This Week's Edition : 6-25-26

With Mayoral Victory

More Certain, Lewis George Lays Out Next Steps

After Kenyan McDuffie’s Concession, Ward 4 D.C. Councilmember Now

Presumptive Democratic Nominee for D.C.’s Top Spot

By Sam Plo Kwia Collins, Jr. and Demarco Rush WI Senior Staff Writer and WI Contributing Writer

Two days and one concession later, Janeese Lewis George stands as the District’s presumptive Democratic mayoral nominee.

Even as the Ward 4 council member and democratic socialist focuses on wrapping up her legislative work, she continues to engage current D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, along with other local and national leaders— all part of what she calls the start of a journey to institutional change.

“The conversations that we are having is one where we can have a successful transition of D.C. government and that all of us are aligned in preserving D.C.'s autonomy and fighting for our statehood, Lewis George said during a Thursday afternoon press conference, “and making sure that we are taking the necessary steps that are needed.”

Before addressing local and national press at Busboys and Poets on 14th Street NW, Lewis George spoke with former D.C. Council member Kenyan McDuffie, her principal

By Jada Ingleton WI Content Editor

Maryland’s 2026 Primary Election Results

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

With polls closing at 8 p.m. on June 23, and mail-in ballots still being tallied, some politicians across the state are celebrating as others await answers for Maryland’s 2026 Democratic primaries. With several new County Executives, a new member of Congress, and changes to the state legislature, the election –– regardless of outcome ––is sure to shape the dynamics of state politics.

“It was important because a shift

By Sam Plo Kwia Collins, Jr. WI Senior Staff Writer

As the smoke clears from what’s been described as an earth-shattering Democratic primary, local progressives are relishing in electoral victories that promise to shift the mayor’s office and D.C. Council the furthest left it's been in more than a decade.

However, as Jeremiah Lowery explained, those victories were the result of protracted struggle at the ballot box and in the hearts and minds of Wash-

has occurred –– a positive shift reflecting up and coming communities, especially the African American community that has given so much back,” said Clem Kaikis, a longtime state and local political advocate.

Del. Adrian Boafo (D-District 23) was officially declared the winner of the Fifth Congressional District primary, buoyed by the support of longtime Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D).

“Tonight the Democratic voters of

PG ELECTION Page 12

ingtonians skeptical of change.

“When we endorse a candidate, we’re having conversations at the doors with voters about why universal child care is important, why a sustainable transportation system throughout the whole city is important, why we need to tax the wealthy and actually invest in social services is important,” said Lowery, a lifelong Washingtonian and founder of Bike, Walk and Bus PAC.

During the 2018 D.C. Democrat-

ELECTION Page 9

3 Since winning the primary for the D.C. Democratic at-large seat, Oye Owolewa says he’s preparing for his new job with the support of what he described as the “51 for Oye leadership governance team.” (WI File Photo/Ja’Mon Jackson)

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The Wait Is Over, AJ Dybantsa Gives Wizards Fans A New Reason to Believe

For years, Washington Wizards fans have waited for a reason to believe. On Tuesday night at Barclays Center, that reason finally arrived.

The Wizards selected BYU forward AJ Dybantsa with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, ushering in what the franchise hopes is the beginning of a new era in Washington’s storied basketball history.

“Welcome to D.C. [AJ Dybantsa],” said Wizards guard Trae Young on X. “The story has been written. The city is Ready. We’ll talk about that.” recent memory. Kansas guard Darryn Peterson, North Carolina standout Caleb Wilson, and Duke forward Cameron Boozer were all considered elite prospects in the first round.

But in the end, Washington ultimately chose to

place their future in Dybantsa, a dynamic two-way forward widely projected as a potential franchise cornerstone.

The 19-year-old became Washington’s first No. 1 overall pick since the franchise selected John Wall in 2010. Wall went on to become one of the most decorated and accomplished players in Wizards history, which makes it fitting that he represented the franchise on the NBA Draft lottery stage to secure

For a fanbase that has endured many years of disappointment, countless rebuilds, and unrealized promise, this moment feels bigger than just another draft pick. It feels like hope and renewed belief that winning basketball can return to the nation’s capital. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

Trump’s White House Ballroom Price Tag Jumps to $600 Million, Court Fight Intensifies

The estimated cost of President Donald Trump’s planned White House ballroom has surged to $600 million, with internal records showing taxpayers could be responsible for roughly half the price, according to a new published report.

