Reparations: A Very Basic Primer

Reparations: a process of repairing, healing and restoring a people injured because of their group identity and in violation of their fundamental human rights. In 2019, the House held a Hearing on H.R. 40, Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African-Americans Act.  There was no vote but the hearing itself was historic.  We take a look at what led up to this point.

A Timeline Leading Up to The “Revitalization” of Barry Farm

With the deconstruction and rebuilding of Barry Farm under way, it is important to understand some of the key factors of this process, what led up to it and how it has been affecting the existing community. Here is a somewhat concise timeline of events to provide context and stay updated on the fast-changing neighborhood.

Incompatible Allies: Black Lives Matter, March 4 Our Lives and the US Debate about Guns and Violence
   
After the mass shooting in Parkland, student activists did their level best to move the US to adopt gun reform. Grassroots DC's documentary Incompatible Allies asks if the gun reform that they call for is in line with the demands of Black Lives Matter, with whom they claim to have an affinity?

Initiative 77 & The Crisis of The Tipped Minimum Wage

The minimum wage for hourly workers in the District of Columbia is set to increase to $15.00. For Tipped workers, which can include servers, valets, and bartenders, receive $3.89 per hour, with an anticipated increase to $5.00 by 2020. If it seems unfair, that's because it is.

Black Lives Matter Long-Term Goal: Full Implementation of the NEAR Act

Black Lives Matter activists worked for two years to pass the NEAR (Neighborhood Engagement Achieves Results) Act and get it fully funded. Now they’re working to see that it’s implemented correctly. . . . → Read More: Black Lives Matter Long-Term Goal: Full Implementation of the NEAR Act

Remembering Big Mike: Line Dance Instructor and Inspiration

I met Michael “Big Mike” Ballard four years ago when Grassroots DC moved into the Potomac Gardens Public Housing Complex. He made regular use of our Community Resource Center creating flyers for the dance classes he taught and using the computers and the Internet access working for his church and the nonprofit he was involved with Sistahs with Purpose. He taught at Knox Hill, Turkey Thicket Recreation Center and Potomac Gardens. He passed on October 10. He is survived by his mother Linda, sister Theresa and dozens and dozens of students and friends. He was a kind and compassionate person who will be missed. Below is an article I wrote about him in 2015. . . . → Read More: Remembering Big Mike: Line Dance Instructor and Inspiration

Many Languages One Voice Community Day

Many Language One Voice’s Community Day was designed to bring the community together to learn about our rights as immigrants in DC, prepare together, and celebrate our communities’ strength and resilience! ¡Nos reunimos para aprender nuestros derechos como inmigrantes en DC, prepararnos juntos, y celebrar la fuerza y la resiliencia de nuestras comunidades! . . . → Read More: Many Languages One Voice Community Day

Metro Service Meeting: Make Your Feelings Known

Tired of Metro fare hikes with no real improvement in service? Even if you appreciate the fact that Metro service allows many within the DMV to get by without the hassle and expense of a car, you may still wish their service were better. Now is the time to make your feelings heard. . . . → Read More: Metro Service Meeting: Make Your Feelings Known

DC State Fair (Who Knew?)

Sunday, September 24, in Southwest Washington, DC, will see the arrival of the eighth annual DC State Fair from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. At Waterfront Station, the public is invited to enjoy contests that crown the city’s best growers, crafters, and cooks; performances from local musicians and dance troupes; and more than 55 food, art, and craft vendors showcasing and selling their wares. . . . → Read More: DC State Fair (Who Knew?)