal government that threatens universities if they don’t give up students who are exercising their right to free speech,” he said. “The idea that a White House can say to law firms, if you represent parties that we don’t like, we’re going to pull all our business or bar you from representing people effectively. That kind of behavior is contrary to the basic compact we have as Americans.”

Obama, who campaigned for Harris during the final stretch of the 2024 election, had warned that a second Trump term would endanger the nation’s democratic norms.

“Just because [Trump] acts goofy,” Obama said at the time, “doesn’t mean his presidency wouldn’t be dangerous.”

With Trump’s second term underway, the voices of resistance are growing louder.

Booker added fuel to the movement by making history on the Sen-

ate floor. He delivered a 25-hour, 5-minute speech that broke the filibuster record previously held by segregationist Sen. Strom Thurmond. Thurmond’s 1957 filibuster—lasting 24 hours and 18 minutes—was aimed at blocking the Civil Rights Act.

Booker used his record-breaking speech to denounce what he called a deliberate dismantling of government at the hands of Trump, Elon Musk, and Congressional Republicans.

“It always seemed wrong,” Booker said, referring to the Senate room still named after Thurmond. “It seemed wrong to me when I got here in 2013. It still seems wrong today.”

The New Jersey senator, a descendant of both enslaved people and slave owners, framed his marathon speech as a moral plea, reading letters from Americans affected by deep cuts and policy threats to Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, and SNAP.

“This is a moral moment,” Booker declared. “It’s not left or right; it’s right or wrong.”

With Booker’s record-setting stand, Harris’s reemergence, and Obama’s warning shots, what once felt like fragmented frustration among Democrats may now be coalescing into something more deliberate: a resistance that is visibly on the move.

“I’ll see you out there,” Harris said. “I’m not going anywhere.”

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3 Former President Barack Obama and former Vice President Kamala Harris have entered the public fray, joining outspoken Democratic voices like New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker and Texas Rep. Jasmine Crockett. (WI File Photo)

TARGETS from Page 18

search, and the arts to all Americans.”

Young’s museum career began in 2005 at Emory University, where he taught English and creative writing and served as a curator at the university’s rare books library.

In 2016, he became director of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture at the New York Public Library, one of the oldest Black cultural institutions in the United States. During his five-year tenure, he raised $10 million in funding, launched a literary festival, boosted attendance by 40%, and acquired archives from cultural icons, including Harry Belafonte, Sonny Rollins, and James Baldwin.

An author of 16 books of poetry and nonfiction, Young also serves as poetry editor for The New Yorker.

‘THE FIGHT OVER AMERICAN MEMORY’

The executive order follows Trump’s earlier efforts to dismantle racial equity initiatives, including

his 2020 directive banning diversity training in federal agencies. Historians say those efforts have evolved into a larger campaign targeting how race, power, and history are discussed nationwide.

Dr. Jerry W. Washington, an education expert who has written extensively about the cultural and political battles over historical memory, described the Trump-led effort as part of “the fight over American memory.”

In an article for The Medium, Washington wrote, “It highlights a fundamental divergence not just in policy preference, but in how we interpret history, power, and truth itself.”

He pointed to the national backlash against critical race theory as evidence of a strategy designed to eliminate discussion of systemic racism and white privilege.

“CRT became a catch-all term—a manufactured villain used to silence any acknowledgment of systemic racism, white privilege, or the real struggles of marginalized communities,” Washington wrote. “It was

never about theory. It was about control.”

Since Trump’s 2020 directive, more than 30 states have introduced or passed laws banning certain classroom discussions of race and history.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion programs have been dismantled across school districts, colleges, and public agencies.

The Smithsonian, which is considered the nation’s most visible repository of historical scholarship, is now being pulled into that campaign.

Bunch told staff that the Smithsonian would continue to work with its Board of Regents, which includes the Chief Justice, the Vice President, and members of Congress. He noted the board’s role in guiding the institution and its understanding of “the importance of scholarship, expertise, and service to the American public.”

Washington warned that what’s at stake is much deeper than a shift in policy.

“This is about more than exhibits,” he wrote. “It’s about erasing the truths that make America whole.”

5 Kevin Young, the director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), is currently on personal leave and not leading the museum. (Courtesy Photo/Smithsonian Institution, Leah L. Jones)

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Trump Slaps Highest Tariff Yet on Small African Nation

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

President Donald Trump has announced sweeping new tariffs on dozens of nations, including a record-setting 50% reciprocal tariff on the tiny southern African mountain kingdom of Lesotho — the highest levy imposed on any sovereign country by the United States.

Trump’s move targets at least 60 countries with duties starting at 10%, with Lesotho and other African nations bearing some of the heaviest hits. The White House said the tariffs are aimed at addressing what it described as long-standing trade imbalances that hurt American manufacturers.

In the case of Lesotho, the administration cited a 99% tariff on U.S. goods and a $264 million trade surplus in the kingdom’s favor as justification for the steep penalty.

Lesotho, which exports diamonds and apparel to the U.S., imported only $8 million in American goods in 2022, according to the Tralac Trade Law Centre in South Africa.

The U.S. government’s action also appears to signal the impending death of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a landmark trade deal from the Clinton administration that allowed duty-free access to the U.S. market for many African exports. The pact will expire in Septem-

ber, but trade experts say the tariffs effectively end AGOA months ahead of schedule.

“The reciprocal trade announcement policy will pull the AGOA rug from under our feet,” said Adrian Saville, an economist and professor at South Africa’s Gordon Institute of Business Science. “That will be gone. It will replace AGOA; you don’t have to wait for September.”

Other African nations are also reeling.

Madagascar faces a 47% tariff, Mauritius 40%, Botswana 37%, and South Africa — the continent’s largest exporter to the U.S. — 30%. For several of these countries, the tariffs could not come at a worse time as they struggle with severe poverty, natural disasters, or public health crises. Lesotho, for

example, has one of the world’s highest HIV/AIDS infection rates and relies on South Africa for 85% of its imports.

“African countries are being penalized for having trade surpluses, some of them achieved by pursuing export-driven development policies, as advised by the U.S.,” Bloomberg Africa economist Yvonne Mhango wrote. “Lesotho exports apparel to the U.S., a product that until recently enjoyed duty-free access and helped create jobs for the youth that migrates in large numbers to neighboring South Africa. One of Trump’s arguments for these tariffs is to bring back manufacturing jobs to the U.S. Slapping high tariffs on Africa is not going to help this narrative.”

Lesotho now joins Saint Pierre and Miquelon — a French archipelago off the coast of Canada — as the only other territory to face a 50% reciprocal tariff from the Trump

While acknowledging the setback, the South African presidency said the tariffs make it even more important to reach a new agreement with the U.S.

“The tariffs affirm the urgency to negotiate a new bilateral and mutually beneficial trade agreement with the U.S., as an essential step to secure long-term trade certainty,” the South African government said in a statement.

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5 Lesotho is one of the dozens of nations on which President Donald Trump announced sweeping new tarrifs, with a record-setting 50% reciprocal tariff. (Courtesy Photo/U.S. Department of State)

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HEALTH

Black Physicians Ponder

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

Dr. Donna Christensen loves attending meetings of the National Medical Association—the trade organization for Black physicians— in the District, especially the events where she visits her old haunt: Capitol Hill.

Christensen represented the Virgin Islands as a Democratic delegate in the U.S. House of Rep-

resentatives from 1997-2015, and served as the chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Health Braintrust. Planning ahead, Christensen made plans last year to attend the 2025 National Medical Association (NMA) Colloquium on African American Health, set for March 27-29 at the Hilton Capitol Hill Hotel in Northwest.

The former congresswoman was hoping the meeting would coincide with a Harris-Walz adminis-

National Medical Association Colloquium on African American Health, she met with some of her former colleagues. (Courtesy Photo/Facebook)

tration, but came to the District anyway for the convening, despite President Donald Trump assuming power in January.

During the conference, when participants visited the offices of U.S. senators and congressional representatives, Christensen made the rounds on her own on The Hill.

“Because I am a former member of Congress, I have a pass to get on the House floor,” Christensen, 79, told The Informer. “I had the chance to mix with former colleagues. I spoke with Maxine Waters, and she is really concerned about the Trump administration’s policy on AIDS and whether they will continue to fund it at appropriate levels. I also ran into Yvette Clarke, the chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, and she said they have plans to oppose any cuts to health care services.”

Christensen was joined by scores of her NMA colleagues as they pondered the response to Trump administration policies that call for the cutting of such programs as Medicaid and Medicare. Additionally, the organization is considering how it reacts to the firing of federal health care agency employees that play a key role in the fight against diseases that plague Americans.

“We are very concerned about the budget cuts across the federal agencies,” said Dr. Virginia Caine,

the president of the NMA. “The colloquium is so important because we are allowing policymakers, physicians in federal agencies, and physicians in private practices to come together – all of whom are directly impacted by the recent public health policy changes under the federal administration.”

BLACK PHYSICIANS SPEAK ABOUT TRUMP POLICIES

Caine, who practices medicine in Indianapolis, Indiana, said Black doctors cannot afford to be silent during this time.

“We must have the strategy, expertise and knowledge to provide solutions related to the impact on vulnerable and disadvantaged populations,” she said. “We are the ambassadors, we are the gladiators, and we may be the only ones who are standing in place trying to protect and serve our communities.”

While she would not comment specifically about the policies and performance of U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Caine did note his impact.

“A leading expert and a well-respected member of the scientific community is no longer employed at FDA,” Caine, 53, said bluntly. “That is a huge loss for the nation related to the level of expertise, research, regulation and safety.

There is a concern about the lack of knowledge at the agency level needed to make important critical decisions.”

The NMA president said the cuts proposed by the Trump administration in health care programs will have an adverse effect on patients.

“I hope that people who have not sought out health care do so quickly,” she said. “They need to hurry up and get their medical exams done. Surgeries that have been planned need to take place because Medicaid may not be available soon.”

Dr. Roger Mitchell, president of Howard University Hospital in Northwest, D.C. and president-elect of the NMA, said the organization will be at the forefront of issues related to Black health care outcomes.

“The NMA’s colloquium educates physicians about the importance of policy and health care delivery in the country, and informs policymakers what is important to the NMA, Black and brown physicians, and patients,” said Mitchell, 50. “We were able to get together with several policymakers and legislators to highlight three areas that we find important to our organization, which are the physician workforce, physician compensation and federal cuts against Medicaid.”

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@JamesWrightJr10

5Dr. Donna Christensen, a former congresswoman, uses her political relationships to understand the concerns surrounding health care on a federal level. While attending this year’s

5 Dr. Virginia Caine is the president of the National Medical Association, a historically Black association of physicians, and practices in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Courtesy Photo/National Medical Association)

Black Maternal Health Week 2025

The Fight to Change Maternal Outcomes For Black Mothers and Babies

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

Nationwide, organizations and community members are gearing up to celebrate Black Maternal Health Week (BMHW), April 11-17, to address health disparities threatening the lives and health of Black mothers and babies in and outside of the birthing room.

Nationally spearheaded by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA), the birth and reproductive justice organization has dedicated this year’s weeklong celebration to the overarching theme, “Healing Legacies: Strengthening Black Maternal Health Through Collective Action and Advocacy.” BMMA aims to galvanize efforts between Black birthing organizations to further drive systemic change in the maternal health space.

“The theme acknowledges the persistent legacies of systemic oppression(s), reproductive injustices, and health inequities that have disproportionately affected Black Mamas and people. It emphasizes the need for healing at both individual and community levels while addressing the need for restorative approaches to maternal health care,” BMMA stated in a BMHW25 press release.

While the annual observance celebrates the leadership and expertise of Black community-based organizations catering to maternity care, locally, various agencies and community organizations are doing the work to bolster greater maternal health outcomes among Black mothers across the region.

In Montgomery County, on April 12, the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is hosting the fifth annual “Right from the Start” event, at Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring, “to provide health support for Black children and families.”

Also on Saturday, Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center is holding a community Block Party, welcoming all residents and families across the District to celebrate the Ward 8 community. The newly minted hospital is preparing to officially open its doors for service on April 15.

“When we open Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health, this

for Your Health TOGETHER

Mamas Matter Alliance)

will be a facility that residents can trust, a hospital that is modern and financially stable,” Mayor Muriel Bowser said. “Today, I am grateful for all the workers, healthcare partners, and teams who are helping me keep this promise and delivering D.C.’s first new full-service hospital in over 20 years.”

UPLIFTING BLACK MOTHERS AND FAMILIES LOCALLY

The state of maternal health outcomes in the U.S.has garnered increasing concern with a high and rising maternal mortality rate, and a significant disparity compared to other high-income countries.

Just weeks ahead of Black Maternal Health Week, The Leapfrog Group, an independent national nonprofit pushing for safer patient care, released its 2025 Maternity Care Report providing an extensive analysis of distinctive national data from hospitals representing 80% of inpatient beds across the nation.

Various findings from the report reveal that, “In 1 out of every 5 hospitals, Black patients are significantly more likely to have a C-section than white patients, even when treated at the same facility”, as cesarean rates for low-risk, first-time mothers are not improving, remaining at a high rate of 25.3%. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

HEALTH

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5 Nationwide, organizations and community members are gearing up to celebrate Black Maternal Health Week (BMHW), April 11-17. (Courtesy Photo/Black

EARTH OUR

Indoor Air Quality Linked to Higher Rates of Asthma and Respiratory Infections

Dr. Patrise Holden WI Contributing Writer

Amid challenges with seasonal allergies, pollution, and environmental injustices, indoor air quality (IAQ) remains a significant public health issue in the nation’s capital.

Many District residents reside in old, low-ventilated buildings, where heating and cooking appliances such as gas stoves are prevalent. Lacking sufficient financial resources, some residents report the inability to repair and upkeep ventilation systems. As a result, these systems may release pollutants directly into homes and workspaces.

“Indoor air pollution is associated with a multitude of respiratory effects across the lifespan, including impaired lung development in childhood, greater risk for acute lower respiratory tract infections, risk for developing chronic lung disease, and increased morbidity related to asthma and COPD,” according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Populations such as children, older adults, individuals with preexisting conditions, and households of low socioeconomic status are often exposed to higher levels of indoor pollutants.

“Both short and long-term exposure to indoor air pollution can cause a range of health issues, including respiratory diseases, heart disease, cognitive deficits, and cancer. WHO estimates 3.8 million people worldwide die every year from illnesses attributable to harmful indoor air from dirty cookstoves and fuel”, a study from the National Institutes for Environmental Health Sciences details.

LOW-INCOME COMMUNITIES AND HIGHER LEVELS OF INDOOR AIR CONTAMINANTS

Financial inequity plays a key role in the level of air contaminants found in homes and the workplace.

Low-income individuals are more likely to live in older housing developments. Due to aging infrastructure, these dwellings are more prone to issues such as mold, pests, and inadequate ventilation, which are key contributors to poor indoor air quality.

Geographic location also greatly affects the quality of air in homes and workplaces. Low-income neighborhoods are often located near major roadways, industrial areas, or other sources of pollution, leading to higher levels of outdoor air pollution that directly infiltrate the air inside homes and workspaces.

“Transportation-related emissions are a leading contributor to air pollution. Polluted air from these emissions irritates the lungs of people who have asthma and makes their asthma worse,” said Kenneth Mendez, CEO of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

Employment is also a factor, as residents of underserved communities are more likely to work in jobs that expose them to pollutants, such as construction, cleaning, cooking, and waste management. Each day, these pollutants are brought back into the home.

POOR AIR QUALITY LEADS TO UPTICK IN EMERGENCY CARE

In neighborhoods like Wards 7 & 8, older homes, deteriorating infrastructure, and proximity to major traffic thoroughfares create an ideal environment for pollutants to thrive, causing a direct uptick in respiratory-based illnesses and infections, including asthma.