The latest figure represents a dramatic increase from the $400 million estimate Trump repeatedly cited when defending the project and comes as a fresh legal challenge seeks to block another of his high-profile Washington redevelopment efforts, the National Garden of American Heroes.

Further, the developments have intensified a growing fight over executive power, federal spending, historic preservation, and Trump’s effort to reshape the nation’s capital through a series of projects. Some of the projects include the demolition of the White House East Wing, a 90,000-square-foot ballroom, a proposed triumphal arch, and the planned sculpture garden near the National Mall.

“We should be improving the economic life for Americans,” Rep. Ro Khanna, (D-Calif.), said in a statement

5 Onyx Impact founder and CEO Esosa Osa says, “AI is the infrastructure of the future and we are done waiting for someone else to build our seat at the tabel.”

(Courtesy Photo/Onyx Impact)

obtained by the Informer. “That should be our message.” The newest legal challenge was filed in federal court by preservation and conservation organizations seeking to halt construction of the National Garden of American Heroes in West Potomac Park. The lawsuit argues that the project lacks required congressional authorization and violates federal laws governing historic and protected public spaces.

At the same time, congressional Democrats continue pressing their argument that the ballroom project itself violates the Constitution because Congress never authorized the demolition of the East Wing or appropriated funds for its replacement. A 143-member congressional amicus brief filed in the ongoing court battle argues that authority over federal property belongs to Congress, not the president.

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

Aisha: An AI Chatbot that Centers Blackness

Onyx Impact, a non-profit media research organization, unveiled the latest version of Aisha, an artificial intelligence chatbot that puts Black identity at the forefront of its responses.

Most AI models are built on large datasets taken from the internet, public records or historical data. This training process, research shows, is susceptible to selection and historical biases, resulting in some prompt responses that do not address the needs of marginalized users.

Aisha is specifically trained

on Black sources, history and lived experiences. The product, made in partnership with Chromatics AI, is an extension of Onyx Impact’s broader mission to help Black communities navigate information online.

“Every major AI company in this country will tell you that their technology is neutral, objective, fair,” Esosa Osa, founder and CEO of Onyx, said during a virtual app demo on June 16. “That framing is the problem because AI reflects whoever built it.”

Osa demoed the signup process and homepage. There’s a streak tracker that increases every day you use the product, a daily Black history fact– written by Aisha– and a feed of articles from Black publishers like The Root, Blavity, The Atlanta Voice, and The Washington Informer, among others.

AISHA Page 16

great views at the Moxy on K Street and we’re here to spread our love throughout.

As Senior Executive Chef at Osteria Costa, Justin Figueroa explained that participating in Food & Friends furthers MGM’s philanthropic initiatives.

“It’s a great way to spend a lovely

summer evening for a good cause,” Figueroa explained. “It’s a big deal for us. We’re always giving back… We’re a big box and we always want to give back, so come support us.”

Nathan Dupree, receiver and shipping coordinator at Food & Friends,

FOOD & FRIENDS Page 15

healthy food for all

black facts AROUND THE REGION

June 25

1941 – The Marine Corps formally integrates after President Roosevelt signs Executive Order 8802 prohibiting racial discrimination in the national defense industry. 1975 – Mozambique gains its independence from Portugal.

June 26

1938 – Author, lyricist, poet and educator James Weldon Johnson, who wrote the lyrics of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" — known as the Negro national anthem — dies. 1995 – Former NASA astronaut Bernard Harris, the first African American to walk in space, is born.

1992 – "My Guy" singer Mary Wells, "The Queen of Motown," dies of cancer at 49.

June 27

1872 – Paul Laurence Dunbar, famed American poet, novelist and playwright of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is born in Dayton, Ohio.

