After the COVID-19 pandemic, officials in the District are looking to revitalize the housing market. Mayor Muriel Bowser shared her five year plan for downtown D.C. which saw a decline in professional employees since the health crisis.
“Downtown D.C. has long struggled to build its household base, as the value created by new offices has historically outcompeted the value produced by residential uses,” she wrote in the plan. “Office activity is trickling back, concentrated on a few days per week, but underlying vulnerabilities are now an imminent threat to the vitality and economic stability of Downtown D.C.”
continued on P4
Transit workers protest layoffs at John A. Wilson Building
By Ashleigh Fields
Workers formerly employed by the D.C. Circulator are raising concerns about the new transition to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) metro system with individuals facing layoffs as soon as Sept. 30. Some say they have not been provided with a timeline or outline for pay amidst the transition.
continued on P7
Dawn Staley visits the White HouseRead More on P6
Biden, Harris attend CBC Foundation Phoenix Awards Read More on P3
Ocasio-Cortez demands answers on Israeli operations in LebanonRead More on P5
(Aerial viw of The National Monument and downtown District of Columbia)
(Photo: Local transit workers protest strike line Getty Images)
The UnTold Stories
Monthly Contributors:
Ashleigh Fields
Donald Isaac
Phinis Jones
Kristal Knight
Shelley Rice
Jacqueline Walker
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Biden, Harris attend Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Phoenix Awards
By Ashleigh Fields
The Congressional Black Caucus’ (CBC) annual legislative conference commenced from Sept. 12-15 with politicians from across the nation spanning from Chair Rep. Steven Horsford (D-NV) and Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) to Sen. Cory Booker (D-NY). The highest officials to formally join in the weekend’s festivities were President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.
The two gave speeches at the CBC Foundation’s Phoenix Awards.
“In 2020, I ran for president to redeem the soul of America — to restore decency and some dignity to the office of the presidency,” Biden said on stage. “I ran to rebuild the backbone of America: the middle class. And I ran to unite the country and remind ourselves, when we’re together, we — not a damn thing we can’t do.”
He highlighted Harris as a leader ready to take on the role of commander-in-chief while condemning Trump.
“In the past four years, we showed democracy can deliver for our people. Donald Trump’s failed presidency eroded trust in whether democracy could meet the needs in the nation,” he continued.
Before introducing the former Senator from California, Biden added, “Kamala Harris meets the highest standards of character. I’ve served with her. I know her. I trust her. And I’ll be proud to stand on the steps of the United States Capitol and watch her take the oath of office as president of the United States of America.”
The words ignited the audience which stood for applause as Harris walked to the podium. Early on the Vice President reflected on the CBC members who recently passed away.
“Tonight, I must also speak the names of incredible leaders who were my friends, who were our friends, and with whom I had the honor of closely working over the years: Representatives Eddie Bernice Johnson — (applause); Donald Payne Jr.; and Sheila Jackson Lee,” she shared. “I know that their work will live on through ours.”
Throughout the evening, she credited the organization for much of America’s accomplishments through policy and practice.
“To all the members of the CBC, over the years, we have worked so closely together on so many important issues, from addressing the crisis of maternal mortality to expanding access to capital for small businesses to defending the sacred freedom to vote. And I thank you, CBC, always, for that partnership and your leadership as a proud — I’m going to
say — still a member of CBC,” the presidential nominee joked.
She later added, “The Congressional Black Caucus has served as the conscience of the Congress and of our nation. And as a proud former CBC member, I know firsthand: America relies on the leaders in this room not only for a conscience but for a vision.”
The audience was filled with proud HBCU graduates and members of the Divine 9 who said they will forever remember Harris’s historic run for president in addition to the personal connection she made with supporters during the Phoenix Awards.
Vice President Kamala Harris speaks onstage during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 53rd Annual Legislative Conference Annual Phoenix Awards Dinner at Walter E. Washington Convention Center on Sept. 14, 2024 in Washington, D.C. (Getty Images for Congressional Black Caucus Foundation)
Hope to revitalize downtown D.C. from pg. 1
In lieu of the circumstances, Bowser is proposing new methods to increase public safety, build more residences and plans to use transportation as an asset to create an influx of more people. However, At-Large Councilmember Robert White says the vision isn’t fully fleshed out.
“Mayor Bowser and some other groups have plans, and the government has programs, but we don’t yet have an overarching vision or strategy. That’s a dangerous space to linger in for too long,” Councilmember White said. “We have to know very clearly where we’re going, what it’s going to take to get there, and how we get from where we are now to there. So that requires us to keep our foot on the gas.”
After Bowser required city officials to return to work in person, she’d hope local companies would follow suit encouraging more attendance and presence in neighborhoods lacking traffic but White says it hasn’t happened.
