The Washington Informer- February 13, 2025 by The Washington Informer

With Latest Congressional Bill, Home Rule Under Threat— Again

5D.C. Mayor

has declined to directly answer reporters’ questions about the onslaught of Republican attacks against her hometown, including President Donald J.

pardoning of two D.C. police officers and congressional Republicans’ reintroduction of legislation revoking District home rule. (WI File Photo/Robert R. Roberts)

District Students Meet During Cluster Bees, 30 Winners Advance

By Richard Elliott and Sam P.K. Collins

Contributing Reporter and WI Staff Writer

At the end of the day, not everyone will make it to the top.

Perhaps no one came to understand that hard truth more than the young people who suffered defeat during cluster bees that The Washington Informer hosted at THEARC in Southeast. On the second day of the bees, just before the pool of roughly 40 competitors

Mayor Bowser Mum about BOWSER Act, While Some Residents Welcome Home Rule Revocation

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Nearly one month after President Donald J. Trump’s second inauguration, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) refuses to publicly acknowledge what many District residents call the elephant in the room.

For weeks, Bowser has declined to directly answer reporters’ questions about the onslaught of Republican attacks against her hometown, including Trump’s pardoning of two D.C. police officers and congressional Republicans’ reintroduction of legislation revoking District home rule. However, in her most recent exchange

BOWSER ACT Page 51

gradually winnowed down to six during the middle school cluster, one of the adults fulfilled an urge to address the young people in the room.

“No matter what, you should be honored to be

Events DC and CareFirst Enter Partnership to Expand Health Care at St. Elizabeths East Campus

Site Becomes CareFirst Arena, Decade-long Initiative to Support Arena and New Hospital, Slated to Open April 2025

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

For years, Jaren Hill Lockridge, in collaboration

living in a part of the District that’s only now starting to see the elements of a quality healthcare system.

Earlier this week, Hill Lockridge and several others who gathered in the middle of the

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

Valentine’s Day (Feb. 14) is here again, marking a national holiday and annual reminder to celebrate romantic and platonic love and admiration for others. As Febru-

5 District leaders including D.C. Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, and Executive Director of Events DC Angie Gates celebrate the partnership between Events DC and CareFirst to expand health care at St. Elizabeths East campus. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

Muriel Bowser

Trump’s

5 Students from 18 different middle schools competed in the D.C. City-Wide Cluster Bees on Feb. 6. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

5Research shows that positive emotions from loving relationships can lower blood pressure, reduce stress, improve the immune system, and overall decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease. (AI Photo/Fotor)

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Super Bowl LIX: Eagles Dominate, Kendrick Lamar Highlights Black Stories

While it was easy to understand the Philadelphia Eagles’ big game victory against the Kansas City Chiefs— as they outplayed the 2023 and 2024 Super Bowl champions the entire matchup (40-22)— it takes a bit of decoding to understand the nuances of Kendrick Lamar’s exciting halftime show on Feb. 9 at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.

Born as Kendrick Lamar Duckworth and raised in Compton, California, the 37-year-old Grammy-winning rapper’s halftime show was an unapologetic celebration of Black culture, hip-hop, and the West Coast.

From honoring Gil Scott-Heron, to various scenes showcasing relatable experiences for Black Americans, and having Serena Williams Crip walk during his hit song “Not Like Us” (2024), the artist honored the power of African American narratives.

With President Donald Trump present for the big game— after recently eliminating federal diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programming— Lamar’s halftime show, during Black History Month, was much like a musical and told a captivating story.

“Kendrick Lamar was the [first] ever rapper to solo

headline the Super Bowl Halftime Show [and] it was flawless,” one person wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, before shouting out Jay-Z, who, with RocNation, curates the annual performance. “A lot of people love to discredit him but it’s time to give the legends their flowers while they’re alive to smell them.”

Breaking Down the Moments: Sza, Serena Williams, the Drake Drama

Opening the show was Samuel L. Jackson as Uncle Sam, casting that acted more than a coincidence in name, as he plays a symbol of systemic American control and censorship against African Americans.

With the field flashing the famous emblems from a PlayStation, with the particular buttons often known as the cheat code for gamers, Jackson kicks off the show saying: “Salutations. It’s your Uncle Sam, and this is the great American game.”

While it was the Super Bowl Halftime Show, it became apparent throughout Lamar’s performance that Jackson, as Uncle Sam, wasn’t referring to the big game

BOWL Page 9

Hip-Hop Mourns the Loss of Irv Gotti, Murder Inc. Founder Dies at 54

Hip-hop icon and record executive Irving “Irv Gotti” Lorenzo Jr., the mastermind behind Murder Inc. Records, has died at 54. The cause of death has not been announced, though Gotti had battled diabetes-related issues and suffered multiple strokes in recent years.

Def Jam co-founder Russell Simmons was among the first to pay tribute, calling attention to Gotti’s impact and the broader health crisis affecting Black men and women.

“Brothers and sisters, please don’t let Irv Gotti go without acknowledging the tragedy of his death and the state of Black health in America,” Simmons urged. “This talented, beautiful, happy, curious, enthusiastic spirit has left his body way too soon. I am sure God will receive him with love. To the Black men and women of America still here to face this crisis, the epidemic of chronic diseases and illnesses is a result of America’s food industry poisoning you and the normalization of bad diets and lack of

self-care. Those following great nutritionists like Dr. Sebi are walking away from this cycle of sickness. Help your brothers and sisters take the same path.”

Gotti rose to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s, shaping the careers of Ja Rule, Ashanti, and DMX. His signature production style fused hip-hop beats with melodic hooks, creating crossover hits that dominated radio and television from 2001 to 2004. He played a pivotal role in crafting chart-topping singles such as “I’m Real” and “Ain’t It Funny” with Jennifer Lopez and and Ja Rule, and “Foolish” and “Always on Time” with Ashanti. Before launching Murder Inc. in 1998, Gotti worked as an A&R at Def Jam, where he helped sign Jay-Z, DMX, and Ja Rule. Under his DJ moniker, DJ Irv, he produced “Can I Live” from Jay-Z’s “Reasonable Doubt” album. WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

Trump Moves to Tighten Grip on D.C.

President Donald Trump has taken steps to exert greater control over Washington, D.C., signaling a shift from his initial detachment from the city’s local affairs.

members were removed from the leadership page, and billionaire David Rubenstein was listed as chair emeritus.

According to a published report, Trump is preparing an executive order directing prosecutors to seek harsher penalties for local crimes, clear homeless encampments, and remove graffiti

Trump’s reach extends beyond crime policies. He has moved to take control of the Kennedy Center and continues to face Republican calls to strip the city of its home rule.

On Friday, Trump declared himself chairman of the Kennedy Center and announced the removal of board members who, in his words, “do not share our Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture.” By Monday, 18 board

Trump loyalist Richard Grenell was named interim executive director.

“NO MORE DRAG SHOWS, OR OTHER ANTI-AMERICAN PROPAGANDA,” Trump wrote on social media.

At the same time, two Republican lawmakers are targeting D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser. Rep. Andy Ogles of Tennessee and Sen. Mike Lee of Utah introduced the Bringing Oversight to Washington and Safety to Every Resident (BOWSER) Act, which would repeal home rule and place the city under congressional authority. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

SUPER

Young Women Politicians Participate in People for the American Way Foundation Fellowship

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

Eboni-Rose Thompson, a resident of Ward 7 in the District, is by all measures a seasoned politician.

She served as an advisory neighborhood commissioner in Ward 7 before her election to the D.C. State Board of Education as the ward’s representative in 2020. She was re- elected to a second term in 2024.

Despite her experience, Thompson jumped at the chance to participate in the opening activities of the Barbara Jordan-Dolores Huerta Young Elected Officials (YEO) Women’s Leadership Program of the People for the American Way Foundation from Feb. 6-Feb. 8.

“I appreciate being in a space with other women of color elected officials,” Thompson, 36, said.

“Many people don’t understand what you must deal with as a woman in elected office. It is good to be with women who support you and identify with the same issues that you are dealing with.”

Thompson is one of the 21 local elected officials—including D.C. Council member Janeese Lewis George (D-Ward 4) — participating in the six-month program in the People for the American Way Foundation’s office in Northwest.

Co-named after the late former Texas Congresswoman Barbara Jordan and National Farm Workers Association co-founder Delores Huerta, the program aims to educate young women on addressing the challenges of public office, fostering professional growth and amplifying women’s leadership within the national progressive movement.

GROWING WOMEN IN POLITICS

The Jordan-Huerta YEO Women’s Leadership Program comes as the number of women being elected to political positions increases, having grown significantly over the past decade.

The Center for American Women in Politics (CAWP) reports in 2025 at least 2,450 women will

serve in state legislatures. This represents 33.2% of all state legislative seats nationwide.

The previous record was 2,431, first set in 2024. CAWP revealed 32.3% of elected offices in municipalities are female.

Raquel Jones, vice president of campaigns and programs at People for the American Way Foundation, said the Jordan-Huerta program is designed to give women who are elected office holders the tools they need to succeed and impact their communities.

“Investing in the leadership of women elected officials of different backgrounds empowers this next generation of leaders, educates communities across the U.S. about the needs and priorities of women in America, and supports the evolution of their political power,” said Jones, 32.

The program participants explored such topics as reproductive rights, civil rights and fascism, social media and digital landscape, environmental leadership and safe schools. Subjects such as strategies for fundraising and campaign management, interacting with the media, and tactics for leading in male dominated spaces were also explored.

Minnie Diallo serves as a member of the Lathrop, California City Council and is its first Black council member. She said participating in the program “was a perfect opportunity.”

“As the first Black person on the council, I have had to overcome a lot of hurdles,” Diallo, 40, said. “I had to fight to get Juneteenth recognized. I had to fight to get Black History recognized. I need to learn to fight back properly.”

Diallo added that the program would contribute to her becoming “a more effective leader [and] a better public speaker.”

With continued racism and sexism, Thompson emphasized that the program can contribute to her combating challenges and achieving her goals in office.

“Women elected, especially those of us who are women of color, are working to successfully serve our communities through systems that were built to exclude

us and ensure we are anything but successful,” she said. “At a time when in our nation where we can feel this most aggressively reinforced, we need spaces like this fellowship where we can build the tools to do our own work and the relationships to preserve our humanity.” WI

4 Eboni-Rose Thompson represents Ward 7 on the D.C. State Board of Education. (Courtesy Photo/X, Eboni-Rose Thompson)

black AROUND THE REGION

TONI MORRISON (BELOW)

MICHAEL JORDAN (RIGHT)

NAT KING COLE (BELOWRIGHT)

GREGORY HINES (BELOWCENTER)

FEB. 13

1920 – Baseball player Andrew "Rube" Foster founds the Negro National League.

1923 – The New York Renaissance, an all-Black professional basketball team, is founded.

1970 – Joseph L. Searles III becomes the first Black floor member and floor broker in the New York Stock Exchange.

FEB. 14

1867 – Morehouse College is founded in Georgia.

1946 – Actor, singer and dancer Gregory Hines is born in New York City.

1965 – The New York home of civil rights activist Malcolm X is firebombed with him and his family inside.

FEB. 15

1965 – Famed singer Nat King Cole dies in Santa Monica, California, of lung cancer at 45.

1968 – Henry Lewis becomes the first Black to head a major U.S. symphony orchestra when he takes over the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra.

FEB. 16

1857 – Frederick Douglass is elected president of Freedman's Savings and Trust Company.

1923 – Blues singer Bessie Smith records her first single, "Down Hearted Blues," which was later included in the inaugural National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress.

1972 – Wilt Chamberlain becomes the first player in NBA history to score 30,000 points.

FEB. 17

1891 – Black inventor A.C. Richardson patents an im proved butter churn.

1936 – Pro football great and civil rights advocate Jim Brown is born in St. Simons, Georgia.

1942 – Political activist and Black Panther Party co-founder Huey P. Newton is born in Monroe, Louisiana.

1963 – Basketball legend Michael Jordan is born in New York's Brooklyn borough.

1982 – Influential jazz pianist Thelonious Monk dies of a stroke in Englewood, New Jersey, at 64.

FEB. 18

1931 – Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Toni Morrison is born in Lorain, Ohio.

1965 – West African nation Gambia declares its independence from the United Kingdom.

1965 – Civil rights activist Jimmie Lee Jackson is shot by an Alabama state trooper during a peaceful voting rights march rally in Marion, dying eight days later.

2006 – Speed skater Shani Davis becomes the first Black athlete to win an individual gold medal in the Winter Olympics.

FEB. 19

1919 – W.E.B. Du Bois organizes the first Pan-African Congress.

1940 – Music legend Smokey Robinson is born in Detroit.

1992 – John Singleton becomes the first Black director to be nominated for an Academy Award with his debut, "Boyz n the Hood."

1997 – Virginia's House of Delegates votes unanimously to retire the state song, "Carry Me Back to Old Virginny," which glorifies slavery. WI

view

P INT

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

In recognition of Black History Month, what are some of your favorite little-known Black history facts?

KYNG SANKOFA / LEXINGTON, KY

Samuel Cornish and John Brown Russworm, two Black men, started the first Black-owned newspaper in America, The Freedom’s Journal, in 1827. Also, the debates about what we call ourselves: Black, African American, colored, etc., have been going on since the 1830s. Back then, the debates centered around colored, oppressed Americans, Negro, Black, African, and Africo-American.

DANI ROBINSON / AURORA, ILL.

Jean Pointe Baptiste Du Sable not only founded Chicago but also settled many other cities in Illinois.

CYNTHIA KIDD / WASHINGTON, D.C.

CRAIG ANDERSON / OCEANSIDE, CALIF.

Blacks were called cowboys because of the word “boy,” and whites were called “cattlemen.” Whites didn’t start using the word cowboy until it became popular. Two out of every five cowboys in the Old West were Black.

Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner was a remarkable 20th-century inventor who received five patents. In spite of enduring racism her entire life, Kenner succeeded in patenting inventions that made everyday life easier. Her inventions include the sanitary belt - a predecessor to the maxi pad, a serving tray and pocket that connects to a walker, and a toilet paper holder that ensures the loose end of the paper is within reach.

VASHAY CONLEY / JOHNSON CITY, TENN.

1. The Buffalo Black Soldiers actually captured San Juan Hill. 2. Thousands of black soldiers volunteered to give up their ranks in order to fight at the Battle of the Bulge, which helped the Allied forces win, but they never got their ranks reinstated. 3. The majority of the world’s mathematics came from African mathematics.

AROUND THE REGION

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.

AROUND THE REGION

Amazon to Pay $3.95 Million Settlement Over Misleading Tipping Practices

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Amazon.com, Inc. and Amazon Logistics, Inc. have agreed to pay $3.95 million to the District of Columbia to resolve a lawsuit alleging the company misled customers about how their tips were distributed to Amazon Flex delivery drivers.

The lawsuit, brought by the D.C. Office of the Attorney General (OAG), accused Amazon of diverting a substantial portion of customer tips to reduce its labor costs while ensuring consumers that 100% of tips would go to drivers.

“When companies mislead customers to boost their profits by stealing tips intended for their workers, they are cheating their consumers, their employees, and their competitors who play by the rules,” said Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb. “It’s not sufficient, after being caught, to simply give back the ill-gotten gains. Rather, there must be meaningful consequences to deter misconduct from happening in the first place. Especially when living expenses are harder and harder to afford, my office will continue to ensure that hardworking District residents receive every penny of their earnings and consumers have confidence that they are not being misled.”

According to the lawsuit, from late 2016 to August 2019, Amazon quietly altered its payment structure for Amazon Flex drivers. Instead of adding customer tips on top of base wages, the company used tip money to cover

its pre-existing wage commitments, effectively pocketing much of what customers believed was going directly to drivers. Despite the change, Amazon continued to assure customers that 100% of their tips would benefit drivers. The lawsuit, filed under the District’s Consumer Protection Procedures Act, accused Amazon of deceptive trade practices by failing to disclose the new policy and misleading customers into thinking their gratuities were making a difference.

“Like any successful program, Amazon Flex has evolved over time, and this lawsuit relates to a practice we changed more than five years ago,” Amazon spokesperson Steve Kelly said in a statement.

Amazon Flex, launched in 2015, allows independent drivers to deliver packages for Amazon and earn customer tips. During the checkout process, Amazon encouraged tipping and preset default tip amounts. The company then manipulated the payment model to shift a significant portion of those funds into covering labor costs while

maintaining the illusion that drivers were receiving all the tips.

The OAG’s legal action followed a separate settlement with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), under which Amazon reimbursed drivers for the tips it had withheld. However, the District pursued its own lawsuit to impose additional financial penalties and enforce greater transparency.

Under the agreement, Amazon must pay the District $3.95 million, including $2.45 million in penalties and $1.5 million to cover litigation costs. Additionally, the settlement requires Amazon to implement clear disclosures regarding how tips are used. If the company applies any portion of tips toward covering wages instead of increasing driver earnings, it must explicitly inform customers through its website and mobile app. These requirements will remain in effect for five years.

“When consumers tip, they deserve to know where their money is going, and workers deserve to be paid fairly,” Schwalb said. WI

@StacyBrownMedia

Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School

Request for Proposals IT Workforce Training and Instructional Support Consultant

The Academy of Hope Adult Public Charter School in Washington, DC is requesting proposals for IT Workforce Training and Instructional Support Consultant. See full RFP for details and submission information at https://aohdc.org/get-involved/jobs/. Proposals are due 2/26/2025.

5Amazon.com, Inc. and Amazon Logistics, Inc. have agreed to pay $3.95 million to the District of Columbia to resolve a lawsuit alleging the company misled customers about how their tips were distributed to Amazon Flex delivery drivers. (Courtesy Photo)

McDuffie Introduces Bill to Designate D.C. as the Nation’s Official Sports Capital

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Councilmember Kenyan R. McDuffie (I-At-Large) has introduced legislation that would formally designate Washington, D.C., as the official sports capital of the United States.

The Official Sports Capital of the United States Designation Act of 2025 recognizes the District as a premier destination for sports events, teams, and activities. The bill also directs the Washington Convention and Sports Authority (Events DC) to implement a strategic plan to further elevate the city's presence in the sports industry and expand community engagement.

McDuffie highlighted the District’s legacy as a leader in the sports landscape, home to major professional teams, historic venues, and internationally recognized sporting events.

“This designation solidifies our status and unlocks new opportunities to expand our economic and cultural impact through sports,” McDuffie said.

Under the bill, Events DC would be responsible for attracting and retaining major sporting events, conferences, and tournaments to drive tourism and economic development. The

SUPER BOWL from Page 4

between the Chiefs and Eagles. It was the game of life for Black Americans.

The artist also included Sza, singing the tunes “Luther,” from his 2024 album “GNX” and “All the Stars” (2018) from the Black Panther soundtrack.

As entertaining as her performance was, Sza’s feature added an extra layer later in the show, as Lamar spent the past year using his music to call out the rapper and actor Drake, who she is rumored to have formerly dated.

Through multiple diss tracks, Lamar has alleged that Canadian rapper Drake, born Aubrey Graham, has pedophilic tendencies, is a bad father and is guilty of cultural appropriation.

Further, Drake filed a defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG) for not stopping the release of Lamar’s multi-Grammy-winning hit “Not Like Us.”

initiative also aims to increase investment in youth sports and community athletic programs, fostering inclusivity and future generations of athletes. Additionally, the plan calls for developing partnerships with professional, collegiate, and amateur teams while launching marketing and branding efforts to highlight D.C. as the nation’s top sports hub.

The legislation highlights the District’s continued investment in sports infrastructure, including Capital One Arena, Nationals Park, Audi Field, the RFK Memorial Stadium Campus, and CareFirst Arena.

The bill will now move through the legislative process, with stakeholders working to secure its passage.

While some people on social media have been mostly supportive of the bill, others criticized this legislative priority amid other challenges in the District.

“People from D.C. are being forced out of the city because they can’t afford rent, but thus performative legislation is needed? Yeah, no,” one person commented on the announcement of the legislation that McDuffie posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

However, for Lamar, it was about more than performing the celebrated diss track. It was about speaking up for Black people everywhere, encouraging them to fight for justice.

“Forty acres and a mule, this is bigger than the music. Yeah, they tried to rig the game but you can’t fake influence,” Lamar rapped before starting the lyrics for “Not Like Us.”

If that wasn’t a burn enough against the Canadian rapper and actor, Lamar also opted to include tennis star Williams, who is another one of Drake’s alleged former love interests.

For the last song, “TV Off” (2024), Lamar honors Scott-Heron’s famous piece, “The Revolution Will Not Be Televised."

“Super huge honor to be asked to be part of [Kendrick Lamar’s] halftime revolution,” Jackson wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Monday afternoon. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

“This designation solidifies our status and unlocks new opportunities to expand our economic and cultural impact through sports,” McDuffie said.

4Councilmember Kenyan R. McDuffie (I-At-Large) has introduced legislation that would formally designate Washington, D.C., as the official sports capital of the United States. (WI File Photo/Roy Lewis)

AROUND THE REGION

Communications specialist Andrea Castillo reads The Washington Informer. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

Artists Luther Wright, Adrianne Lind, Jules Dickerson and Francine Haskins pose with Margery E. Goldberg, owner and director of Zenith Gallery on Saturday, Feb. 8. Zenith Gallery in Northwest, D.C. celebrates Black History Month by hosting various artist talks for their latest exhibition, “Hold On, Change Is Coming.” (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

By Ashleigh Fields WI Contributing Writer

Elected officials, federal workers and demonstrators gathered outside of the Frances Perkins Department of Labor Building on Wednesday to protest Elon Musk’s new role within the federal government.

“Hey, hey, ho, ho, Elon Musk has got to go,” a crowd of hundreds chanted outside the headquarters.

President Trump has designated Musk to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a novel agency intended to slash federal spending by trillions. In recent days, Musk – who owns prominent businesses including the social platform X, SpaceX (a rocket and outer space ship manufacturer), in addition to Starlink, an internet services company – was granted access to citizens' sensitive information through the Treasury Department without warning.

Democrats came together outside of the Treasury Department on Tuesday and the Department of Labor on Wednesday to raise awareness about the issue and object to Musk’s involvement in government affairs.

“They have committed illegal actions causing a data breach of sensitive information that literally threatens people's personal information, social security information, health records. And because of that, we are taking them to court. We're going to hold them accountable and we're going to protect and defend my constituents in Nevada and people all across this country,” Rep. Steven Horsfod (D-Nev.), a former Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) chair said during the protests.

Corresponding demonstrations took place at the Ohio Statehouse and Texas Capitol on Wednesday in opposition to Musk.

“This is the working people's department. It doesn't belong to Donald Trump and or Elon Musk. It belongs to the working people and we're going to fight to defend it,” Horsford declared.

The current CBC Chair Rep. Yvette D. Clarke (D-N.Y.) attend-

ed protests the day prior as did Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.).