Dr. Janet Phoenix, a public health expert and longtime advocate for childhood asthma solutions, told The

Informer there are various reasons why young people develop immune challenges.

“When a young child is exposed to a lot of pests or mold, then they can develop an allergy to that, which can change the way their immune system develops,” Phoenix explained. “And that change is permanent. It’s something that they carry around with them for the rest of their lives.”

While residents may have access to emergency care, long-term healthcare management for asthma and respiratory illnesses often requires ongoing monitoring and medication.

Without the financial means to consistently access medical care or invest in home improvements, many D.C. residents struggle to effectively manage respiratory-based illnesses, leading to more frequent emergency room visits and hospitalizations.

“Children with asthma are at increased risk of unscheduled physician visits, emergency room visits, and hospitalizations when exposed to… allergens in the home,” a report from the National Institutes of Health on Housing and Asthma Disparities details.

SIMPLE STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVING INDOOR AIR QUALITY

While broader policy interventions

are necessary to address housing conditions and healthcare access, there are simple, proactive steps that can help residents mitigate the impact of poor indoor air quality.

Harold Wimmer, National President and CEO of the American Lung Association, emphasizes that “families can take simple steps to protect themselves from indoor air pollution, including ensuring they have a carbon monoxide detector and using a vent hood or opening a window when cooking.” Other simple steps to protect homes and workspaces include:

• Clean Air Vents and HVAC Systems: Regularly cleaning air ducts and HVAC systems can prevent the buildup of dust, mold, and other allergens. Keeping air vents clear of furniture and debris also helps improve ventilation and air circulation. Those living in apartments may even request periodic vent cleaning services from their housing providers, often at no cost to the tenant.

• Dust and Vacuum Regularly: Frequent dusting and vacuuming with a HEPA filter can help reduce allergens like pet dander, dust mites, and pollen. This simple task can significantly reduce the amount of dust and particulate matter in the home.

• Use Air Purifiers: High-quality air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters can capture airborne allergens and pollutants, improving overall air

quality in homes. Air purifiers are particularly useful in high-risk areas where pollutants accumulate quickly.

• Fix Leaks and Seal Gaps: Ensuring that windows and doors are properly sealed helps prevent outdoor pollutants from entering the home and reduces moisture buildup that can encourage mold growth.

• Control Humidity Levels: Using dehumidifiers or air conditioners to maintain optimal humidity levels (between 30-50%) can prevent mold growth and reduce the concentration of dust mites.

• Minimize Chemical Exposure: Reducing the use of cleaning products that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as certain air fresheners, paints, and cleaners, can decrease the number of irritants in the air. Opting for natural or low-VOC alternatives helps improve IAQ.

“Americans, on average, spend approximately 90% of their time indoors, where the concentrations of some pollutants are often 2 to 5 times higher than typical outdoor concentrations,” according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Taking proactive steps to improve air quality in homes and workplaces can significantly reduce respiratory triggers and foster a healthier environment for our homes, health, families, and the planet.

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5 Physicians encourage regular check-ups and simple tasks such as changing air vents to improve indoor air quality and decrease the risk of some respiratory based illnesses. (AI Photo/Freepik)

OUR EARTH

‘Treading New Ground’ Confronts

Consumerism’s Environmental Toll

Chakaia Booker’s Exhibit Reimagines Rubber as

a Reminder of Industrial

By Mya Trujillo WI Contributing Writer

In her first solo showcase in Washington in a decade, sculptor Chakaia Booker’s “Treading New Ground” at the National Gallery’s “In the Tower” series uses discarded tires to emphasize human activity’s environmental impact. By focusing on rubber tires, Booker’s work is a step toward reducing industrial waste, reusing materials and recycling them into intricately beautiful testaments toward minimizing pollution.

Curated by Kanitra Fletcher, the exhibit features three relief sculptures made of rubber tires and wood, titled “Echoes in Black (Industrial Cicatrization),” “It’s So Hard to be Green” and “Acid Rain.” These pieces, created between 1996 and 2001, highlight the ongoing fight for a cleaner and more sustainable planet.

Booker, inspired by the large volume of abandoned tires she encountered in New York City in the 1980s, has showcased tires’ versatility, using their irregularities to create various perspectives by manipulating their shape into rubber mazes of coils, rings and spikes.

“Incorporating stains, cracks… Chakaia creates a range of tones and textures that transform this industrial waste into abstract sculpture, emphasizing [human’s] relationship and responsibility to the environment,” said E. Carmen Ramos, the museum’s chief curatorial and conservation officer.

WHY TIRES?: RAISING AWARENESS, A CALL TO ACTION

Through her craftsmanship with these found objects, Booker is creating a link between monumental artistry and waste reduction.

Tires are made of polymers like rubber, nylon and silicone, which contribute to their durability and resistance to weather. These conditions are ideal for the large-scale public and outdoor projects that Booker has been producing since the 1990s.

Waste’s Lifespan

According to the Federal Highway Administration, approximately 280 million tires are disposed of every year in the U.S., with 30 million reused, leaving the remaining 250 million scrap tires to be dealt with.

While Booker understands that throwing away tires is inevitable for many motorists, she hopes people can be more conscious of what happens to their waste after disposal.

“People aren’t aware of where their tires go once they take them off their cars,” Booker told The Informer. “They drive in, put [new ones] on the car and they drive off, so there’s not that kind of concern.”

The same materials contributing to the ingenuity behind using rubber tires as an art medium are also the reason why they can’t be easily melted down and recycled into new products. Their lack of biodegradability causes them to take 50 to 80 years to break down, with many states prohibiting whole tires from landfills as they can release methane gas into the atmosphere.

The scale of Booker’s sculptures–which measure between 20 and 21 feet wide and stand 10 feet tall– draws attention to the magnitude of the constant disposal of tires. At more than two decades old, each piece shows the longevity of the materials used, opening the audience’s eyes to the fact that garbage does not disappear when thrown away.

“Just being able to see the monumental-scale piece is important because I think one of the reasons she adopted the tire is so that she could create a large-scale world,” Fletcher told the Informer. “She knew she’d have this endless supply of material because of how we go through them constantly.”

CHALLENGING AUDIENCES TO CONSIDER RELATIONSHIP WITH WASTE

According to the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association, the recycling rate for tires in the U.S. increased from 11% in 1990 to 79% in 2023, mak-

ing them “one of the most recycled products” in the nation. Sometimes scraps are made into shreds that become rubber mulch for playgrounds, additives to asphalt for increased pavement safety, athletics tracks and more.

Booker’s artwork, which started almost 30 years ago, actively repurposes these materials, which are constantly in demand and simultaneously being scrapped, but she hopes her sculptures bring the audience’s attention to their relationship with the environment across various types of waste and that people remain mindful of products’ longevity before purchasing.

“[This] becomes very important nowadays because of the abundance of the kinds of quantities that are being replicated and produced, even for clothing,” Booker said. “You have this abundance of stuff that people are wearing maybe once or twice… so they’re not thinking about the whole consumption of what that means to have something last longer.”

Fletcher hopes the exhibit will inspire viewers to take a moment and think about their relationship

with waste, transforming their perceptions of the world and inspiring them to contribute to a healthier environment and a thriving planet.

“She makes us pay attention to those kinds of materials and all the

Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School Request for Proposals Fall Protection

interesting details, textures, tones and surfaces,” Fletcher said. “If you can find beauty in those pieces, then you can think about other ways to beautify the world around us, too.”

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The Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School in Washington, DC is requesting proposals for Fall Protection. See full RFP for details and submission information at https://aohdc.org/get-involved/jobs/. Proposals are due 4/16/2025

Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School Request for Proposals General Contractor

The Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School in Washington, DC is requesting proposals for General Contractors. See full RFP for details and submission information at https://aohdc.org/get-involved/jobs/. Proposals are due 4/18/2025

5 Sculptures like Chakaia Booker’s “Acid Rain” at the National Gallery merges the destructiveness of incorrectly disposing tires with the creativity of Booker’s artistic vision to portray human nature’s effect on the environment. (Mya Trujillo/The Washington Informer)

EDUCATION

‘Go Back and Get It’: The Sankofa Conference Marks 36 Years of Re-Africanization

By Bousaina Ibrahim WI Contributing Writer

As the Trump administration works to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), Black history and the Department of Education, more than 250 educators, students, and families gathered for the 36th annual Sankofa Conference April 4–6, to uplift the legacy of re-Afrikanization through family development, nation building and spiritual restoration.

Hosted by the Ankobea Society and held at Northwestern High School in Hyattsville, Maryland, this year’s theme was “Actualizing the Onyame Nhye Hye Paradigm: Family Development and Irreconcilable Cultural Realities,” featuring discussions, a keynote speech from Howard University Afro-American studies professor Dr. Mario Beatty, and the hallmark rites of passage ceremony.

The conference called participants to explore how family structure, cultural identity, and Afrikan sovereignty are essential to surviving and thriving in a world that often undermines all three.

“We cannot depend on others to edify us in a way that will lead to our self-determination or liberation. As parents, we are the first teachers of our children. Centering nation-building on the family unit is a reminder that if we are at war, then the family is our army,” said Kentry Kinard, a long-time Sankofa attendee and father of two.

The notion of re-Afrikanization in itself is a reclamation of history and culture. Using the letter “K” instead of “C” goes back to Afrikan roots, where most traditional languages and vernacular spell words with a “K.” Europeans

substituted “C” in many instances such as Afrika to Africa, Kongo to Congo and Akkra to Accra, however in 1979 educator Haki Madhubuti, rejected that cultural imperialism with his work: “From Plan to Planet: Life Studies—The Need for African Minds and Institutions.”

With Afrikan-centered educators like Madhubuti and the late Nana Kwame Agyei Akoto, co-founder of the Ankobea Society, the re-Africanization movement has worked to empower people of all ages across the Afrikan Diaspora.

To this day, the Sankofa Conference, started in 1989, furthers that work, offering Afrikan-centered solutions to national and global challenges.

Educator Kamau Grimes called the conference a direct pushback to America’s education system.

“The climate on education is an attack on truth, and we are warriors of truth. Young Black children are alienated from our heritage and our center,” Grimes told The Informer. “There’s a particular attack on African history right now, and it’s important to recenter ourselves so that we don’t get lost.”

THE SANKOFA CONFERENCE

CONTINUES ITS MISSION OF NATION-BUILDING TO COMBAT CHALLENGES

Since its inception in 1989, the Sankofa Conference has remained steadfast in its dedication to cultural continuity and liberation-focused dialogue.

Akoto, who also co-founded the District’s Afrikan-centered school NationHouse in 1974, coined the term “Onyame Nhye Hye Paradigm,” referring to the divine blueprint of Afrikan life, family, and sovereignty.

He viewed re-Afrikanization and nation-building as rituals of healing and wanted to bring that notion in Black communities in the District and beyond.

As violent crime escalated in the District during the 1980s, NationHouse founders and 21 community members birthed the Ankobea Society, meaning “one who stays home” in the Akan language.

In 1989, Ankobea Society launched its rites of passage program for boys, and began one for girls the following year. Over the decades, both programs have supported youth and families from New York to Florida.

In his 1999 work “The Sankofa Movement,” Akoto emphasized that “national liberation and development require mobilization both at the spiritual level and the socio-political and economic level.”

For 36 years, the Sankofa Conference’s rites of passage ceremony and programming has furthered Akoto’s goal of mobilization from

a spiritual, social and economic lens.

This year’s theme “Actualizing the Onyame Nhye Hye Paradigm: Family Development and Irreconcilable Cultural Realities,” required attendees to examine the power of unifying despite modern-day racist attacks and threats to Black people around the world.

“What do we need to add to what the earliest ancestors did,” Beatty asked during the keynote address, before encouraging the audience to work toward progress.

“Something has to die for something new to be born. It’s time for new ideas. Time for the old order to die.”

THE POWER OF THE SANKOFA CONFERENCE, CELEBRATING THE SACRED RITES OF PASSAGE TRADITION

The annual Rites of Passage Ceremony is a critical part of Sankofa’s convening that works to empower young people and uplift sacred Afrikan traditions.

In 2016, NationHouse graduate and musician Kwesi Hargrove began his own rites journey with

12 other young Black men and for several months, learned from community elders months about the principles of Afrikan manhood.

“Rites gave me a sense of brotherhood that a lot of young Black men are looking for,” Hargrove told The Informer. “The men of my line are in different places today, but I still can call them my brothers.”

Hargrove’s rites brother Amoa Salaam, who was also in attendance at this year’s ceremony on April 5, took pride in watching this year’s graduates and presentations.

“Watching the young people present their knowledge to the community was beautiful and impactful. They recited their family lineage – which is deep,” said Salaam, considering his own rites of passage nine years ago. “They have to call back as far as they can of the ancestors they know. That’s a big thing for Afrikan people in the United States because a lot of us don’t have that information because of slavery. It was emotional, and people were crying. I was crying myself.”

Among this year’s graduates was 13-year-old Nasanet Ayakimaa

5 Community members of all ages participate in panel sessions on April 5, as part of the 36th annual Sankofa Conference, hosted by the Ankobea Society at Northwestern High School in Hyattsville, Maryland. (Bousaina Ibrahim/The Washington Informer)

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Eubanks, who described the experience as a transformative step into young womanhood.

“I learned to be vulnerable with my new sisters and more confident in myself,” she said. “It taught me that I can get through womanhood with the support of a community that loves me.”

Her mother, Ifeyado Crystal Eubanks, said she was filled with pride and a sweet sadness, as she watched her daughter come into her own.

“She’s always had this quiet strength,” Eubanks said. “Her feminine power burst forth in that moment. I’m really grateful to have her as my daughter and to share this experience with her.”

For Hargrove, who began attending the conference while still in his mother’s womb, it has taken some time, maturity and life experience to truly understand the value of the Sankofa Conference.

“As a child, I didn’t recognize the significance of the conference and the community around it until I grew up. In my adulthood, I now understand I have a sense of self and direction that a lot of my peers don’t have,” he explained.

Now, as a supporter for the conference and rites ceremony, Hargrove fully appreciates the convening as a means of mobilizing others, particularly considering today’s social, political and economic challenges.

“The amount of effort that goes into facilitating the conference is a lot,” he said, “but it’s needed because if we don’t, who will?”

During the confrence’s final elder circle, Nana Ansah Atei offered a reminder and call to action that rang through the room.

“It’s not too late to always go back and get what belongs to us,” she said. “As it says in ‘The Sankofa Movement,’ ‘go back and get it and bring it forward.’”

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5 The 36th annual Sankofa Conference attendees came from down south in Atlanta all the way up north from New York to gather, learn, and celebrate the mission of re-Afrikanization and nation building. (Courtesy Photo/Kwesi Hargrove)

Harnessing Emerging Technologies to Power Your Business

Sponsored by JPMorgan Chase

Nearly every area of our lives has been transformed by artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. For small business owners, AI is no longer a buzzword — it’s becoming a cornerstone of business strategy.

AI tools drive innovation, efficiency and growth, making them essential for staying competitive in an increasingly digital and data-driven world. According to JPMorgan Chase’s 2025 Business Leaders Outlook Survey, a strong majority (80%) of small business leaders are already using or are planning to implement AI. However, almost half (46%) are cautiously optimistic about its impact on their business. This year, 48% of small business owners plan to integrate AI tools, focusing on customer-facing applications like chatbots and customer service automation. Continued investment in AI and technology to enhance efficiency and competitiveness is a priority for this year and beyond.

Emerging technologies are among key considerations for small business owners planning for the future, ensuring business continuity, fostering growth and planning for successful transitions.

THE POTENTIAL OF AI

AI offers capabilities in learning, reasoning and problem-solving. In the Survey, small business owners identified several key applications for AI, including marketing and content creation, customer service automation and data analysis. AI can also benefit payment processes and other operational automation.

Large Language Models, a subset of AI, excel in processing and generating human-like text, making them invaluable for content creation and customer interaction. Integrating these technologies can streamline processes and boost productivity.