“It’s not happening. You know, don’t waste your energy. It’s not happening. Workers are demanding flexibility,” said the councilmember. “Talented people are going to drive the market. So let’s turn the page and stop looking at yesterday. Let’s go forward.”
Instead, he’s pushing for more affordable housing in hot spots at Committee on Housing hearings which he chairs.
“People who work in our restaurants and accommodate tourists -- those are the folks who really keep our economy revving, but they can’t afford to live in D.C. now. We have too much office space and an urgent need for more housing,” White said. “So I’m saying build that housing downtown, and that will leave us with two options. Either one, we will build more affordable and workforce housing for everyday people downtown or two, we will build more housing downtown that’s less affordable, but make sure that is our lever and leverage for expanding the affordability in other parts of D.C. I don’t think there’s another option.”
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez demands answers from Congress on Israeli operations in Lebanon
By Ashleigh Fields
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) spoke out raising concerns over Israel’s involvement in a series of explosions across Lebanon involving pagers from the Iranian backed group Hezbollah.
“This attack clearly and unequivocally violates international humanitarian law and undermines US efforts to prevent a wider conflict,” the New York Democrat posted X, formerly known as Twitter.
“Congress needs a full accounting of the attack, including an answer from the State Department as to whether any US assistance went into the development or deployment of this technology,” she added.
Explosives were reportedly hidden in pagers that had been tampered with before being imported into Lebanon. The devices caused damage throughout the capital of Beirut killing dozens and wounding thousands who are now seeking to evacuate the war torn country. Two children were among the 12 people killed in Tuesday’s blasts, The Associated Press reported.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken denied that the U.S. was involved or knew about the pager attacks ahead of time.Hezbollah has blamed Israel for both attacks, claiming their intelligence group known as Mossad planted the bombs in their machinery.
More explosions were reported across Lebanon in the days following, reportedly detonating from handheld radios.Ocasio-Cortez, a vocal critic of Israel’s government amid its broader war in Gaza, refuses to remain silent about pager attack and has reported damages to her office by those against her outcries.
Despite the resistance, the representative continues to pushback calling the Israeli efforts “genocide” amongst other terms. Israel’s military has declined to comment about the blasts when reached by the AP and Reuters.
By Ashleigh Fields
Dawn Staley visits the White House
Dawn Staley and her award winning team of young women from the University of South Carolina took their championship visit to the White House earlier this month. President Joe Biden greeted the coaching staff and student athletes, a yearly tradition for sports teams that win a national collegiate championship.
“To the families and friends and, most of all, to the players and coaches, congratulations on an incredible run of excellence. Incredible,” Biden said.
“I know why you’re so good. You got a girl from Philly running this team,” he joked in reference to Staley, the team’s head coach.
Over the past two years, the lady Gamecocks have kept a 109-2 record and earned three national titles. After winning her first title game, Staley sent a piece of the net to every Black woman head coach in Division I basketball. She says she did to solidify a legacy.
“I feel like this is a teachable moment for my team. I’m reminded of the journey of our home state, South Carolina, where not so long ago, the Confederate flag was taken down from our state capitol, a symbol that represented division and exclusion,” Staley recalled. “That moment wasn’t just about a symbol being removed; it was about people coming together, uniting for a shared vision of progress, justice, and equality.”
Now she is mentoring other young women to do the same thing.
“Today, my staff, my team, and I stand here embodying diversity, inclusiveness, and unity. My hope is that this moment lands on you, as my team, as a powerful reminder of the beauty hat can come from unifying for a common goal and doing things the right
way,” she said.
In a tan suit, the USC head coach humbly gave credit to God for her career success.
“Most importantly, we know we wouldn’t be here without the grace of God. So, I’d just like to say just thank you. Thank you everyone for supporting our team,” Staley concluded. “I want to thank President Biden for your leadership. We appreciate your service. And we truly hope that your legacy will continue in — in all of us.”
President Joe Biden with Dawn Staley in Washington D.C (Photo courtesy of The White House)
workers protest layoffs from pg. 1
“We were told a plan was forthcoming within the week, but then the end of the week became the end of the following week,” a speaker from Amalgamated Transit Union Local 689 said to the crowd gathered outside the mayor’s office.
The group protested outside of the John A. Wilson building on Sept. 23 hoping to earn attention from city councilmembers and the Mayor alike. Councilmember Janeese Lewis George from Ward 4 came out of the building to stand in solidarity with drivers, eventually recording their chants and posting them on social media.
Mayor Bowser’s administration proposed cut ting the service due to a budget shortfall in the District’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget and Finan cial Plan.
“We need the mayor to demand alongside the council that you all can walk on the red carpet and slide right into those new jobs while keep ing your seniority, benefits, and pay,” Ward 1 Councilmember Brianne Nadeau said as she spoke to demonstrators.