“Oh, you want to use our money to go to Mars?” Waters said mockingly. “No, we want to use our money right here in Washington, D.C., in this country."

In addition to Musk’s role as a special government employee, his businesses have gained contracts with federal agencies for billions of dollars raising concerns for Congress members who say the private sector and political power should remain separate.

Laborers and workers unions have echoed those claims, alleging Musk has engaged in a monopoly with the support of Trump.

“Elon Musk has absolutely no business raiding the Department of Labor to obtain the sensitive personal information of workers,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “It’s outrageous that Musk thinks he has the authority to access private data on workers from an agency that’s entrusted with protecting the fundamental rights of working people. With this lawsuit, we intend to stop Musk’s power grab cold.”

The labor union has filed a motion for temporary restraining order in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to stop Musk’s DOGE from unlawfully accessing the DOL’s systems and

information.

“The Trump administration, including the much shadowed government, seems intent on dismantling much of the federal government and the vital services it provides in violation of the constitution and federal regulation. The administration has relentlessly attacked federal employees subjecting them to pay outs and fear,”

Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) told protestors. “Let’s be clear what is motivating those actions, they are designed to get experts like those we work with to quit the workforce, they want to gut the non-partisan civil services and convert a significant part of remaining civil service into political appointees.”

Republicans also have spoken out against Musk.

“Efficiency in government should be a goal for every administration, agency, and federal employee. But how we achieve it also matters,” Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) shared in a statement.

“By circumventing proper channels and procedures, and creating the potential to compromise the sensitive data of Americans, we create a tremendous amount of unnecessary anxiety,” Murkowski continued. “That is wrong. Good governance is based on trust, not fear.” WI

5On Feb. 5, in Washington, D.C. union members, labor activists and allies, and members of Congress joined federal workers gathering outside the reported first meeting of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE group, with the Department of Labor (DOL) management to protest the billionaire’s interference in the federal agency. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Gov. Wes Moore Gives Third State of the State Address

Speech Focuses on Budget, State Response to Trump Administration

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) delivered his third State of the State address on Feb. 5, largely centered on the ongoing budget discussions and the state’s response to the early actions of President Donald Trump (R) and his administration.

For Moore, there’s a lot to celebrate and many challenges to address. He proudly touted a higher minimum wage and reduced unemployment by creating 100,000 new jobs and significant state investment in child care and health care.

However, the proposals Trump has made and executive orders he has signed since starting his second term has some Marylanders very worried. Moore said the likely firing of federal workers, ongoing trade wars, and efforts to shutter federal agencies are concerning for Maryland residents.

“We are being tested by an historic fiscal challenge, the likes of which we haven’t seen since the Great Recession. And if that wasn’t enough, we are being tested by a new administration in Washington that sows uncertainty, confusion, and chaos,” Moore said.

In addition, the biggest issue facing state legislators in Annapolis is undoubtedly the state budget, which has a roughly $3 billion gap that is constitutionally required to be balanced. Moore has proposed higher taxes on the rich and increased taxes on sports betting and

gambling and some service cuts to balance the state budget.

The governor said that he does not plan to raise the sales or property tax, and that his plan will cut taxes on two-thirds of Marylanders while raising taxes on less than 20% of Marylanders. He also plans to invest more in the Child Tax Credit and economic development.

Moore, who has a net worth of at least $3,000,000 and would raise his own taxes via his proposal, states that he supports paying a larger share of taxes to continue investing in vital state services including public safety and education.

Further, as Maryland’s budget is disproportionately reliant on federal programs and the incomes of federal workers to boost the state budget, the efforts by the Trump administration to disrupt the daily activities of federal employees will have great impact on the state budget.

“The trials we now face – both those we inherited and those newly-realized – mean that easy decisions are off the table. We only have difficult decisions ahead. We must close this $3 billion budget gap,” the governor emphasized. “And we have to do it in a way that grows the middle class, super-charges and diversifies our economy, breaks our distinct reliance on Washington, and helps Maryland seize its place in an uncertain world.”

Held a week after the tragic collision between American Airlines

Flight 5342 and a military helicopter near D.C.'s Ronald Reagan Airport, Moore used the State of the State address to offer condolences to the families and friends of the 67 victims and thank those who have stepped up to assist recovery efforts.

“Today, as we take stock of where we’ve been and where we are headed, I call on all Marylanders to find renewed strength in the courage of those men and women who raised their hands to serve,” Moore said, before encouraging others to find inspiration in their work. “In this moment, we must follow their lead – and confront crisis with courage. Because our entire state is being tested right now.”

LOCAL LEADERS REACT TO MOORE’S SPEECH

Maryland Democrats were encouraged by Moore’s message and enthusiasm to invest in the state’s economic development rather than gutting the state budget, while some state Republicans had concerns about the governor’s plans.

Senator Jim Rosapepe (DDistrict 21) said that Moore is “focused on helping Maryland’s working families.”

3Maryland Gov. Wes Moore is working to address the state’s budget challenges and the concerns some residents have with President Donald Trump’s return to the Oval Office. Moore delivered his third annual State of the State address on Feb. 5, where he discussed the details of his budget proposal and efforts to protect the state from Trump administration policies that could be detrimental for Maryland residents. (WI File Photo/ Robert R. Robert)

Delegate Bernice MirekuNorth (D-District 14), shared some of the aspects she appreciated from the governor’s speech.

“I was delighted to hear the governor’s focus on helping our young boys and men, expanding eligibility for expungement, and tools to improve our eeconomy and education system,” Mireku-North said.

Republican legislators cast doubts on Moore’s proposal to fix the budget without shifting tax burdens to citizens at the local level, calling it a “continuation of the tax and spend cycle.”

“Governor Moore claims his budget is a pragmatic mix of tax cuts for the middle class, tax increases for the wealthiest Marylanders, and real spending reductions. However, Governor Moore’s spending cuts are not what they appear to be,” said Delegate Jason Buckel (R- District 1B).

“The largest cut in Gov. Moore’s budget is not a cut at all, but merely a decision not to put $420 million into the Rainy Day Fund, our state’s savings account,” Buckel continued. “He also shifts $145 million of spending onto the backs of local governments who will, as a result, likely be forced to increase local taxes.”

“We are being tested by an historic fiscal challenge, the likes of which we haven’t seen s ince the Great Recession. And if that wasn’t enough, we are being tested by a new administration in Washington that sows uncertainty, confusion, and chaos.”

Senator Nick Charles was encouraged by the Governor’s honesty and pledges to work alongside his team to address the massive budgetary gap.

“What we know is that we are in tough fiscal times. We also know that we have the right team to correct the course we are on. This is not the first time Maryland or any other state has met budget challenges. We will persevere, and we will fix this. This challenge requires us to curb spending while also investing in industries of the future like Quantom Computing and simplifying our tax code,” said Senator Charles.

“Despite the difficult times we face, as a team, we will work to create a state that fosters opportunities for all Marylanders and ensures that, together, we build and invest in a safe, competitive, and prosperous Maryland.” WI

Prince George’s County Political Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

BRAVEBOY AND BAKER RECEIVE NEW ENDORSEMENTS, HAWKINS AND IVEY HOLD TOWN HALLS

Mailers, mass texts, and commercials are becoming common sightings for Prince Georgians as the race for the next Prince George’s County Executive nears Election Day.

State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy (D) received endorsements from State Sen. Ron Watson (D- District 23), Del. Marvin Holmes (D- District 23), Del. Mary Lehman (D- District 21), Del. Joseline Peña-Melnyk, and Councilmember Krystal Oriadha (DDistrict 7). Holmes and Watson cited Braveboy’s integrity and commitment to attract quality development.

“Together, Joseline and I served in the legislature and she has always been a fierce advocate for the underserved.

And just like me, she believes in fighting for a Prince George’s County where every resident has the resources and opportunities they deserve,” said Braveboy in response to the endorsement from the chair of Health and Government Operations and longtime delegate. “Thank you, Joseline, for your friendship, your leadership, your passion, and your trust. Let’s keep moving forward!”

Braveboy told The Informer her previous experiences have prepared her for the county executive role.

“I am the only candidate that has served in all three branches of government – the executive, legislative, and now the judicial Branch, as state’s attorney. I’ve also been a small business owner and worked in the private sector for one of the largest health care entities serving Prince George’s most precious residents – Children’s Hospital,” said Braveboy.

She said that her goals as county executive will be to oppose property taxes and continue to address crime,

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

among other efforts.

“I’ll work to improve public education, make housing more accessible and affordable, prioritize clean communities, and build wealth, create jobs, and promote smart development,” Braveboy said. “It’s the skills and experience from every position I’ve served that I want to use to expand hope and opportunity across the county.”

Another candidate, former County Executive Rushern Baker was endorsed by Prince George’s County Councilmember Sydney Harrison (D- District 9) on Feb. 4.

“During difficult times, Prince George’s County needs a leader who has demonstrated a proven economic vision and has the experience to hit the ground running on Day One,” read Harrison’s endorsement. “The county needs Rushern Baker, a leader who knows us, has been there for us, and will represent us in a way that will uplift Prince George’s County.” WI

HAWKINS AND IVEY HOLD TOWN HALLS, WASHINGTON TALKS PLANS TO PROTECT

PRINCE GEORGIANS FROM TRUMP POLICIES

As candidates continue to garner voters, they are holding events, engaging with the community and making promises.

County Councilmember Calvin Hawkins (D- At Large), who was recently endorsed by U.S. Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), shook hands

with voters at Greenbelt’s Metro Station on Feb. 6 and held a town hall with Life After Release on Feb. 8.

“Calvin Hawkins has served in various leadership roles throughout his illustrious career, advocating for equitable growth, quality education, and safe communities,” read a statement posted alongside his campaign schedule. WI

BUSINESS

By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

PRINCE GEORGE’S CHAMBER HOLDS CHAMBER FORWARD 2025 MEETING

Business and political leaders from the Washington region gathered at the Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce CHAMBER FORWARD 2025 Outlook Annual Breakfast on Jan. 29. Held at the Crowne Plaza College Park in Greenbelt, Maryland, the breakfast offered a moment for the organization’s leaders to talk about their work and plans.

The purpose of the event is for the president and CEO of the chamber, Alexander K. Austin, to update the organization’s members and stakeholders on the latest developments and the economic trends affecting the county.

Prince George’s County Council members Calvin Hawkins (D-At Large), Jolene Ivey (D- At Large) and State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy, candidates for the vacant county executive position, were among those attending the event. Also present were County Council members Tom Dernoga (D-Dis-

briefs

trict 1), Wala Blegay (D-District 6), Wanika Fisher (D-District 2), and Maryland Democratic U.S. Reps. Steny Hoyer and Glenn Ivey.

In his 25-minute address, Hoyer talked about the Trump administration’s plans for America.

“We have never experienced a time of more insecurity,” Hoyer said. “President Trump made it clear to the American people what he was going to do.”

Hoyer said Trump’s executive orders create a sense of uncertainty, especially among business leaders, “and businesses need certainty, or they will not want to invest.”

The congressman also said he will work to protect federal government employees, who constitute a sizable number of Prince Georgians.

During his remarks, Austin said his organization is focused on growth.

“We added 138 new members last year,” he said. “We have 800 members in diverse industries, with a goal of 1,000 [in the near future].”

Austin said small and local businesses are the backbone of Prince

George’s County economy and called for a need for greater economic diversification. He also pressed county leaders to address public safety concerns of residents and entrepreneurs.

“Our goals this year is to strengthen partnerships, increase networking opportunities and continue to sponsor programs for local businesses,” he said.

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: DCHA- 33-2025

General Construction for Judiciary House

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide General Construction for this solicitation.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, February 10, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at:https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

Respondents will then need to log in and locate this RFP for all related documents. It is the Proposers’ responsibility to check the Housing Agency Marketplace site regularly to stay current on the documents that are available as this is the primary communication site for this RFP.

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform.

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Monday March 03, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Pernell Wingate, Sr. Contract Specialist (OAS) at pwingate@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

CAPITAL BUSINESS SEMINAR

D.C. Shadow Rep. Oye Owolewa (D) is sponsoring a Capital Business Seminar that will occur on Feb. 18 at the Dorothy Height/ Benning Library in Northeast.

Starting at 6 p.m., contracting attorney Donya Gordon will discuss the five mistakes entrepreneurs make when pursuing contracts. Gordon will also inform attendees how to avoid making those costly errors.

Owolewa hosts the Capital Business Seminars to help level the economic playing field by providing local business owners with the information and relationships they need to succeed.

The seminars are free and open to the public.

For more information, contact Owolewa at 202-390-9480.

CAMP WINS MEDA AWARD

The Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) announced Prince Georgian Marva Jo Camp as the 2025 MEDA Volunteer of the Year, nominated by the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation.

The announcement was made

in concert with winners of MEDA’s Hall of Fame and Rising Star Awards.

Sponsored by Miles & Stockbridge P.C., the MEDA Awards annually recognize economic development leaders who move their communities forward in extraordinary ways.

“Economic development is about building vibrant, thriving communities that attract people and foster growth opportunities,” said MEDA President Richard G. Griffin. “The MEDA Awards provide us with an annual opportunity to recognize the individuals and initiatives that drive these efforts.”

MEDA extends its gratitude to Bay Crossing Consulting Services for sponsoring the Volunteer of the Year award, honoring those whose dedication and impact inspire positive change and drive progress in the field of economic development across Maryland.

With more than 30 years of visionary leadership in Prince George’s County, Camp has made profound contributions to both business growth and community empowerment.

She has played a pivotal role in shaping economic policy while also fostering sustainable growth by empowering nonprofits and

BUSINESS BRIEFS Page 15

5Alexander K. Austin, president and CEO of the Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce, addresses the gathering at the CHAMBER FORWARD 2025 Outlook Annual Breakfast on Jan. 29. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

BUSINESS BRIEFS from Page 14

local businesses. Through her efforts, Prince George’s County has emerged as a model for community-driven economic development in Maryland.

Camp is committed to utilizing the nonprofit sector as a driver of economic growth, fostering meaningful partnerships that support the expansion of local businesses and promote community investment. Under her leadership, these collaborations have become key contributors to increased tax revenue and economic vitality.

One standout example is the development of a two-story community center in partnership with Leadership Prince George’s and Prince George’s Community College, which was delivered at no cost to the community.

Camp’s focus on building strong, lasting relationships has been instrumental in creating such public-private partnerships, underscoring her continued impact on the county’s economic landscape.

“The work of this year’s award winners is a testament to the power of thoughtful initiatives, collaboration, and leadership which collectively will help shape the future

of Maryland,” Griffin said of this year’s awardees. WI

WOMEN GROW LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

The Women Grow Leadership Summit will be a transformative two-day event celebrating growth, equity, and innovation in the cannabis industry.

The summit is scheduled to be held on Feb. 17-18 at the Gaylord Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland, and will gather industry leaders, policymakers, and advocates to explore the future of cannabis.

This is a unique opportunity to spotlight groundbreaking initiatives in social equity, economic development, and diverse leadership within this rapidly evolving sector.

There will be a featured forecast from economist Beau Whitney and insights on job creation from workforce expert Karson Humiston on the cannabis industry.

Participants will be able to choose from three tailored tracks—Career Development, Business of Cannabis and Cannabis en Espanol. WI @JamesWrightJr10

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 25-2025

Playground

and Maintenance Repairs

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Property Management Office (PMO) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Playground and Maintenance Repairs for this solicitation.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, February 10, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at:https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

Respondents will then need to log in and locate this RFP for all related documents. It is the Proposers responsibility to check the Housing Agency Marketplace site regularly to stay current on the documents that are available as this is the primary communication site for this RFP.

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform. PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Tuesday, March 10, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Jasmin Travis, Procurement Specialist (OAS) at Jtravis@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: DCHA- 19-2025 Washer and Dryer Machine Installation and Maintenance

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Washer and Dryer Machine Installation and Maintenance for this solicitation.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, February 10, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform.

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Monday, March 03, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Pernell Wingate, Sr. Contract Specialist (OAS) at pwingate@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 02-2025 Body Worn Cameras and Tasers

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Washer and Dryer Machine Installation and Maintenance for this solicitation.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, February 10, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=5066

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform. PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Monday, February 24, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Jasmin Travis, Procurement Specialist (OAS) at Jtravis@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

5 Industrial Bank President and CEO B. Doyle Mitchell Jr., with Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy at the Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce CHAMBER FORWARD 2025 Outlook Award Breakfast on Jan. 29. (Robert Roberts/The Washington Informer)

n Business Cards

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n Fax & Scan n

Some Experts Say Trump’s South African Land Stance Exposes A Deep Hypocrisy

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

President Donald Trump has issued an executive order to cut U.S. aid to South Africa, while extending refugee status to white South Africans, a maneuver some are calling a calculated exercise in race-baiting and historical revisionism.

Trump claims that Afrikaners, the white descendants of Dutch and French settlers who own the vast majority of South Africa’s farmland, are victims of persecution under President Cyril Ramaphosa’s land reform efforts. Yet, the reality of land ownership in South Africa tells a different story, and Trump’s feigned concern for land rights is made even more absurd when compared to the systematic land dispossession endured by Black Americans in the United States.

South Africa’s land reform efforts aim to redress the racial inequities created by apartheid, a regime that systematically transferred land from the Black majority to the white minority. Despite the official end of apartheid three decades ago, white South Africans still control between 70% to 80% of the country’s arable land. Ramaphosa’s African National Congress (ANC) government has introduced expropriation policies to correct this historic injustice, ensuring that land reform is in the public interest and within the constitutional framework.

Yet, Trump has chosen to distort the issue, parroting the narrative pushed by AfriForum, an Afrikaner lobby group that claims white South Africans face racial discrimination.

Even AfriForum, however, does not accept Trump’s offer of refugee status.

“Emigration only offers an opportunity for Afrikaners who are willing to risk potentially sacrificing their descendants’ cultural identity as Afrikaners. The price for that is simply too high,” said AfriForum CEO Kallie Kriel.

LAND RIGHTS AND SYSTEMIC THEFT OF BLACK LAND IN THE U.S.

Trump’s sudden interest in land rights, juxtaposed against the backdrop of America’s own history of racialized land theft, paints an interesting picture. While Trump amplifies

5 President Donald Trump claims that Afrikaners, the white descendants of Dutch and French settlers who own the vast majority of South Africa’s farmland, are victims of persecution under President Cyril Ramaphosa’s (pictured) land reform efforts. He issued an executive order to cut U.S. aid to South Africa, while extending refugee status to white South Africans, a maneuver some are calling a calculated exercise in race-baiting and historical revisionism. (Courtesy Photo/Phill Magakoe)

the supposed plight of white South Africans, his own country has a long and well-documented history of dispossessing Black Americans of their land through legal and extralegal means.

According to Inequality.org, at the beginning of the 20th century, Black Americans owned at least 14 million acres of land. By the 21st century, 90% of that land had been taken through fraudulent legal schemes, intimidation, and outright theft. Today, African Americans own only 1.1 million acres of farmland and part-own another 1.07 million acres, a staggering loss of generational wealth that has never been addressed.

Land theft from Black people in the United States was carried out through methods such as heirs’ property laws, tax sales, and the Torrens Act, which allowed white developers to seize Black-owned land under the guise of legal loopholes.

Heirs’ property laws divided land among multiple descendants, making it difficult for families to retain ownership. Tax sales preyed on Black families with fixed incomes, forcing them to auction off land they had no intention of selling.

The Torrens Act allowed land to be sold without notifying all co-owners, stripping Black families of their property without legal recourse.

The impact of this systematic theft is immeasurable.

In Mississippi alone, between 1950 and 1964, nearly 800,000 acres of Black-owned land were stolen, amounting to a present-day valuation of up to $6.6 billion.

The wealth lost through land dispossession remains one of the most enduring factors in the racial wealth gap, where the typical white family still has eight times the wealth of the typical Black family.

Trump’s selective outrage over land redistribution in South Africa stands in direct contrast to his administration’s complete disregard for the historical theft of Black land in the U.S. His policies consistently benefited white landowners while neglecting the Black farmers and families who had been systematically robbed of their property for generations.

The administration dismantled the civil rights division of the USDA, an agency long accused of discriminating against Black farmers and ignored efforts to provide restitution to those who had suffered under racist policies.

TRUMP AND IMMIGRATION, FOREIGN RELATIONS

The irony of the president’s willingness to extend refugee status to white South Africans deepens when one considers Trump’s well-documented hostility toward refugees.

His administration slashed refugee admissions to record lows, imposed immigration bans, and separated children from their families at the border. But now, white South Africans—who remain the most economically privileged demographic in their country—are suddenly deemed worthy of asylum.

Black and brown refugees fleeing war, famine, and persecution were demonized as threats under Trump’s watch, yet white Afrikaners are welcomed with open arms.

Ziyad Motala, writing in the Middle East Monitor, noted that Trump’s claim of white South African persecution “would be an amusing episode of alternate history if it were not so transparently false.”

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

NATIONAL

DEI Has Failed Black Americans, Trump and Musk are Waging War Against it Anyway

Despite DEI Developments, Disparities Continue for African Americans

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

For decades, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs have existed in corporate America, government institutions, and higher education under the premise of fostering fairness, opportunity, and representation. Yet, for African Americans, the data tells a different story.

Despite more than half a century of these initiatives, Black professionals remain woefully underrepresented in executive leadership, economic opportunities remain out of reach, and systemic disparities persist across industries. Still, Donald Trump and his allies, including billionaire Elon Musk, have made DEI their primary target, as if these policies exclusively benefit Black people.

Within hours of taking office, Trump signed an executive order eliminating DEI policies from federal agencies, banning environmental justice initiatives, and scrapping diversity-based hiring efforts. He placed federal DEI officers on administrative leave and handed Musk the reins of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency to complete the purge.

Musk, who has called DEI “just another word for racism,” is leading the charge to erase decades of progress— however flawed that progress has been.

Felicia Shanken, founder of the Philadelphia Women’s Network Connection, has pointed out that while DEI was meant to foster equality, its benefits have not been distributed equitably.

“DEI remains one of the most important strategies for creating a fairer and more just society. However, we must recognize the uneven distribu-

tion of its benefits and take intentional steps to address these disparities,” Shanken explained.

COMPANIES STAND BY DEI WORK

Even as Trump and Musk attempt to erase DEI from the workplace and government institutions, some major corporations continue to stand by their initiatives.

Costco remains committed to DEI policies despite political pressure to abandon them.

In a recent shareholder vote, 98% rejected a proposal to eliminate the company’s diversity efforts. The company’s board has stated that its DEI policies—including leadership training programs, mentorship initiatives, and open forums to foster inclusivity—enhance Costco’s ability to attract and retain employees.

Apple has also defended its DEI commitments, urging shareholders to reject anti-diversity measures pushed by conservative groups. JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon has clarified that the company will “continue to reach out to the Black community, the Hispanic community, the LGBT community, the veterans community.”

Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, Cisco, and Pinterest have echoed similar sentiments, recognizing that diverse workplaces lead to better business outcomes.