WHY EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES

COULD BENEFIT SMALL BUSINESSES

With limited resources, small business can automate routine tasks with AI, allowing employees to focus on higher-value activities. AI-driven chatbots can manage initial customer requests, reducing the workload on customer service teams and improving response times, ultimately increasing customer satisfaction.

Additionally, AI can empower startups to expand operations by complementing their existing workforce. For instance, an e-commerce startup can use AI to efficiently manage inventory, process orders and assist with customer inquiries, allowing the team to focus on strategic growth and customer engagement.

Small businesses can also develop tools tailored to their needs, rather than relying on broad third-party solutions. This approach offers greater flexibility, easier integration and tighter control over data.

THE PATH FORWARD

As innovations continue to emerge rapidly, consider developing a blueprint to identify where AI adds value, creating a roadmap for implementation and investing in the necessary infrastructure and talent. As you plan for growth and scaling, understand transition options to ensure a successful small business future.

DISCLAIMER

Automation tools enhance efficiency, while data-driven solutions like Chase for Business’s Customer Insights – a business intelligence tool that generates actionable insights from anonymized, aggregated data – help streamline operations and enhance the bottom line.

For informational/educational purposes only: Views and strategies described in this article or provided via links may not be appropriate for everyone and are not intended as specific advice/recommendation for any business. Information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but JPMorgan Chase & Co. or its affiliates and/or subsidiaries do not warrant its completeness or accuracy. The material is not intended to provide legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. product or service. You should carefully consider your needs and objectives before making any decisions and consult the appropriate professional(s). Outlooks and past performance are not guarantees of future results. JPMorgan Chase & Co. and its affiliates are not responsible for, and do not provide or endorse third party products, services, or other content.

Deposit products provided by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Opportunity Lender.

© 2025 JPMorgan Chase & Co

Cory Booker Makes History from the Senate Floor, Offers a Vision of Hope in a Season of Despair

Senator Armed with Wisdom of the Late John Lewis Throughout Record-Breaking Speech

In a history-making, 25-hour and five-minute speech, U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) not only spoke out against the second Trump administration, but bravely stood up for equity and justice, offering a beacon of light at a time of darkness for many Americans.

The New Jersey senator spoke continuously about the harmful effects of both the domestic and international agendas of the Trump administration. In doing so, he set a new record for the longest floor speech, previously held by the staunch segregationist former Sen. Strom Thurmond (R-SC), who opposed the Civil Rights Act in 1957.

While Booker only surpassed Thurmond’s record by less than an hour, everything about his actions are in direct contrast to the late racist senator.

First, Thurmond took liberties such as sitting at times, having his staff bring snacks, and setting up a bucket in the cloakroom for him to urinate while keeping a foot on the senate floor. Booker stayed on his feet without taking bathroom or meal breaks.

Nonetheless, more than six decades later, there’s an even further difference in the senators’ addresses. Booker’s speech for justice is the polar opposite

of Thurmond’s filibuster, which was used in order to continue promoting hatred and racism in the United States.

Despite years of progress since 1957, the second Trump administration— in less than 90 days— has reversed decades of forward momentum. Through executive orders and with the help of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), headed by Elon Musk, Trump has eliminated federal diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts, erased and amended Black history from government websites and institutions, and attacked “wokeness” or anything challenging the foundations of white supremacy.

Further, with his tariffs, Trump has threatened international affairs and relationships and ushered in an economic crisis.

Despite GOP leaders and MAGA supporters touting Trump’s actions, a recent survey by the Wall Street Journal reveals that 54% of voters disapprove of Trump’s tariff strategy, while three-quarters anticipate that tariffs will lead to price increases on the goods they purchase.

Additionally, the foundations of such programs, such as Social Security on Medicaid, are also under attack.

Yet, in the first genuine moment of hope, clarity, and direction since former Vice President Kamala Harris’ defeat in November 2024, Booker provided Democrats and Americans experiencing despair and hopelessness a reason to feel inspired and optimistic.

However, while Booker was not afforded any bathroom breaks, food or beverages like Thurmond, he was armed with forces more powerful than nourishment or rest. He had the support of the cloud of witnesses— pulling from the work, lives and legacy of the great civil rights and political leaders before him. “I rise tonight because silence at this moment of national crisis would be a betrayal of some of the greatest heroes of our nation,” Booker said starting his speech, invoking the name of the late freedom fighter and Democratic political leader Rep. John Lewis, who famously encouraged “good trouble.”

Wiping away tears, Booker, 25 hours and five minutes later, ended his speech, again, referencing the late congressman.

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com

Whitewashing History Will Only Result in Fictitious Fables Based on ‘Selective Memory’

The Truth Will Lead to Justice, Freedom

Efforts to whitewash American history continue under the guise of protecting our nation from the “evils” of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).

From the White House to the outhouse, DEI opponents say related initiatives focus on race and gender at the expense of individual merit. And since the changing of the guard at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Americans have witnessed a plethora of executive orders, courtroom showdowns, and social media posts decrying DEI as “reverse discrimination” in which white people are the victims.

But if our leaders were honest, they’d admit that their plan is to sanitize an almost 250-year history so that children, malleable adults and future generations can more easily swallow acts of oppression, domination and

violence from our past.

They’d like us to believe that slavery, the subjugation of women, the destruction of indigenous people like Native Americans, the Holocaust, Jim Crow, and the mental and physical assault on those who identify as LGBTQIA+ that have punctuated U.S. history were little more than minor infractions – deeds committed for the good of the nation.

However, to pull off this massive erasure of history has required a well-developed blueprint, and so far, there’s been little opposition to the game plan.

African Americans should be particularly incensed by the recent removal of nearly 400 books from the U.S. Naval Academy’s library that provide the facts behind the Holocaust, the

Civil Rights Movement and the history of feminism. But note: the initial list of items on the chopping block, according to officials, hovered at around 900 books.

In addition, the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) – one of the newest educational gems on the National Mall – was recently impacted by another executive order that, in simplest terms, counts as a blatant effort to rewrite America’s history. NMAAHC was ordered to take down certain exhibits which the president said were attempts to portray “American and Western culture as harmful.”

And early this year, again following an executive order, the Air Force removed videos of the Tuskegee Airmen from basic training courses. However,

TO THE EDITOR

Your story “Have You Thought About Moving South” was interesting and certainly caught my eye. I know the trend is to move south for a “better life,” but I would like to see the flipside of the coin and how it’s not realistic for everybody. I look forward to your reporting on the matter!

Amazing photos! Loved getting a glimpse of the 60th anniversary of the Washington Informer! Congratulations, and here’s to many more to come!

Jesse Kincaid Washington, D.C.

Yanni Porter, Washington, D.C.

the history of the World War II fighter pilots was quickly returned to the curriculum following a surge of public outcry and criticism.

As the executive director of Teaching for Change, Deborah Menkart told The Washington Informer, “We’re going to need to defend not only teaching truthfully about U.S. history in pre-K through 12th grade, but also [in] museums that help teach that history to people from all over the world who come to visit Washington, D.C. The future of this country depends on what people understand about history.”

Menkart’s observation is on the money. However, there are two famous quotations from the past that are equally accurate and must be considered by all Americans, race notwithstanding.

As Karl Marx said, “History repeats itself, first as a tragedy, second as a farce.”

And of course, the most wellknown quote about history repeating itself was said by the Spanish philosopher George Santayana: “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

While the Bible says that “the truth” will set people free (John 8:32), access to and knowledge of truth is key.

If Trump’s efforts continue in the direction they’re going, the truth will be obscured, rewritten and destroyed.

As Menkart urged, it is critical we all speak out against work to erase the diverse people who have contributed to the progress and strengthening of the nation.

Further, it’s important to combat misinformation by uplifting the truth. Preserving and revealing truths is the only way to combat hatred and oppression, and to truly be set free.

WI

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

Guest Columnist

Julianne Malveaux

Will the Hands Off Movement Have Momentum?

They rallied in Washington, D.C., and in Boston, in Chicago and Concord, New Hampshire, in Milwaukee and Asheville, North Carolina, and in 1,300 other places. A combined attendance of at least a million people came together to send a message to the president and the man who purchased the co-presidency, Elon Musk. The message — hands off our Social Secu-

“Today’s signing fulfills a longstanding personal commitment on my part. My first public office was as a county school board member. As a state senator and governor, I devoted much of my time to education issues. I remain convinced that education is one of the noblest enterprises a person or a society can undertake.”

— President Jimmy Carter

rity, our Medicaid and Medicare, our 401(k) accounts, our immigrant brothers and sisters. Organized by MoveOn, and supported by hundreds of organizations, the turnout for the Hands Off movement may be a foundation for the necessary resistance to the oligarchical perfidy we can expect from this administration.

Many were attending mass events like this for the first time. They didn’t go to the Women’s March or to the rallies against racism. They came out this time because they are outraged at the lawlessness of this administration. Many

were older, not the rallying kind, but they are apprehensive about what will happen with Social Security and other benefits. Others are federal employees, uncertain about their jobs and futures. There were teachers, nurses, attorneys, physicians, poor people and patriotic millionaires, from every demographic. The Hands Off rallies are the making of a movement.

There are a few more Hands Off events after April 5. Little Rock, Arkansas, canceled their planned gathering because of dangerous weather and will rally on April 12. Parts of Kentucky,

Marc H. Morial

managing catastrophic flooding, also postponed their gatherings for a week. The postponements are evidence of the urgency of this moment, and testimony to the focus and determination that the MoveOn team has exhibited. They seem committed to facilitating ways for people to come together, lift their voices and send a message.

Notably, the president signaled his indifference to this rousing movement by silently playing golf, failing to react, except to tout the “success” of his sweeping tariffs. Instead of lowering prices “on day one” as he promised, he

is sparking world economic chaos that will be especially harmful for people on the bottom. Like Nero “fiddling while Rome burns,” this destructive administration seems apathetic to the pain they are causing.

No one should be surprised by this administration’s reckless disregard for the Constitution, for human rights, civil rights and the order of law. Project 2025 details all of these actions, but some people don’t believe that fat meat is greasy. In other words, they heard

Defend the Department Of Education — Our Children’s Future Depends On It

President Carter’s words, upon signing the bill to create the U.S. Department of Education in 1979, ring louder today than ever before.

In a stunning act of political retribution and ideological extremism, the Trump campaign and its allies have launched a crusade to dismantle the Department of Education. The attacks are not just symbolic — they are existential. Executive orders, lawsuits and budgetary sabotage aim to gut the department’s authority, revoke billions in funding and leave America’s students — especially our most vulnerable —

without the federal oversight and protection they deserve.

The National Urban League categorically condemns this reckless and unlawful effort. In our most recent statement, we made it plain: eliminating the Department of Education would not only be a disastrous policy, but a direct assault on educational equity, civil rights and the future of economic mobility in this country.

Just this month, the department abruptly halted nearly $3 billion in pandemic-era recovery funds meant to help districts recover learning loss,

Will Ben Carson and Tim Scott Speak Up?

W. Marshall

support mental health and stabilize staffing. This sudden move, reportedly linked to political efforts to weaken the agency’s power, puts millions of students at risk — disproportionately Black, brown and low-income children.

Meanwhile, educators and civil rights organizations — including the NAACP and the nation’s largest teachers’ unions — have taken to the courts to block an executive order that would strip the department of its core responsibilities. In Congress, senators are demanding answers after reports surfaced

that Trump-era officials may have engaged in illegal mass firings to gut the department from the inside.

Let’s be clear: these are not isolated incidents. They are part of a coordinated campaign to roll back hard-won progress in American education — progress that has been essential to Black economic empowerment for more than a century.

From the creation of Freedmen’s schools during Reconstruction to the expansion of historically Black colleges

The Smithsonian Institution’s Secretary Lonnie Bunch and other staff members at the Smithsonian are upset, and they have every right to be. The Smithsonian network spans 21 museums and has become one of the latest presidential targets through an executive order titled “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History.” The order directs the removal of “improper, divi-

sive or anti-American ideology” from its museums.

The order reads, “Once widely respected as a symbol of American excellence and a global icon of cultural achievement, the Smithsonian Institution has, in recent years, come under the influence of a divisive, race-centered ideology.” Civil rights advocates, historians and Black political leaders have sharply rebuked the president for specifically calling out the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) by name in the executive order. About 60% of the

Smithsonian’s funding comes from the federal government. Bunch, the first Black person to lead the Smithsonian, said the museum will “remain committed to telling the multi-faceted stories of this country’s extraordinary heritage” in a message shared with staff members.

The NMAAHC chronicles chattel slavery, Jim Crow segregation and its lingering effects. It also highlights the determination, resilience, successes and contributions of individual Black Americans and Black institutions.

Donald Trump first visited the museum one month after taking office

during his first term. Reading Black history from a book is one thing, but it’s another to see it with your own eyes. While books can serve as a good source of information, they are no substitute for a museum filled with exhibits that bring to life the struggles and accomplishments of the Black experience. These exhibits produce knowledge and insight and give a person a level of compassion and empathy that may not have existed before. During the 2017 visit, Trump was accompanied by his nominee for Housing and Urban Development secretary, Ben Carson,

and his wife, Candy; Alveda King, the niece of Martin Luther King Jr.; Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina; presidential aide Omarosa Manigault; and his daughter, Ivanka Trump. Former Smithsonian Secretary David Skorton and Lonnie Bunch, the NMAAHC director at the time, led the tour.

“This is a truly great museum. I’ve learned, and I’ve seen, and they’ve done an incredible job. What they’ve done here is something that probably cannot be duplicated. It was done with

David

Guest Columnist

Guest Columnist

Guest Columnist

57

Years

Later, Dr. King’s Voice Still Echoes, No Matter What Trump Tries to Silence

Fifty-seven years ago, an assassin’s bullet struck the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on a Memphis balcony, and in that single, devastating moment, the world lost a moral giant, and Black America lost one of its most powerful and courageous champions.

April 4, 1968, didn’t just mark the end of a life, it ripped open the hearts

of millions who had found hope in King’s dream, his faith, and his unrelenting pursuit of justice, equality, and peace. That loss remains fresh in the memory of those who understand that King’s legacy is not just historical, it is urgent, present, and needed now more than ever.

Today, as the MAGA movement pushes a whitewashed version of American history, and as the Trump administration and its far-right allies at the Heritage Foundation threaten to release so-called “unflattering” information about King, many see the

Guest Columnist

A Must-See: Six Triple Eight

only say, you must see it!

attempt for what it is: a desperate, racist agenda that seeks to destroy truth and suppress the voices of those who dared to imagine a better America.

No matter how loudly the architects of Project 2025 plot their dismantling of civil rights, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) — no matter how brazenly they peddle disinformation and try to erase the accomplishments of Black Americans and other people of color — King’s words still thunder across generations. His sermons and speeches re-

main sacred texts for the American conscience, impossible to silence, inconvenient to white supremacy, and unyielding in their moral clarity.

In 1956, from the pulpit, King warned in “Paul’s Letter to American Christians”: “Oh America, how often have you taken necessities from the masses to give luxuries to the classes. … You can use your powerful economic resources to wipe poverty from the face of the earth. God never intended for one group of people to live in superfluous inordinate wealth, while others live in abject deadening

poverty.”

For many, that sermon rings louder today as the current administration slashes programs for the poor while enriching the ultra-wealthy. It rings in the ears of every voter, activist, and dreamer who sees Project 2025 as an assault on progress and humanity.

In his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963, King didn’t mince words: “We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality... until justice rolls down like wa-

Page 54

With all the insane things going on since Trump has been back in office, Tyler Perry came up with a film that will make you proud. It certainly makes every Black woman proud. The movie is called “Six Triple Eight,” starring Kerry Washington. I saw it on Netflix a few days ago. I don’t want to tell you the details of the movie. I will

The movie will make you cry, so I would suggest you have your tissues nearby. You’ll need them — but in the end, surely you will applaud every Black woman who accomplishes such great things even while being disrespected.