1890 – Canadian boxer George Dixon beats Nunc Wallace and is recognized as world bantamweight champion, the first Black world boxing champion in any weight class. 1939 – African American inventor Frederick Jones is issued patent for ticket-dispensing machine.

1991 – Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, the first African American to serve on the court, announces his retirement.

2007 – Jamaican-born pilot Barrington Irving lands at the Opa-Locka Airport in Miami after 95 days of travel, becoming the first Black person — and the youngest person ever at the time — to fly around the world solo.

June 28

1864 – Malcolm X announces the formation of the Organization of Afro-American Unity, six weeks after returning from his pilgrimage to Mecca.

1971 – Supreme Court overturns draft evasion conviction of boxing great Muhammad Ali.

June 29

1941

June

30

in Trinidad and Tobago.

1847 – Dred Scott, a slave in Missouri, loses a lawsuit for the freedom of his family in the St. Louis Circuit Court. Scott unsuccessfully argued that his temporary residence in a free territory should have made him a free man.

1917 – Grammy-winning singer/actress Lena Horne is born in Brooklyn, New York.

1966 – Former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson is born in Brooklyn, New York.

1967 – Maj. Robert H. Lawrence Jr. is chosen as the first African American for NASA's astronaut training program. He was killed during a training flight on Dec. 8, 1967.

July 1

1893 – Walter Francis White, famed civil rights activist and longtime leader of the NAACP, is born in Atlanta.

1899 – Thomas Dorsey, the "father of gospel music," is born in Villa Rica, Georgia.

1942 – Gospel music star drae Crouch Francisco.

1991 – President George H. W. Bush

Clarence Thomas for the Supreme Court to re place the retiring Thurgood Marshall.

WI

Thurgood Marshall

AROUND THE REGION view P INT

BY EVAN ALDRIDGE AND HAMIL HARRIS WI EDITORIAL INTERN AND WI CONTRIBUTING WRITER

What are your thoughts on the D.C (June 16) and Maryland (June 23) Primary results?

ASMARA SIUM / NORTHEAST D.C.

"I am hopeful, I was pleasantly surprised. People want change, and they want their elected officials to do a better job at representing the middle class. I am really hopeful [for] what Janice will bring to the district."

JOHN MAY / NORTHEAST, D.C.

“This is personal. This is the way I feel about how the D.C. government has been run for years. They promise so much to these kids and these teenagers [and] these parents and then once they win and get elected, they never come back. I love the way they did this year. When you get to pick your candidates and whoever got the highest number is the one that gets to go in?.”

HILARY DANIEL / NORTHEAST, D.C.

I’m excited for a fresh face, new ideas, and a new way of thinking for the city!

Reel:

SUMARA THOMPSON-KING/ GLENDALE, MARYLAND

“My observation about the election is that we still have the same old guard in place. There may be some new faces, but still the same old, same old, and that's a little bit concerning.”

DR. NATALIE HOPKINSON / NORTHWEST, D.C.

““I think that D.C. voters have been wanting a change for a long time. They've not been happy with the direction the city's been going in.

Janeese Lewis George was already leading in the polls, because people were really interested in change and her platform-- her aggressive platform of equity in D.C. And when Donald Trump made the comments on the race, he almost assured that she was going to win. Because one thing about D.C. voters is that we have such little democracy here, that we don't squander it. And if we have a chance to, we send a message, whether it's to the president of the United States, or whether it's to the business interests that have had their way in the city, or whatever.”

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

from Page 1

trans activist Monroe Alise says this is hardly the beginning.

“I think that we forget how revolutionary Pride was, that it was a protest before it became this Pride that we see,” Alise told The Informer. “There are so many bills and legislation that have been presented in some capacity to erase the Black trans experience, or trans experience in general. The protests that are taking place, the pride, the privilege––I don't think people really acknowledge or recognize.”

Featuring floats, paraphernalia, and co-Grand Marshals Alise and David Archuleta, Saturday’s 51st annual Capital Pride Parade marked a joyous celebration of freedom in full color for the thousands gathered across Northwest, D.C.

Anchored by the June 21 Festival and Concert, plus the Capital Pride 2026 theme: "Exist. Resist. Have the Audacity!," the festive weekend served a dual purpose: honoring the legacy of the movement while celebrating all that made it possible.