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff has been outspoken in his support of DEI, stating, “If somebody’s going to come after our employees or discriminate against them in any way, we’ll do everything we can to help them, support them.”

Nasdaq CEO Adena Friedman also reinforced the importance of DEI.

“Diversity of views and diversity of backgrounds actually makes us a better company and makes us perform better,” Friedman said. “So, we’re going to continue to operate in that way.”

WHITE BACKLASH, REALITIES OF DEI FOR MANY AFRICAN AMERICANS

For many Black Americans, the reality is clear—DEI has not lived up to its promise. While these policies have allowed corporations to brand themselves as progressive and inclusive, they have not addressed the root causes of racial inequity in hiring, wages, or executive leadership.

Even in academia, where DEI

efforts meant expanding access to higher education, the Supreme Court’s 2023 decision to strike down affirmative action in college admissions has further set back progress.

Trump’s war on DEI is not about eliminating an unfair advantage for Black Americans, because that advantage never existed. However, this moment follows a trend of white backlash: a historical pattern of resistance that follows every attempt to correct systemic injustices.

As Forbes previously noted, after the Civil War and the Emancipation Proclamation, Black Americans saw Reconstruction-era progress wiped out by Jim Crow laws and racial terror. When Black communities in Tulsa’s Greenwood District, known as Black Wall Street, built generational wealth in the early 20th century, a white mob burned it to the ground. The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s was also met with massive resistance, and in the wake of George Floyd’s murder in 2020, the corporate pledges that followed the same pattern are playing out. WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5 For decades, diversity, equity, and inclusion programs have existed under the premise of fostering fairness, opportunity, and representation, yet for African Americans, the data tells a different story. (WI File Photo/Robert Roberts)

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Mimi's Musings

Education Proves As Path to Freedom, Power for Black Americans

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

There’s a reason why reading was outlawed for enslaved Africans.

As the old adage goes: “Knowledge is power.” Brainwashing by using biblical teachings as a guise was critical to maintaining the power dynamic in the legal system of American chattel slavery.

However, even laws banning literacy, enforcing segregation in schools, and continued systemic oppression contributing to educational and economic disparities didn’t prevent and to this day, can’t stop, Black people’s ingenuity in gaining knowledge.

From advocating for more career opportunities, to providing vocational training and creating academic institutions, Black barrier-breakers in education have been instrumental in paving paths toward labor advancements for African Americans nationwide.

As the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH)—the creators of Black History Month— commemorates “African Americans and Labor” for its 2025 theme, acknowledging education is critical. Labor and education advocacy not only furthered Black career opportunities, but con-

established as a nation in 1776– to post slavery in places like Virginia in 1867, according to Annie E. Casey Foundation.

tributed to the United States’ overall social, political, cultural and economic power.

“Education remains one of the Black community's most enduring values,” Marian Wright Edelman, founder and president emerita of the Children’s Defense Fund, once said. “It is sustained by the belief that freedom and education go hand in hand, that learning and training are essential to economic quality and independence.”

ANTI-LITERACY LAWS

Arming those already strong, resilient, creative and brilliant enslaved Africans with the ability to read of Moses freeing the slaves in Israel, and about Jesus’ advocacy for the poor, sick and marginalized would have likely made them reconsider their masters’ teachings.

The possibility of enslaved people learning to read was a real concern for white slave masters working to uphold racist narratives and inhumane practices.

Making literacy illegal for Black people helped maintain the slavery money-making machine that powered this nation.

Anti-literacy laws were active in parts of the United States from 1740–even before it was officially

In “Narrative in the Life of Frederick Douglass” (1845), the great abolitionist shares his journey of learning how to read. At the age of 12, after finding various strategies to accomplish literacy, he read “The Columbian Orator” (1797), by Caleb Bingham, where he found two texts particularly interesting: 1) an interaction between a slave and master and 2) the Catholic emancipation.

“I read them over and over again with unabated interest. They gave tongue to interesting thoughts of my own soul, which had frequently lashed through my mind, and died away for want of utterance. The moral which I gained from the dialogue was the power of truth over the conscience of even a slaveholder. What I got… was a bold denunciation of slavery, and a powerful vindication of human rights,” Douglass writes in “Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass.”

While a young Douglass was enlightened by this newfound knowledge, literacy came at a cost.

“The reading of these documents enabled me to utter my thoughts, and to meet the arguments brought forward to sustain slavery; but while they relieved me of one difficulty, they brought on another even more painful than the one of which I was relieved. The more I read, the more I

was led to abhor and detest my enslavers,” Douglass explains.

Literacy opened the door to freedom for Douglass, who ultimately escaped the bondages of slavery and lived a long life as an abolitionist, orator, author, newspaper publisher, husband and father.

"Knowledge is the pathway from slavery to freedom,” Douglass said.

While being Black and learning was long discouraged or outright illegal, education became a way for those like Douglass to empower themselves and other African Americans, by working to effect change in the nation and world.

“Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it,” civil and children’s rights activist Edelman famously said.

AFRICAN AMERICAN EDUCATIONAL INGENUITY, ADVOCACY

Although paths toward education have proven difficult for many African Americans, Black leaders’ commitment to learning created training and career opportunities for people of color, while expanding U.S. economic and cultural power and influence.

African American labor advocates emphasize the strength, skill, beauty and boldness of Black workers.

This week, following ASALH’s celebration of “African Americans and Labor,” The Washington Informer will be highlighting Black labor leaders who used education as a pathway to justice and freedom.

From Booker T. Washington, to Nannie Helen Burroughs, Mary McLeod Bethune, Septima Poinsette Clark and Elizabeth Davis, former president of Washington Teachers Union (WTU) who died in April 2021, African American educational advocates emphasized the importance of learning and training— both academic and vocational— as paths to career opportunities and equity.

Today, African Americans make up about 13% of the U.S. labor force in comparison to white Americans who make up 77%, according to a 2022 report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, Black buying power is substantial and growing, currently at about $1.6 trillion.

While many Black people in the U.S. still face economic and educational disparities, and as President Donald Trump works to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion and the Department of Education, brave and brilliant African American labor and education advocates of the past can offer guidance for the future.

“Education and justice are democracy's only life insurance,” the late labor and education advocate Burroughs said. WI

BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2025:

AFRICAN AMERICANS AND LABOR

5 A former intern with the Washington Teachers’ Union stands outside of the John A. Wilson Building in 2022. Historically, labor and education advocacy not only furthered Black career opportunities, but contributed to the United States’ overall social, political, cultural and economic power. (WI File Photo)

Nannie Helen Burroughs: Champion of Education for Black Women

By Richard Elliott, Sam P.K. Collins and Stacy M. Brown WI Contributing Writer, WI Staff Writer and WI Senior Writer

Having opened the National Training School for Women in Girls in Washington, D.C. in 1909, Nannie Helen Burroughs was integral to Black women getting job training and career opportunities, not only in the District but nationwide. Her critical contributions in the 20th century remain inspirational for students, activists, educators and labor workers to this day.

Housed in the same building of the educator and labor advocate’s former school in Northeast, D.C., The Monroe School, works to carry on Burrough’s legacy through offering high school students training that will prepare them for college or careers. Ruth Logan, founder and CEO of The Monroe School said that for students, celebrating Burrough’s life and work is about more than just a building.

“The students know about the area and surroundings, but I’m fascinated with what they don’t know about Dr. Burroughs,” Logan told The Informer in 2020. “During Women’s History Month and Black History Month, Dr. Burroughs becomes one of the individuals [mentioned], researched and presented in projects. We’re keeping that legacy alive. We’re making sure students learn about what she brought to the city, and what she means to education at The Monroe School.”

Born in 1879 in Orange, Virginia, Burroughs was the child of a former enslaved couple. She later moved to Washington D.C. and was a noted scholar who graduated with honors from M Street High School (now Paul Laurence Dunbar High School), but was denied a position within the public school system.

Burroughs worked as a bookkeeper and editorial secretary for the National Baptist Convention (NBC). She rose through the ranks of the NBC and focused on gender equality within the church, later helping to found the Women’s Auxiliary of the organization.

The educator and freedom fighter was also active in the National Association of Colored Women, the National Association of Wage Earners, and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History.

A fervent suffragist and advocate

against lynching, Burroughs wrote about the need for Black and white women to work together to achieve the right to vote. She believed suffrage for African American women was crucial to protect their interests in an often discriminatory society.

In 1909, she led the charge to fund and establish the National Training School for Women and Girls, of which she was president until her death in 1961.

As founder, Burroughs fundraised for the school from grassroots donors and offered Black women an alternative to domestic work, as she fervently believed that Black women should have the opportunity for education and jobs training.

Giving back to young people was a crucial part of Burroughs advocacy and work.

In August 1954, Burroughs gave an opportunity to the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., then 25, to speak before the National Baptist Convention.

“What [King’s] message did to their thinking and to their faith is ‘bread cast upon the water’ that will be seen day by day in their good works in their communities,” Burroughs said about King’s speech.

CONTINUING BURROUGHS LEGACY

IN

WASHINGTON, D.C., NATIONWIDE

Burroughs’ life and legacy remains important to the District and nation, with landmarks, streets and institutions named in her honor.

In 1964, three years after her death, the school founded by the activist and educator was renamed in her honor as Nannie Helen Burroughs School. Completed in 1928, Trades Hall— which, according to the National Park Service, housed 12 classrooms, three offices, an assembly area and print shop—became a private elementary school until its closing in 2006.

While the school closed, The Monroe School continues Burroughs’ legacy. Further, Trades Hall is designated as a national historic landmark and houses the Progressive National Baptist Convention (PNBC).

Jr., Nannie Helen Burroughs and those great heroes and sheroes of the civil and human rights movements throughout the Diaspora,” the Rev. Dr. Tyrone Pitts, who is now general secretary emeritus of PNBC, told The Informer in 2020.

In addition to the institutions in her honor, Washingtonians are reminded by the activist and educator’s legacy when on or near Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue in Northeast, D.C.’s Deanwood neighborhood.

More than 60 years since her death on May 20, 1961 at the age of 82, Burroughs is celebrated for her immense

dedication to furthering opportunities for Black women in labor and justice overall.

“A lot of people endured a lot of hardship, humiliation, suffering and pain,” Burroughs once said. “The least I can do is be my best, live my best life, and treat myself and my surroundings with respect.” WI

4Nannie Helen Burroughs opened the National Training School for Women and Girls, offering Black women an opportunity to get education and job training in D.C. She also gave the

King Jr. speaking opportunities and encouragement during the earliest stages

Civil Rights Movement. (Courtesy Photo)

THE ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF AFRICAN AMERICAN L IFE AND HISTORY presents the

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2025: AFRICAN AMERICANS AND LABOR

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

The Elimination of Black History

Aimee D. Griffin, Esq.

Next year we will celebrate 100 years of formally recognizing the contributions of the Black community in this country starting with Negro History Week. The celebration of acknowledging and teaching the impact of the Black people in this country began in 1926. As Black people, we knew we could not rely on anyone else to show us our value. With the massacre in Tulsa as an attack on Black economic development, we faced the truth of Frederick Douglass’ words in 1857, “Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did and it never will.”

At this time, we are confronted with the reality that our story, Black History, is being deleted from the history of the United States. If the story of our enslavement and the historic, systematic oppression is not told, the facts of the comparison of the racial wealth gap are not presented in context.

Yet, we cannot rely upon someone else to tell our story. We must continue to build our narrative. As a Black woman, whose parents were educators, I grew up understanding the great importance of knowing our past. My mother, who taught Black History, further affirmed that it is our responsibility to know our story. As we know, we have overcome amazing obstacles. When we remember what we have overcome and look at the obstacles we are currently facing, there is no comparison. We are more than conquerors. And we will continue to be successful.

Our story has not come to an end. Our story is valid whether it is told or hushed. AND we have the responsibility of continuing to build our history and our legacy. Individually and collectively, we are building our story and transforming the world for ourselves and others.

Life and Legacy Counselors is an estate planning attorney that supports the development of strategic planning for the family that impacts multiple generations. The opportunity to help families secure the legacy and the vision that they have for the people they love is a huge responsibility for the individuals we serve. We know that through estate planning, we are strengthening communities, one family at a time. We know that a vision to build multigenerational wealth is impactful for all that are connected. We know that we are able to strengthen our heirs, whether they are legally or biologically connected, or love related.

We are experiencing blatant opposition to providing access and opportunities to diverse communities who have been denied access for centuries. The historic disregard for equal opportunity that started being addressed in the 1960’s through legal and constitutional recognition, is now prohibited. The recent proclamations forbidding access to women and diverse communities to opportunities are not veiled roadblocks, but direct.

Yet again, we know this energy, and we have seen this enemy before. We were not defeated before and will not be defeated now. Thriving in the face of adversity, inequity, racism and sexism is what we have had to do for centuries and will continue to do.

Whenever there is a crisis, we know that there is a challenge and an opportunity. I am excited about the challenge that we face. I am excited about the renewed commitment to our mission and purpose. I am excited that we will continue to stand with the lyrics of the Black National Anthem and Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us; Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, Let us march on 'til victory is won.

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

https://www.lifeandlegacy.law/ (855) 574-8481

BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2025: AFRICAN AMERICANS AND LABOR

Remembering Anna Arnold Hedgeman

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

A barrier-breaker who helped plan the 1963 March on Washington among other efforts, Anna Arnold Hedgeman, was integral to achieving civil rights, labor rights and educational equity in the nation. The activist, educator, politician, author, and early leader with the National Organization for Women, led a long life of advocacy, proving triumphant over the various hurdles put before her and other Black Americans of her time.

“There is chaos in the land; utter confusion and fear,” Hedgeman once wrote reflecting on the racism she saw throughout her travels in the U.S. “Where people thought there had been order there was no order; only day by day reports of our world falling apart.”

Hedgeman was born July 5, 1899 in Marshalltown, Iowa to Mary Ellen Parker and William James Arnold II. She grew up an avid reader, with parents who prioritized education throughout grade school.

The labor and civil rights organizer became the first African American person to become a student at Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota. During her years in university, she found herself moved by the various lectures of famous speakers, most notably W.E.B. DuBois, whose work inspired her to become a teacher.

Upon traveling to Rust College in Holly Springs, Mississippi for her first teaching job, Hedgeman confronted the stark reality of Jim Crow, which became the fuel behind her unyielding dedication activism.

Hedgeman became the first African American woman to hold a position in a New York Mayoral cabinet in 1954, working for Mayor Robert F. Wagner Jr.’s administration until 1958. However, she left due to persistent frustrations with gender discrimination.

Despite unsuccessful political runs for Congress and the New York City Council president, Hedgeman, became a well-known advocate and leader, bringing attention to the issues of poverty, labor, and education facing underserved communities across the city.

Portrayed by CCH Pounder in the 2023 Netflix film “Rustin,” Hedgeman also famously advocated for women to speak at the 1963 March on Washington. In her book “The Trumpet Sounds: A Memoir of Negro Leadership” (1964),” she noted her disappointment that women weren’t prominently represented when King shares his famous dream of a more civil world.

“It had never occurred to me to that folks other than Black Power figures had had serious critiques of King in that moment,” reads a Crunk Feminist Collective piece about the activist in January 2013. “Hedgeman’s moxie and courage are a lesson to us today.”

5 The legacy of Anna Arnold Hedgeman, a barrier-breaking woman integral to achieving civil rights, labor rights and educational equity in the nation, continues through current work toward racial and gender equity, and overall human rights. (Courtesy Photo)

GIVING BACK FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH

To celebrate, our associates are volunteering with community partners throughout the month.

Scan to learn more about our community efforts:

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2025: AFRICAN AMERICANS AND LABOR

Remembering Elizabeth Davis: A Champion for Educators Rights, Literacy, Educational Equity

By Sam P.K. Collins and WI Web Staff WI Staff Writer

A District educator of 44 years, Elizabeth Davis, former president of Washington Teachers’ Union (WTU), fervently championed educators rights, childhood literacy, and educational equity. While it’s been four years since Davis tragically died in a car accident in April 2021, her dedication to educational justice continues through former students and colleagues, WTU initiatives, and District-wide efforts to keep her legacy alive.

Serving as WTU president from 2013 until her death, Davis garnered a reputation among both her colleagues and detractors as an orator and staunch advocate for teachers, particularly those working in schools east of the Anacostia River.

As Chantal Fuller, a special education teacher at Excel Academy Public School, recounted to The Informer, Davis often had a way of encouraging teachers around her to stand up for themselves without apology.

“We recognized that Elizabeth Davis was here for a purpose and she was here for us. She reiterated that teaching conditions are learning conditions,” Fuller told

The Informer in April 2021, after Davis was one of two victims in a fatal Easter Sunday crash.

Remembering her fearless advocacy, Fuller said Davis’ death was “a big loss” for the District’s education community.

“She had no qualms about expressing that for us. If we got our needs met, that translated to students getting their needs met,” Fuller continued. “Elizabeth had tenacity and bravery in dealing with local and national politicians who had things to say about how she chose to advocate for us.”

Throughout the reopening process, WTU, with Davis at the forefront, engaged DCPS Chancellor Lewis Ferebee about the conditions under which students would return amid a raging COVID-19 pandemic. In February 2021, not long after some teachers returned to the classroom for Term 3, WTU came close to approving a teachers’ strike via a vote.

In the days before her death, Davis remained in the throes of a battle with the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) central office about proposed budget cuts that would have significantly reduced the teaching staff at nearly 50 schools located east of the Anacostia River even with little to no change in student enrollment.

In the statement announcing her death, Washington Teachers’

Union remembered Davis as a transformational leader.

“President Davis has been at the forefront of public education advocacy and reform, leading the WTU’s transformation into a social justice, solution-driven organization dedicated to advancing and promoting quality education for all children, irrespective of their zip codes or results of the school lottery, improving teaching and learning conditions and aggressively amplifying the voice of teachers in the dialogue around issues of teaching and learning,” WTU said. “We are confident that her legacy will continue to shape the WTU as well as education across the District.”

CONTINUING THE COMMITMENT TO LITERACY

Davis was a staunch advocate for student literacy, working for funding that places at least one librarian in every District public school.

As president, she had a Little Free Library installed at 1239 Pennsylvania Avenue Southeast in 2017. For years, the free library became a source of literature for those in Eastern Market, where WTU headquarters is located.

In April 2023, WTU remembered Davis by renaming the library in her honor.

Current WTU President Jacqueline Pogue Lyons served as vice president under the late leader and was her successor. While reflecting on her memory, she said the rededication ceremony not only recognized Davis’ role in bringing the free library to the WTU office, but reaffirmed WTU’s mission of tackling illiteracy and better equipping teachers in their mastery of the Science of Reading.

“President Davis understood and strongly supported [childhood literacy]. When she got the free library, we put books in it and some of our community members would leave books,” Pogue Lyons said.

K.C. Boyd, a school librarian who was on the front lines of those efforts, said Davis taught her to ask questions and hold school officials and politicians accountable to their word. She added that Davis’ dedication to the cause garnered her respect, and at times disdain, among city officials and DCPS central office figures alike.

“Liz fought extremely hard for all children, and she was laser focused on children across the Anacostia River because she didn’t want them left behind,” Boyd said at the library unveiling in 2023.

In speaking about the Elizabeth Davis Free Library, Boyd commended WTU for furthering its commitment to childhood literacy.

For Boyd, closing the literacy gap means going back to the basics, including infusing a love for independent reading in children. She told The Informer that the late Davis would be in agreement about such a concept.

“With all the craziness in the District, you wondered if children were being put first and you had someone who did it. To be an independent reader, you have to pick up a book and read,” Boyd said. “Liz embedded in the Washington Teachers’ Union how important it was for children to do that.”

5 Elizabeth Davis, former president of Washington Teachers’ Union (WTU), is remembered as a champion for educators rights, childhood literacy, and educational equity. (WI File Photo/Shevry Lassiter)

3 A ribbon-cutting ceremony on the steps of the union headquarters for the free library named in honor of the late WTU President Elizabeth Davis. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Celebrating the Freedom to Learn

BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2025: AFRICAN AMERICANS AND LABOR

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Black Manual Labor, Discouraged African Americans in Unions

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

Although born into slavery in April 1856, Booker T. Washington is celebrated as one of the most influential Black leaders of his time, whose life and legacy continues to inspire Americans nationwide.

While his perspectives were criticized during his life, until his death in 1915, Washington, the first leader of the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, is known for his views on African Americans and their role as workers.

“Booker T. Washington, the conservative head of the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, championed ‘industrial education,’ hard work, and an avoidance of electoral politics,” wrote Eric Arnesen of George Washington University in “Civil Rights and the Labor Movement: A Historical Overview,” published by International Brotherhood of Teamsters in February 2021. “He lectured Black workers to avoid unions, ally with white industrialists, and even break strikes to secure jobs otherwise closed to them.”

Washington’s famous address at the Cotton States and International Exposition in Atlanta on September 18, 1895 articulated the view that Black people should become proficient in agriculture, mechanics, commerce and domestic service. In it, he urged African Americans to “dignify and glorify common labor.”

In addition, he used the speech to emphasize to white laborers that African Americans were loyal and wanted to prove themselves as hard workers.

Further, Washington dismissed Black agitation for social equality as “folly,” a view that was contradicted by noted African American scholar W.E.B. DuBois.

“It is important and right that all privileges of the law be ours, but it is vastly more important that we be prepared for the exercise of these privileges,” Washington noted in the speech. “The opportunity to earn a dollar in a factory just now is worth infinitely more than the opportunity to spend a dollar in an opera-house.

WI @JamesWrightJr10

5 Booker T. Washington was the principal of Tuskegee Institute from the late 1880s to 1915. (Courtesy Photo)

BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2025: AFRICAN AMERICANS AND LABOR

How Septima Clark’s Education Revolutionized the Struggle for Equality

An Unsung Hero Committed to Empowerment Through Literacy

By Mya Trujillo WI Contributing Writer

By highlighting the link between literacy and political empowerment, educator and activist Septima Poinsette Clark changed the landscape of education and equality for Black people in Charleston, South Carolina and across the U.S. during the Jim Crow era. Although she’s not a household name, Clark’s work was crucial to the Civil Rights Movement’s development.

Clark’s 30 years of teaching began soon after she graduated from secondary school in 1916. She taught at a Black school on Johns Island in South Carolina, as Black educators were not allowed to work in the Charleston public school system. This discriminatory regulation inspired her first act of organized resistance– gathering signatures to petition for Black educators’ employment in public schools.

Clark’s most influential work took place with the creation of citizenship schools in the late 1950s, which helped her explore what information was crucial for citizens to know in order to be productive members of society. Designed for people of voting age, these citizenship schools taught practical, political and economic literacy.

“They focused on overcoming illiteracy to strengthen Black electoral power,” said Kristen Duncan, Ph.D. during a presentation at the University at Buffalo Graduate School of Education.