Malcolm X stood up for the Black woman when few others did. He once said, “The most disrespected person in America is the Black woman. The most unprotected woman in America is the Black woman. The most neglect-

Guest Columnist

ed person in America is the Black woman.” As our sister, Maya Angelou said, “Still We Rise!” We’ve just concluded Women’s History Month. I pray we’ll not end discussing the history we’ve just heard about our sisters. I am so proud of the great things Black women and Black men accomplish under brutal circumstances.

We now have a president and his team who continue to try to humiliate and discourage us by cutting out Black History programs, taking down photographs and

Breaking the Barriers to Black Relationships

At 43, I have spent years reflecting on the complexities of sisterhood among Black women in America. In early adulthood, I personally struggled to build these bonds. Many of my relationships felt situational — based on shared spaces rather than genuine connection. That absence of sisterhood brought frustration and made me hesitant to open up in the future.

This struggle is widespread. Dr. Clenora Hudson-Weems, in “Africana Womanism: Reclaiming Ourselves,” argues that true liberation must be rooted in our unique cultural identity. It’s about strengthening bonds on commonality, not division between the distinct yet complementary roles within our communities. This approach differs from feminism, which arose largely from white women’s grievances with their counterparts. Colonialism and systemic oppression disrupted traditional African commu-

nal values, leading to competition, distrust and rivalry. Humans learn these behaviors; they do not inherit them. They weaken the bonds that once defined us as African people.

Modern media amplifies this reality, reducing conflicts between Black women to “drama” while masking deeper wounds. At the same time, shifting attitudes toward relationships show that many young Black women are choosing singlehood — not out of preference but due to distrust and misalignment with Black men. These trends raise critical questions about

memorials of many of our heroes like Jackie Robinson, and alluding to the fact that they have their eyes on removing things from the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.! These ugly characters – like the man with very few good accomplishments himself, if any – will never take away our dignity! So, if they take one memorial down, let’s put up two more!

I am proud to have worked with Dr. C. DeLores Tucker, Dr. Mi-

chelle Battle, sculptress Artis Lane, the late Rep. Sheila Jackson-Lee to get a memorial of Sojourner Truth placed in the U.S. Capitol in 2009, making Truth the first Black woman to be honored there. I urge you to find places in your community where you can place memorials to Black people who’ve done great things in your area. You don’t have to look very far to find Black people to honor because our people do the near impossible dai-

WILLIAMS Page 54

how we are socialized to engage with one another.

Culturally based rites of passage programs for Black girls can address these issues. My organization, ReGeneration180, created the Daughters of the Diaspora program to counter internalized oppression and foster genuine sisterhood. The Seven Principles of a Virtuous Daughter form the foundation of this program:

— Teachability (Iluti) – Open to learning and growth.

— Endurance (Titu) – Overcomes obstacles with resilience.

— Insight (Oju-Inu) – Understands herself and the world.

— Patience (Suuru) – Navigates relationships with grace.

— Calmness (Ifarabale) – Maintains peace under pressure.

— Originality (Oju-Ona) – Expresses herself while honoring culture.

— Sensitivity (Imoji-Mora) –Strengthens emotional intelligence and empathy.

These principles shape leaders grounded in culture, community and

HIGGINS Page 54

J’Nefer Celesta Higgins

Stacy M. Brown

E. Faye Williams BROWN

LIFESTYLE

WASHINGTON INFORMER WEEKEND CHECKLIST

WASHINGTON INFORMER'S

Things To Do, DMV!

By Tait Manning WI Intern

April is in full swing, and as The National Cherry Blossom Festival officially comes to a close, there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate the beginning of National Poetry Month.

From free poem giveaways at Planet Word, to the 2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, check out a handful of the many events happening to keep your spirit – and social life – lit.

To keep up with all the fun, don’t forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar to stay up-to-date on DMV happenings year round.

THURSDAY, APRIL 10

AS WE ARE: An Open BIPOC Art Making Group

6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. | Free 1325 5th Street NE, Suite C, Washington, D.C., 20002

“As We Are” is a monthly open art-making group with a therapeutic intention that gives BIPOC (Black, indigenous, people of color) individuals an opportunity to be a community while engaging in art therapy interventions.

Hosted by Pre-licensed Art Therapist Imani Shanklin Roberts, this open group will be an opportunity to establish a deeper sense of awareness, build inner and group harmony and ultimately move toward individual and collective healing.

Using a variety of mediums, participants will utilize creative pathways to externalize, transgress, and transmute issues related to stress, isolation, fear, anxiety, safety, love and more in communion with others.

Planet Word Poem in Your Pocket Day 2025

Noon - 2 p.m. | Free Planet Word, 925 13th Street, NW, Washington, D.C., 20005

Celebrate Poem in Your Pocket Day 2025 with Planet Word.

During the event, find staff in blue shirts with a basket of poems in Franklin Park during lunch to pick up a surprise poem. Then, visit Planet Word where its Short Story Dispenser has been stocked with lots of poems just for the day.

Guests are encouraged to print out a poem before they go, and immerse themselves in the sounds of poetry in the museum’s hidden Poetry Nook.

5Performers dance at the 2019 National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade. This year’s parade is on Saturday, April 12, and will bring together top marching bands, extravagant floats and celebrity performances. (Courtesy photo)

FRIDAY, APRIL 11

Art of Pink

5 p.m. - 10 p.m. | Free Metropolitan Park, 1330 South Fair Street, Arlington, VA, 22202

Enjoy an immersive art and music experience celebrating cherry blossom season.

As part of Art of Pink, Browse the BLOOM pop-up gallery featuring 90 DMV artists, enjoy local bites and makers at the Blossom Night Market and catch an electrifying breakdance showcase with beats by DJ Fleg (of Olympic breakdancing fame).

In addition, explore Metropolitan Park retailers, snap Instagram-worthy photos and soak in the vibrant nighttime atmosphere.

Imagining Joy with James Baldwin and the Kritikos Reading Group Noon - 3 p.m. | Free Mason Exhibitions Arlington, 3601 Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA, 22201

A quick trip to Arlington will allow guests to imagine joy with James Baldwin in the current art exhibition, “Nothing Personal: A Collaboration in Black and White.”

This exhibition closely examines the book, “Nothing Personal” (1964), a collaborative artwork in book form by two legendary American artists, James Baldwin, the African American writer, public intellectual and civil rights activist, and Richard Avedon the Jewish fashion and portrait photographer.

Join Kritikos reading group at Mason Exhibitions in Arlington to examine the exhibit and unpack

original and archival photography. Mitchell will be in conversation with Glory Edim, a literary tastemaker, entrepreneur, and advocate for diverse voices in literature. In 2015, Edim founded Well-Read Black Girl, an online platform and book club dedicated to celebrating the works of Black women authors and creating a supportive online community for readers.

Spring Arts and Crafts Workshop

Noon - 2 p.m. | Free

Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Place SE, Washington, D.C., 20020

Join the Anacostia Community Museum for arts and crafts for the whole family.

these legendary artists.

SATURDAY, APRIL 12

2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | $25.00+ Constitution Avenue NW, between 7th and 17th Streets, Washington, D.C., 20004

In a high-energy celebration, the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade brings together fantastical helium balloons, dazzling floats, top marching bands from across the country, celebrity performances, and more in the nation’s beloved springtime parade.

This year’s lineup includes Grand Marshal Ken Jennings of “Jeopardy!,” dance diva Crystal Waters, American Idol season 19 contestant maryjo, Asher HaVon, the first LGBTQ+ winner of The Voice, Deejay Young from Broadway’s “Hamilton,” CAMEO, and Quad City DJ’s–all ready to get the crowd moving.

Plus, powerhouse vocalist Kathy Sledge of Sister Sledge and family will rock the street in an unforgettable performance.

Katie MitchellProse to the People 6 p.m. | Free Politics and Prose at Union Market, 1324 4th Street NE, Washington, D.C., 20002

Thoughtfully curated by writer and Black bookstore owner Katie Mitchell, “Prose to the People” is a great addition to the shelves of anyone who loves book culture and Black history.

Though not a definitive guide, this dynamic book centers profiles of over 50 Black bookstores from the Northeast to the mid-Atlantic, the South and the West Coast, complete with

Participants will be crafting items reflective of spring, from wooden tulips, to butterfly suncatchers, bunny masks for children and pinwheels. The workshop will be led by local artist Tamara Thomas.

SUNDAY, APRIL 13

The R&B Club Revisits the Legacy of Mariah Carey Noon - 2 p.m. | $15.00+ Songbyrd Music House, 540 Penn Street NE, Washington, D.C., 20002 Songbyrd Music House will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of Mariah Carey’s album “The Emancipation of Mimi” through song and discussion.

Participants are encouraged to bring their karaoke chops and be ready to sing songs like Carey’s “Shake it Off” and “Fly Like a Bird.”

The R&B Club is a cultural gathering founded in 2018 that discusses the influence of R&B music. In other words, think of it as a musical book club-style meetup.

New Wave Showcase

7 p.m. | $12.00

DC Improv, 1140 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., 20036

Enjoy great stand-up comedy in downtown D.C. at the New Wave Showcase.

This showcase features stand-up talents who are newer to the DC Improv stage–a wave of comics who are ready to show what they can do.

Attendees will see a variety of styles and get up close with some of the stars of tomorrow.

The lineup for April 13 includes: Stacey Axler, Benny Nwokeabia, Justine Morris, Victor Gonzalez, Patty Mata, Nelson Fuentes, Elizabeth Booker Houston and Pete Bergen. WI

5 New York-based DJ and producer DJ Fleg will be performing at “Art of Pink” on Friday, April 11 in celebration of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. In addition to his music, there will be a pop-up art gallery and night market. (Courtesy photo)

War

and Treaty

Brings

Innovative Sound, Cultural Roots to Howard Theater on April 11 Country Duo Dishes on Significance of New Album, ‘Coming Home’ to D.C.

By Jada Ingleton WI Digital Equity Fellow

Soulful harmonies, bold cross genres, and a masterclass in African American virtuosity comes to Northwest, D.C., on April 11, as Tanya and Michael Trotter of The War and Treaty anticipate an electric tour performance of their fourth studio album “Plus One” at Howard Theater.

Amid a six-month international tour, the husband-and-wife duo joined WIN-TV’s “Let’s Talk” live from Amagansett, New York on April 4, fueled by elated spirits and candid reflections to discuss the significance of the upcoming show and namesake record.

“We bring who we are, we don’t change who we are,” Tanya Trotter, formerly Blount, told The Informer on “Let’s Talk.” “This is an invitation to our fans, as well as to Nashville, to join in on what we’re doing with our gospel-country stuff…to allow peo-

ple to come into who we are.”

As The War and Treaty marks its triumphant return to Washington, D.C. — where each vocalist has roots — the evening promises a captivating experience of undeniable chemistry, musical exploration, and recognition for the roots of Black culture in history.

“I want people to come to our concert to learn something, to learn the return, to learn what we started,” Michael Trotter explained. “To learn all the styles that you hear, every genre that is birthed, was birthed out of the gut, and the heart, and the soul and the mind of our people.”

The War and Treaty’s ‘Fitting’ Return to Washington, D.C.

For the spiritually infectious Trotter duo, performing at Howard Theater on April 11 is what the wife boosted as a “full-circle moment.”

Tanya Trotter revealed she used to perform on Georgia Avenue during

April

5Michael Trotter Jr., and Tanya Trotter (formerly Tanya Blount) take the gospel-country scene by storm with the Feb. 14 release of The War and Treaty’s fourth studio album, “Plus One,” a journey of resilience, love and empowerment examined through raw vocals and cross genre blends of country, gospel, rock and blues. (Courtesy Photo/The War and Treaty, Instagram)

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WAR AND TREATY from Page 33

former D.C. Mayor Marion Barry’s Street Theater event, which promoted youth in the arts. The husband then reminisced on winning his first singing competition at the annual Future Fest in 1996, which he considers a “life-changing experience.”

Moreover, Tanya Trotter was among a lineup of reputable musicians chosen to perform at Howard Theater’s Grand Opening Gala Fundraiser on April 12, 2012, after the historic landmark site underwent a 32-year hiatus and $29 million renovation.

“It’s just fitting that right off of Georgia Avenue is the incredible Howard Theater, and we’ll be coming back to that,” she said.

Besides the initial exposure to live crowds, the wife and actress said Washington, D.C., is instrumental to the style and musicality of The War and Treaty, which debuted in 2014.

She spoke of her faith upbringing in a “little church” on 50th and B Street in Southeast, where she also delved into the musical interests that later fruitified the passion and sound of the Grammy-nominated duo, who now resides in Nashville, Tennessee.

“Whenever we approach music–whether it’s gospel, country, folk, Americana, rock and roll–the foundation is gospel music. That’s where we’re rooted, and that’s where we come from,” she told The Informer.

“Everything I learned, it’s inspired and comes from D.C.”

Michael Trotter emphasized his appreciation for his “strong roots” in

the nation’s capital, noting the significance of returning home as not only a celebration of upbringing, but of growth and transformation, specifically where it all started.

“I’m so very excited to be able to come home with D.C. songbird Miss Tanya, and be able to offer something different that we have,” he said, “and we do have something different.”

‘PLUS ONE’ BUILDS BRIDGES, REIGNITES

BLACK CULTURE IN COUNTRY GENRE

Officially released on Feb. 14, War and Treaty’s “Plus One” album encompasses a love letter to country music that unapologetically works to redefine stereotypes and limitations often imposed on the genre.

The 18-track project – revered as “a testament to the power of love, hope, and human connection” in Americana Highways – leverages raw vocals with the creative elements of country, gospel, rock and blues to “bring something different” to mainstream music, according to Michael.

“In country music radio, specifically, we want a different perspective,” the husband said, noting the deep roots of western swing in the history of African American agriculture and enslavement. “We’re going to bring some…of those things that’ve been whitewashed out of country music.”

Credited co-writers on the album include country icons like Miranda Lambert and Jesse Frasure. Further, producers like Frasure, Jonathan

Singleton, John Shanks and Trotter himself laid the tracks to bring an elevated sound to the mix. Meanwhile, synergized melodies, live instrumentation, and inclusive lyricism invokes a deeper look into the strength of diverse influences and how it can transform the boundaries of music seen today.

“What if D’Angelo did a song with George Jones, or Dolly Parton did a song with Aretha Franklin? What would that sound like…How would that feel?” Tanya Trotter told The Informer. “We’re giving people thoughts. They’ve never seen it before, it’s never been done before.”

With this in mind, the She Loves Vintage CEO said “Plus One” is a testament to the foundation of The War and Treaty itself.

“When people say, ‘What are you bringing to country music,’ we’re [bridge-builders]. We don’t just blend genres–we bring people together, we blend hearts, people’s choices,” said the singer and entrepreneur, “and we have been able to do that with the last 10 years of our music.”

As the duo proceeds to tour now through September, Michael Trotter said he hopes that audiences will embrace the elevated sounds of The War and Treaty as a unit, and particularly find inspiration in the breadth and beauty of Black culture in all artistry.

“When Black people create, we innovate. That’s the truth,” he told The Informer. “We just want to remind America and abroad that there is a beautiful perspective waiting to take place again.” WI

5The War and Treaty perform in Toronto, Canada on April 1 amid the Plus One World Tour. The Grammy-nominated duo will perform at Howard Theater in Northwest, D.C., on Friday, April 11. (Courtesy Photo/The War and Treaty, Instagram)

The 3rd Annual Jazz and Blossoms Jam Spreads Joy Through Music

By Tait Manning WI Reporting Intern

Despite rainy weather, people flocked to Franklin Park in Northwest, D.C. for the third annual Jazz and Blossoms Jam on Sunday, April 6, uniting attendees of all ages for an all-day celebration of hip-hop, jazz and poetry, centered around a shared message of joy, community and cultural pride.