“Queer people took to the streets to protest against discrimination and police brutality. We demanded that transgender people receive fair treatment, we demanded research [and medical care] for HIV…We were fighting for visibility, in a time when we were degraded, dismissed, and ignored,” local queer activist Rayceen Pendarvis said during a speech at the festival on Sunday. “We deserve equity and equality. We deserve to be acknowledged and celebrated…. but we have to demand it.”

Ahead of the parade, Alise pointed to the tradition of “cheerful protest” that

not only outlines the roots, but also the marching orders moving forward.

Reflecting on what it means to embody Pride year-round, the D.C. native underlined what she considers the ultimate possibility model.

“Visibility and representation,” she told The Informer, echoing this year’s Capital Pride theme. “The freedom to exist, the freedom to resist, and to have the audacity, that is what we really need to hold true.”

Visibility, Voting, and Vision-Forward

With all eyes set on advancing the Pride momentum, 2026 is set to be a year of pivotal change.

Recurring themes include tackling mental wellness and coalition building, along with continued efforts to bypass legislative restrictions on health care for transgender youth.

Plus, in the year of midterm and primary elections, some advocates are emphasizing the call to put visibility to power.

“We need to support candidates. We need to run for office. We need to organize…to boycott…to protest. We need to work for a better future,” said Pendarvis, after emphasizing the importance of voting. “I want you to celebrate today; but find out what you can do for your community, and do it tomorrow.

While representation has grown drastically–– from politics, to business, to culture–– the modern queer experience remains a contentious battle for the protections and freedoms that once birthed the movement.

Amid legislative challenges, anti-trans policies, and a wider rollback of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), D.C. Pride Month Ambassador Abby Stuckrath says she found her stride in

leveraging the past to inform the future.

“Knowing all of the work that people did so that I could go to that gay bar and feel absolutely accepted, that I could hold hands with my girlfriend down the street and not feel threatened or in danger,” said Stuckrath, co-founder of Queering the District podcast. “We need a foundation to be able to fight back against these things. And young queer folks who are coming into the city need to know where to go, need to know who to rely on…and how we can adapt from our history.”

Essentially, that mission is at the heart of her platform.

Alongside her sister and co-host, Stuckrath launched Queering the District in 2024 to capture the generational stories of LGBTQ resilience in the nation’s capital––– from the roots of city landmarks, to the impact of the HIV/ AIDS epidemic in the ‘80s.

More than a passion project, the American University alumna highlighted what she considers a responsibility to carry the mantle of collective action.

“The most positive thing that we can look towards when we're talking about liberation or freedom is that the city is resilient, the queer folk in the city are resilient, and we are in really good hands,” she told The Informer.

Among other avenues to shape inclusivity, Dr. Ashley Elliott –– affectionately known as “Dr. Vivid” –– deemed it crucial to set the tone at the polls.

“Look at New York City right now, look at other places that have some politicians in office that are honestly listening to their communities,” said the D.C. Pride Month Ambassador, while emphasizing the importance of research and collaboration. “[This is] a chance for us to come together, to pro-

ELECTION from Page 1

ic primary, Lowery launched an unsuccessful electoral bid against D.C. Councilmember Anita Bonds (D-At large). In 2020, he and several other progressive organizers threw their support behind Ed Lazere during an independent D.C. Council at-large race that District Councilmember Christina Henderson won.

In 2022, Lowery and his comrades coalesced around Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Erin Palmer in her attempt to unseat D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson. Those efforts didn’t result in a paradigm shift, nor did Nate Bennett-Fleming’s challenge of Bonds, or At-large D.C. Councilmember Robert White’s campaign against D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser.

What Lowery said those efforts did was lay the foundation for a 2026 campaign season where, in the absence of a Bowser and Bonds incumbency, several progressive groups, advocacy organizations and labor unions backed candidates who spoke to residents’ frustrations with the defunding of social programs and the Bowser administration’s cooperation with the Trump administration.