“There was an interactive way of teaching that built upon student culture and an explicitly political approach that linked gaining knowledge to collective efforts of overcoming racism.”

Her efforts in these programs effectively combatted the disenfranchisement Black voters faced and prepared them for any obstacles that may come with registration–such as literacy tests. She taught many of the young generation that propelled the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s, making her work a cornerstone to the fight against racism.

Her dedication to teaching political literacy fortified the movement challenging the systemic oppression against Black Americans, forever shaping the fight for justice.

“I believe unconditionally in the ability of people to respond when they are told the truth,” Clark famously said. “We need to be taught to study rather than believe, to inquire rather than to affirm.”

5 Septima Poinsette Clark is an unsung hero of the civil rights movement. She proved that knowledge is power through her various education workshops and citizenship schools, enriching students with the necessary information to return to their communities and empower others. (Courtesy Photo)

Guest Preacher | The Reverend Dr. Raphael Warnock

Guest Choir | North Carolina Central University Choir

February 16, 2025

11:15am

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2025: AFRICAN AMERICANS AND LABOR

Mary McLeod Bethune: A ‘Potent, Ebullient, Unreal’ Champion of

Education and Equity

By Jada Ingleton WI Digital Equity Fellow

Almost 70 years since her death in May 1955, Americans are still learning more about Mary McLeod Bethune’s critical contributions to advancing opportunities for African Americans and United States history.

For instance, in the 2024 Netflix film “The Six Triple Eight,” directed by Tyler Perry and based on the real life story of the allBlack woman postal battalion in World War II, Oprah Winfrey plays the role of Bethune. Having been known to work closely with First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt on efforts for African Americans, the film depicts Bethune’s influence reaching the White House, and shows her as the person to suggest sending the group of Black women overseas to not only organize

mail for troops, but boost morale.

While modern audiences are being reintroduced to Bethune’s life and work, The New York Times once described the activist and educator as “one of the most potent factors in the growth of interracial goodwill in America.”

In 1955, The Washington Post deemed her “dynamis and force so great” that it was “almost impossible to resist her,” touting her spirit as both courageous and ebullient.

With pop culture references and universities like Bethune-Cookman continuing to carry on her legacy to this day, Bethune remains an instrumental change agent for the nation.

“I could be here all day telling you what [Bethune] accomplished in her 80 years,” said Laureen Galayda, director of Christian Education at First Baptist Church in

Southington, Connecticut, who kicked off Black History Month on Feb. 2 with a ‘Children’s Message’ sermon dedicated to Bethune’s life’s work and legacy. “Her influence on America is one of the reasons that our church honors Black History Month every year.”

Bethune was a pioneer of many talents. As a businesswoman, she developed insurance companies and resorts; as a woman of faith, she founded a missionary school in Palatka, Florida after being denied the sponsorship to pursue missionary work in Africa.

But as a leader of civil rights, she tirelessly championed racial and gender equality, dotting decades of service before her passing on May 18, 1955.

“To some, she seemed unreal, something that could not be...The lesson of Mrs. Bethune's life is

that genius knows no racial barriers,” The Daytona Beach Evening Newspaper printed in tribute to her death.

‘THE THREEFOLD TRAINING: HAND, HEAD, HEART’

The daughter of formerly enslaved parents, Bethune was born on July 10, 1875 in a post-Emancipation Proclamation society–a time that presented new world opportunities for African American scholars.

After graduating from Scotia Seminary in 1894, she dove into missionary work at the Dwight Moody’s Institute for Home and Foreign Missions in Chicago, Illinois before pivoting to education in South Carolina.

By the late 1900s, Bethune had leveraged her name as a force to be reckoned with. She settled in the Sunshine State of Florida with goals to support her son and

Page 27

Celebrating excellence in every community.

During Black History Month, we honor leaders who consistently dedicate themselves to uplifting and supporting their communities. Through their tireless efforts, they preserve the legacy of those who came before and pave the way for future generations to thrive.

Join us in celebrating fashion entrepreneur Ngozi Okaro, STEM leader Dr. Calvin Mackie, Jamie Aranda, a resilient Air Force veteran, and astronaut Ed Dwight as part of our Everyday Excellence campaign. Their drive and achievements inspire us all, serving as powerful reminders that success is within reach for those who strive for it.

5 Mary McLeod Bethune stands in front of White Hall, a building on the campus of her school Bethune-Cookman College (now University), in Daytona Beach, Florida in 1955. (Courtesy Photo/Johnson Publishing Company)

Find career resources to support your own everyday excellence at aarp.org/work

BETHUNE from Page 26

enhance African American scholarship, and opened the Daytona Beach Literary and Industrial School for Training Negro Girls in 1904, which eventually merged with the all-male Cookman Institute to later form Bethune-Cookman College in 1929 – now an accredited university (B-CU).

Today, B-CU – the only historically Black institution founded by a woman – follows the namesake’s guided principles of faith, scholarship and service to develop the next generation of Black leaders.

“My philosophy of education is the basic principle upon which my life has been built - that is the threefold training of head, hand, heart,” Bethune wrote in a 1946 letter to long-time educator Josephine T. Washington. “I believe in a rounded education with a belief in the dignity and refinement of labor - in doing well whatever task is assigned to me. A belief in a spiritual undergirding [sic] of all my efforts and a clear, sane

mental development.”

Bethune continued to break barriers for Black women on a local and national level well into her old age.

She worked closely within multiple presidential administrations and forefronted many organizations –including the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), which she founded in 1935– to fight for racial integration, women’s suffrage rights, and anti-lynching and discrimination.

"If we accept and acquiesce in the face of discrimination, we accept the responsibility ourselves,” Bethune was once quoted saying. “We should, therefore, protest openly everything ... that smacks of discrimination or slander."

BETHUNE’S LEGACY IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

While the civil rights activist is buried on the campus of B-CU, her unshakable presence thrives in the nation’s capital.

Her former residence in Northwest, Washington is preserved as The Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site.

A memorial statue in Bethune’s honor in Lincoln Park was originally unveiled in 1974 as the first memorial to honor an African American and a woman in a public park in the nation's capital. Last July, members of the NCNW and local leaders gathered at the historic monument to honor Bethune’s legacy three days after what would’ve been her 149th birthday.

“[Bethune’s] tireless advocacy

for voting rights resonates strongly today, certainly in Washington, D.C. and our push for statehood,” said D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser on July 13, 2024, emphasizing the importance of Black history

recognition. “We are challenged to make sure we remember our history and make sure it’s properly reflected in our public spaces, buildings, and curriculum.”

5 Local leaders, including Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) and D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (center), unveiled the Mary McLeod Bethune statue in Lincoln Park for a second time on July 13, 2024. (Ja’Mon Jackson/ The Washington Informer)

Financial Considerations for Multigenerational Households

HELPING TO BUILD FAMILY WEALTH

In a 2022 study, the Pew Research Center found people in multigenerational households were less likely to live in pov-

erty, and some multigenerational households had more earners than the non-multigenerational households, which can help provide a safety net in case someone loses a job. It can also encourage homeownership -- 14% percent of all home buyers in the study said their purchase was motivated by a desire to accommodate multiple generations in their family.

HAVING DIVERSE FINANCIAL NEEDS

Savings and budgeting plans can be more complicated because of the wide range of ages among family members. Seniors might require more for health care and retirement, for example, while children can bring daycare and tuition costs. Be flexible with your planning to accommodate different saving and budgeting needs and set short- and long-term goals for your savings with all generations in mind.

EXPENSES SHOULD BE HANDLED WITH FAIRNESS AND EQUITY

Multigenerational households have to ensure fairness by dividing costs such as mortgage or rent, utilities, groceries and household expenses based on each member's financial capacity and usage. A sense of transparency can be maintained among family members by openly discussing financial contributions and expenses.

FIND BALANCE BETWEEN CULTURAL VALUES AND FINANCIAL HEALTH

Cultural traditions and familial structures can also play a significant role in money management, and it’s important to consider how multigenerational living can impact family wealth. Cultural heritage can shape financial attitudes and practices within multigenerational households, including saving habits, investment strategies and perceptions of wealth. Understanding how your cultural values connect to your beliefs and practices related to money can be essential for effective financial management within diverse family structures.

COMMUNICATION IS KEY TO MANAGING CONFLICT AND DISAGREEMENT

The more people living in a home, the more likely they’ll face conflicting financial priorities. Navigating disagreements over spending habits and adapting to changing income levels or unexpected expenses are necessary to maintain financial stability in multigenerational households.

FUTURE PLANNING IS VITAL

Estate plans should be tailored to accommodate the financial needs and goals of each generation within the household and strategies should be developed for transferring ownership of businesses or properties to ensure continuity and preserve the family's legacy. Make sure to compile essential legal documents -- including wills, trusts, powers of attorney and health care directives -- to outline the distribution of assets and clarify end-of-life wishes.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Multigenerational households can foster financial harmony and wellbeing by accounting for their individual financial goals and their

shared responsibilities. Family members should be clear about plans, needs and expectations to promote financial stability and satisfaction for all. Communicating about these issues early can help avoid tension later on.

By addressing these considerations holistically and prioritizing open discussion and collaboration, multigenerational households can build a solid financial foundation, helping them achieve prosperity and security for their family members now and in the future.

Read more about financial considerations for multigenerational households here (https://www. chase.com/personal/investments/ learning-and-insights/article/financial-considerations-for-multigenerational-households) on chase.com/theknow.

Disclaimer

J.P. Morgan Wealth Management is a business of JPMorgan Chase & Co., which offers investment products

and services through J.P. Morgan Securities LLC (JPMS), a registered broker-dealer and investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC. Insurance products are made available through Chase Insurance Agency, Inc. (CIA), a licensed insurance agency, doing business as Chase Insurance Agency Services, Inc. in Florida. Certain custody and other services are provided by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (JPMCB). JPMS, CIA and JPMCB are affiliated companies under the common control of JPMorgan Chase & Co. Products not available in all states.

1. AARP, “Multigenerational living.” (2024).

2.The demographics of multigenerational households.” (March 2022).

Trump Takes Control of the Kennedy Center Board of Trustees

President Donald J. Trump has dismissed members of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts board of trustees and has announced plans to appoint himself as chairman.

His rationale? “Just last year, the Kennedy Center featured Drag Shows specifically targeting our [youth] – THIS WILL STOP,” Trump posted on his social media platform Truth Social.

A pressing concern for everyone, particularly Black Americans, is how Trump’s intervention will affect the promotion of our art and culture, especially since everything in society under the new administration is primarily viewed negatively through the lens of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).

The arts organization noted the unprecedented nature of Trump’s action.

“Per the Center’s governance established by Congress in 1958, the chair of the board of trustees is appointed by the Center’s board members,” the celebrated arts organization continued. “There is nothing in the Center’s statute that would prevent a new administration from replacing board members; however, this would be the first time such action has been taken with the Kennedy Center’s board.”

While Trump has been anti-DEI, the Kennedy Center promotes and celebrates the beauty and breadth of diversity, equity and inclusion. For the Kennedy Center, DEI contributes to the variety of work and artists that perform on their stages annually.

Further, the D.C.-based national arts venue promotes Black art through various programs, including the Kennedy Center Honors, the Black Commission, and the Black Light Employee Resource Group. It also hosts events, creates resources, and facilitates discussions about Black artists and culture.

“Today, as always, art knows no national boundaries,” said President Kennedy in 1962, at a fundraiser for the entertainment venue that included opera singer Marian Anderson. “Genius can speak in any tongue, and the entire world will hear it. And listen.”

Amid Trump’s announcement, the renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater was wrapping a six-day engagement at the Kennedy Center.

With the president’s plans, are companies like Ailey and other Black artists at jeopardy of losing their opportunities to perform at the Kennedy Center for the next four years?

Is the Plan to Dismantle USAID About ‘Waste and Abuse’ or Simply the Latest Version of Isolationism?

An ominous cloud continues to hang over the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) as both the president and tech billionaire Elon Musk clearly have the organization in their sights for demolition.

But before Americans jump on board because of allegations that the aid agency is a “criminal organization” – as Musk has previously stated – or move in lockstep with the president, who claims that he’s closing USAID because its spend-

Continued prayers for the family, friends, and loved ones of the people lost in the mid-air helicopter and plane collision. It’s a shame that blame is being assigned before the investigation is even complete. Everyone should think about the families and the devastating loss, not politics or pretending to be aviation experts—my two cents.

John Cornwell Washington, D.C.

that’s difficult since social media moguls like Musk and Mark Zuckerberg recently eliminated staffers who once verified statements made on platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter) and Facebook.

ing “is totally unexplainable,” we hope that Americans will ask for proof.

So far, neither the president nor Musk have produced irrefutable evidence to validate their claims. But we have read unsubstantiated claims including allegations of a grant of $1.5million to an LGBTQIA+ group in Serbia, $2.5million for electric vehicles in Vietnam and $6milion for tourism in Egypt.

We’d like to check the facts but

Meanwhile, the president has been clear: his goal is to reduce or eliminate overseas spending, which does not align with his “America First” philosophy. But should USAID serve as the first of many targets?

On Feb. 9, Fox 5’s Tom Fitzgerald – a former USAID official – and current senior fellow at the Brookings Institute, George Ingram, offered a concise analysis of the initiatives supported by USAID on The Hill, a weekly politics show.

Since its founding in 1961 by

TO THE EDITOR

I just want to say happy Black History Month to all. In these current times, it’s essential that we keep our history at the forefront of the discourse so that we aren’t written out of history. It’s happened before and can happen again if we become complacent. Let’s not—Black History 365.

Lemuel Dodson Washington, D.C.

Congress through the Foreign Assistance Act, USAID has had several goals:

• to respond to disasters around the world with life-saving medicine, food and water

• to promote health programs like PEPFAR, which has saved 26 million from succumbing to the ravages of HIV/AIDS in Africa, as well as monitor global health and climate change

• to promote economic and social development

• to work with countries to keep diseases and viruses, like malaria, polio or Ebola, from reaching epidemic levels and then spreading around the world.

Ingram concluded by noting that in 2023, USAID received an award for maintaining outstanding financial accountability.

It is true that most of the groundwork handled by USAID is carried out by other organizations that are contracted and funded by USAID, and it would be wise to conduct a financial audit. But shuttering its doors is not the answer. The work it does is too important because in the long run, it saves lives, day after day, year after year.

Perhaps during the early 20th century, America had the option of closing its borders, isolating itself from the rest of the world, and focusing solely on “America.” But not today – not anymore. There are no real borders in 2025 – not with social media and the internet, global trade markets or viruses like COVID which circumnavigate the globe with the aid of the wind.

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

DEI Is Here to Stay: A Movement Beyond Government Policy

In recent years, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives have faced growing scrutiny, with some state governments attempting to defund or dismantle these programs. Critics argue that DEI initiatives are divisive or unnecessary, while proponents see them as critical tools for achieving fairness and equity. However, regardless of political rhetoric or legislative roadblocks,

the principles of DEI are deeply rooted in the fabric of our society. DEI is far more than a government initiative — it's a movement that reflects our shared humanity and the collective desire to build a more inclusive world.

THE PURPOSE OF DEI

At its core, DEI is about creating spaces where everyone feels seen, valued and empowered to contribute. It aims to address systemic inequities that have marginalized groups based on race, gender, ability, sexual orientation and other characteristics. The ultimate goal

of DEI is to ensure fairness in opportunities and outcomes, fostering a society where people are not defined by their barriers but by their potential.

Diversity is about representation. It acknowledges the variety of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives that individuals bring to the table. Equity ensures that people have access to the resources they need to succeed, recognizing that systemic barriers often require tailored solutions. Inclusion is the practice of actively embracing and empowering all voices, ensuring everyone feels valued and respected. Togeth-

er, these principles form a foundation for a thriving, innovative and equitable society.

WHY DEI MATTERS NOW MORE THAN EVER

The importance of DEI extends far beyond compliance or optics — it addresses critical challenges in our workplaces, schools and communities. Here are a few key reasons why DEI remains essential:

1. Fostering equity in opportunity:

Banning Black History Month Revives 'Lost Cause' Lies

"Let's call this what it really is: resegregation. ... Any official, including the president, who chooses to blame everything from plane crashes to wildfires on nonwhite, non-male people should be asked whether they believe that desegregation is to blame. Whether they believe resegregation is the answer. We need to bring back the language that describes what is actually happening." — Karen Attiah

"I don't know who you are and I don't know why you like this guy [Donald Trump}. I think what you like about him; he appears to be strong and the rest of us are weak. … That's what he's selling. … Here's what you're buying. … He's a race-baiting, xenophobic religious bigot. He doesn't represent my party. He doesn't represent the values that the men and women who wear the uniform are

Whenever an anti-diversity extremist uses the word "woke" in a disparaging way, we must remember that the extremists themselves define "woke" as "the belief there are systemic injustices in American society and the need to address them."

Anti-diversity activists don't want to address systemic injustices that mainly benefit white men. They'd rather distort history to promote a mass delusion that those injustices never existed.

That's why Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who built a national reputa-

tion by attacking diversity in the armed forces, has to ban recognition of Black History Month.

The racial justice uprising sparked by the murder of George Floyd nearly five years ago instilled a panic in the defenders of racial inequity, who launched a campaign in what they called "critical race theory" and now call "DEI." At least 870 measures have been introduced at the federal, state and local level to stifle even the acknowledgement of institutional and systemic racism and discrimination. Even the measures that don't pass are part of a broad ef-

fort to salt the earth against addressing systemic injustices. Since the Supreme Court struck down affirmative action in college admissions two years ago, Black enrollment at top universities has fallen by 17%. Venture capital funding to Black-owned enterprises fell by 86% from 2021 to 2023. About one in eight companies say they will eliminate or scale back their diversity, equity and inclusion policies in 2025.

Black History Month grew out of "Douglass Day," the Feb. 14 birthday celebration of the formerly enslaved abolitionist Frederick Douglass. In 1926,

Systemic inequities — such as racial disparities in education, healthcare and income — persist. DEI programs work to close these gaps by addressing the root causes of inequality and creating opportunities for underrepresented groups.

2. Driving innovation and growth: Diverse teams consistently outperform homogeneous ones. Studies show that organizations embracing diversity are more creative, adaptable and better at solving complex problems. In the busi-

Black historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson built on that celebration, incorporating the birthday of "The Great Emancipator" Abraham Lincoln into Negro History Week. Woodson's scholarship challenged the then-dominant "Lost Cause" myth that sought to erase the horrors of slavery and justify legal segregation. According to Lost Cause mythology, Black Americans had been content in their enslavement and were overwhelmed by the responsibilities of freedom. Through this lens, abolition

fighting for... He's the ISIL man of the year." — Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., on CNN in 2015

There are periods in history: epochs, distinctive periods in time marked by notable events, that in many instances signal change. Columbus stumbling upon the Americas where indigenous peoples had been living for thousands of years. The French Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, the invention of the semiconductor, World War II, the civil rights era, etc. In many instances, one may not

realize that they're living in the historic moment. It's only upon reflection that you realize the significance of the time. There are other periods – I call them Oppenheimer moments – where you know that you are in the moment. The first atomic bomb was tested on July 16, 1945. The bomb, nicknamed "Gadget," released 18.6 kilotons of power. We are told that Dr. J. Robert Oppenheimer, upon watching the first-ever atomic bomb explode, quoted a line from Hindu scripture, the Bhagavad Gita: "Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds." Oppenheimer

knew he was in the moment. As we look at the current geopolitical landscape, we find ourselves firmly in the grips of the second Trump administration. There is a dramatic decline in the status of America, both domestically and internationally. The economic outlook is uncertain. America is funding a war in Ukraine and a genocide in Gaza. Homelessness, unemployment and incarceration rates are continuously on the rise. One can only conclude that we are living in a historic moment.

Steve Bannon, the former Trump campaign and White House adviser, calls it

"managed decline."

One of the ironies in all of this is we have seen this movie before. We are watching Trump redux. We are not just watching the film; we are actors in it. For those of us who are old enough to remember, watching the news and political programs today is analogous to watching "The Rocky Horror Picture Show." We find ourselves constantly yelling at the screen, except this is unscripted.

People are aghast listening to Presi-

Marc H. Morial

Wilmer Leon

Anthony Tilghman

TILGHMAN Page

Guest Columnist

Guest Columnist

You Don't Leave the Game Until It's Over

I was blessed to attend Grambling University as my first of several colleges and universities after high school. The master of college football was there at that time. I don't have to tell most of you that I am talking about the great Coach Eddie Robinson. I remember a lot about what he said or did, but one of my favorite statements from him

is, "You don't leave the game until it's over." Well, too many of our people are afraid the game headed up by Donald Trump is over for us. Rob would tell you to stay in the game and be ready to play because this game of Trump vs. the People is not over!

Two weeks into this Trump and his sidekick Elon Musk pitiful show of retribution is in high gear! We can't say he didn't tell us what he was going to do. Some of it was so outlandish that many couldn't believe he would do it. It's probably

Guest Columnist

one of the things those who voted for him said, "He was just kidding! That was just campaign talk!" Well, for once in his life, he was telling the truth! Unfortunately, too many people didn't believe him!

The game, if you call it that, has just begun, and Coach Rob would tell us to get in the game and stay. Fannie Lou Hamer would warn us "to be no ways tired!" With all the damage that has already been done to our democracy, cleaning up this garbage is going to take all of us to stay in the game and play our role

as though our lives depend on it — because life as we have known it "ain't happening no more!"

These lunatics have told even those who voted for Trump (white women) that they have no rights. They knew better since Vice President Kamala Harris supports women's rights strongly. Trump definitely does not. Certain immigrants knew better — including Melania, who doesn't seem to be interested in being seen by her husband's side. Did you see that hat she wore for the inauguration that blocked her

Black America, The Time Is Now: No More Warnings, No More Illusions

America has reached a precipice. There is no more waiting, no more wondering, no more giving the benefit of the doubt. The war against Black America is no longer theoretical. It is real. It is happening now. And those who still don't see it — or worse, refuse to act — are signing their own death warrants.

Donald Trump, the Heritage Foun-

The climate crisis is costing all of us a lot of money in our everyday lives. Higher utility bills. Higher health care costs. Housing prices skyrocketing in some areas and home property values nosediving in others. Climate change — as well as the pollution that causes it and the natural disasters caused by it — is exacting a steeper and steeper financial toll on American households.

dation, and their Project 2025 blueprint for tyranny have made it clear: This is a full-scale attack on African Americans. Yes, other marginalized groups — Latinos, the LGBTQ+ community, women — are in the crosshairs, but if history is our guide, Black America has the fewest allies when the bullets start flying. How many times have we watched those who should stand with us scatter at the first sign of trouble? When the MAGA mob chants about "DEI" and "wokeness," they are not talking about policies. They are saying the N-word in polite company.