The event was part of the Words, Beats and Life Festival (WBL), organized in partnership with DowntownDC Business Improvement District and the Na-

tional Cherry Blossom Festival, and closed out the four-day series of concerts and art exhibitions.

“The whole idea is to create an event that you could bring your grandmother to, but you could also bring your kids too, or you could come on your own to enjoy some good music,” said Mazi Mutafa, founder and executive director of Words, Beats and Life, a non-profit that aims to elevate the voices of young creatives through hip-hop arts education.

In its third year, Mutafa em-

5Legendary hip-hop group Arrested Development closes out the third annual Jazz and Blossoms Jam on Sunday, April 6, as the audience tries to stay dry under umbrellas at Franklin Park in Northwest, D.C. (Tait Manning/The Washington Informer)

5Attendees double dutch while waiting for the next performance to start on Sunday, April 6. (Tait Manning/ The Washington Informer)

Where beauty lives.

JAZZ from Page 35

phasized why the 2025 Jazz and Blossoms Jam was particularly important.

“We have a desire to be witnesses and advocates for joy,” Mutafa said of his organization’s mission. “And it becomes especially important in a moment where there is so much misery, uncertainty and sadness, to be a space that is dedicated to connecting families and celebrating the beauty of our communities in D.C. and beyond.”

The jam featured performances by Masta Ace with Sound of the City, Kokayi, Ra Brown, and headliner Arrested Development. It also included food trucks, small business vendors, a family fun zone for kids and haiku and origami creation stations, promoting a connection to Japanese culture in honor of the ongoing Cherry Blossom Festival.

Attendees ranged from college students, to families, to long-time fans hoping to hear some of their favorite 90s hip-hop classics.

“Music is the universal language, you don’t even have to understand the lyrics,” said Chinomso Njelita, 25. “The poet who started the whole concert, [Ra Brown], some people probably didn’t know what she was saying, but then they heard the beats that were behind it and people started coming up

and standing up there and kids were jumping, and one guy was up there like it was a whole sermon.”

Like Brown, performers used musical storytelling to communicate messages of cultural uplift.

“It takes a certain amount of boldness to get out here and still do conscious music in an age of unconsciousness,” rapper Speech said as crowds braved the weather to catch Arrested Development’s closing set. “Here we are on the stage in D.C. and we’re rocking for y’all words of wisdom, affirmation, lifting the brothers and sisters up despite rain, despite whatever comes at us, we’re still moving strong and forward.”

Other artists emphasized the need for positive and inspiring music, especially among youth, in today’s musical, social and political landscape.

“There’s enough destructive music and not enough music that’s uplifting and enlightening. These kinds of celebrations are very necessary for the community. It’s some way to make them feel optimistic about the future,” Masta Ace told The Informer. “In these days and times where there’s efforts to strip away art programs and culture, these types of events are super important so we can teach our young people to stay engaged and creative through the arts.” WI

Photo: Erik Kvalsvik

for all people to speak out against the Trump administration’s attacks on diversity, history and human rights, many faith leaders, churchgoers and alike used the day of protests to reaffirm their responsibilities to offer a call to action: reject injustice, seek truth and help those in need.

“This is an outright battle for civilization, and the truth is, they are scared of your power to come together, and they are betting that we will be afraid of them, but this is the time that we must increase, intensify and embolden our agitation for what is right,” said activist Bishop William J. Barber II , president and senior lecturer of Repairers of the Breach and cochair of the Poor People’s Campaign, in his address to the crowd.

The Hands Off protest marked the largest day of organized action since President Donald Trump’s January inauguration, with rallies taking place in 1,300 different locations throughout the U.S. In a unifying action, millions took to the streets Saturday with the same demand: that government officials prioritize the fundamentals of democracy rather than capitalist interests.

“We must declare that the only way a wannabe king can be king is if we bow down,” Barber continued, “but bowing down is not an option.”

Many marchers took to the streets to protest the thousands of federal workers and their families who have been negatively affected since Trump assumed office on Jan. 20 between federal cuts and executive orders.

The second Trump administration launched the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), motivated by a desire to reduce federal spending. Through this initiative and presidential executive orders, thousands of federal workers have been laid off from their positions; numerous diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs have been dismantled; and plans of shutting down the Department of Education are currently in the works.

Near the foot of the Washington Monument, thousands of protestors waved signs denouncing the Trump administration’s actions. Featuring slogans calling for the support of federal workers, urging people to “deport hate” and save democracy, attendees

used their words– whether spoken or written– to display their grievances with the president.

Father and son Leslie and Jasen Sowers were part of the crowd on the National Mall, each carrying signs that towered over their heads displaying phrases that encouraged onlookers to stand up to the government, fight for their rights and assemble to impeach Trump.

The father expressed his disdain for the current administration and his desire for immediate change.

“I think it’s time that people stand up,” he told The Informer. “In less than 90 days, he has completely destroyed our government and economic system.”

Agreeing with his father, the younger Sowers acknowledged that the systems in place are not just and emphasized that political leaders should be held accountable.

“In order for the system to be fair, you have to play a part for your people that are instilling you in these seats,” the son, 39, said. “You need to help the people, and if you’re not going to help [them], then you need to be removed.”

LOCAL CATHOLICS EMPHASIZE COMMITMENT TO JUSTICE

Since Trump’s inauguration, faith leaders across denominations, including Barber, the Rev. Al Sharpton, Pastor Jamal Bryant and the Rt. Rev Mariann Edgar Budde, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, have been using their platforms to combat racism, hatred and injustices.

However, lay leaders and everyday churchgoers alike are also speaking out, and Saturday many Christians joined the protest to emphasize the need for positive change.

“The government really should not be imperial. It should be balanced,” said Lydia Curtis, cochair of the Africa and the Diaspora Ministry at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in Northwest, D.C. “They need to back off.”

With approximately 167 years of history as the District’s first Black parish, many consider St. Augustine’s, the “Mother Church

Local Funds Act to the House to fix what, by that time, had been characterized as an error more so than an infringement on local budget autonomy.

Though Senator Susan Collins (D-Maine) assured her colleagues that the bill would make it through the House, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has made little, if any, movement on the legislation, even with President Donald J. Trump’s support for it.

“They plan to go on vacation and not fix this situation and that is not going to work for us,” said Keya Chatterjee, executive director of Free DC, a movement centered on bolstering the fight for D.C. statehood and self-determination.

On Monday morning, Chatterjee counted among several dozen parents, youth, teachers, elected officials, and organizers who gathered at Spirit of Justice Park—located just feet from Longworth House Office Building— in preparation for another installment of “Recess at the Capitol.”

In March, when the continuing resolution first made it to the Senate, District public and public charter school students and their families occupied a portion of the Hart Senate Office Building, during the inaugural “Recess at the Capitol.”

They did so in demand of the Senate protecting District budget autonomy. Since the Senate’s approval of the District of Columbia Local Funds Act, Free DC members have made the rounds in Longworth and other House office buildings, engaging congressional representatives and staffers in conversation about what residents stand to lose.

This grassroots organizing took place as the Bowser administration, unsure about how Fiscal Year 2025 would end, postponed its submission of its Fiscal Year 2026 budget. Last week, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) told reporters that she plans to submit a budget proposal this week, near when the House is scheduled to break for a recess that lasts until the end of the April.

As of last month, the District government has spent below the expenditures earmarked for this part of the fiscal year. However, Bowser administration officials warned of an impending fiscal cliff that, if not addressed, would result in immediate layoffs and reduction in District government-operated services and programs.

With several children, parents and organizers behind her, Chatterjee, mother of a 14-year-old student, gave

5Kimberly Perry, a Ward 2 mother and head of D.C. Action, says that losing federal funding would be detrimental to young people and families in the District, a jurisdiction that, despite the high cost of childcare, has been responsive to the needs of working parents. (Courtesy Photo/DC Action)

a warning of her own to a Congress that she said exploits its proximity of D.C. residents, who are at-risk of losing academic instruction, extracurricular activities, transportation options, and other programs already included in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 budget.

“What’s going to happen if we face this $1.billion-plus shortfall and our kids can’t go to school five days a week. Where do you think we’re going to send them? They’re going to go right into these people’s offices,” Chatterjee said. “If we have to furlough transit workers, how’s their [congressional] staff going to get to work? If our sanitation workers get furloughed, I know where I want to take the trash and it’s these trash folks behind us who are stealing our own money.”

Elizabeth Kalmbach, Speaker Johnson’s press secretary, didn’t immediately respond to The Informer’s request for comment.

Other bills to be considered on the House floor this week include: Prioritizing Veterans Support Act; Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act of 2025; and Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserves Tuition Fairness Act of 2025.

Before wrapping up her remarks, Chatterjee spoke clearly about her mission.

“What we’re going to do today and what we need to do this week is make it really clear that [House members] should not be going on vacation without passing the DC Local Funds Act.”

THREATS TO PUBLIC AND PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL BUDGETS

As D.C.’s budget continues to hang in the balance, students and adults alike are mulling over what would become of their academic experience with a $1.1 billion shortfall. The meeting at Spirit of Justice Park on Monday allowed space to answer that question, with comments from: D.C. State Board of Education Reps. Jacque Patterson (At large) and LaJoy Johnson-Law (Ward 8); Kimberly Perry of DC Action, Barry Wilson of ATU Local 689, and Washington Teachers’ Union President Jacqueline Pogue Lyons.

Malysha Cook-Terr, a sophomore at Anacostia High School, also weighed in. At a podium set up in the middle of the park, she spoke about her extracurricular activities, all of which she called a refuge and much-needed resource in the post-pandemic era.

“It goes outside the classroom. Our after-school programs keep us engaged and out of harm,” said Malysha, a member of Anacostia High Schol’s robotics club, track and field and volleyball teams, and student government association. “The possibility of losing this $1.1 billion in educational funding, [it’s] not just a number, [it’s] life-altering some, [something] that could drastically affect our schools, teachers, and most importantly, the children.”

When it comes to her peers, Malysha pondered how they would fare without what she called a much-needed safety net.

“We risk the undermining of progress that we have made in providing quality education to all students in D.C.,” Malysha said. “Teachers who are already stretching thin and going above and beyond to support us may face layoffs. STEAM programs, sports, and other extracurricular activities could be eliminated entirely.”

At a time when District public school teachers are planning whether to return next school year, Pogue-Lyons said that surrounding school districts could be a more attractive option to teachers seeking stability.

“With all the complications with the budget, I can’t say that they feel encouraged to stay,” Pogue-Lyons said. “Anybody that lives and works here knows that our teachers can go up and down the block, across the river, and over the bridge to get a job. Those jobs in those other places are not worried about a billion-dollar deficit right now.” WI

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Migration,” said Keith, a Bethesda, Maryland resident who declined to reveal his entire name. “They came in from the south due to Jim Crow oppression and they never let me forget how mean and nasty people were and that it could happen again.”

Four days after President Donald J. Trump announced his executive order, titled “Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History,” Keith and his daughter entered a landmark that has a growing collection of artifacts and primary source documents related to the trials, tribulations, achievements and advancements of African Americans.

Amid anxiety about changes likely coming to the museum, Keith said he wanted to see the lengths to which the second Trump administration would go in hiding the country’s racially turbulent history.

“What happened before,” Keith said as he gave a run-down of his favorite exhibits.. “Things that could easily be forgotten such as the Green Book or Emmett Till, the Civil Rights Movement… the history of the transatlantic slave trade…to see how wicked slavery and Jim Crow were, and the progress on how Blacks came from all that.”

A HISTORIC LANDMARK, NOW UNDER SIEGE

NMAAHC, the world’s largest museum dedicated to African-American history and culture, opened in 2016 during a week-long celebration headlined by then-President Barack Obama. As the Smithsonian Institution’s second-most visited museum, and the eighth most visited museum in the U.S., NMAAHC represents the culmination of a decades-long campaign to create a federally-owned home for African-American history.

Lonnie G. Bunch III served as the museum’s founding director. From 2005, shortly after the passage of legislation authored by Congressman John Lewis to launch NMAAHC, until 2019, when he became the Smithsonian Institution’s first Black secretary, Bunch oversaw collections, traveling exhibits, planning and building.

Kevin Young, who became the next permanent NMAAHC director in 2020, took a leave of absence on March 14, nearly two weeks before President Donald J. Trump announced the controversial executive order.

Currently, NMAAHC has more than 40,000 artifacts in its possession,

5Leah Tadege, then-fifth grader and National Society of Black Engineers junior, plays with engineering modules during Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Day at the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) in D.C. in February 2020. Since its inception, NMAAHC, in addition to preserving Black history, has served as ground zero for culturally affirming and historically relevant programming. (WI File Photo/Anthony Tilghman)

nearly 3,500 of which are on display.

Patrons often start at the bottom of the museum, an environment reminiscent of the Middle Passage. During what’s estimated to be a three-to-six hour trip through the museum, they peruse through African-American and Diasporic Black history spanning more than 400 years.

Exhibits of note include: a letter by Haitian Revolution hero Toussaint L’Overture; a reassembled South Carolina slave cabin; items owned by Harriet Tubman; the desk of founding Chicago Defender publisher Robert S. Abbott; the dress Rosa Parks was sewing on the day she refused to give up her seat to a white man; Muhammad Ali’s boxing gloves; a collection of hiphop photographs; and the 2008 NBA Finals uniform of Kobe Bryant, NBA legend and founding NMAAHC donor.

While a group of Pan-African organizers coalesced around a campaign for a full Kwanzaa exhibit, they haven’t found much success.

For Dr. Deborah LeBlanc, NMAAHC instills a sense of pride. So much so, that she’s made at least five visits since the museum opened.

“Each time I come, I always go away with a little bit more information about my history,” LeBlanc told The Informer on the afternoon of March 31.

LeBlanc, an educator, entrepreneur and civic leader from Southern California, made her latest visit to NMAAHC while in town for a conference hosted by the American Society for Public Administration, where she was scheduled to conduct a presentation about cybersecurity.

She said this particular excursion to the museum, in the aftermath of Trump’s announcement, struck a bit differently.

sion under the leadership of native Washingtonian and social entrepreneur Dionne Reeder. Within a matter of weeks, FSFSC will accentuate its work when it partners with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and other D.C. agencies to prevent youth crime.

That collaboration, Reeder said, would be on her terms.

“We’re there to help with strengthbased approaches, not approaches that tell [families] what’s best for them, but…they’re going to tell us what’s best for them,” Reeder said.

community safety walk in Navy Yard with Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Markita Bryant and Emeka Moneme, executive director in the Capitol Riverfront Business Improvement District.

JIRU, Smith said, aims to build upon year-to-date reductions in local crime by: expanding outreach to young people who are already involved in the justice system; investigating violent offenses that involve youth; and identifying and apprehending youth with outstanding custody orders.

“It’s a real disservice,” LeBlanc said. “Because this history is real, and I think that [the Trump executive order] plays into the alternative truth narrative by taking it away.”

For more than an hour, LeBlanc, like other patrons, made her way through NMAAHC, which she said sparked thoughts, not only about her ancestry, but a recent trip she said affirmed the uniqueness of the African-American experience.

“I really like the part about the transatlantic slave trade, and how it showed which parts of Africa the majority of Africans came from, and where they took them,” LeBlanc said. “It’s even more significant to me, because I am literally just coming in last night from a 22-day cruise from Barcelona across the Atlantic [where] I got a chance to really connect with the whole journey.”

Since its inception, NMAAHC, in addition to preserving Black history, has served as ground zero for culturally affirming and historically relevant programming.

For instance, Teaching for Change hosted, as part of its Zinn Education Project, a two-day institute at the museum in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Education. Other projects, including those centered on early childhood education and D.C.-area Reconstruction Era history, have allowed the local nonprofit to interact with exhibits at NMAAHC while providing a platform for contemporary scholars, like Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum and Dr. Kate Masur, the latter of whom authored “Freedom Was in Sight! A Graphic History of Reconstruction in the Washington D.C. Region.”