“D.C. went left. It went progressive, and all of the candidates who won have commonalities [in] a lot of endorsing organizations,” Lowery told The Informer. “When you look at [Democratic at-large council nominee] Oye Owolewa, [Democratic Ward 1 nominee] Aparna Raj, [Independent at-large councilmember-elect] Elissa Silverman, [Democratic mayoral nominee] Janeese Lewis George, they were all endorsed by unions and progressive organizations here in Washington, D.C.”

That didn’t happen overnight, Lowery said.

“It’s a sign of building political power,” he told The Informer. “It's also a sign that the people are ready for something different.”

In Lewis George and Raj

Victories, Metro DC DSA

Flexes Muscle Built

Over a Decade

On the night of June 16, progressive darling and former D.C. council member Elissa Silverman garnered enough votes to prevent a second round of ranked-choice voting in the special independent at-large election. Meanwhile, D.C. Councilmembers

Janeese Lewis George (D-Ward 4) and Robert White (D-At large) commanded strong leads in the mayoral and delegate races, respectively, according to initial figures released by D.C. Board of Elections (DCBOE).

Within hours, White’s principal opponent D.C. Councilmember Brooke Pinto (D-Ward 2) conceded, and former D.C. council member and mayoral candidate Kenyan McDuffie followed suit two days later. During a press conference at Busboys and Poets on 14th Street NW, Lewis George addressed the controversy around her democratic socialist identity, telling reporters that voters resonated more with her attention to the issues.

“People need to understand that everybody is consistent, that they want leaders to address the affordability crisis, no matter what city you live in in this country,” Lewis George said on the afternoon of June 18. “Democrat or Republican, everyone has an interest in their family having affordable child care and having affordable health care and living in safe communities and neighborhoods. These aren't just… values attributed to one party or one ideology.”

5 Despite the potential for structural change with the primary winners, Ward 8 resident and health and food access advocate Jaren Hill Lockridge is still maintaining a cautious disposition about the politicians based on what she has seen in terms of engagement in her community over the past six months. (WI File Photo/Robert R. Roberts)

For nearly a decade, Metro DC Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) has channeled its energy into candidates and campaigns espousing support of working-class D.C. residents.

In 2018, Metro DC DSA-backed candidate Emily Gasoi won the Ward 1 D.C. State Board of Education seat. Two years later, in her first electoral bid

AROUND THE REGION

CAPTURE THE MOMENt

Members of the Metropolitan Police Department grill

dogs for parade participants as part of the Ward 7 Juneteenth celebration on June 19. (D.R.

Juanita and Glenn Towery read the latest edition of The Washington Informer at Ben’s Chili’s Bowl. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

"There is never time in the future in which we will work out our

The challenge is in the moment; the time is always now."

- James Baldwin

ELECTION from Page 9 during the pandemic, Lewis George defeated then-Ward 4 D.C. Councilmember Brandon Todd with Metro DC DSA’s support. In 2022, Metro DC DSA organized for Ward 5 D.C. Councilmember Zachary Parker (D) and the approval of Initiative 82 to increase the tipped minimum wage.

During the 2026 election cycle, the local DSA chapter directed resources toward Lewis George’s mayoral bid and Raj’s campaign for the Ward 1 D.C. Council seat. By the end of Juneteenth/Father’s Day weekend, Metro DSA’s impact would be further confirmed, not only with Lewis George’s victory, but that of Raj.

“It was a resounding rejection of status-quo politics and an affirmation for a progressive vision for D.C. that fights for renters, workers, and immigrants,” Raj told The Informer. “People are tired of seeing… politicians who favor corporate interests or who cower to Trump and want our elected leaders to govern for people and be willing to push back against Trump, against the ultra wealthy and against corporations to make sure every single person has a dignified life in D.C.”

Between June 16 and June 21, Raj clinched nearly 52% of the vote after weathering four rounds of rankedchoice voting to defeat: advisory neighborhood commissioners Rashida Brown and Miguel Trindade Deramo, along with Jackie Reyes Yanes and Terry Lynch.

From the moment she jumped into the race, Raj, and the hundreds of Metro DSA members working on her behalf, visited homes, attended events, and showed up in the community. She said it was all in support of a vision that aligns with their values and lived experiences.