When they slash funding for Black institutions, ban Black books, and rewrite Black history, they are sharpening the knife for what comes next. The Smithsonian Institution has already closed its diversity office. Black History Month, Juneteenth and MLK Day are banned from federal recognition. The National Museum of African American History and Culture? Next. HBCUs? Next. The Black Press? In their sights. Trump and his regime of bigotry are gutting every Black institution and opportunity they can. They want to strip our culture, our legacy, our very exis-

tence from America's history books, then from its present, and finally, from its future.

And let's talk about pettiness — because being petty helped put us here. Petty revenge. Petty feuds. Petty ignorance.

DNC Chair Jaime Harrison and the Democratic Party ignored the power of the Black Press. They dismissed Black media, possibly because of a shortsighted grudge over someone's association with a group that had zero impact on the election. But the consequences of their pettiness were very real.

husband's view of her and hers of him?

Others who, according to statistics, voted for him were too many Hispanics — and look at how he's showing his appreciation to them. Certainly those civil servants who've either been fired or laid off never believed they were on his retribution list — especially the FBI, CIA and prosecutors. Black Teamsters knew what Trump would do and voted in their best

That same ignorance was among several things that cost Kamala Harris the election.

Before ceding power to a dictator, the Democratic establishment did nothing to fortify Black media, Black organizations, or Black institutions, the very entities whose purpose is to uplift and inform Black America.

We do not have the luxury of pettiness anymore. We do not have time for grudges. The enemy is no longer at the gates. The enemy has crashed through

Amid our evolving climate realities, many Americans are feeling the financial pinch of the climate crisis in insurance costs. Amy Bach, executive director of United Policyholders, a nonprofit founded to help insurance consumers, calls it "the price tag of climate change."

Bach told CBS News Chicago, "It is not just the price tag, but it is also the pain of people and their homes flooding that didn't used to flood. [The insurance companies] are saying, 'OK, how are we going to maintain the same level of profitability in the face of cli-

mate change?' And how they are doing that is raising prices and cutting coverage — you know, shrinking the number of homes that they will insure in areas that they would deem vulnerable."

In Illinois, roughly 250,000 customers insured by Allstate will pay at least 14% more in homeowners insurance starting this month due to the impacts of increasing severe weather. This comes after Allstate raised rates by 12% last year.

And in California, the largest private insurer State Farm has asked the state's Department of Insurance to approve an

average rate increase of 22% because of the devastation of the Los Angeles County wildfires. The request stated that as of Feb. 1, the company had received more than 8,700 claims and already paid over $1 billion to customers. And State Farm predicted it would pay out significantly more and the fires would "collectively be the costliest in the history of the company."

As some companies look to rate hikes, many insurers' answer has been to stop writing insurance altogether in areas they now see as carrying too much risk.

The recent wildfires in Southern California have further made clear the threat of insurance systems being upended by climate change. Home insurance not only provides protection against disasters, it is usually an essential requirement for getting a mortgage. So when insurers run for the hills — or away from the hills, in some cases — it helps deprive the next generation of would-be homeowners of that core piece of the American dream. And it causes plenty of pain for existing home-

Stacy M. Brown

Ben Jealous

Guest Columnist

E. Faye Williams

HEALTH

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Black women in the United States continue to face the highest maternal mortality rates, with the latest federal data showing little progress in closing racial disparities despite an overall decline in maternal deaths.

In Washington, D.C., the crisis is even more severe, with Black birthing people making up 90% of all birth-related deaths in recent years, according to a city-supported review committee.

A newly released report from

the National Center for Health Statistics, published on Feb. 5, found that 669 women died from maternal causes in 2023, down from 817 in 2022. The overall maternal mortality rate dropped from 22.3 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2022 to 18.6 in 2023. However, for Black women, the rate remained disproportionately high at 50.3 deaths per 100,000 live births—more than three times higher than the rates for white (14.5), Hispanic (12.4), and Asian (10.7) women.

Age remains a major factor in maternal mortality nationwide.

Women aged 40 and older face the highest risk, with a maternal mortality rate of 59.8 deaths per 100,000 live births—nearly five times higher than the rate for women under 25, which was 12.5.

Among Black women, this risk is even greater. In 2023, Black women aged 40 and older had a maternal mortality rate of 132.9 deaths per 100,000 live births, more than twice the rate for white women in the same age group (56.6).

Black women between the ages of 25 and 39 also experienced a significantly higher mortality rate at 53.6 deaths per 100,000 live births, compared to 13.8 for white women.

D.C.’S MATERNAL MORTALITY CRISIS

In Washington, D.C., Black birthing people face an even deadlier maternal health landscape. Despite making up about half of all births in the city, Black birthing people accounted for 90% of all birth-related deaths, according to a study conducted by the D.C. Maternal Mortality Review Committee (MMRC).

The MMRC, which was formed in 2018 and reviewed all pregnancy-associated deaths in D.C. between 2014 and 2018, found that the city’s maternal mortality rate far exceeded the national average.

In 2018, D.C.’s maternal mortality rate stood at 36 deaths per 100,000 live births, compared to the national rate of 20.7. The disparity widened even further for Black residents. While the nation-

al maternal mortality rate for Black women was 47.2 per 100,000 live births, the rate for Black birthing people in D.C. was 70.9—one of the highest rates in the country.

The study also examined pregnancy-related mortality, which includes deaths occurring within one year of pregnancy due to complications from pregnancy, a chain of events initiated by pregnancy, or the aggravation of an unrelated condition by pregnancy’s physiological effects. D.C.’s pregnancy-related mortality rate was 44 deaths per 100,000 live births, compared to the national rate of 28 during the same period. While Black residents accounted for 90% of all pregnancy-related deaths in D.C., white residents—who made up 30% of all births—reported no pregnancy-related deaths during the study period.

The age disparities in D.C. mirror national trends, with older Black women facing significantly higher maternal mortality rates. Wards 7 and 8, which have the city’s highest concentration of Black residents, accounted for 70% of all pregnancy-associated deaths.

In contrast, residents of Wards 2 and 3—among the city’s wealthiest and predominantly white areas— reported no pregnancy-associated deaths.

A BROADER PATTERN OF RACIAL DISPARITIES

The findings in D.C. reflect

wider racial disparities in health outcomes, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. By May 2020, Black Washingtonians accounted for 80% of coronavirus deaths despite making up less than half of the city’s population. In early 2022, during the omicron wave, Black D.C. residents represented 84% of all COVID-related deaths.

“The disparities and the statistics are very real and very concerning, and they are very much along racial lines—racial lines that are underlined by these social and structural causes,” said Dr. Christina Marea, a co-founder of the MMRC at the time of the study. “There’s nothing about Black birthing people that makes them more likely to die; it’s the environments to which they’re exposed in our social, environmental, and health systems.”

While the overall maternal mortality rate declined nationally in 2023, the persistent racial gap raises concerns about whether existing policy efforts are effectively addressing the crisis. Based on data from the National Vital Statistics System, the federal report reinforces calls for systemic reforms, including expanding access to high-quality prenatal and postpartum care, increasing funding for maternal health programs, and implementing stronger measures to combat medical bias.

The 2023 maternal mortality statistics represent the most recent data available for researchers.

EARTH OUR

salt, 12 ounces is enough to cover a 20-foot-long driveway or approximately 10 sidewalk squares.

If the snow melts and salt is still visible, too much has been applied, putting landscape plants at risk.

Rock Salt: Urban Trees’ Silent Killer

Excessive Use of This Deicing Method

Weakens Urban Forestry, Poses Threat to Environmental Health

By Mya Trujillo

WI Contributing Writer

Since 1938, U.S. residents have used rock salt to prevent roads from freezing after winter storms, and while it is necessary to ensure public safety in icy conditions, homeowners and winter maintenance staff must be mindful of the amount they use.

Although rock salt is an effective tool, causing ice to melt and creating friction between car tires and the pavement, the excessive application of sodium chloride on roads can adversely affect the environment, leaving roadside and landscape plants vulnerable to damage.

According to the Rutgers Cooperative Extension, sodium-chloride-based ice melt can easily weaken a tree, making it more susceptible to losing branches or contracting diseases. Further, 35% of Washington’s 1.9 million trees account for the city’s urban tree canopy, the most imperiled as they grow adjacent to areas where road salt is most commonly distributed.

If too many trees are weakened due to salt use, the city’s air quality is at risk of decreasing, while pollution could increase. Being reckless with deicers, jeopardizes both the climate control and the amount of oxygen trees offer.

“We have to find that balance of protecting the public while also protecting our green infrastructure,” said Lou Meyer, an arborist with Davey Tree.

Negative effects are more immediately visible in evergreen trees, as their green color quickly pales when exposed to excessive salt.

However, signs of distress due to ice melt are less obvious in deciduous trees since they lose their leaves during the winter months. When

they sprout anew in the spring, the trees’ leaves will often be yellow rather than green.

“As the leaves pale out, they don’t have as much chlorophyll, so they don’t photosynthesize as much, [and] they don’t create as much food,” Meyer said. “If they don’t create as much food, it weakens the tree, and it has less energy to put into reproductive systems, health systems [and] growth systems.”

Aside from changes in leaf color, other negative effects on trees from salt include bark discoloration caused by residual salt on the trunk, and canopy dieback– the death of twigs and branches. This deicing method dries out the soil, disrupting reproduction and growth as water cannot easily reach the plant’s roots.

A few preventative measures can be taken to protect trees and shrubbery from rock salt damage. Constantly watering trees is already an essential caretaking procedure, especially in the winter, but also helps flush out and disperse surplus salt.

Meyer has discovered a sustainable way of watering his trees.

“I have a dehumidifier running in my basement all the time, [so] I pour that water into a five-gallon bucket,” he told The Informer. “It takes three full dehumidifiers to fill that bucket, and then I’ve got five gallons of water that has to go somewhere, so instead of throwing it down the storm drain I take it out and put it on my plants.”

HOW TO DECREASE ROAD SALT USAGE

While eliminating road salt might not be possible while working to stay safe this winter, being mindful of climate friendly practices can protect the environment for the future.

For instance, when using road

In addition, residents can use alternatives to sodium chloride such as calcium chloride, which is less harmful to landscapes. If salt must be used, mixing it with sawdust or sand can help dilute it and reduce the amount applied in an area. This intentional reduction in usage is integral to plant health and water quality, as only one teaspoon of salt can pollute five gallons of water.

To decrease the amount of road salt used in the city, the D.C. Snow Team applies a beet juice and brine mixture ahead of snowfall. The beet juice allows the brine to stick to the road, making ice removal easier after a storm, resulting in minimal salt waste.

“The way it’s mixed and applied ends up being about a 20 to 25% reduction in salt compared to a granular application,” said coordinator for the Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional Program Jason Swope during a Wisconsin Salt Wise presen-

Connect

tation. “It makes removal easier and will also help us decrease the amount of ice melters that we need… for that final cleanup.”

To reduce chloride’s harmful effects on the environment and human health, the Center for Watershed Protection (CWP) is developing a “Smart Salting” training program, with materials including anti-icing, pre-wetting, application rates and

equipment handling. This program covers effective application strategies, equipment calibration and deicer storage practices.

“Currently, there are no regulations on salt,” said CWP water resource engineer Allison Lee to Wisconsin Salt Wise’s audience members, “so developing a ‘Smart Salting’ training for winter maintenance staff is a proactive effort.” WI

Black Brilliance and Resilience

EDUCATION

Ward 7 and 8 Residents

Navigate a Precarious Budget Season, Advocate

for Student Achievement

Threats to Federal Funds, Lack of Council Representation Fuel Concerns, Anger

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Budget and agency performance oversight deliberations in the John A. Wilson Building are taking place at a time when students, family and education officials feel uncertain about their future.

As Ward 7 residents collaborate with their newly installed council member to secure much-needed education-related resources, residents in neighboring Ward 8, for the time being, won't have the support of a ward-level council member who can act similarly on their behalf. That's why, as the D.C. Council and D.C.

Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) navigate threats to federal funding and persistent questions about budget priorities, residents living in some of D.C.’s most underresourced communities continue to demand the council's attention.

“We know that we have been historically marginalized, more than any other ward. It's incumbent that these people who have come to our ward numerous times and ask for our votes engage us in a way they haven't done,” Dr. Jacque Patterson, Ward 8 resident and at-large representative on D.C. State Board of Education, said on the night of Feb. 4 during a special virtual meeting con-

ducted by the Ward 8 Democrats. This meeting came together hours after the D.C. Council voted to expel then-Ward 8 D.C. Councilmember Trayon White from his seat. Last summer, federal agents arrested White for his alleged role in a scheme to secure violence interruption grants for Life Deeds, a nonprofit that, according to court documents, was once found in violation of regulations related to a contractor’s obligation to employee conduct background checks.

Ward 8 residents who coalesced around White over the last few weeks cited his right to due process, as well as his general election victory and what

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 32-2025 Hotel and Lodging Accommodations

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Property Management Office (PMO) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Hotel and Lodging Accommodations for this solicitation.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, February 10, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform.

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Thursday, March 06, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Abdul Karim Farooqi, Procurement Specialist (OAS) at afarooqi@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

they called the precarious timing of the expulsion. Though Patterson expressed no qualms with the outcome, he implored each at-large council member to elevate Ward 8 residents’ voices in budget discussions.

“We need to make sure they're holding listening sessions about our priorities,” Patterson told community members on Feb. 4. “By the time we're done with this special election, whoever wins it won't take office until the first vote on the budget. They won't be a representative to weigh in.”

AT-LARGE COUNCIL MEMBERS GET FACETIME IN THE GREAT WARD 8

On Feb. 6, two days after Trayon White’s expulsion from the council, At large D.C. Councilmembers Kenyan McDuffie (I) and Christina Henderson (I) visited CareFirst Arena in Southeast, where Bowser revealed a decade-long partnership between CareFirst and Events DC that will yield millions of dollars into preventative healthcare, not far from where Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center is scheduled to open in April.

In his remarks before an audience that included Ward 8 advisory neighborhood commissioners, McDuffie, chair of the council’s Committee on Business and Economic Development, iterated his love for Ward 8.

“As a strong advocate for Ward 8, I’m committed to ensuring that our community receives the support it

needs to thrive right here,” McDuffie said on Feb. 6. “Today is a testament to that. I’m looking forward to the positive impact it will have on residents of the District, but in particular those living right here.”

At least one other at-large council member -- Robert White (D) -- has been making the rounds in Ward 8.

On Feb. 10, At-large Councilmember White connected with residents at a meeting hosted by the Washington Highlands Civic Association. As White, chair of the council’s Committee on Housing, recounted in an Instagram post that evening, residents spoke about the overflow of trash and subpar living conditions.

Other visits on At large Councilmember White’s calendar include: a Ward 8 apartment walk-through on Feb. 13 and a Ward 8 town hall at RISE Demonstration Center on Feb. 25.

The Informer unsuccessfully attempted to gather comment from At large Councilmember White about the visits and his policy goals.

WARD 7 COMMUNITY MEMBERS ORGANIZE AROUND THEIR BUDGET PRIORITIES

For weeks, each council committee, except that formerly under the purview of Trayon White, has engaged agency and nonprofit leaders during budget and performance oversight hearings. As explained by someone familiar with the situation, the entity now known as the Ward 8 office will perform constituent services while in the midst of a phasing out process.

Meanwhile, Ward 7 D.C. Councilmember Wendell Felder (D) is settling into his council committee assignments as he engages agencies operating in the realms of health, economic development, human services, public works, and public safety.

For Ward 7 families who demand, among other things, an academically rigorous ward-based public middle school and guaranteed year-round youth employment, this budget season proves crucial in addressing the structural factors that create low academic outcomes.

“We think the fix is solely a schoolhouse issue, but it’s so much bigger than that,” said Dr. Marla Dean, chair of the Ward 7 Education Council. “That’s not to say that the schoolhouse doesn’t matter, but it can’t totally ac-

5 After Trayon White's expulsion from the D.C. Council, Ward 8 resident and At-large State Board of Education Representative Jacque Patterson is imploring each at-large council member to elevate Ward 8 residents’ voices in budget discussions. (WI File Photo/ Ja’Mon Jackson)

STUDENTS from Page 34

count for the outcomes we’re seeing.”

Over the next few weeks, Ward 7 Education Council will host what's known as the “Getting to the Root” series in collaboration with Health Alliance Network and ElectEd DC. These events, scheduled to take place at The Strand Residences on Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue in Northeast, allow community members to listen to subject-matter experts and explore the state of education in Ward 7 as they discuss holistic solutions.

The first event, scheduled for Feb.19, includes a screening of “Diminished Returns: The Black Racial Wealth Gap in D.C.” and a panel discussion featuring executive producer Temi F. Bennett and Dr. Andre Perry of Brookings Metro as panelists.

Subsequent events, scheduled for March 26 and April 23, focus on reports by D.C. Action about race, poverty, and health as social determinants of a young person’s academic trajectory. Kim Perry, executive director of D.C. Action, and Erica Williams of D.C. Fiscal Policy Institute will delve into the report’s findings.

Dean told The Informer that Felder and D.C. State Board of Education Representative Eboni-Rose Thompson (Ward 7) are scheduled to answer Ward 7 residents' questions about current legislative and budgetary developments. She also revealed plans to include parent-teacher association officials on panels and facilitate discussion about a policy proposal for guaranteed youth employment.

“We’re hoping to have some kind of conversation so people will be ready for the budget season and take information in conversations with representatives,” Dean told The Informer. “We have multiple perspectives [and] we’re not trying to be political or ideological.”

THE ONGOING WORK IN THE LOCAL EDUCATION SPACE

While the latest National Association of Educational Progress (NAEP) results show improvement in math and reading among the District’s fourth and eighth graders, it also highlights a decline in reading proficiency among eighth graders and no significant changes in the realm of math.

The NAEP report also pointed out what experts and advocates describe as an ever-widening gap between students designated as high achieving and

addressing the structural factors that create low academic outcomes.

(Courtesy Photo)

low achieving. In speaking about the NAEP results, State Superintendent Dr. Antoinette Mitchell hinted at areas of improvement that will command the attention of education officials at least for the next year.

Those areas, as outlined in a presentation conducted by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) last month, include high-impact tutoring, the launch of the OSSE Apprenticeship in Teaching program and implementation of recommendations compiled by early literacy and math task forces.

“While we still have more work to do, it is exciting to see that our hard work and investments in improving math and reading proficiency have us back on a positive trajectory,” Mitchell said in a statement on Feb. 11. “Congratulations to all students who took the NAEP and proved education in D.C. is on the right track.

During budget season last year, officials in the District’s executive and legislative branches mulled over a response to an impending decimation of COVID-era funds that funded programs for students dealing with pandemic-related learning loss. Throughout much of the earlier part of 2025, parents and teachers lobbied council members for equitable support of District schools, all while Bowser and D.C. Public Schools’ central office disregarded the Schools First in Budgeting Act, which, among other provisions, mandates that school funding stays above what each school received in the previous year.

WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

THE

REQUEST

EDUCATION

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 37-2025

HCVP Professional Consulting Services

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Executive Office (OED) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide HCVP Professional Consulting Services for this solicitation.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, February 10, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506 Respondents will then need to log in and locate this RFP for all related documents. It is the Proposers responsibility to check the Housing Agency Marketplace site regularly to stay current on the documents that are available as this is the primary communication site for this RFP.

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform. PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Friday, February 21, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.

Email Jasmin Travis, Procurement Specialist (OAS) at Jtravis@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

THE

DISTRICT OF

COLUMBIA

HOUSING AUTHORITY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 36-2025

Public Housing Program Consulting Services

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Executive Office (OED) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Public Housing Program Consulting Services for this solicitation.

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform. PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Friday, February 21, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.

Email Jasmin Travis, Procurement Specialist (OAS) at Jtravis@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING

AUTHORITY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 38-2025 HCVP Consulting Services

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Office of the Executive Director (OED) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Housing Choice Voucher Program Consulting Services for this solicitation.

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See the registration link below. https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

DCHA will provide either a live or pre-recorded demonstration for any vendors unfamiliar with the platform. PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Monday, February 24, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Jasmin Travis, Procurement Specialist (OAS) at Jtravis@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

5 Ward 7 Education Council Chair

Dr. Marla Dean says this budget season proves crucial in

LIFESTYLE

Things To Do, DMV!

By Tait Manning WI Intern

Valentine’s Day is this weekend and there’s plenty of love-themed celebrations for everyone.

From Galentine’s yoga to classic rom-coms, check out a handful of the many events happening in the DMV this weekend.

To keep up with all the fun, don’t forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar.

THURSDAY, FEB. 13

Sweet & Sour

7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. | $30.52

Silver Spring Black Box Theater, 8641 Colesville Road, Maryland City, MD 20910

Do you love Valentine’s Day and the sticky, sweet, lovestruck, so cute and all googly-eyed mushiness? Or do you hate Valentine’s Day and are a sourpuss, eye-rolling, don’t-get-mestarted-on-couples, can’t stand this capitalist holiday kind of person? Whatever camp you belong to, the

“Sweet & Sour Valentine's Day Comedy Show” will serve as perfect entertainment for you. It will celebrate love and roast the holiday that brings it to us on a candy-red, heart-shaped platter.

At your service are the funniest comics to hit the stage–so, bring your boo, bestie, boss, or baby (18+) and come see the hilarious comedians Liz Barlow, Winston Hodges, and Shelley Kim.

SHKR: Galentine's Day Mixology Cocktail Class 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. | $80+

Long and Larenz Tate, “Love Jones” tells the story of love and heartbreak with Chicago's beautiful black cultural scene as the backdrop.

All ticket proceeds go directly to Shanklin Hall’s SMBX Fundraise.

Galentines PJ Yoga Party: A Night of Self-Love & Friendship 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. | $45.00+

IM=X Pilates & Fitness, 15914 Luanne Drive, Gaithersburg, MD 20877

Join a magical evening of friendship, self-care, and cozy vibes at this Galentines PJ Yoga Party!

3SPIN Washington DC is hosting a funfilled Valentine’s night (Anti-Valentine’s or Galentine’s), filled with mouthwatering food, love potions, and ping pong matches on Saturday, Feb. 15. (Courtesy Photo/ Spin DC)

tine’s Day palate cleanse inspired by late American author bell hooks’ “All About Love” (1999), a book that delves into modern society’s aspects of romantic love.

Participants are invited to share their curiosity for love in community, during a time when spaces for open and vulnerable conversations can feel scarce.

Prepare to explore love in all its forms through a series of interactive art installations and social mixers including: letter writing, collective podcasting, love confessionals and mixer games.

SUNDAY, FEB. 16

Journaling + Breathwork Meditation Workshop: Fleurs & Flourish 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. | $60.64

The Red Bloom, 7215 Arlington Road #202, Bethesda, MD 20814

Venture X Washington DC - Adams Morgan, 1763 Columbia Road Northwest, Washington, D.C. 20009

This special Galentine's Day edition mixology class will feature a playlist of some favorite female artists - Dua Lipa, Beyoncé, Sabrina Carpenter, Rihanna, and more. This is the perfect class to do with friends or to come to solo if you're looking to make some more!