WI

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“We come from a community in Ward 8 where there’s a lack of a lot of things, so we have to deal with what the environmental effects look like as we’re trying to impact these children’s lives.”

During the latter part of last week, as District leaders and residents alike were awaiting word from Congress about whether D.C.’s current fiscal year budget, and all that it funds, would remain intact, Reeder counted among those who converged on Navy Yard in support of MPD’s newly formed Juvenile Investigative Response Unit (JIRU).

Once JIRU fully launches later this month, it will operate within MPD’s Youth and Family Engagement Division with the goal of strengthening the police department’s youth outreach, preventing youth criminal offenses, and curbing youth recidivism.

Through the initiative, Reeder and FSFSC will soon be immersed in conversations with District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS), D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation, D.C. Department of Human Services, D.C. Department of Behavioral Health, D.C. Child and Family Services Agency, Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS), and Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement.

For Reeder, it’s the perfect opportunity to go above and beyond addressing roadblocks to youth and families’ economic stability.

“They don’t want anything different,” Reeder said about the residents she serves. “They want opportunities. They want money. They want jobs.”

CRIME DOWN, BUT MORE WORK TO BE DONE

MPD Chief Pamela Smith and D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) announced JIRU’s launch during an April 3 event that preceded a

“While our team at the Youth and Family Engagement Division and our detectives at the Investigative Services Bureau have done an excellent job at closing many of our cases, it has become evident to me that we need to dedicate a group of detectives and investigators to specifically focus on the issues facing our youth,” Smith said on April 3.

In recent weeks, MPD, DCPS and other agencies have been receiving reports about on-campus brawls at Ballou High School in Southeast, as well as youth criminal activity across the city. Smith said JIRU places MPD in the best position to maintain communication with those most at risk of committing or becoming a victim of violence.

“We want to keep our youth out of the criminal justice system as a whole,” Smith said. “We will focus on those who reoffend, and we will prioritize intervention-driven accountability. We will work to identify and interrupt ongoing disputes to disrupt future offenses from occurring.”

However, with staffing changes in the U.S. Justice Department, and D.C.’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget under threat, neither Smith nor Bowser may not be able to realize this vision unless the House approves the District of Columbia Local Funds Act.

Bowser said just as much last week when she explained to reporters how a sudden $1.1 billion budget cut could prove detrimental to D.C. government agencies that directly engage youth.

“We know that cuts in education programming affect young people and out-of-school time and other things so that could have impacts on crime,” Bowser said. “We know that if you cut school lunches, another way that kids eat, that can have impacts on crime. We know that if teaching and teaching staff are affected, that could have impacts on crime.”

WI

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I love this because: I

because: I

this because: I love this because:

this because: I love this because: Look at the pictures of the natural resources Earth provides for us. Put a heart around each of the natural resources that you especially love. Under each one, write a sentence about how you will care for, conserve and appreciate this resource.

Look through the newspaper and make a list of companies in your

Fun Facts

Look through today’s newspaper for five facts. List the facts and circle any you think are fun to know. Whether or not the fact is fun or not would be your opinion.

© 2025 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Je Schinkel, Graphics Vol. 41, No. 19

review wi book

Poetry Books by Various Authors

c.2025, Penguin

$18.99-$20

Various page counts

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

A, B, B, A.

That’s not only how you spell the name of a popular music group. That’s also how a poem might be structured, if it rhymes, or it might be created in other ways. That’s the thing about poetry: it’s all how you perceive it when creating it and reading it. So why not think about putting these great poetry books on your shelf this month?

When you spend time with poetry, you expect a certain kind of relationship between author and reader. That’s only part of what you get in “The Space Between Men” by Mia S. Willis (Penguin Poets, $20). It might also change the way you feel.

Here, Willis — a poet, historian, and educator — explores culture, Black history, and what it’s like to be Black, Southern, and queer. When those various experiences come together in poetry here, it invites readers to consider the width and depth of the spaces, and their mere existence.

If short but image-fueled poetry appeals to you, this book is worth a good look.

Poetry can take your thoughts in many directions, including thoughts about yourself. If you’re hungry for soul-searching, then try “Is This My Final Form?” by Amy Gerstler (Penguin Poets, $20).

Life doesn’t follow a straight line. Some things are two things at once and situations can change, which are two points that seem to be everywhere inside this book. Is this a series of biographical poems with a twist of imagination, or are the poems in here a collection of new perceptions and ways to embrace what could be? Read, and think about it because it’s up for a reader’s interpretation. However you perceive these poems, you may chuckle sometimes. For sure, you’ll want to read them again and think anew.

And finally, if your child loves the beauty of poetry and wonders how to create poems, then “The One and Only Rumi” by Rabiah York, illustrated by Maneli Manouchehri (Penguin, $18.99) is a book to bring to the table.

Here, children will learn the story of Muhammad, a wise young boy whose life changed when Genghis Khan came to his village. Muhammad was only allowed to fill a bag with possessions and he knew he’d miss the birds and the friends he’d made at home. His father said it was unlikely that they’d ever return.

Yes, there were other birds and other friends in his lifetime, but Muhammad never forgot the first ones and “he never stopped listening” to the wind or the sound of the leaves or the laughter of others. He grew to become a man, a teacher and a poet, as your 8-to-12-year-old will see in this beautifully illustrated, beautifully told book.

If these collections about poetry and life don’t quite fit what you need, be sure to ask your favorite bookseller or librarian for more. They can help you find poetry, silly rhymes, great biographies, and collections of verse that are perfect volumes with which to spend hours. In the meantime, give these poetry books an “A.” WI

horoscopes

LIFESTYLE

APRIL 10 - 16, 2025

ARIES Fresh momentum carries your initiatives forward as the Sun illuminates your personal sector, bringing renewed confidence to pursue ambitious goals. Professional relationships benefit from your direct communication style that cuts through unnecessary complications. Financial opportunities emerge midweek through bold actions that leverage your competitive advantages. Romantic connections deepen when you balance assertiveness with genuine listening. Lucky Numbers: 5, 17, 29

TAURUS Material security strengthens as Venus enhances your resource sector, bringing satisfying developments in financial matters requiring patient cultivation. Career recognition comes through demonstrating steadfast commitment during periods of organizational change. Creative projects flourish midweek when grounded in practical applications that showcase your artistic sensibilities. Lucky Numbers: 6, 18, 30

GEMINI Intellectual breakthroughs accelerate as Mercury activates your communication sector, bringing innovative solutions to persistent challenges through flexible thinking. Social connections multiply through engaging conversations that reveal unexpected common interests. Learning opportunities expand midweek when you approach subjects from multiple perspectives simultaneously. Lucky Numbers: 3, 21, 33

CANCER Emotional insights guide important transitions as the Moon illuminates your intuitive sector, bringing clarity to decisions requiring sensitivity to unspoken dynamics. Family relationships strengthen through nurturing gestures that acknowledge deeper emotional needs. Home environments transform midweek when arranged to better support both comfort and necessary boundaries. Lucky Numbers: 2, 14, 38

LEO Charismatic energy draws important opportunities as the Sun empowers your creative expression, bringing recognition from those who appreciate your authentic leadership. Professional advancement comes through situations showcasing your ability to inspire collective enthusiasm. Relationship dynamics benefit midweek from gestures that demonstrate your wholehearted commitment. Lucky Numbers: 1, 19, 27

VIRGO Analytical precision resolves lingering challenges as Mercury enhances your problem-solving abilities, bringing elegant solutions through careful attention to overlooked details. Health improvements develop through thoughtful adjustments to daily routines based on subtle observations. Organizational systems reach optimal efficiency midweek when refined through practical application. Workplace relationships benefit from clear communication that prevents misunderstandings before they develop. Lucky Numbers: 4, 16, 40

LIBRA Relational harmony deepens as Venus graces your partnership sector, bringing meaningful developments with important connections in both personal and professional spheres. Negotiation skills prove invaluable during situations requiring balanced consideration of competing interests. Aesthetic decisions reach satisfying conclusions midweek, particularly regarding shared environments. Lucky Numbers: 8, 20, 32

SCORPIO Transformative insights reveal hidden opportunities as Pluto enhances your perceptive abilities, bringing strategic advantages through psychological understanding. Research efforts yield valuable discoveries midweek that significantly influence your long-term direction. Financial prospects improve through careful investigation of collaborative ventures requiring shared resources. Lucky Numbers: 9, 21, 45

SAGITTARIUS Expansive possibilities emerge as Jupiter amplifies your visionary thinking, bringing exciting opportunities through educational pursuits or philosophical exploration. Travel plans develop favorably, particularly journeys combining adventure with meaningful discovery. Teaching opportunities materialize midweek involving subjects that ignite your enthusiastic interest. Lucky Numbers: 7, 25, 37

CAPRICORN Professional achievement builds as Saturn rewards your consistent efforts, bringing recognition from authority figures who value your disciplined approach. Organizational responsibilities highlight your leadership abilities during complex transitions. Resource management skills prove invaluable midweek during circumstances requiring careful allocation. Lucky Numbers: 10, 22, 34

AQUARIUS Innovative approaches gain traction as Uranus activates your forward-thinking abilities, bringing opportunities to implement progressive ideas addressing collective challenges. Technological insights allow navigation of developments others find disruptive with remarkable ease. Friendship networks expand midweek through unexpected circumstances connecting you with kindred spirits. Lucky Numbers: 11, 23, 39

PISCES Intuitive guidance illuminates complex situations as Neptune enhances your spiritual receptivity, bringing clarity to matters requiring compassionate discernment. Creative inspiration flows abundantly, especially for artistic endeavors expressing emotional depth and nuance. Healing connections develop midweek through your ability to sense unspoken needs without becoming overwhelmed. Financial intuition proves accurate when trusting subtle impressions about timing and opportunity. Lucky Numbers: 12, 24, 36

SPORTS

895 Goals: Alex Ovechkin Breaks Wayne Gretzky’s Record, Becoming NHL’s Leading Scorer of All-Time

By Skylar Nelson WI Intern

The Washington Capitals’ Alex Ovechkin, known as “The Great Eight,” has set a high standard not only in the District, but across hockey, earning the all-time scoring goal in the professional sport on Sunday, April 6.

In an exciting moment during Sunday’s game against the New York Islanders, Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals left wing, scored his 895th career goal, breaking the long-standing record of Wayne Gretzky, known as “The Great One,” who scored 894.

“We’re here today to celebrate this guy here number eight,” said Gretzky during the on-ice ceremony. “I can tell you first hand, I know how hard it is to get to 894; 895 is pretty special.”

In congratulating the Capitals star, Gretzky said that making such history doesn’t come without familial support.

“My congratulations to not only Alex, his mom and dad, his family, his wife and kids,” he said. “When I broke the record, my two kids were both the age of his boys, so it’s kind of reminiscent for me.”

The historic record-breaking goal came during a power play against the Islanders. Ovechkin fired a signature one-timer pass to fellow Russian and Islander goaltender Ilya Sorokin, sending Capital One Arena into a frenzy.

While the 895th goal was a major moment for his career, Ovechkin, like Gretzky, emphasized that he couldn’t have done it alone.

“Like I always said, all the the time, it’s a team sport, and without my boys, the whole organization, the fans, the trainers, the coaches, I would’ve never stood there and never passed a great one,” said Ovechkin, paying homage to his teammates and Gretzky’s legacy. “So fellas, thank you very much, I love

you so much.”

In addition to breaking the record, the historic goal also marked the first time Ovechkin scored against someone from his country.

Just after the goal was scored, Ovechkin bursted on the ice to celebrate the major achievement.

His teammates joined him, crowding and embracing the great Capitals vet as fans cheered “Ovi,” igniting a fire in Capital One Arena, across the District and throughout hockey.

“For me he was one of the first players I actually knew of when I first started watching hockey in the late 2000s,” said ice hockey fan George Hamilton III.

Ovechkin’s mother, father-in-law, wife, and children came down on the ice after his astonishing goal with his mother and wife’s heartfelt messages playing on the arena’s jumbotron.

As Capital One Arena erupted with cheers and some people wiped away tears, the goal was a moment to honor Ovechkin’s athleticism and longtime commitment to the Capitals.

Hamilton, as a long-standing hockey fan, reflects on how Ovechin’s reflects on how Ovechin’s moment is similar to basketball star LeBron

James passing the legendary Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time scoring record in 2023.

“It was one of those records where as we started the season, we knew that the game where it would be broken was on the horizon, but we didn’t realize – until it actually happened –how incredible it is,” Hamilton said.

“When you compare the two records – Lebron breaking Kareem’s and Alex breaking Gretzky’s goal scoring record – it’s like in order to do that you have to play so many seasons [and] so many games, including regular season and playoffs. The one major thing is that you cannot have any season ending

injuries, which I don’t think Alex has ever had.”

Hamilton also reflected on Ovechkin’s long career with the Capitals.

“And I also like the fact that he scored all of his goals with The Washington Capitals, similar to Kobe Bryant or Tim Duncan who basically played all of their career with one team,” he said.

Drafted first overall in 2004, Ovechkin has spent his entire career in Washington, D.C., becoming the face of the Capitals franchise and even leading them to a Stanley Cup in 2018.

With more goals scored than any other hockey player after the age of 30, “The Great Eight” has redefined what greatness really looks like deep within his career.

Across bars in the District and rinks in Moscow, fans have followed Ovechkin’s career every step of the way. It has become more than just a record, it’s become a celebration of culture coming together and a rare generational player.

“Also what makes Alex Ovechin’s record that much more impressive is that he broke the record, the same number of games that Gretzky played for his career,” said Hamilton. “I think that’s true testament to the dedication, the skill, the craft, and the ability to be a prominent goal scorer for his team.”

OVECHKIN RECEIVES SPECIAL HONORS

Having spent more than two decades in the District, Ovechkin has started and maintained traditions throughout his time on the Capitals,

such as collecting paintings of himself by Tony Harris, showcasing the athlete as he has climbed atop some of the greatest NHL mountains.

During the record-breaking night, Ovechkin was gifted a very special Harris painting, finally making this moment one for the books. The oil canvas painting features Ovechkin taking one of his signature one-timers as Gretzky skates behind him wearing the Edmonton Oilers uniform he wore when he scored the first 583 of his 894 goals.

“We had this painting specially commissioned for you to celebrate and commemorate this amazing, amazing accomplishment,” said NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman during the on-ice ceremony. “Congratulations. Greatness is now a part of your name.”

Not only does the painting acknowledge the record-breaking moment, but it also includes a thrilling image of Ovechkin kissing the Stanley Cup after the Capitals’ big win in 2018.

The piece is a striking representation of two major moments intertwining to honor and preserve history.

The history and legacy wasn’t just honored between hockey players, it was also honored between wives and family.

“One of the great things about my setting the record, Colleen Howe [known as Mrs. Hockey and wife to all-time hockey great, Gordie Howe] bought my wife a gift and a wonderful note,” Gretzky said.

“And we know how the legacy of hockey passes down, but so it does with the families and the wives. So my wife has something beautiful

for his lovely wife that we want to pass on.”

LOOKING AHEAD FOR OVECHKIN

For years, Gretzky’s record was thought to be untouchable. But a rare blend of power, consistency, and longevity proved otherwise, especially in a modern NHL where goals are harder to come by.

Just two nights before his historic moment on April 6, Ovechkin tied Gretzky’s record with a third period goal against the Chicago Blackhawks, which set the stage for what’s now considered one of the greatest milestones in NHL and Washington D.C. history.

Many fans waited with baited breath in hopes Ovechkin would break Gretzky’s record in Sunday’s home game.

“I think that’s also what adds to Ovechin’s greatness, even through the ups and downs,” said Hamilton. “Even though he has one Stanley Cup, he won that Stanley Cup with the Washington Capitals when they’ve only been to the Stanley Cup one time before 2018.”