“One of the reasons why DSA has been able to organize and engage a ton of volunteers and why we on the cam-

paign were able to bring out 400 different volunteers,” Raj said, “is because when people really believe in something and they feel like their ability to live in D.C. is dependent on that, then they're motivated and engaged to canvass… It speaks a lot to the organizing power, but the organizing power and the values and the message are all one and the same.”

Raj said she has since spoken with her opponents and D.C. Councilmember Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 1), who endorsed Brown. As the budget season wraps up, Raj is also organizing around the council’s passage of a wealth proceeds tax and business activity tax.

She calls her work online and in the streets a hint of what constituents can expect of her on the dais.

“I really see my role as an organizer in office and I mean that both in terms of trying to build relationships across the council and within our new mayor's office to advance policy and advance a budget that really centers working people,” Raj told The Informer, “but I also see being an organizer in an office as bringing people who have felt left behind in our political process and making government more transparent, more accountable, and helping bring people into the political process itself.”

For more than a decade, Raj has organized around the improvement of tenants’ living conditions, and on behalf of workers seeking pay increases and benefits. Last year, as federal government employees, immigrants and everyone else in between suffered under the shadow of the Trump administration, Raj and other organizers also had an enemy in Bowser who, in her budget proposal, attempted to repeal Initiative 82 and weaken the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT & HOUSING SUMMIT

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

the 5th Congressional District decided that it’s time to pass the torch to a new generation of leaders,” said Boafo as the race was called. “And it’s with great humility that I accept that responsibility.”

Moore easily won his primary contest against Eric Felber and will be facing former Del. Dan Cox in a rematch of the 2022 election that the governor won by a significant percentage.

“I am very excited about what we’ve done in just three and a half years. It’s actually pretty remarkable: the fastest drops in violent crime in America and among the fastest jumps in math and reading scores,” he said in an interview with FOX45. “I am very proud of the work we have done.”

Prince George’s County Executive Aisha Braveboy (D) won re-election against several challengers with rough-

ly 70% of the vote, and State’s Attorney Tara Jackson won nearly 60% of the voter bloc against two challengers.

“I grew up understanding the importance of hard work, the understanding that nothing is given to you and you have to earn it. God loves a humble servant,” she said at her election party. “It is with humility that I accept this Democratic nomination to continue our work in Gorgeous Prince George’s.”

African American candidates Will Jawando of Montgomery County, Julian Jones of Baltimore County, and Vanessa Atterbeary of Howard County are leading in races to serve as the county executives of three of Maryland’s largest counties. Jawando is currently leading Councilmember Andrew Friedson (D-District 1), although Friedson has not conceded.

“We’re not done yet. But we’re excited about where we are,” Jawando

3.

“This is a beautiful room. This is Montgomery County: every race, every age, every ethnicity, every part of the county — that’s what this room represents.”

Kaikis is excited to watch Baltimore County’s first African American executive serve the needs of the community.

“Jones has several veterans on the County Council to work with. The key is to watch him and what he is going to do in Baltimore County,” Kaikis continued. “You are the moves you make.”

Some of the most surprising results of the night included Qiana Johnson’s lead for Clerk of Court, Kayla Bryant’s early lead for Register of Wills, and Amar Makunda’s successful primary challenge of longtime Sen. Nancy King (D-District 39).

State Sens. Ron Watson (D-District 23), Anthony Muse (D-District 26), and Kevin Harris (D-District 27) all defeated primary challenges, as did Del. Jeff Long (D-District 27B).

Around 11 p.m. on Election Night, Kevin Ford Jr. was trailing Del. Tiffany Alston (D-District 24) in the contest to replace Sen. Joanne Benson (D-District 24). In addition, Tracy Gant, Molly McKee-Seabrook, Keenon James, and LaTasha Ward are all poised to enter the House of Delegates next year, following successful campaigns.