Learn history and the various bartending techniques from one of SHKR's founders, Rochelle Julich, while enjoying a welcome glass of sparkling and light snacks.

Come away from the class with the skills to make exemplary cocktails, recipes to use at home, new friends, and memories that will last a lifetime.

FRIDAY, FEB. 14

Slip into pretty pajamas and treat yourself to 90 minutes of blissful yoga practice followed by light refreshments.

SATURDAY, FEB. 15

Love Pong: Let Sparks Fly on Valentine’s Day at SPIN Washington D.C

7 p.m.- 11 p.m. | $10.00+

SPIN DC, 1332 F St. NW, Washington D.C., 20045

Join SPIN for a fun-filled Valentine’s (Anti-Valentine’s or Galentine’s) night filled with mouthwatering food, love potions, and ping pong matches that will have sparks flying.

Enjoy group games, ping pong matches, heart-shaped snacks, and hourly surprises —all included with your entry.

In celebration of Galentine’s and honoring where self-care meets self love, this journaling workshop will be focused on elevating your daily ritual, supported by exclusive guided prompts.

Led by Distinee Gayle, published author and founder of the Black woman-owned self-care brand Fully Bloomed, attendees will be guided through a high-vibrational and restorative journaling session to transfigure what it means to heal and what that truly looks like in day-to-day life.

This workshop is for both those seeking to establish a journaling practice for the very first time and those who are already devoted.

LVRS & FRNDS: A

Vintage Night Market at Black Cat

5 p.m. | $10.00+

Black Cat DC, 1811 14th St NW, Washington, D.C., 20009

Fundraising Film Festival 7 - 10 p.m. | Free Shanklin Hall, 2325 18th Street Northwest, Washington, D.C., 20009

Join Shanklin Hall – a social club centered at the intersection of community, creativity, and wellness – for a Fundraising Film Festival–four nights dedicated to Black films, starting with “Love Jones” on Feb. 14.

Written and directed by Theodore Witcher and starring ‘90s icons Nia

Plus, savor love potion cocktails, exclusive food items like the “I Heart Pizza” and “Love & Lava Cake,” and indulge in sweet treats like champagne and macarons.

Whether you’re single, with a partner, or friends, this event has something for everyone.

What About Love?: A Post Valentine's Day Palate Cleanse

7 p.m. - 10 p.m. | Free BloomBars, 3222 11th Street Northwest, Washington, D.C., 20010

Join BloomBars for a post-Valen-

The ultimate night of good vibes, cool finds, and creative energy is here! Join Black Cat DC for Lvrs Frnds – a vintage market like no other.

Go treasure hunting with thrifting and art vendors, stack your vinyl collection, or make it a permanent memory with tattoo and henna artists. It's more than just shopping – it's a chance to connect, create, and celebrate everything to love about vintage, art, and community.

LIFESTYLE

Alvin Ailey Celebrates ‘Legacy in Motion’ at Kennedy Center, in National Tour

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

After the death of the company’s Artistic Director Emerita Judith Jamison in November 2024, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre is devoting the 2025 season to celebrating her memory, with the theme “Legacy in Motion.” This year’s tour not only honors Jamison and the legacies of the company and its namesake, but through captivating, thought-provoking performances, offers resilience, love, peace and hope, bringing audiences together nationwide, despite a divisive time for the country.

“Tonight’s performance, and the entire season, is dedicated to honor the life and legacy of the phenomenal Judith Jamison,” said Sela Thompson, co-chair of Ailey’s 25th annual Washington, D.C. Gala Benefit at the Kennedy Center in Northwest, D.C.

Before the one hour and 40 minute show, Thompson emphasized Jamison and the Ailey company’s influence on her life.

“I can honestly say I probably wouldn’t be standing here, if it were not for her and Sylvia Waters and the amazing Ailey dancers who came to St. Louis, Missouri, at the Fox Theatre, [when] my mother took my brother and me,” Thompson told the packed theatre. “While I was a young dancer, I was so unaware, and it wasn’t common to see strong, chocolate, unapologetically Black dancers with short ‘fros, slaying on such a stage.”

Through representation, diversity, and outstanding, memorable performances —from their first show in 1958, to 2025 at the Kennedy Center and globally— Alvin Ailey exposes audiences to the beauty, breadth, boldness and bravery of dance and the African American experience.

“I thought [the show] exuded strength, which is something that right now felt wonderful and powerful to see on the stage,” D.C. resident Ashley Davis told The Informer at the gala celebration, following the Feb. 5 performance.

With President Donald Trump’s recent attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), immigrants and the LBGTQIA+ community weighing heavily on the minds of many, Ailey’s work offered an empowering reminder.

“Even in a time like this, we still have positive and uplifting things

that represent us, Black faces, Black strength that is outside of what’s going on in the world,” Davis said.

DIVING INTO THE 2025 SEASON, THE WORK

In celebrating “Legacy in Motion,” this year features Ailey classics, pieces that pay homage to the past, and fresh works, mindful of the moments of quiet, joy and love needed to combat the noisy and, sometimes, negative distractions of today’s world.

“Many of the things on the program this week either lend themselves to pursuit of faith, joy, or through experience of lamentation, solace.. but also collaboration,” said Xavier Mack, a DMV native in his third season with Ailey. “I think that there are many things on the program that could inspire a bit more empathy— for us to have more empathy with one another.”

The Wednesday night show featured works including: “Sacred Songs,” “Many Angels,” “Cry,” and “Revelations.” The pieces emphasized working together, resilience and finding moments of stillness and joy.

Longtime Ailey fans, will appreciate “Sacred Songs,” choreographed by Matthew Rushing, for its relation to “Revelations.”

“Mr. Rushing, our current interim artistic director, had the brilliant idea to take extra songs that Mr. Ailey choreographed to in his 1960 premiere [of Revelations],” said Samantha Figgins, a D.C. native in her 11th season with Ailey.

Years ago, Ailey’s full “Revelations” had to be shortened when taking the work on the road.

“So with those extra spiritual songs that [Mr. Ailey] had, [Mr. Rushing] created another ballet. He reimagined the music, and those negro spirituals to current, hip-hop, Afrobeats, African drumming, gospel, and sounds of jazz, to really have those spirituals resonate within the current generation,” Figgins told The Informer.

Another new piece, “Many Angels,” choreographed by Lar Lubovitch with music by Gustav Mahler, is a gorgeous, engaging and serene piece to witness. Figgins, beautifully commanded the stage in the solo piece “Cry,” on Wednesday night, embodying the season’s theme “Legacy in Motion,” executing choreography originally performed by Jamison and choreo-

graphed by Ailey in 1971.

The company concluded with the classic piece “Revelations,” which received several standing ovations and empowered the audience by breathing new life into an old favorite.

As the crowd stood on their feet applauding for minutes, the path paved by Ailey, Jamison and others was evident— the legacy continues.

“One thing that I know that [Jamison] would want for us to keep doing is continuing in excellence, reaching new heights and making new connections around the world, continuing to impact our communities and bring dance back to the people the way Mr. Ailey wanted it to be done,” Mack, 31, told The Informer.

AILEY OFFERS HOPE, A CALL TO ACTION

For D.C. audiences, and with several lawmakers in the room, including Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Rep. Glenn Ivey (D-Md.),

Rep. Steven Horsford (D-Nev.), and Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), it’s often hard to separate any moment from politics.

However, Ailey’s work isn’t meant to ignore the political and social times. The artistry offers entertainment, inspiration, and a call-to-action for audiences.

“I really hope [local audiences] can gain a lot of inspiration and joy— mostly inspiration to live and to fight

and to create their own joy… and be themselves unapologetically,” Figgins, 35, told The Informer. “I think this season is very in your face, and I want to empower the local audiences to continue to carve out space for yourself and to create the life that they want to live inside of, and that they want to share and be of service to other people.” WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

LOCATED ON THE FAIRFAX CAMPUS OF GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY

5After concluding their celebrated work “Revelations,” the cast of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre bows to a standing ovation audience at The Kennedy Center on Feb. 5. (Micha Green/The Washington Informer)

LIFESTYLE

REDWOOD Ensures Jazz Stays on Point While Moving Forward

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

Young artists such as Sequoia REDWOOD Snyder’s quartet, who performed recently at the Kennedy Center’s Studio K Club, highlight the strong future of jazz.

The group performed original compositions by REDWOOD that had traces of late 60s to 70s jazz from Herbie Hancock’s Blue Note era. Then, REDWOOD performed “Dark Prince," by one of her favorite pianists and composers, the late Geri Allen, a Howard University alumna.

Snyder, who played various keyboards, was accompanied by drummer Caleb Robinson, electric and double bassist Jeremiah Edwards, and guitarist Hugh Downs. The quartet's age range is 23 to 28.

The quartet’s chemistry and synchronicity were clear as they paid close attention to REDWOOD, their leader, for queues on places to improvise within their selections.

“This was our first time playing as a band,” said REDWOOD, a Duke Ellington School of the Arts graduate. “I met Jeremiah around the DMV playing in jam sessions, and I met Caleb at

Michigan State University, where we went to school.”

REDWOOD has performed with respected jazz leaders, including double bassist and educator Rodney Whitaker and pianist and composer Cory Henry. She has also worked with two National Endowments for the Arts (NEA) Jazz Masters: vocalist and educator Dee Dee Bridgewater and pianist and composer Kenny Barron. Jason Moran, Kennedy Center Jazz artist-in-residence, has mentored REDWOOD during her phenomenal rise. WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

black historymonth luncheon

FEBRUARY

22, 2025

LABOR

Greg Carr, Ebony McMorris, Mary Frances Berry, Marc Morial

5Sequoia REDWOOD Snyder leading her quartet in a jazz set at the Kennedy Center’s Studio K Club on Feb. 7. (Brenda C. Siler/The Washington Informer)

Hearty Mouse

STUFF YOU’LL NEED:

by Vicki Whiting, Editor Je Schinkel, Graphics

How many hearts can you nd on this page in three minutes? Have a friend try. Who found the most?

STEP 1:

Cut out a big pink heart. STEP 2: Fold the heart in half.

STEP 5:

How many di erences can you spot between these two love bugs?

Glue small hearts to make an ear. Glue on a googly eye or draw an eye.

Cut out six little strips to make whiskers. Cut out a squiggly tail.

Love Bugs

STUFF YOU’LL NEED:

STEP 1:

Cut out a large and a small heart shape, a large and small circle, and two small strips.

STEP 1:

Cut out heart-wing shape, two medium sized hearts and two small hearts.

STEP 2: Glue together as shown. Add spots and eyes with marker.

STEP 2:

Glue a medium and a small heart on each wing. STEP

Draw a line from each Valentine’s Day message to the animal who wrote it.

“You make my heart squeak!”

“I go bananas for you!” “You’re purrrr-fect!!”

“You make my heart utter!”

“I hope to sea you on Valentine’s Day!”

STEP 6: Glue on whiskers and tail. Use marker to make a black nose. Animal Valentine’s Day Messages

Look through the newspaper for one to three pictures, words or articles that make you feel happy.

All you need bowl and to play with!

Directions:

VALENTINE WHISKERS MESSAGE STORIES FLUTTER HEARTS PATENT SQUEAK MARKER PAPER CANDY TAIL DARK DRAW BELL

Find the words by looking up, down, backwards, forwards, sideways and diagonally.

Link: Hand-eye coordination.

If you were an animal, what would be your Valentine wish? A python might want to be your favorite “squeeze.” Or a cat might be purrrr-fect for you.

Sing your favorite as if you underwater.

On one page of the newspaper find and circle the letters that spell the words, “Happy Valentine’s Day!” Then connect the dots to make a design. Color in the design.

Sing the backwards the style opera singer.

Vol. 41 No. 11

Cut out Fold them them into box.

One by piece of container.

Two at performing without person

Repeat person still like statue.

Lift a pillow, pretending weighs 1,000 pounds.

Rub your tummy pat your head.

Pretend swim across Pick up pencil with your toes.

Play air guitar while making silly faces.

Scratch armpit hop on leg.

review wi book

"Fearless and Free: A Memoir"

By Josephine Baker, translated By Anam Zafar and Sophie Lewis, foreword by Ijeoma Oluo

c.2025

$32 / 304 pages

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing

Writer

You march to the tun of your own drummer because you like the beat. It's the same cadence you carry in your heart and soul, and it sets your pace and your path. No one else's pulse matches yours, no one else's rhythm will do. You march to your own drummer and as in the new memoir, "Fearless and Free" by Josephine Baker, translated from the French by Anam Zafar and Sophie Lewis, you dance to it, too.

When he first met Josephine Baker in 1926, journalist Marcel Sauvage suggested that she might want to write her memoirs and the 20-year-old Baker laughed at his idea. Later that year, when he sat down to hear her story, he learned that Baker was prone to laughter.

She was born into poverty in 1906 in St. Louis, and she told Sauvage that she began dancing to keep warm. She grew to love being a performer, but earning money was more important so Baker left school at age 8 to work. For the rest of her life, she carried a painful lesson and a love of animals from her first job.

She made her official debut in Philadelphia at age 16, and worked her way to a better-paying job in New York before leaving for Paris, where she was a national sensation. Audiences couldn't get enough of her humor or her then-scandalous "banana dance." Ooh la la!

Baker was welcomed, not just in France but around Europe, where her performances were celebrated. She shared with Sauvage all the places she'd been, and which were here favorites. She reminded him that she'd once known poverty, which is why she tried to help poor children and widows in the cities in which she performed. She told him about the people she knew and those she loved, though she promised that she wouldn't give details.

She had little good to say about her return to America …

As biographies go, "Fearless and Free" is very good, but only to a point.

Though journalist Marcel Sauvage briefly touches on Josephine Baker's later life and he hints at her work during World War II, that work is not addressed, nor is Baker's famous "Rainbow Tribe." Missing also is her later life. In short, the book is too short.

And yet, what's here is stellar. Baker was funny and wise and single-minded and that all comes out in her words, as Sauvage kept them. You'll be delighted in that, but you may be surprised at the almost-gentle way she talked about the racism she experienced on return visits to America. Readers may get the sense that Baker was absolutely the type to stand up for herself, but she also understood that stardom, in the Jim Crow era, demanded discretion.

This is the kind of book that'll make you search online for videos of its author onstage, and it'll send you in search for other books about Josephine Baker. Though it doesn't include enough years, if you love biographies, "Fearless and Free" can't be beat.

horoscopes

LIFESTYLE

FEB 13 - 19, 2025

ARIES Professional momentum builds as Mars energizes your career sector, bringing unexpected opportunities for leadership. A surprise meeting with a mentor figure opens doors you've been working toward, particularly in areas requiring decisive action. Your competitive spirit serves you well in group projects, though diplomacy may be needed when dealing with sensitive team dynamics. Trust your instincts when navigating workplace politics, as your natural leadership style attracts support from unexpected allies. Lucky Numbers: 12, 26, 33

TAURUS Financial wisdom pays dividends as a long-term investment strategy begins to show promising results. Your practical approach to resource management impresses those in positions of influence, potentially leading to new opportunities. A steady hand during market fluctuations proves your worth to key stakeholders. Midweek brings a creative breakthrough in a home improvement project, satisfying your need for both beauty and functionality. Lucky Numbers: 4, 18, 40

GEMINI Intellectual pursuits take center stage as new information reshapes your perspective on a key life goal. Your ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances proves invaluable during a workplace transition. Multiple projects demand your attention, but your versatile nature handles the challenge with grace. Communication flows especially well midweek Lucky Numbers: 3, 21, 34

CANCER Emotional intelligence guides you through a sensitive family situation, allowing you to strengthen important relationships while maintaining boundaries. Your nurturing instincts at work help create a more supportive environment during times of change. Financial matters connected to home show positive movement. A property matter reaches a satisfying resolution, bringing peace of mind. Lucky Numbers: 8, 22, 47

LEO Creative energy surges as you take center stage in an important project, inspiring others with your natural charisma and leadership abilities. Your confidence attracts supporters to your cause, particularly in artistic ventures. A romantic opportunity midweek adds excitement to your personal life, possibly through a dramatic gesture or shared experience. Professional networking yields valuable connections, especially when you let your authentic self shine through. Lucky Numbers: 1, 16, 35

VIRGO Detailed analysis of a complex situation reveals solutions others have missed, earning recognition from superiors. Your organizational skills prove essential during a department restructuring, positioning you as an invaluable team member. Health initiatives gain momentum as you fine-tune your daily routine. A methodical approach to organization midweek creates space for new opportunities. Lucky Numbers: 5, 19, 43

LIBRA Partnership opportunities flourish as your diplomatic skills help bridge opposing viewpoints in both personal and professional spheres. Your natural grace under pressure transforms potential conflicts into productive discussions. A creative collaboration midweek brings aesthetic satisfaction and potential financial rewards. Lucky Numbers: 7, 25, 38

SCORPIO Deep insights into a mysterious situation give you an advantage in strategic planning, particularly in career matters. Your perceptive nature spots patterns others miss, leading to breakthrough solutions. Your investigative nature uncovers valuable information midweek that others have overlooked. A powerful connection forms through shared interests in metaphysical subjects. Lucky Numbers: 2, 15, 44

SAGITTARIUS Adventure calls as travel or educational opportunities present themselves, expanding your horizons in unexpected ways. Your optimistic outlook helps inspire colleagues during a challenging project, turning potential obstacles into stepping stones. Cross-cultural connections prove especially valuable now. Philosophy and higher learning take focus, possibly leading to an important connection. Lucky Numbers: 11, 24, 32

CAPRICORN Professional goals advance through careful planning and strategic networking, particularly in matters involving authority figures. Your disciplined approach to financial management brings security and opens doors for future investments. A business partnership proposal midweek deserves serious consideration, though thorough analysis is advised. Lucky Numbers: 6, 20, 41

AQUARIUS Innovative ideas flow as your unique perspective helps solve a community challenge, particularly involving technology or social reform. Group projects benefit from your forward-thinking approach, though patience may be needed with those resistant to change. Humanitarian efforts gain support midweek, possibly through social media or networking platforms. Lucky Numbers: 14, 30, 45

PISCES Spiritual insights guide important decisions as your intuitive powers reach a peak, especially in matters of the heart. Creative projects flourish midweek, benefiting from your enhanced sensitivity and artistic vision. Music or art plays a significant role in personal breakthrough moments. Lucky Numbers: 9, 27, 36

SPORTS

Howard University Finds Diamond in the Rough in Harper

By Ed Hill WI Contributing Writer

While the Washington metropolitan area is home for Blake Harper, the Howard University freshman is not just getting attention locally, but making waves and turning heads on the national scene.

During his early days of basketball, Harper got exposure to some of the best training and competition in the talent-rich DMV.

He then took his talents to the allboys Gonzaga College High School in Northwest, D.C., one of the top programs in the nation among high school basketball, where the basketball player’s father, Byron "Snoop" Harper, served as an assistant for many years before his recent retirement.

However, despite success as a youth in the sport, things did not go as planned for the young Harper. Factors such as size, growth and extra weight prevented him from being the player

he had hoped.

"Blake never got to play his best basketball here," said longtime Gonzaga Coach Steve Turner. "He always had the ball handling skills because of his development at the guard position. What separates him is his court vision and high basketball IQ. The things that held him back were his height and his weight."

Harper reflected on his high school career, remembering challenges along the way.

"I was not the second or third best player there," he told The Informer. "I had a hard time finding my niche."

Then, Harper faced something more trying than any in basketball: he lost his mother, Linda, in May 2023.

“My mother not being around has made it hard,” Harper explained. “She would always sit behind the bench at Gonzaga and attend all our games.”

Following his senior season, Harper was named to play in the prestigious Capital Classic All-Star game in D.C.,

featuring some of the top seniors from around the country, including some of the best that the DMV has to offer.

Despite that opportunity, Harper played sparingly and was not able to display his skills.

Because of Gonzaga's reputation for producing outstanding players, along with the competition that he played against during his career, he received interest from universities such as Fordham, Radford and Howard.

"After I visited Howard, I knew that it was the place for me," Harper said. "It felt like home. I had a relationship with (assistant) Coach Tyler Thronton and (head) Coach Kenneth Blakeney. That helped a lot in my decision making."

STARTING AT HOWARD

With a group of veterans returning from back-to-back MEAC titles and NCAA appearances, it seemed like Harper would be brought along slowly, but that was not Coach Blakeney's plan.

"When I watched him in practice, we knew that he was going to be special," said Howard’s head coach.

Blakeney decided to start Harper in the season opener against the No. 1 ranked team: Kansas. While it was exciting to go from being a player on a talented team at Gonzaga, to starting your first game before 15,000, Harper told The Informer the experience was a bit overwhelming.

"I started slow and was not in any rhythm," said Harper. "And then Hunter Dickinson told me during a

free throw attempt to ‘play the kind of basketball that you know you can play. Get up your shots and do the things that you know you can do.’"

Dickinson is an All-American center from DeMatha, who played middle school basketball with Blake at Mater Dei.

In the Kansas game, Harper ended up leading the team in scoring with 16 points, while grabbing four rebounds and dealing out three assists.

Harper would go on to have outstanding games at nationally ranked Missouri (seven points, eight rebounds and four assists) and then at nationally ranked Cincinnati, where he posted his first-career double-double (23 points and 10 rebounds).

Harper has been named an unprecedented MEAC Rookie of the Week 13 times and has even been recently named Player of the Week, a rarity for a freshman.

He leads the MEAC in scoring and rebounding, second in minutes played and ranks in the Top 5 in free throw shooting, assists and field goal shooting percentage.

Nationally, he ranks 24th in the nation among all Division I players and the fourth-leading freshman scorer in the nation.

While he misses his mother tremendously, the young athlete told The Informer he is working to continue making her proud.

“Before the Kansas game, I actually broke down. But then I thought about what she would have been through with me being here in this space at Howard, my relationship with Coach (Tyler) Thornton and Coach KB

(Kenny Blakeney) and my father being able to come to all my home games,” he said. “After that, things became a little different.”

HARPER’S LEADERSHIP

The Howard team has experienced an unusual number of injuries and setbacks, with during the course of the season, 12 different starting lineups.

They have lost several starters, including Bryce Harris, the MEAC Preseason Player of the Year, prompting Blakeney to shake up things.

"With so many key leaders out with injuries for most of the season, we decided to re-vote on the team captains,” Blakeney explained. “We wanted someone who was out there every day in practice and on the course because it was easier to listen to them. The team voted graduate guard Joshua Strong and Blake as captains."

Named a co-captain as a freshman, Harper said it is a tremendous honor serving in that role so early in his collegiate career.

“I have committed myself to doing all things as a leader to help this program be successful,” he said. A criminal justice major, Harper said he plans to make a difference in the community.

"I know a lot of young people who have the talent to make contributions, but for reasons, they often fall by the wayside and never get to realize their potential,” Harper explained. “I want to get into the system in some capacity and help make a difference.”