While the record-breaking goal was historic, it’s not the end of the story for Ovechkin and the Capitals, who still has one year left in his contract and shows no sign of slowing down.

The all-time goal scorer record may be broken, but the legacy is still being written.

“They say records are made to be broken,” said Gretzky, “but I’m not sure who’s going to get more goals than that.” WI

5With his 895th goal, the Washington Capitals’ Alex Ovechkin now holds the record for most goals scored in the National Hockey League. (Courtesy Photo)

CAPTURE the moment

The Ward 8 Community celebrated spring with the annual Pinknic and Kite Fly at Oxon Run Park on April 6. The family-friendly tradition offered a day of kites, culture, and community in Southeast, D.C., featuring a live performance by the N2L Band, free food, and exciting activities like face painting, kite flying and community crafts for all ages.

(Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

RELIGION

“HANDS OFF” from Page 37 of Black Catholics.” Staying true to its mission of contributing to the spiritual, social and economic advancement of all people, many St. Augustine members joined the national justice initiative on April 5.

“The American Dream isn’t just for billionaires. It’s not just for white people or Black people for that matter,” said Elissa Hackerson, chair of the Social Justice Advocacy ministry at St. Augustine’s. “It’s for all of us. Black and brown people deserve a fair shot at the American Dream.”

St. Augustine parishioners were

not the only local churchgoers to participate in Saturday’s protest. People from St. Augustine and other religious communities in the city marched from St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Northwest to the National Mall.

While at St. Patrick’s, protestors made signs disapproving of the current administration’s tactics and participated in a group prayer centered around a commitment to fighting injustice.

“We believe that this moment demands moral clarity. We will not stand by while our neighbors are deprived of their rights,” the congregation prayed. “‘Woe to you who deprive people of their

rights’– we stand together to call for justice, dignity and the protection of the most vulnerable.”

Armed with signs advocating for climate reform, social securi-

ty protections and liveable wages, the church’s community proved to be a physical manifestation of its mission toward an equitable and sustainable future.

The Rev. Anthony Michael Bozeman, SSJ, academic dean of St. Joseph’s Seminary, participated with the St. Augustine group, using this demonstration of First Amendment Rights as a refusal to stay silent when human rights are violated.

Bozeman told The Informer he believes members of the Catholic church are called to “build bridges, not walls.”

He hopes the nationwide efforts will catalyze religious and political leaders to publicly disapprove of the Trump administration’s tactics and rally for change.

“You can see that we’re in solidarity with our sisters and brothers who are suffering, which is part of the tenet of the Catholic faith,” Bozeman explained. “We have to coerce them through our protest, through our witness, through our boisterous disapproval of what’s going on in our country right now.”

Many marchers noted that by continuously signing executive orders that threaten Black history, DEI measures and constitutional rights in the U.S., the 47th president is propelling the notion that initiatives prohibiting prejudice are dangerous to the nation.

“They want to take us back to

a time when our ancestors had no property rights, no voting rights,” Hackerson told the Informer. “That’s what they’re after. They want to erase our names from historical records, [encapsulated] in phony DEl policies.”

Bozeman said in order to combat challenges, it’s important to promote truthful narratives, particularly about Black lives and history.

“One of the things I think our country can learn, instead of trying to erase Black history, is learn from it,” Bozeman said, “and stop trying to vilify terms like ‘woke’ and ‘Black lives matter’ to show that until we show Black lives matter, for real, we can never say ‘all lives matter.’”

While Hackerson said she is disappointed by the federal efforts to reverse decades of progress toward social justice, she was proud to see such a large number of people uniting for the same cause regardless of their age, race or gender.

“We have to be at rallies like this because we know it’s our holy calling to hold onto hope and dream for a better, beloved community for everyone,” she told The Informer. “It’s a shame that we have to be pushed 10 steps back, but I’m hoping that actions like this lead to the social transformation that we really need–rooted in moral responsibility… and in pursuit of the common good.”

WI

5The justice ministries of St. Augustine’s Catholic Church march alongside thousands of demonstrators on the National Mall during the “Hands Off” protest on April 5, standing firm in the congregation’s commitment to justice and equity. (Jacques Benovil/The Washington Informer)

The lyrics from the 1960s song “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” were co-written by Otis Redding and guitarist Steve Cropper. That song kept ringing in my spirit last week. Always, when I hear clear messages in my spirit, I can assure you, it is the Lord leading and guiding me to my article for the week. Let’s talk about how so many have sat around, just watching the tide roll in and out, wasting time. Nothing planned, nothing changing, just watching the tides roll in and out, wasting time.

Let’s look at what the lyrics are saying: “Sittin’ in the mornin’ sun; I’ll be sittin’ when the evenin’ come; Watchin’ the ships roll in. And I’ll watch ‘em roll away again, yeah. I’m sittin’ on the dock of the bay, Watchin’ the tide roll away, ooh’ I’m just sittin’ on the dock of the bay, Wastin’ time.”

And he continues with negative thoughts, saying: “Looks like nothin’s gonna change, Everythin’ still remain the same. I can’t do what ten people tell me to do. So I guess I’ll remain the same, yes. Sittin’ here restin’ my bones. And this loneliness won’t leave me alone.”

This song was first recorded by Redding in 1967, days before his death on Dec. 10, 1967. He died in a plane crash in Wisconsin. Ev-

WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Sitting on the Dock of the Bay: Are You Wasting Time? the religion corner

eryone onboard was killed except the trumpeter in the band. In fact, that song was released posthumously, becoming the first posthumous single to top the charts in the U.S.

In August 1967, while sitting on a rented houseboat in Sausalito, California, Redding started writing the lyrics to the song. He completed the writing with the help of Stax producer Cropper, who was also guitarist in Booker T and the M.G.’s. The song incorporates seagull sounds and the sounds of waves crashing on the shore — very realistic.

Tragically, just three days after Redding and band members finished the final refinements of the song, Redding, five band members and the pilot died in a plane crash that landed in Lake Monona, Wisconsin. “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” became the first posthumous single to reach No. 1 on the Billboard music charts.

What’s my point? Redding talks about 10 people telling him what to do, and since he can’t do what they are all saying, he chooses to do nothing, except sit on the dock of the San Francisco Bay and waste time, watching the tides roll away and watch them come back again.

It is as if he was sending a message to anybody listening who may not be utilizing their time wisely. He certainly made the most of his

time. In 2008, Rolling Stone listed Redding among the top 10 greatest singers of all time. Were the lyrics of that song talking to you? We came to do the Lord’s work, not what all of the people in our lives are telling us to do. I’m suggesting you be about your Father’s business, as Jesus Christ did when he was a boy. He said in Luke 2:49, “And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?” (KJV)

Let nothing separate you from the love of Jesus and the things He is doing in your life. Stop wasting time! WI

In 2008, Rolling Stone listed Redding among the top 10 greatest singers of all time. Were the lyrics of that song talking to you? We came to do the Lord’s work, not what all of the people in our lives are telling us to do.

MCCOLLUM & ASSOCIATES, LLC

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RELIGION

Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 Fax : 202-338-4958

Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org

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

Rev Kevin A. O'Bryant

401 Van Buren St., NW, Washington D.C. 20012 Office (202)-882-8331

Service and Times Sunday Worship 10:30 am Zoom: zoom.us/;/2028828331

Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00pm Communion Every First Sunday "Serve, teach and Live by precept and example the saving grace of Jesus Christ."

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

Purpose

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rehoboth Baptist Church

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

Promised Land Baptist Church

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

2025 ADM 000200

Hattie Mae Harris Decedent

Tina Smith Nelson, Esq. Legal Counsel for the Elderly 601 E Street NW Washington, DC 20049 Attorney

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

Mae Phillip, whose address is 708 Randolph St., NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Hattie Mae Harris who died on 4/03/2015 without a Will and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/27/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/27/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication:

3/27/2025

Mae Phillip Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000199

Mamie J. Inge Decedent

Mahsa Alaeian Legal Counsel for the Elderly 601 E Street, NW Washington, DC 20049 Attorney

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

Cassandra Lewis, whose address is 513 Ingraham St., NW, Washington DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mamie J. Inge who died on November 9, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/27/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/27/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/27/2025

Cassandra Lewis

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000207

Odele L. Mouzon Decedent

Bradley A. Thomas, Esq. 1629 K Street, NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

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

Jan E. Mouzon, whose address is 4217 19th Place, NE, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Odele L. Mouzon who died on January 10, 2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/27/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/27/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/27/2025

Jan E. Mouzon

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000251

Estate of Bernice Smith

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Kevin E. Smith for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative

Date of first publication: 3/27/2025

Kevin E. Smith 4625 Nash Street NE Washington, DC 20019

Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001451

Ruby Alene Robinson Decedent

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

Milton Robinson & Michele Robinson, whose addresses are 303 Cedar Point Drive, Glen Burnie, MD 21060, were appointed

Personal Representatives of the estate of Ruby Alene Robinson who died on September 16, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/27/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/27/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/27/2025

Milton Robinson Michele Robinson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000213

Stephen A. Beland Decedent

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

Brian D. Beland, whose address is 17 Mills Path, Lake Ronkonkoma, NY 11779, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Stephen A. Beland who died on February 27, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/27/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/27/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/27/2025

Brian D. Beland

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000246

Estate of Willie Gold Wooten, Sr. aka Willie G. Wooten, Sr.

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Christopher Wooten for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative

Date of first publication: 3/27/2025

Tabitha R. Brown 1200 G Street SE, Ste. A Washington, DC 20003

Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000167

Alma M. Pryor aka Alma Mae Pryor Decedent

Julius P. Terrell 1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 400 Washington, DC 20004 Attorney

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

Christina Pryor and Robert Pryor, whose addresses are 632 Edgewood Street. NE, Washington DC 20017, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Alma M. Pryor aka Alma Mae Pryor who died on April 28, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Christina Pryor Robert Pryor Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001175

Walter Jordan Decedent

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

Gregory Jordan, whose address is 1448 Congress Pl., SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Walter Jordan who died on 8/4/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 9/27/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 9/27/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 3/27/2025

Gregory Jordan Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 1535

Marc John DuBois Decedent

George A. Teitelbaum, Esq. 2416 Blueridge Ave., Suite 200 Wheaton, MD 20902 Attorney

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

Pu Kyong Tuite, whose address is 616 A Street, #6, NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Marc John DuBois who died on November 23, 2024, with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Pu Kyong Tuite

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000241

Martha J. Morris Decedent

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

Fred D. Morris Jr. and Ronald D. Morris, whose addresses are 1736 Verbena St., NW, Washington DC 20012 & 847 Hilltop Terr. SE Washington, DC 20019, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Martha J. Morris who died on 02/03/2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Fred D. Morris Jr.

Ronald D. Morris

Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000255

Elvira Stamp Decedent

Yvonne Davis Smith 2501 Northampton Street NW Washington, DC 20015

Attorney

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

Jessica O. Stamp, whose address is 7532 Eastern Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Elvira Stamp who died on December 11, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Jessica O.

TRUE

Nicole

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001338

Mildred S. Sims Decedent

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

Linus Sims, whose address is 4725 Queens Chapel Terrace NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mildred S. Sims who died on October 9, 1989 without a Will. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Linus Sims

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000197

Jeffrey Bruce Norman Decedent

Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, 400 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney

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

Robin Norman Depaoli, whose address is 8317 Stonewall Drive, Vienna, VA 22180, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jeffrey Bruce Norman who died on January 5, 2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Robin Norman Depaoli Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000204

Daniel Warren Decedent

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

Jetheda Warren Hernandez, whose address is 5202 Eliots Oak Road, Columbia MD 21044, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Daniel Warren who died on January 31, 2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Jetheda Warren Hernandez

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 001293

Lynell Maria Rouse Decedent

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

Donna June Rouse, whose address is 6704 Weston Avenue Capitol Heights MD 20743, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lynell Maria Rouse who died on 7/23/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Donna June Rouse Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000221

Harold S. Johnson Decedent

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

Harold S. Anderson, whose address is 4419 A Street SE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Harold S. Johnson who died on December 19, 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Harold S. Anderson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000244

Vickie A. Pessagno aka Vickie Anne Pessagno Decedent

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

Catherine P. Ferguson, whose address is PO Box 1014, Leonardtown, MD 20650, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vickie A. Pessagno aka Vickie Anne Pessagno who died on February 2, 2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Catherine P. Ferguson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 229

William C. Barron Decedent

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

Quanita M. Bryant, whose address is 7901 Shadow Oaks Drive #1011 Charlotte, NC 20269, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William C. Barron who died on April 18, 2019 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Quanita M. Bryant Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000232

Charles Allen Best Decedent

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

Teresa Brown, whose address is 7776 Shertall Street Fairburn GA 30213, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles Allen Best who died on 3/5/2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Teresa Brown Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL

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

2025 ADM 000248

Grace Emiko Watanabe Decedent

Andre O. McDonald, Esq. 10500 Little Patuxent Parkway, Suite 420 Columbia, Maryland 21044 Attorney

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

Keiko M. Doyle, whose address is 4008 N 195th Street, Elkhorn, NE 68022, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Grace Emiko Watanabe who died on November 15, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Keiko M. Doyle Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2025 ADM 288

Beverly A. Campbell Decedent

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

Damon N. Jones, whose address is 2130 Kent Ave., W. Bremerton, WA 98312, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Beverly A. Campbell who died on October 7, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Damon N. Jones 2130 Kent Ave. W. Bremerton, WA 98312

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000233

Leithella C. Rose Decedent

Damon Adams 1507 Hadden Manor Ct. Silver Spring, MD 20904 Attorney

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

Dwight A. Smith, Sr., whose address is 717 Jefferson Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Leithella C. Rose who died on December 21, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/3/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/3/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/3/2025

Dwight A. Smith, Sr. 717 Jefferson Street, NW Washington, DC 20011

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000240

Bobby Lee Hamm Decedent

Sianei Gbleehai

316 F Street, NE #215 Washington, DC 20002 Attorney

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

Takita Richelle Duckett, whose address is 8508 16th Street 410, Silver Spring, MD 20910, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bobby Lee Hamm who died on 1/17/2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Takita Richelle Duckett Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 1554

Alonzo York Decedent

Colline Silvera

Robinson Kirlew And Associates, PC 7731 Belle Point Dr. Greenbelt, MD 20770

Attorney

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

Colline Silvera, whose address is 7731 Belle Point Dr., Greenbelt, MD 20770, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Alonzo York who died on 5/2/1999 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Colline Silvera Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000236

Catherine E. Adams aka Catherine Everett Adams Decedent

James Larry Frazier, Esq. 918 Maryland Ave., NE Washington, DC 20002

Attorney

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

Iris Adams Carter, whose address is 806 Sero Estates Drive, Fort Washington, MD 20744, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Catherine E. Adams aka Catherine Everett Adams who died on January 29, 2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Iris Adams Carter Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2022 ADM 000587

Ann D. McCain aka Ann Drusilla McCain Decedent

Aimee D. Griffin, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW Suite 440 Washington, DC 20015 Attorney

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

Harry Jeffreys, Jr., whose address is 2211 Rosecraft Boulevard, Fort Washington, DC 20744, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ann D. McCain aka Ann Drusilla McCain who died on October 6, 2020 without a Will and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Harry Jeffreys Jr. Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000249

Cletis Virginia McNatt aka Cletis McNatt Decedent

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

Mary Downing, whose address is 729 Crittenden Street NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Cletis Virginia McNatt aka Cletis McNatt who died on January 18, 2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Mary Downing 729 Crittenden St., NE Washington, DC 20017 Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000308

Barbara Ann Edwards Jones Decedent

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

Timothy Charles Jones, whose address is 4224 Brooks Street, NE Washington DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara Ann Edwards Jones who died on February 25, 2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Timothy Charles Jones Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2025 ADM 94