The mayor’s office and Department of Trans portation haven’t provided comments on the matter but WMATA did say they’d be extend ing hours on certain routes to accommodate for the Circulator’s closure.
Amalgamated Transit Union Local 689 workers on strike demonstrate with supporters
LIBRA
(September 23 to October 22))
Affirm:“ I am at peace with my past and I look forward to my future.”
Your Libra horoscope is making sure you cleanse away everything that isn’t serving you in order to make space for some birthday blessings. Get introspective, so taking a break from your busy social life to spend some time in solitude is a good idea. You’re quickly realizing that whatever you’ve had to let go of recently wasn’t something you wanted anyway. Better things are yet to come.
SCORPIO
(October 23 to November 21)
Affirm:“ I am open to making new friends who enrich my life.”
Scorpio this month has plenty of opportunities to vibe with your crew. Use Virgo energy as a chance to connect with your community in a more meaningful way—whether that’s through volunteer work or simply attending a local event to meet more like-minded people. Light up your desire to learn new things and have some new experiences. A little risk pays off sometimes!
SAGITTARIUS
(November 22 to December 21)
Affirmation:“ I am organized, disciplined, and using my time wisely.”
Your professional life is ramping up—this month kicks off with some big career opportunities. This is a great time to make a detailed five-year-plan that gives you some direction when it comes to work. You’ll have even more clarity on how to move forward and what projects to tackle first. And work and no play for a Sagittarius is a nogo, tap into some romantic magic, and flirt your heart out!
CAPRICORN
(December 22 to January 19)
Affirm:“ I am in tune with my purpose and I’m passionately pursuing it..”
It’s a great time to discerningly analyze everything you’ve been learning, sift through it to find the gems, and then expand your worldview accordingly. Stand up for what you want in love. Don’t sit around waiting for someone else to make the first move.
October Horoscopes
Source: https://stylecaster.com/
AQUARIUS
(January 20 to February 18)
Affirm: “I am protecting my energy by setting firm boundaries.”
You’re in a sensitive place, Shift your focus onto your material resources, letting go of things that aren’t adding value to your life and making space for things that’ll make you feel safe—as well as things you can enjoy!
PISCES
(February 19 to March 20)
Affirmation:“ I am enough just as I am.”
This month is the perfect time to start thinking about commitment—whether that means leveling up with a current partner or making things official with a crush. You can also channel this adrenaline rush into a creative project, but whatever you do, don’t let this burst of inspiration go to waste—especially mid-month. Romance is flowing, and so are your artistic visions.
ARIES
(March 21 to April 19)
Affirmation:“ I have the power to create a life that is filled with adventure.”
If you’re ready to get your act together for autumn, you’re in luck! Focus and productivity you need to get down to business. It’s a great time to consider what habits you should add to your routine in order to live a healthier lifestyle. Listen to your heart.
TAURUS
(April 20 to May 20)
Affirm:“ My dreams are coming true right before my very eyes.”
Virgo season lighting up your chart’s passion sector, so open your heart to some new creative and romantic sparks. You’re undergoing a long term period of upheaval, and the next few months give you some time to process any sudden changes that have gone down since the year began. The perfect time to hatch a plan to bring more joy into your life, you may find yourself looking at your friendships in a new light. Find a healthy balance between work time and free time.
GEMINI
(May 21 to June 20)
Affirm:“ I have faith that everything happens for a reason.”
Feeling inspired to take care of business in your home life, but still plenty of flirtatious fun in store. A great time to take care of chores or house repairs, or if you’re feeling more intense, perhaps reach out to some family members to tackle some unfinished business. Plan a date night, or just channel all this sparkly energy into a creative project instead. Tap into your heart and get real about what trajectory you’d like to be on career-wise.
CANCER
(June 21 to July 22) Affirm:“ I leave everyone better than they were before.”
Words are coming with a lot more clarity now than they have in a while, and it’ll be even easier to express yourself. A boost of willpower and motivation will help you slay your goals through the month. Let go of outdated beliefs and open your heart to higher aspirations. Right now, hard work pays off.
LEO
(July 23 to August 22)
Affirm:“ I attract opportunities that bring me financial prosperity.”
Money is on your mind this season lighting up your finance sector, that might have you craving the good life. a good time to consider some longterm investments, whether those have to do with your bank account, relationships, or personal growth. If you need to start a post-birthday-season savings plan, this is a helpful energy for that, too.
VIRGO
(August 23 to September 22)
Affirm:“ I am on a road that leads to self-discovery.”
The sun is shining in your sign this month, filled with plenty of opportunities for growth—plus a chance to start rewriting a few storylines completely. Expect to feel especially on top of your mental game. You’re sharper, wittier, and quicker than ever, so get out and impress people with your brilliance. Get real about relationships. Face the facts while also honoring your heart.
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