5Howard University freshman Blake Harper is making waves and turning heads locally and on the national scene. (Courtesy Photo/ Howard University Athletics)

5After working to find his niche as a basketball player at Gonzaga College High School, Howard University freshman Blake Harper (center) is now dominating the court as the team’s co-captain. (Courtesy Photo/Howard University Athletics)

CAPTURE the moment

Kicking off Black History Month, the D.C. Black History Celebration Committee (DCBHCC) held an event on Feb. 1 at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Southwest, D.C. In addition to Dr. Frank Smith, director and founder of the African American Civil War Museum delivering the keynote speech, the event honored Thomas Blanton, Robert Brannum, Elise Bryant, Vyllorya Evans, Marquett Milton, Sandra “Momma Sandy” Morgan, and Emma Ward.

4Charles “Chuck” Hicks, affectionately called “Mr. Black History,” presents an award to the event’s keynote speaker Frank Smith. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

5Charles “Chuck” Hicks, DCBHCC founder and director, honoree Marquett Milton, also known as “the Soldier of U Street,” and Frank Smith, founder and executive director of the African American Civil War Museum. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

5An engaged audience celebrates the start of Black History Month. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

RELIGION

Honoring 125 years of ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ Faith Leaders Reflect on Storied Impact of the Black National Anthem

By Hamil R. Harris and Jada Ingleton WI Contributing Writer and WI Digital Equity Fellow

When poet and civil rights activist James Weldon Johnson wrote the poem “Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing” in 1900, he had no idea that 125 years later it would serve as a virtuous national anthem and pillar of strength for the Black and faith communities.

Now, the cultural paean “Lift Every Voice and Sing” is a classic tradition celebrated from the nationally televised Super Bowl to the classrooms of its origin city in Jacksonville, Florida, such as the viral rendition that circulates annually of students performing the song to modern dances and selfmade beats.

“Learned the song as a youngster and would have never thought of this!! Now I am almost 75 [years old], been to freedom marches, [March] on Washington, marched for equality … and I only wish [to hear] the song in places where they used to sing it,” said

4 James Weldon Johnson’s house on 9th Street Northwest. (Roy Lewis/ The Washington Informer)

one X user under the original 2022 post.

Originally created to commemorate Abraham Lincoln’s birthday at a school assembly, Johnson collaborated with his composer brother, J. Rosamond Johnson, to assemble the melody that would soon see unprecedented success.

“Lift Every Voice and Sing resonates because it tells others that if we are to be free, we must be communal, lifting every voice and connecting our desires on earth as well as in Heaven,” said the Rev. William Lamar, pastor of the Metropolitan AME Church.

The hymn was first performed on Feb. 12, 1900 by a choir of 500 schoolchildren at the segregated Stanton School in Jacksonville, Florida, where Johnson formerly served as principal.

By 1910, “Lift Every Voice and Sing” had elevated from the corridors of Floridian schools to across the country, and was officially designated the national anthem for the NAACP 19 years later, of which Johnson is a

founding member.

The Johnson brothers’ music became a collective voice of former slaves amid segregation and the bloodiest years of the Reconstruction era. Today has the hymn has been seared into the hearts of a new generation of African Americans, reflecting the precedence of cultural influence across

Today, the hymn has been seared into the hearts of a new generation of African Americans, reflecting the precedence of cultural influence across the Diaspora.

“James Weldon Johnson's work has been passed on in Black culture for generations,” Lamar told The Informer. “We know the creation, we know God’s trombones, ‘Lift Every Voice’ is not separate from his towering artistic expression, literary expressions, and legal expressions.”

WELDON JOHNSON AND THE STORIED IMPACT OF THE BLACK NATIONAL ANTHEM

“Lift Every Voice and Sing” symbolizes both civil advocacy and a treasured history of art justice still seen among religious figures today.

Joyce Garrett, director of Music and Worship Arts at the Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, said when she directed the Eastern High School chorus, she taught her students “Lift Every Voice.”

“I learned that song as a child and

we had to learn all three verses,” Garrett explained. “As a teacher I heard of this great choral arrangement by Roland Carter, and I started teaching the song to my choirs at Eastern.”

Garrett said the song became so [liked] that the audience would start applauding before her groups got to the end, “because the song builds to the last Amen.”

Similarly, Dr. Thomas Dixon Tyler, minister of Music of the Shiloh Baptist Church in Washington D.C., said “Lift Every Voice” holds a very special place in his heart, especially the last verse.

“For me, that song is about our ancestors overcoming the struggle of slavery. They had to have a concept and belief that God…was going to protect them…and lift them to a higher plane,” Dixon Tyler told The Informer.

In many ways, the poet and activist lived the life he wrote about. In 1891, the educator spent the summer after his freshman year at Atlanta University teaching former slaves in rural Georgia. He graduated from college in 1894, and three years later became the first African American admitted to the Florida Bar Exam for law school.

Johnson’s civil advocacy progressed right alongside his national status. Shortly after former President Theodore Roosevelt appointed him as United States consul at Puerto Cabello, Venezuela, Johnson became field secretary of the NAACP, in which he rose to become one of the most suc-

cessful officials in the civil rights organization during a period overcome with nationwide racial violence.

Johnson worked for the passage of federal legislation, including the NAACP-introduced Dyer Anti-Lynching Bill of 1918, and was the only African American to speak at the National Conference on Lynching in Carnegie Hall, New York City the following year, where he reckoned the detriments of lynching to not only bestow African Americans, but also their white counterparts, and thus America itself.

According to New World Records, “Johnson worked to make attending whites... so uncomfortable that they would press political leaders for a federal anti-lynching law.”

Johnson’s legacy of social justice has since prospered through the lens of modern Black leaders.

The 125th anniversary of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” and corresponding recognition from religious figures, mirrors an ingrained commitment to the preservation of Black history and culture even in trivial times–an exemplar of generational resilience from the anthem’s muse to the pulpits of 2025.

“[Our ancestors] had to have a concept and belief that God was going to lift them out of the chains of slavery when they sang, ‘Lest our feet stray and plant our feet on a higher ground,’” Dixon Tyler told The Informer. “We will sing ‘Lift Every Voice’ this Sunday at our 10 a.m. worship service.”

5 Northwest, D.C.’s Shiloh Baptist Church Senior Choir under the direction of Dr. Thomas L. Dixon Tyler sing the Black National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing” on Sunday, Feb. 9. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

"So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." — Hebrews 10:35-36

Simply put, stick with it. Don't quit, and don't take no for an answer. Pray daily instead! Use your imagination and find a way around your obstacles — persistence pays! Napoleon Hill, the author of the book from which we are studying these principles to success, said something like this about persistence: "Persistence is an essential factor in transmuting desire into good health, a better job, increasing your business stream of income, building the congregation of your church, your monetary goal no matter what it is you seek."

Today, short attention spans are prevalent with the advent of iPods, cellphones and computer browsers in adults and children. No wonder folks keep changing from one thing to another without using that old-fashioned elbow grease, that stick-to-itness, which is required to win.

Thomas Edison commented that 90% of people quit 90% of the way to accomplishing their goals. If they had only known they were almost there, they would have kept going. These days it's 99% who quit a mere 20% of the way. Well, these folks have only just begun to get their work done. However, it is those who persist who win; those who do not quit do not lose. That is as true today as it was 80 years ago when Hill wrote "Think and Grow Rich."

Persistence of bad habits, though,

WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Life-Changing Principles: Never Quit, Just Keep Going! the religion corner

seems to continue to flourish. Despite the overwhelming evidence that the way we think and what we believe is not producing the results we desire, we persist in hanging on to what does not work.

Many people see small problems, which are merely molehills, as major mountains blocking their path. Only a few choose to see a mountain in their path as an opportunity to gain a broader perspective as they continue to travel along life's journey. Persistence turns stumbling blocks into stepping stones. It is simply a matter of attitude.

Many fail to be persistent for fear of failure. They lose hope. Fear is faith in reverse; fear tolerated is faith contaminated, and fear is not of God. Faith comes by hearing, so does fear. Make a choice about what it is we hear and accept. You will not be persistent when you operate in fear; fear will cause you to quit.

An example is when planning the grand opening celebration for my company in 1983, I didn't have money to pay for the first-class — or let me say kind of upscale — celebration that I had planned. I was waiting on an unemployment check that would cover six months of back pay from my previous job in Oakland, California. The office was decorated, with nice used office furniture, plants, business phones installed and turned on, our business license in place, and our first

dollar bill framed, hanging proudly on the wall. We were excited!

By faith, the celebration was planned: a wonderful menu was confirmed by our caterer, glass dishes, all top-of-the-line; engraved invitations ordered; guest speakers confirmed, like Rep. Walter E. Fauntroy, Fred Thomas, who was a news anchor from TV4 in 1983, Council member Charlene Drew Jarvis (my office was in her ward) and Council member Nadine P. Winters, since we lived in her ward (she is deceased now; we lived across the street from her).

Invitations were dropped in the mail when fear hit me! I thought to myself, "Are you crazy, putting all of these invitations in the mail, and you don't know how you're going to pay for this?" Well, too late! They were already in the mailbox when my fear hit me. Thank God, I was operating by faith.

Persist and operate in faith. Don't move forward on what it is you see. Walk by faith, and not by sight. Believe in God and know he will be there for you.

It worked, ladies and gentlemen. My unemployment check arrived in the mail within a week of the event and everything worked out wonderfully — we even purchased new suits to wear so we could look like professional businesswomen!

Purpose, passion plus persistence equals prosperity. Be persistent! WI

MCCOLLUM & ASSOCIATES, LLC

ADA, Age Discrimination, Benefits, Civil Rights, COBRA, Contracts, Deaf Law, Defamation, Disability Law, Discipline, Discrimination, FMLA, FLSA, FOIA, Family Responsibility, Harassment, HIPPA, OSHA, National Origin Discrimination, Non-Compete, Race Discrimination, Rehabilitation Act, Retaliation, Severance Agreements, Sexual Harassment, Torts, Whistleblowing, Wage-and-Hour, Wrongful Discharge

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

Baptist Church

Declaration of Nationality Protocol

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender.

Notice of Special Appearance : I am that I am: " Stephen Cashaun Matamoro© ", in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “STEPHEN CASHAUN MATAMORO ", corp.sole Dba.: " STEPHEN CASHAUN MATAMORO© ", [Stephen Matamoro,Stephen Cashaun Matamoro], having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as an: American Moor, but not a citizen of the United States. declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Al Maghreb Al Aqsa, Estados al Marikanos, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as an: American Moor. am that am: " Stephen cashaun matamoro© ", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: " jor-el© ". Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 32, 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title : This order is to preserve legal and equitable title and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH REC’D/BUREAU OF VITAL STATISTICS : STATE FILE NUMBER,142-85223651: “STEPHEN CASHAUN MATAMORO© ", is as a special deposit order, conveyed to " Stephen Cashaun Matamoro Trust© ". All property of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact, as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: " jor-el© ", nom deguerre: " Stephen Cashaun Matamoro© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of : " Stephen Cashaun Matamoro Trust© ", an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee donee debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente. reference 0112358-13

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 001233

Barbara Harris aka Barbara Jean Harris

Decedent

Kevin Judd, Esq. 601 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Suite 900-South Building Washington, DC 20004

Attorney

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

Kevin Judd, Esq., whose address is 601 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 900-South Building, Washington, DC 20004, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara Harris aka Barbara Jean Harris who died on April 28, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/6/2025. 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 8/6/2025, 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: 2/6/2025

Kevin Judd, Esq. Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000118

Rene Antonaire Simms

Decedent

Brian L. Kass, Personal Representative 4301 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 434 Washington, DC 20008

Attorney

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

Brian L. Kass, whose address is 4301 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 434, Washington, DC 20008, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rene Antonaire Simms who died on January 7, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/30/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 7/30/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 1/30/2025

Brian L. Kass Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001177

Larry W. Ricks Decedent

Murray D. Scheel

DC Bar Pro Bono Center 901 4th Street NW Washington, DC 20001 Attorney

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

Rachel Molly Joseph, whose address is 409 Delafield Place, NW, Washington DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Larry W. Ricks who died on 9/2/2021 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 8/6/2025. 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 8/6/2025, 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: 2/6/2025

Rachel Molly Joseph Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 000001

James I. Fitzgerald Decedent

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

Magdalene Fitzgerald, whose address is 812 Decatur Street NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James I. Fitzgerald who died on August 23, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/30/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 7/30/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 1/30/2025

Magdalene Fitzgerald Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000017

Devora Hill Decedent

Ferguson Evans, Esq. 601 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 900 South Bldg. Washington, DC 20004

Attorney

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

Erika Rodgers, whose address is 223 O St., SW #30, Washington, DC 20024, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Devora Hill who died on January 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 8/6/2025. 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 8/6/2025, 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: 2/6/2025

Erika Rodgers Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001499

Elaine F. Gunter aka Elaine Faye Gunter Decedent

Joan M. Wilbon 1629 K Street, NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

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

Olivia V. Morris and Darrell W. Gunter, whose addresses are 4417 Sturbridge Dr, Salisbury, MD 21804 and 298 Mathers Rd., Ambler, PA 19002, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Elaine F. Gunter aka Elaine Faye Gunter who died on 8/20/2024 with a Will and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/30/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 7/30/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 1/30/2025

Olivia V. Morris

Darrell W. Gunter

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001188

Melvin Craig Wilson Decedent

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

Misha Slaughter aka Misha Asamoa, whose address is 25360 Grotto Falls Lane Porter, TX 77360, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Melvin Craig Wilson who died on 7/28/2024 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 8/6/2025. 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 8/6/2025, 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: 2/6/2025

Melvin Craig Wilson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 001373

Kenneth Nathaniel Hall Decedent

Colline Silvera Robinson Kirlew & Associate PC 7731 Belle Point Drive Greenbelt, MD 20770 Attorney

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

Lynn Watkins, whose address is 1370 Beringer Drive, Hoschton, GA 30548, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Kenneth Nathaniel Hall who died on May 19, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 7/30/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 7/30/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 1/30/2025

Lynn Watkins Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2025 ADM 18

Jan Walliser Decedent

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

Oya Celasun, whose address is 5040 Lowell Street, NW, Washington DC 20016 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jan Walliser who died on June 22, 2018 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/6/2025. 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 8/6/2025, 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: 2/6/2025

Oya Celasun 5040 Lowell Street, NW Washington, DC 20016

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

2016 ADM 001462

Estate of Mignon K. Jackson aka Mignon Karen Jackson

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Derek E. Slocum 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 a member of the bar.

Date of first publication: February 6, 2025

Derek E. Slocum

#11380-Cove Lake Road Lusby, Maryland 20657

Petitioner/Attorney:

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000034

Derek Anthony Dyson 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

Jumaane Dyson, whose address is 313 Janes Way, Chesapeake, VA 23320, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Derek Anthony Dyson who died on 10/2/2024 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 8/13/2025. 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 8/13/2025, 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:

2/13/2025

Jumaane Dyson Personal Representative TRUE

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000019

Patrick F. Scott

Decedent

Valerie J. Edwards 1725 DeSales Street, NW Suite 600 Washington, DC 20036

Attorney

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

Elizabeth I Scott, whose address is 4531 Alton Place NW, Washington, DC 20016, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Patrick F. Scott who died on June 21, 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 8/13/2025. 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 8/13/2025, 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: 2/13/2025

Elizabeth I. Scott 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 000024

Donna Maxine Suber Decedent

Bradley A. Thomas, Esq. 1629 K Street, NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006-1631 Attorney

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

Patricia A. Suber, whose address is 35214 Knollwood Lane, Farmington Hills, MI 48335, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Donna Maxine Suber who died on November 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 8/13/2025. 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 8/13/2025, 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: 2/13/2025

Patricia A. Suber 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 000030

Beatrice E. Carey Decedent

Krista N. Robertson, Esq. 4520 East-West Highway, Suite 650 Bethesda, MD 20814

Attorney

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

Kirsten Febres, whose address is 14803 Gladebrook Drive, Houston, Texas 77068, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Beatrice E. Carey who died on August 23, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/13/2025. 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 8/13/2025, 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: 2/13/2025

Kirsten Febres

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 000071

Edgar Charles Gund Decedent

Edward G. Varrone, Esq. 8807 Bradford Road Silver Spring, MD 20901 Attorney

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

Sharon E. Gund, whose address is 1941 Parkside Drive, Washington DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Edgar Charles Gund who died on July 1, 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 8/13/2025. 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 8/13/2025, 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: 2/13/2025

Sharon E. Gund 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 000041

Cecil R. Hall Decedent

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

Gayle Carley, whose address is 4031 South Dakota Ave. NE, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Cecil R. Hall who died on December 27, 2010 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/13/2025. 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 8/13/2025, 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: 2/13/2025

Gayle Carley

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 FEP 000008

June 22, 2023

Date of Death

Emmy L. S. Cordeiro aka Emmy Luis Stahl Cordeiro Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Carlos Cordeiro whose address is 2861 Tischler Rd., Bethel Park, PA 15102 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Emmy L. S. Cordeiro aka Emmy Luis Stahl Cordeiro, deceased, by the Wills/Orphans’ Court Division Court for Allegheny County, State of Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, on March 11, 2024.

Service of process may be made upon Julius P. Terrell, Esq., 1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20004 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real estate.

2141 I Street, NW #413, Washington, DC 20037. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 2/13/2025

Carlos Cordeiro Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2023 ADM 001309

Dalaneo M. Martin Decedent

Edward G. Varrone, Esq. 1825 K. Street, NW, Suite 1150 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND

2023 without

Will and will

with

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/13/2025. 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 8/13/2025, 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: 2/13/2025

Tyrell D. 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 000055

James E. Hilton, Jr. aka James Hilton, Jr. Decedent

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

LaShawn Jones, whose address is 11658 Kipling Drive, Waldorf, MD 20601, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James E. Hilton, Jr. aka James Hilton, Jr. who died on July 12, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/13/2025. 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 8/13/2025, 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: 2/13/2025

LaShawn 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

2024 ADM 001432

James Edward Thomas Brown Decedent

Isaac H. Marks, Sr. Esq. 11785 Beltsville Drive, Suite 150 Calverton, MD 20705

Attorney

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

Carlene H. Brown, whose address is 1251 Van Buren Street, NW, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Edward Thomas Brown who died on November 6, 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 8/13/2025. 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 8/13/2025, 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: 2/13/2025

Carlene H. Brown

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 2023 ADM 1455

Pearline V. Davis Decedent

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

Robert L. Howard, whose address is 2753 31st Pl., NE, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert L. Howard who died on September 26, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 8/13/2025. 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 8/13/2025, 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: 2/13/2025

Robert L. Howard Personal Representative

TRUE

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 000039

John Walridge Dowell, Jr. Decedent

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

Antoinette C. Wells, whose address is 5335 16th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John Walridge Dowell, Jr. who died on June 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 8/13/2025. 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 8/13/2025, 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: 2/13/2025

Antoinette C. Wells 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 0000059

Richard Sellers Decedent

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

Shirley Sellers, whose address is 1344 Adams St., NE, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Richard Sellers 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 8/13/2025. 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 8/13/2025, 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: 2/13/2025

Shirley Sellers Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Washington Mystics’ home court listened as D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) revealed the date for the launch of a new state-of-the-art hospital on St. Elizabeths East Campus. Perhaps more relevant to her mission, Hill Lockridge also learned about a partnership that Events DC entered with CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield to bring preventative healthcare resources to the campus, while increasing activity in the sporting and concert venue long caught up in Capital One Arena’s shadow.

Further, what was the Entertainment and Sports Arena will now be CareFirst Arena, merging the interests of advancing health care and amusement opportunities in the District.

Hill Lockridge, a Ward 8 resident, extolled the $2 million partnership as a step in the right direction for Wards 7 and 8 residents, and grassroots entities that have long had boots on the ground in the community.

“I’m really interested in supporting the people who are doing the work, not those trying to plant flags in places and spaces they haven’t been,” said Hill Lockridge, chair of the Ward 8 Health Council and director of strategic partnerships at Dreaming Out

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2025 ADM 46

Margaret B. Wilson Decedent

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

Alexander Airo Kranz, whose address is 5812 Iron Willow Ct., Alexandria, VA 22310, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Margaret B. Wilson who died on December 10, 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 8/13/2025. 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 8/13/2025, 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: 2/13/2025

Alexander Airo Kranz 5812 Iron Willow Ct., Alexandria, VA 22310

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

Loud. “Where I will give CareFirst some credit is their track record of being in the community and investing in work for a while. They’ve learned some things along the way as we have. I hope the $2 million will be able to continue to resourcing people in the community doing the work.”

CareFirst and Events DC’s 10-year partnership aims to center those tackling and grappling with, among other issues, maternal health, food insecurity and workforce development. Through this arrangement, the nonprofit healthcare provider will also dispatch a mobile clinic to provide residents primary care and bloodwork, free of charge based on federal income requirements.

Though Hill Lockridge, a proponent of food sovereignty, gave her kudos to CareFirst, she questioned the degree to which the partnership will boost Ward 7 and Ward 8 residents’ access to healthy foods. “I didn’t really hear much about food and food sovereignty in the announcement. It doesn’t mean none of those things won’t be funded,” Hill Lockridge told The Informer. “Anybody who’s trying to move food through in a food sovereign way realizes it’s a long-term investment.”

As it relates to long-term investments, Hil Lockridge called on private and public partners to support CareFirst’s efforts, which she called a small part of what’s truly needed for residents east of the Anacostia River.

“The magic number is $2 billion,” Hill Lockridge told The Informer. “If we have $400 million in the new hospital, and that’s only 20% of the healthcare landscape, where’s the other 80%? Where’s that comprehensive healthcare landscape and where can we see that through a place-based approach in Ward 8? It doesn’t have to be in these big institutions, but through grants and different opportunities the community can access.”

AN OPPORTUNITY TO RAISE ST. ELIZABETH CAMPUS’ PROFILE EVEN HIGHER

Events DC’s partnership with CareFirst represents the latest chapter in the Bowser administration’s long-term development of St. Elizabeths Campus. These days, residents and visitors can patronize a slew of Black-owned businesses at Sycamore & Oak. Other parts of the campus include the Whitman-Walker Max Robinson Center, R.I.S.E. Demonstration Center, and

Gateway D.C. pavilion.

Residents have also been able to live in several units of affordable housing located near Congress Heights Metro Station and Suitland Parkway -- albeit not without some issues.

Then there’s CareFirst Arena -- the new name of what was once known as Entertainment & Sports Arena.

Since 2018, this sporting and concert venue has hosted the Mystics and local NBA G-League team Capital City Go-Go. It continues to serve as the practice facility for the Washington Wizards and epicenter of entertainment in Congress Heights.

Upcoming events at CareFirst Arena will feature R&B artists Trey Songz and Tamar Braxton, as well as a new generation of WWE wrestling superstars.