Corinne B. H. T-Heard Decedent

Dalton Howard, Esq. 4020 Lee St. NE Washington, DC 20019 Attorney

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

DeWitt O. Harris, whose address is 104 Snead Dr., North, Fort Myers, FL 33903, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Corinne B. H. T-Heard who died on January 27, 2019 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

DeWitt O. Harris

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001513

Ellen Silver Decedent

Tamara McDowell Christian, Esq. 1629 K Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006

Attorney

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

Aretha Somerville, whose address is 9701 Apollo Drive, Ste 100-AS, Largo, Maryland 20774, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ellen Silver who died on August 30, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Aretha Somerville Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000234

Raymond A. Carter Sr. Decedent

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

Raecheal Ware, whose address is 9711 Risen Star Dr., Upper Marlboro MD 20772, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Raymond A. Carter Sr. who died on 1/17/2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Raecheal Ware Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000305

Elmore Manuel Williams aka Elmore M. Williams Decedent

Bobby G. Henry Jr. 9701 Apollo Drive, Suite 100 Largo, Maryland 20774 Attorney

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

James Michael Conrad Sr., whose address is 51 Hamilton St. NW, Washington DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Elmore Manuel Williams aka Elmore M. Williams who died on March 13, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

James Michael Conrad Sr. Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 293 Rose Nan Ping Chen aka Rose Lai aka Nan Ping Chen Lai Decedent

Lindsey M. Avedisian 5425 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 600 Chevy Chase, MD 20815 Attorney

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

Jessica Horner, whose address is 12330 Loft Lane, Silver Spring, MD 20904, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rose Nan Ping Chen aka Rose Lai aka Nan Ping Chen Lai who died on January 9, 2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Jessica Horner Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001568

Johannes Aernout Heiko De Beaufort Wijnholds Decedent

Robert M. Reiner, Esq. 4416 East West Highway, Suite 400 Bethesda, MD 20814

Attorney

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

Christine Ruth Nicholson, whose address is 5012 Lowell St., NW, Washington, DC 20016, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Johannes Aernout Heiko De Beaufort Wijnholds who died on April 8, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Christine Ruth Nicholson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000300

Sean Beeman Decedent

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

Victoria Beeman, whose address is 1316 Fenwick Lane Apt 619, Silver Spring MD 20910, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sean Beeman who died on 7/24/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Victoria Beeman Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000228

Maria A. Terrell Decedent

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

Charles Bowman and Andre Bowman, whose addresses are 4258 S. Andes Way Aurora, CO 80013 & 19977 E. Crestline Place Centennial, CO 80015, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Maria A. Terrell who died on November 18, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Charles Bowman 4258 S. Andes Way Aurora, CO 80013

Andre Bowman 19977 E. Crestline Place Centennial, CO 89915 Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000262

Sharon Davis Decedent

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

Ronald Davis, whose address is 4104 Shell Street, Capital Heights, MD 20743, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Sharon Davis who died on May 27, 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Ronald Davis Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000271

Minnie M. Brooks Decedent

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

Allen G. Brooks, whose address is 8616 Hillview Road, Landover, MD 20785, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Minnie M. Brooks who died on June 16, 2021 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Allen G. Brooks Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 289

W. Davidson Tenney Jr. aka Walter Davidson Tenney Decedent

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

Constantine D. Kyropoulos, whose address is 3133 Connecticut Ave. NW, Apt 827, Washington, DC 20008, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of W. Davidson Tenney Jr. aka Walter Davidson Tenney who died on 1/31/2025 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 10/10/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 10/10/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship. Date of first publication: 4/10/2025

Constantine D. Kyropoulos Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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MALVEAUX from Page 30

what the president said he was going to do, but didn’t believe him. Now that their jobs are being eliminated, their relatives being deported and their food prices are rising, they are saying “we didn’t vote for this.” The massive nature of the Hands Off suggests resistance to this administration’s policies transcends the grousing of a few left-wing activists and Trump detractors. Instead, many who voted for the current order are now experiencing buyer’s remorse.

April 5 was a statement, but what’s next? Will people mobilize? Will some of the nonvoters get registered and ready for the 2026 elections? Will the tremendous energy of April 5 encourage people to get involved in state and local politics, perhaps running for office or supporting candidates that reject the extremism of this administration, and demand more than the platitudes about “a little bit of pain”? It’s easy for some to talk about a “lit-

MORIAL from Page 30

and universities, access to education has been central to the Black freedom struggle. Teaching was one of the first professional careers open to Black Americans, and education remains one of the clearest pathways to upward mobility. Pell Grants, desegregation rulings, Title I funding and affirmative action — all of these federal tools have been critical in expanding access to opportunity.

The National Urban League has

MARSHALL from Page 30

love and lots of money, right Lonnie? We can’t avoid that. But it was done with tremendous love and passion and that’s why it’s so great,” Trump said in 2017. Trump is correct; it is a great museum. The president saw firsthand the true depth and struggle of the Black experience. He viewed several exhibits, including the “Paradox of Liberty.” Bunch mentioned how the 612 bricks surrounding a statue of Thomas Jefferson represented each of the 612 enslaved people Jefferson owned during his lifetime. Lonnie Bunch explained, “You can’t understand Jefferson without understanding slavery. For us, this whole museum is about humanizing stories of people left out of history.” The president and members of his entourage also witnessed the exhibit featuring Ben Carson and his accomplishments as a surgeon.

Trump never returned to the museum, but his public views and opinions are much clearer now. Could it be that in 2017, instead of witnessing some-

tle bit” of pain, but some will find the pain imposed by this administration unbearable, especially those with lower incomes.

The MoveOn team and the organizations that supported Hands Off must keep the momentum going. Otherwise, April 5 will be simply an exciting activist moment. Justice demands a movement, one that is transformative, and also encourages the bipartisan conversation that this administration has avoided. They keep talking about their “mandate,” but the current president did not win in a popular vote landslide. Instead, he won by 2.28 million votes, or a margin of 1.47 percent. He won through voter suppression, but also through the nonparticipation of many who are learning, the hard way, what’s at stake.

There were some young Black activists, especially Black women, who encouraged people to avoid the rallies. My cursory view (along with some reporting) suggests that while the speak-

long championed these tools. Through our “Equitable Education for All” pillar and local affiliate programs, we are fighting to improve literacy rates, close achievement gaps, increase Black teacher representation and ensure fair access to postsecondary success. Our Urban Youth Empowerment Program, Project Ready and Community Schools initiatives all depend on a functioning Department of Education that works in partnership with communities, not against them.

thing valuable and worth maintaining, Trump was taking note of something that the MAGA world needed to destroy? As part of the first Trump administration, Ben Carson is in a unique position. He is a Black Republican who is a Trump enabler, yet his legacy as a renowned brain surgeon, which is displayed at the NMAAHC, could be under threat. Obviously, the Carson exhibit didn’t sway Trump’s 2025 rhetoric and actions. Will Ben Carson publicly defend the NMAAHC or simply go along with the Project 2025 goals concerning the museum? Carson could be a powerful voice in coming to the museum’s defense and sounding the alarm against the authoritarian control of the nation’s premier museum complex. He could also be an influential voice to other Black Republicans, which is unlikely given his Project 2025 ties. The former HUD secretary authored a radical MAGA Project 2025 proposal to gut HUD by proposing a “wholesale overhaul” of HUD to undo “corrosive progressive ideologies” and “race-based policies.” It is unlikely Carson will have

ers and entertainment “looked like America” the crowd looked whiter than reality. Some Black folks have activism fatigue, and we all get it. Author Tricia Hersey’s book “Rest is Resistance,” is a reminder that Black women cannot be everything to everybody. She writes, “You were not just born to center your existence on work and labor. You were born to heal, to grow, and to be of service to yourself and community, to practice, to experiment, to create, to have space, to dream and to connect.” Balance is the key and resistance is important, invigorating and transformative.

Those who oppose this administration’s policies are among those who gathered on April 5. Now they must keep their opposition going in the months to come. Thanks, again, MoveOn, and thanks to all who turned out. The Hands Off website (handsoff2025.com) has information about a May 1 action. Check it out! WI

The Department of Education is far from perfect, but it remains the only federal agency solely focused on ensuring every child, regardless of ZIP code, receives a quality education. We should strengthen it, not abolish it.

Education is not a political bargaining chip. It is a moral obligation and a constitutional right. Any effort to dismantle the Department of Education is an attack on our children, our communities and the promise of America itself.

We will not stand idly by. WI

a Michael Cohen moment and turn against Trump.

Where does that leave Sen. Tim Scott? He was there in 2017 as part of the president’s Black inner circle, but he, too, will likely remain silent. There is a long list of Trump enablers whose failure to speak out continues to fail America. Sen. Scott, Sen. Mitch McConnell and Supreme Court Chief Justice Roberts are among a few on that shameful list. David Blight is a historian and professor of history and African American studies at Yale University. He regards the moves targeting cultural targets such as the Smithsonian, Kennedy Center, Institute of Museum and Library Services, National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) as drawn from the authoritarian playbook. Blight noted, “It’s what the Nazis did. It’s what Spain did. It’s what Mussolini tried. This is like the Soviets: they revised the Soviet encyclopedia every year to update the official history. Americans don’t have an official history; at least we’ve tried never to have to.” WI

BROWN from Page 31

ters and righteousness like a mighty stream.”

Police brutality still plagues Black communities. Voter suppression remains alive and well. Black children continue to be stripped of their selfhood. And some who sit in power seem all too eager to strip the word justice from every federal agency’s mission.

King’s “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” reminds the comfortable that injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

“It is even more unfortunate that the city’s white power structure left the Negro community with no alternative,” King wrote.

The MAGA movement’s calls to suppress protests, deny systemic racism, and erase uncomfortable truths from school curricula reflect that same white power structure — this time on a national scale.

In 1964, during his “Nobel Peace Prize lecture,” King cautioned that technological advancement without moral advancement was dangerous.

“There is a sort of poverty of the spirit which stands in glaring contrast to our scientific and technological abundance. … We have not learned the simple art of living together as brothers,” he asserted.

That spiritual poverty is evident in

WILLIAMS from Page 31

ly to make our lives better.

As others continue to operate with evil intent in an effort to destroy our cherished history, let’s help each other to make even more positive history. I’m so proud to think of people like Fannie Lou Hamer, Frederick Douglass, Malcolm X, Rosa Parks, Sojourner Truth, Ella Baker, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, Medgar and Charles Evers, Tyler Perry, Dr. Dorothy Height, Shirley Chisholm, Barbara Jordan, young sheroes and he-

HIGGINS from Page 31 character. While programs like Girl Scouts, 4-H, and Jack and Jill offer great experiences, they don’t address the unique societal and emotional needs of Black girls. Rites of passage programs have historically empowered youth by fostering identity, resilience and healthy relationships. A well-structured program with strong leadership promotes community solidarity and equips participants for personal and collective growth.

a political climate that prioritizes military aggression over human needs, censorship over dialogue, and authoritarianism over democracy.

By 1966, in his “Proud to be Maladjusted” speech, King declared: “I never intend to adjust myself to racial segregation and discrimination … to economic conditions that will take necessities from the many to give luxuries to the few.”

Many say if he were alive today, King would no doubt still be maladjusted. He would speak out against economic cruelty masked as policy and against those who demonize the poor while protecting billionaires.

In “The Other America,” delivered in 1967, King said, “A riot is the language of the unheard. And what is it that America has failed to hear?”

He might ask the same question now, as protests are criminalized and the root causes — poverty, inequality, state violence — are deliberately ignored.

In his “Three Evils of Society” sermon, King condemned militarism, racism, and economic exploitation.

“Unemployment rages at a major depression level in the Black ghettos, but the bipartisan response is an anti-riot bill rather than a serious poverty program,” he declared.

That quote could be lifted straight into today’s headlines as military budgets swell and social safety nets

roes like Rep. Jasmine Crockett, Rep. Summer Lee, Rep. Ayanna Pressley and an endless number of others who risk their positions for us daily. Don’t forget AOC and Rep. Ilhan Omar, too.

Remember to honor those in our neighborhoods who do miraculous things every day to make a way out of seemingly no way.

Don’t let the dictator or his attorney general, Pam Bondi, worry you while threatening you. If they close our schools or discontinue our history, let’s do the work ourselves. Let’s tell our history in our churches, in our organizations and

As a school psychologist and Black child development specialist, I see how critical adolescence is in shaping human identity. Black girls face unique societal pressures and need structured spaces that affirm their worth and support their self-realization. Rites of passage programs do more than foster sisterhood — they cultivate the mindset necessary for balanced, meaningful partnerships with Black men. A woman who understands her value and communal role approaches

shrink.

Then came his “Beyond Vietnam” speech — his most controversial, but perhaps his most prophetic.

“If America’s soul becomes totally poisoned, part of the autopsy must read ‘Vietnam,’” King insisted. He warned then that militarism abroad infects democracy at home. The Trump administration’s embrace of global authoritarian regimes, its anti-immigrant agenda, and its disdain for diplomacy shows King’s warning was not heeded.

And finally, just one day before his death, in “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop,” King declared, “All we say to America is to be true to what you said on paper. … Somewhere, I read that the greatness of America is the right to protest for rights.”

Those words are a rallying cry in today’s political darkness. A reminder that freedom of speech, assembly, and the fight for justice are not fringe ideas. They are fundamental to what America claims to be.

So, while Trump, with the guidance of Project 2025, attempts to rewrite reality, King’s words have already been written in the hearts of generations. And as long as injustice exists, his voice will echo — not just in Black America but throughout the world.

“We are going on. We need all of you.” WI

homes. Sing our national anthem and kneel if you wish whenever you wish!

Let’s honor our heroes and sheroes. Above all, let’s stop working against each other. Let’s pray for each other, spend our money with each other, share what we have with each other, encourage each other when we’re feeling a bit discouraged about what THEY’RE doing to us!

Together, let’s help each other cross the finish line each day! That’s what Black women in “Six Triple Eight” did to succeed! WI

relationships from a place of strength, not trauma.

The fractures in our sisterhood and relationships with Black men will not mend themselves. Having navigated our own journeys, we must guide the next generation. A rite of passage is more than mentorship — it’s an act of reclaiming our communal spirit and strengthening the foundation of future communities. The question isn’t whether we need this — it’s whether we’re ready to implement it. WI

WHERE THE MONEY GOES.

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Parade

PRESENTED BY

Saturday, April 12

10 AM – 12:30 PM

Constitution Ave NW, between 7th and 17th Streets

Washington, DC

PRESENTING SPONSOR Events DC

SEGMENT SPONSORS

All Nippon Airways (ANA) Amazon

Dulles International Airport

SPONSORS DowntownDC BID BetMGM Hilton Mars, Incorporated Dunkin’ Lime

Daiichi Sankyo

Clyde’s Restaurant Group University of the District of Columbia Metro

National Archives and Records Administration Park West Gallery Wendy’s

OFFICIAL TV PARTNER

7 News & 24/7News WJLA

MEDIA SPONSORS El Tiempo Latino iHeart Media

The Washington Informer

Featuring

Special Guests

Princess Ariel, Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse from Walt Disney World® Resort, the Most Magical Place on Earth

Enjoy blossom bliss in DC at the Nation’s most beloved springtime parade, featuring a star-studded line-up:

• Grand Marshal Ken Jennings, host of Jeopardy!

• House music diva Crystal Waters

• The legendary Kathy Sledge of Sister Sledge and Family

• Iconic music group Quad City DJ’s

• Funk masters CAMEO

• Asher HaVon, season 25 first LGBTQ+ winner of NBC, The Voice

• American Idol Season 19 Contestant Mary Jo Young

• From Broadway’s “Hamilton”, Deejay Young

• Over 20 marching bands from around the country

• Mesmerizing helium balloons including Shrek, Smurfette, Hello Kitty and more

Make plans to enjoy the spectacle for FREE by standing along the Parade route between 9th and 15th Streets. Scan QR code to learn more or visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org