Last year, more than 107,000 people attended 66 games, concerts, community events and fairs at CareFirst Arena -- somewhat of a far cry from the more-than-200 events that attracted multitudes of people to Capital One Arena more than six miles away. After Bowser and Ted Leonsis reached an agreement to keep Monumental Sports and Entertainment in Capital One Arena, Ward 8 residents, some of whom worked at CareFirst Arena, expressed concern about what would become of their neighborhood venue. They were particularly worried since the Washington Mystics, in the midst of a female professional basketball renaissance, would also be having some of their more popular matchups in Gallery Place-Chinatown.

On Feb. 6, Bowser delved into the year-long endeavor she and Events DC Executive Director Angie M. Gates are on to attract private investment in CareFirst Arena. She acknowledged members of her executive team, past and present, including Brian Kenner, who, as a deputy mayor for planning and economic development, articulated his vision for a sports arena on St. Elizabeths East Campus. Their efforts, and that of others in her administration, Bowser said, led to an outcome of great benefit to District residents.

“It’s important that we know our partnerships are with trusted partners,” Bowser told the audience on Feb. 6. “CareFirst will be that partner for years to come. They’ve done their due diligence with us. We did our due diligence with them. It wasn’t that hard.”

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

BOWSER ACT from Page 1

with the local press, Bowser focused on what she called a more relevant topic of discussion: D.C. statehood.

“That means we’ll be treated like every other American,” Bowser told reporters on Feb. 10 at the culmination of an event marking the launch of a youth development professional certificate program at George Washington University.

As she walks a tightrope in her engagement with Trump, the third person to occupy the White House during her mayoralty, Bowser continues to emphasize the drawbacks of not having full congressional representation. Her remarks came just hours after tens of thousands of federal employees, heeding Trump’s call to work in the office, made their morning commute to Navy Yard.

Bowser, who said she’s closely monitoring Trump’s action for possible legal violations, said she wants more for D.C. residents seeking to be heard on the federal level.

“When important things are being debated, like cabinet nominees, we have neither a voice nor vote,” Bowser said. “In Congress, our congresswoman [Eleanor Holmes Norton] is a delegate but she doesn’t have a vote. So we’re reminded of what it means to be full citizens of his nation. And we can get that through statehood.”

TROUBLE FOR WHAT WAS ONCE KNOWN AS CHOCOLATE CITY

In 1973, President Richard Nixon signed the District of Columbia Home Rule Act into law, which established a home rule charter that paved the way for an elected mayor and D.C. Council. Even with home rule, the District still experiences a degree of congressional oversight unlike that inflicted on full-fledged states.

For instance, a provision of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act subjects laws approved by the council and signed by the mayor to a period of congressional review.

If passed, the Bringing Oversight to Washington and Safety to Every Resident Act, also known as the BOWSER Act, dissolves the local government and places the District back under congressional control, as had been the case between 1874 and 1973.

This latest act of congressional infringement on local affairs, led by Congressman Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) and Senator Mike Lee (R- Utah), follows Republicans’ 2023 strikedown of the Revised Criminal Code Act, and

the slew of House committee hearings focused on public safety in the District.

As Ogles explained earlier this month, none of those actions taken up until this point have quelled Republicans’ appetite for accountability.

“The radically progressive regime of D.C. Mayor Bowser has left our nation’s capital in crime-ridden shambles,” Ogles said in a statement referencing public safety issues and the controversy surrounding former D.C. Councilmember Trayon White.

“Bowser and her corrupt Washington City Council are incapable of managing the city. As such, it seems appropriate for Congress to reclaim its constitutional authority and restore the nation’s capital.”

Advocates and Residents Respond

Within hours of Ogles and Lee introducing the BOWSER Act, local activists, elected officials, and residents unleashed waves of criticisms toward those occupying the U.S. Capitol.

U.S. Rep. Dr. Oye Owolewa (D), the shadow representative for the District, released a statement decrying Republicans’ actions before pledging to counter the legislation.

“D.C. residents serve in the military, pay federal taxes, and contribute to this country just like any other American,” Owolewa said. “Yet, time and time again, we are forced to defend our basic right to self-governance from those who do not represent us and do not understand our community’s needs.”

Meanwhile, Patrice Sulton, executive director of D.C. Justice Lab, called the legislation the latest instance in a “long, racist history” defined by Congress’ denial of District residents’ right to self-determination.

“In 1890, Senator John Morgan openly compared Black D.C. residents to 'rats' and called for Congress to 'burn down the barn' to get rid of them,” Sulton said. “Senator Tom Cotton opposed D.C. statehood by invoking racist stereotypes, asking, 'Would you trust Marion Barry [as a governor]?' Last year, Rep. Gary Palmer called D.C. public schools ‘inmate factories’ during a congressional hearing—revealing exactly how those who oppose D.C. self-governance view our community.”

In wrapping up her statement, Sulton questioned Republicans’ sincerity about the state of affairs in the District.

“This is not about governance,” she said. “It is about maintaining white control over a majority-Black city. We see it for what it is, and we will fight back.”

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CLUSTER BEES from Page 1 on this stage,” Jason Moore, one of The Washington Informer Citywide Spelling Bee’s longest serving organizers, told spellers on the afternoon of Feb. 6.

“You have worked hard, and deserve to be on this stage,” continued Moore, D.C. Public Schools (DCPS)’ manager of elementary assessments and interventions, as he called on audience members to applaud the young spellers.

A FULL-BLOWN COMPETITION, ONE WINNER’S REFLECTION

On Feb. 5-7, 243 students from 81 schools across the District competed for the opportunity to participate in the 43rd annual Washington Informer Citywide Spelling Bee.

Those who made it to the cluster bees won top prize at smaller spelling bees their schools hosted weeks prior. Some of those schools -- including Ida B. Wells Middle School and Howard University Public Charter Middle School of Math and Science -- had more than one student participating in the clusters.

More than 472,000 words were eligible for use in the competition, with the difficulty of the words increasing during each round. Spelling bee rules allow spellers standing at the mic to request a word’s: language of origin, definition and manner in which it’s used in a sentence, before trying their hand at the word in question.

After three days of competition, a total of 30 elementary and middle schoolers advanced to the citywide bee. The young person who wins first place in the citywide competition later this spring will represent the District at the 100th Scripps National Spelling Bee in May.

The second day of the cluster bee kicked off with the word “naughty,” which 6th grader Amira Jerome of Howard University Public Charter Middle School of Mathematics and Science spelled correctly. Other words during the first round included “groceries,” “bazaar,” and “spritzed,” with the overwhelming majority of the spellers succeeding and advancing to the next round.

“Ointment” counted as the first word to knock out a speller, while “teriyaki” and “steeped” also drew eliminations.

After a short water and restroom break, “wealthy,” “truncate,” and “addendum,” further narrowed the field in the second round. As the difficul-

5One of the six students who advanced, as he properly spelled “glazier” in the fourth round. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

ty increased in the third round, the frequency of misspellings increased rapidly, as seen with the elimination of the first three spellers in the third round.

By the start of the fourth round, fewer than 20 students remained on the stage at THEARC.

During the fifth round, “pitanga,” a type of Brazilian fruit, ushered a young person to the next stage of the competition. After that, the top five spellers, including Katya Lieven of Blessed Sacrament School in Northwest, advanced to the citywide spelling bee.

Other young people who will show their spelling skills at the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment this spring include: Zwe Spacetime of Louis Armstrong Homeschool, Holden Consentino of Hardy Middle School in Southeast, Nora Baker of BASIS DC Public Charter School in Northwest, Aurora Felton and Biance Curry of Deal Middle School in Northwest.

For Katya, whose winning word was “prajna,” a Buddhist term for enlightened truth, the cluster bee victory affirmed the value of all her hard work.

“It feels great, especially since I was [such a] novice to this,” she told The Informer as she explained her study regimen. “I prepare by using the WordClub app and asking my parents to quiz me as well.”

LOOKING BACK: A SOUTHEAST SCHOOL’S PREPARATION FOR THE CLUSTER BEE

In the months leading up to the three-days of Informer cluster bees, staff members at District public, public charter and private schools

ary is also National Heart Awareness Month, this love season illuminates a testament to how healthy relationships and happiness can contribute to physical heart wellness.

The love Joann Moore shares with her husband of 25 years still brings her profound happiness.

While every day together is special to them, Moore, 57, still relishes in the joy of spending another Valentine’s Day with her longtime husband.

stress hormones that make our blood pressure go up, and our heart rate— those actually come down when we're connected to other people socially in positive ways,” Capers told The Informer. “When we feel connected, joyful, happy—you might say, when we're in love— [when] we're around people that make us feel comfortable, it actually is good for our heart.”

conducted competitions of their own. Elementary and middle school students spent an untold number of hours practicing at home and competing with their classmates for a chance to represent their school at the THEARC.

Some staffers, like Sherrell Tolbert-Batts, told The Informer they had a much greater outcome in mind for the young Black scholars they guided along this process.

“I’m looking for one of my good little lambs to go all the way to the top [for] the $50,000 championship, endorsements and exposure for them and the school so people can see what we bring,” said Tolbert-Batts, a D.C. public school librarian in her first year at Turner Elementary School in Southeast.

On Jan. 30, more than two dozen third, fourth and fifth graders participated in the qualifying bee at Turner Elementary, a production coordinated by Tolbert-Batts in collaboration with a cadre of staff members, substitute teachers, and community members.

Aaron Jenkins, the Office of the Attorney General’s director of community engagement, served as an announcer, while D.C. area real estate agent Eze Okwodu served as one of three judges.

After a couple hours of nail biting competition, a trio of young people cleared their path to victory, one multisyllabic word at a time. Those young people --- Anthony Johnson, Sameera McDowney, and Malik Parker --clinched the first, second and third prizes at the school-level bee.

“I wasn’t shocked about what they could do,” Tolbert-Batts said about her students. “They’re really smart; I learn more from them than I teach them.”

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

“To still be able to celebrate Valentine’s Day with him is something that I really cherish,” Moore told The Informer. “We don’t care about gifts and things like that. We just do a nice dinner either at home, or this Friday, we plan to go out to a nice restaurant.”

Moore was in her early 30’s when she met her lifelong partner at a friend’s house party in Reston, Virginia. What started as a casual meeting quickly turned into a promising partnership, gelling together with ease, and eventually growing into the healthy marriage that she attributes to a significant portion of her happiness and quality of life.

Happiness and love are considered significant ways to maintain a healthy heart. Research shows that positive emotions from loving relationships— particularly marriage— can lower blood pressure, reduce stress, improve the immune system, and overall decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease.

According to a 2017 study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, in comparison with married participants, “being unmarried was associated with higher risk of all-cause mortality” and “cardiovascular death or myocardial infarction.”

Although some single folks may debate those statistics, research underscores the importance of social connection. People who are more socially connected often see reduced risk for earlier death from all causes, including cardiovascular disease.

Inversely, research from the American Heart Association also points to poor social relationships being commonly “associated with a 29% increased risk for coronary heart disease and a 32% increased risk for stroke,” as social isolation may increase stress, raise blood pressure, and increase inflammation.

Dr. Quinn Capers, professor and chair of the Howard University College of Medicine, underscored the positive impact that happiness has on health, especially when felt in connection with other people.

“Some of the hormones—our

SINGLE AND SICK: HEART HEALTH IN MEN VS. WOMEN

While statistics point to increased risk of cardiovascular disease and fatalities for unmarried people, Capers told The Informer there are interesting gender nuances behind those statistics.

“The data, as I have come to know it and what I clearly see in my practice, is that married men live longer than single men. We think that's because wives do such a good job of making sure their husbands are taking their medicine, getting your prescriptions filled, getting [their] prostate checks and all those things,” Capers explained.

However, married women don’t seem to be as lucky as their male counterparts.

“At least some data suggests, not all studies,” Capers said, “that the opposite is true for women, that single women live longer than married women.”

Capers explained that while women are often the lead caregivers in both their communities and homes, they unfortunately run the risk of neglecting their own needs met.

“This is why I say [for] the husbands, that we're not doing as good a job for our wives as they are for us, in making sure we take good care of ourselves,” Capers said. “Valentine's Day is coming up, so all husbands get a reset, and we have to do better.”

Luckily for Moore, she has experienced the better side of this in her marriage, noting the physical impact of her husband’s care and support during her recovery after a scare with high blood pressure.

“I believe that if you have a happy home, your health will fare a lot better. I really do love going home every night. I actually have hypertension, and when I first found out, my husband took good care of me,” Moore told The Informer. “He ironed my clothes, helped dress me, and just gave me the support I needed at that time. My husband and I always take care of each other.” WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

TILGHMAN from Page 30

ness world, DEI isn't just a moral imperative — it's an economic advantage.

3. Building social cohesion: Inclusive communities foster trust and collaboration. When individuals feel respected and represented, they are more likely to engage positively with their communities, creating a ripple effect of benefits.

4. Empowering future generations: Younger generations, particularly millennials and Gen Z, overwhelmingly support DEI principles. They expect organizations, schools and leaders to prioritize inclusivity and equity as core values.

THE BACKLASH AGAINST DEI

Despite its benefits, DEI has become a polarizing topic in some political circles. Several states have introduced legislation targeting DEI programs, particularly in education and government institutions. These efforts often claim to eliminate “divisive ideologies” or reduce taxpayer spending, but they overlook

MORIAL from Page 30 and reconstruction had thrown the natural order into chaos, and Jim Crow segregation was a necessary correction. Rather than promote the lie that Black Americans are content to live under a system of oppression, the modern Lost Cause movement promotes the lie that the system of oppression doesn't exist. It promotes the lie that discriminatory practices aren't to blame for race and gender gaps in wealth, income and civic life. It's simply that white men are more competent.

LEON from Page 30

dent Trump attack DEI policies, firing federal inspectors general, threatening to close the Department of Education and pledging to fire FBI agents who investigated Jan. 6. Steve Bannon told us in 2019 of what was to come: "We had a whole tiger team of the White House counsel guys, the 'deconstruction of the administrative state,' which is a huge element. … We want less [government intervention]. In fact, we want to start to take apart certain parts of the apparatus." America, you were warned. Now, the authoritarian that more than 77 million Americans voted for wants to disregard the constitutionally guaranteed right of "birthright citizenship." He is impounding funds, freezing nearly all foreign aid, federal grants and loans as if he has been magically granted the power of the "ex post facto veto."

the critical role DEI plays in addressing longstanding inequities.

For instance, dismantling DEI programs in schools limits the ability to support marginalized students who may face systemic barriers to success. Similarly, reducing DEI efforts in workplaces can stifle innovation and employee satisfaction, ultimately affecting an organization's bottom line.

However, these legislative attacks fail to acknowledge that DEI is not a passing trend. It has been embraced by countless organizations, grassroots movements, and individuals who see its value in creating fair and inclusive systems.

WHY DEI IS HERE TO STAY

1. It's a cultural shift, not a policy: DEI has become deeply ingrained in our culture. It's no longer confined to corporate HR departments or school policies — it's a societal movement driven by people's desire for fairness and justice. Social movements like Black Lives Matter, LGBTQ+ advoca-

Darren Beattie, appointed this week to be acting undersecretary of state for public diplomacy and public affairs, posted recently on social media, "Competent white men must be in charge if you want things to work." Beattie was fired from a position in the previous Trump administration after CNN reported his connection to well-known white nationalists.

President Trump pointedly excised any mention of "prejudice and hardship" Black Americans face from his Black History Month proclamation.

The outrageous notion that anyone

Almost none of President Trump's policies have gone through legislation or House votes. Trump issues his edicts through executive order. The American people are being subjected to a flurry or whirlwind of executive action. Bannon called it "flooding the zone and muzzle velocity,” saying, “Every day we hit them with three things. They'll bite on one, and we'll get all of our stuff done, bang, bang, bang. These guys will never — will never be able to recover. But we've got to start with muzzle velocity." Some people may think Trump is crazy. If he is, he's crazy like a fox.

But it's not just him. President Trump is not alone. The racist suggestion of Trump saying the United States should own Gaza and develop it into "the Riviera of the Middle East" by displacing the Palestinians from their homeland to other countries in the region was first posited by former Pres-

cy, and women's rights have solidified the need for DEI in every facet of life.

2. Corporate commitment: Businesses have seen the tangible benefits of DEI. Many leading companies have embedded DEI into their core strategies to attract top talent, serve diverse markets and foster innovation. Regardless of government action, the private sector will continue to prioritize DEI because it aligns with their values and enhances profitability.

3. Grassroots advocacy: Local organizations and community leaders continue to push for equity and inclusion. From nonprofit initiatives to neighborhood efforts, these grassroots movements ensure that DEI principles remain a priority at all levels of society.

4. Generational support: Millennials and Gen Z are the most diverse generations in history, and they overwhelmingly support DEI initiatives. As they assume leadership roles in workplaces, communities and governments, they will carry these principles forward.

WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

in a position of authority or responsibility who's not a white man is so ingrained in the current administration that President Trump baselessly blamed diversity, equity and inclusion policies for the deadly Jan. 29 aviation accident at Reagan National Airport.

In an era when the defense secretary brazenly sports a tattoo of a white nationalist symbol, celebrating Black History Month resegregation is not just a right, but a responsibility. It's not just about honoring the past but about determining the future.

ident Joe Biden. The AP reported, "A Western diplomat in Cairo said Egypt rejected similar proposals from the Biden administration and European countries early in the war." Trump's major faux pas was he made Biden's secret proposal public.

Trump is not alone in his racist deportation efforts. CNN reported, "According to an analysis by the Migration Policy Institute, more than 12 million people were 'deported' — either removed or returned — from the U.S. during the Clinton administration. More than 10 million were removed or returned during the Bush administration. Far fewer — more than 5 million — were removed or returned during the Obama administration." Lest we forget, President Obama was dubbed the "deporter in chief." WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

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WILLIAMS from Page 31

interest. But certain non-Black Teamsters ignored the message and stayed with the orange man to the end — only to find that the person they supported is working to end union rights. Rep. Byron Donalds and Sen. Tim Scott weren't even considered for Trump's Cabinet, or were they asked and just said no?

Candace Owens — the voice of Black Republicans — Kodak Black,

NO MORE TALK — ONLY ACTION

It is time for Black America to mobilize. Not with hashtags. Not with statements. With action. With money. With power.

Black institutions must unite like never before. The NAACP, the National Urban League, the National Action Network, the National Newspaper Publishers Association, Rainbow PUSH, the Congressional Black Caucus — now is the time. No more operating in silos. No more petty differences. This is an emergency. It is the type of emergency that may have been ignored a little more than 400 years ago when a group of about 20 Africans were brought to the new colony of Virginia and traded as slaves for food.

Black billionaires, celebrities and business moguls — we need you now. Oprah. Tyler Perry. LeBron James. Jay-Z. Rihanna. Tiger Woods. Michael Jordan. Magic Johnson. Robert Smith. Alex Karp. Wemimo Abbey. Iman Abuzeid. Joshua Aviv. Melissa Bradley.

JEALOUS from Page 31 owners as well.

Craig Kushen lives in Coto de Caza, California, on the edge of the fire-prone Cleveland National Forest. He has been in the thick of his state's insurance crisis for years — well before the most recent fires that ravaged Greater Los Angeles. His home insurer, Chubb, dropped his coverage about six years ago. Even back then, insurance companies were well aware the climate crisis was making certain areas increasingly vulnerable to natural disasters.

"My insurance through Chubb was roughly $4,000 when I was dropped. I was luckier than most in that I had really great insurance agents working to find me a new plan. But the policies they were showing me after I lost my Chubb policy were in excess of $20,000 — five times the amount. So I got the

Antonio Brown, Mike Tyson, Lord Jamar, Le'Veon Bell and the reported 1 in 4 Black men under 50 are said to have supported Trump, and what a pity because he didn't consider even one of them to help him destroy our democracy! I'm willing to say some of those who voiced support for Trump didn't actually vote for anybody, and I doubt they'll be left off his retribution list. I didn't list Dr. Ben Carson in either category because he was mis-

We need you. And, make no mistake, Trump is coming for you too.

Kanye West learned a hard lesson when he bragged that they couldn't touch him because he was a billionaire.

The very next day, he lost nearly $1 billion in wealth. They are on a "show you better than I can tell you" mission.

They are coming for all of us. Rich or poor. Young or old. Educated or not. Famous or unknown.

We are in this together, whether we like it or not. And the only way to win — or even survive — is to finally band together and reject the selfish mindset of "I've got mine, you get yours."

Because soon, none of us will have anything.

THE BLACK PRESS MUST SURVIVE

Our battle begins with collaboration, and at the heart of it, Black Americans must support Black-owned newspapers, media, and businesses like our ancestors did during Jim Crow. The NNPA and the Black Press need resources to keep telling our stories. Contribute at NNPAfund.org. Subscribe to a Black newspaper. Follow Let It Be Known News, Make It Plain,

only insurance I could find at the time that was even somewhat reasonable, and that was the CalFAIR Plan."

The California Fair Access to Insurance Requirements (FAIR) Plan was started 50 years ago to provide more options for Californians and protect consumers. According to the California Department of Insurance website, the FAIR Plan is available to those "who cannot obtain insurance through a regular insurance company."

That means, as Kushen points out, that insurance companies and brokers throughout many parts of California are now routinely telling consumers their "only" option is the FAIR Plan.

But a safety net program like California's FAIR Plan hardly solves the worsening insurance crisis. Maximum payouts under FAIR, originally capped at $1 million, are currently capped at

led a long time ago about who was for the people and who was against people who look like him, so we never counted on him or Kanye West or Herschel Walker and a few others to do the right thing.

It's time to do what Alicia Keys advised the rest of us to do: "Rise up!" This is not a time to sit back waiting for somebody else to fight for your rights while you leave the game!

April Ryan, WIN-TV, and other Black media outlets. If we do not control our own narrative, Trump will write it for us.

Everyday people? Contribute. Spread the word. Heck, you can even hit $Mrmedia2022 on CashApp. Whatever you can, donate to our organizations. This is not just a fight for survival. It is a fight for our continued existence.

THE ENDGAME IS CLEAR

Do not be fooled. They want us erased.

They want to destroy the institutions that sustain us. They want to police and profile us and imprison us. They want to deport Black migrants and dismantle civil rights protections. They want to crush everything Black people have built in this country.

We are watching the most racist administration in modern history wage an unrelenting war against us. There is no more time to wake up. We are already in the fire.

The question now is: will we fight, or will we burn?

The time is now. WI

$3 million. That is a lot in most places, but California is a state famous for high home prices — home prices which are already a central reason for the state's housing crisis. There are 33 cities in the San Francisco Bay Area alone with median home prices above $2 million. And FAIR is not a public plan. It is technically a private association controlled and operated by insurance companies. And as costs go up for FAIR to offer coverage and pay out claims, additional costs are incurred by the participating companies. And those costs get passed on to consumers in the form of rate hikes. State Farm's request for an emergency rate increase cited "tremendous strain" from the company's "participation in FAIR Plan losses."

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.