“I will say that this is not about me: this is about the team. Together,

4 After winning the Maryland Democratic primary on June 23, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore will be facing former Republican Del. Dan Cox in a rematch of the 2022 election that the governor won by a significant percentage. (WI File Photo/Robert R. Roberts)

everyone achieves more,” said Ford Jr. at his Lanham watch party. “It looks like Phyllis Wright is going to be our Democratic Central Committee member and LaTasha Ward will be our next Delegate. As we continue to watch the results come in, we will keep our fingers on the pulse and pay attention to the canvassing.”

Prince George’s County Council Race

In Prince George’s County, many of the election outcomes are already decided. Michelle Garcia, Victor Ramirez, and Tamara Davis Brown all won their primary election contests and will serve on the Prince George’s County Council next year, representing districts 1, 2, and 9, respectively.

“Shoutout to all the folks showing up at the election polls,” said Davis Brown on June 17. “It’s beautiful to see so many people exercising their right to vote.”

Prince George’s Councilmembers Tim Adams (D-District 4) and Danielle Hunter (D-District 6), who were both appointed to the legislative body

in the U.S. House of Representatives. (WI File Photo/ Robert R. Roberts)

in the past year, were both successfully elected despite spirited primary challenges.

Councilmember Shayla Adams-Stafford (D-District 5) was re-elected to her seat easily, and Councilmembers Eric Olson (D-District 3), Krystal Oriadha (D-District 7), and Edward Burroughs III (D-District 8) all ran uncontested.

Councilmember Jolene Ivey (D-At Large) maintained a strong lead for one of the two at-large positions, while Councilmember Sydney Harrison (D) held a small lead over Jeana Jacobs for the second at-large seat.

“What I’ve tried to do at large is think of things that affect the whole county that other councilmembers may not pay attention to,” she said in an interview with PGCTV. “Right now, this is dealing with the disability community. I want to help those [who] are blind or with low-vision who have to travel to D.C. or Baltimore to get services.”

While dismayed by the results, Jordan Peebles is committed to remaining engaged in the political process.

“At the end of the day, our goal is the same. We all want to see the potential of this great county finally come to fruition,” said Peebles in a social media post. “Let’s continue to show up, organize, and mobilize to ensure that we uphold accountability and integrity.”

At the time of publishing, the overwhelming majority of votes by mail ballots had not yet been counted. View the results in detail results.elections.maryland.gov. WI

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

5 Maryland crime laboratories will receive more than $1.3 million in federal funding to further forensic work and testing. (WI File Photo/Robert R. Roberts)

Maryland Receives

$1.3 Million to

Speed DNA Testing as Crime Labs Face Growing Demands

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

Maryland crime laboratories will receive more than $1.3 million in federal funding to reduce DNA testing backlogs, expand forensic capacity, and speed the processing of evidence that can determine whether violent offenders are identified, charged, or linked to additional crimes.

U.S. Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks (both D-Md.) joined Democratic Maryland U.S. Reps. Steny Hoyer, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, Glenn Ivey, Sarah Elfreth, April McClain Delaney, and Johnny Olszewski in announcing more than $1.3 million through the Department of Justice’s DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction program.

“I'm proud to announce over $1.3M in funding for Maryland crime labs and police departments to increase their DNA processing capacity,” Hoyer wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Team Maryland will keep working to provide federal investments to help tear down roadblocks to solving crime & produce accurate, timely results for our communities.”

Crime laboratories nationwide have struggled to keep pace with growing demands created by advances in DNA technology. While

modern forensic tools can extract genetic evidence from increasingly smaller samples, laboratories often lack the personnel, equipment, and resources needed to keep up with rising caseloads. Federal officials have warned that delays in DNA analysis can slow investigations, postpone prosecutions, and leave victims waiting months or years for answers.

“Backlogs in DNA processing can create roadblocks to solving many violent and non-violent crimes,” the lawmakers said.

The Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division in Pikesville will receive $417,514. The funding will allow the agency to outsource approximately 168 CODIS-eligible cases to a private laboratory, replace aging equipment, maintain STRmix probabilistic genotyping software, purchase additional DNA analysis software, and provide continuing education opportunities for forensic scientists.

Prince George’s County Police Department’s Forensic Science Division will receive $94,000 to outsource DNA evidence from backlogged investigations. Montgomery County Police Crime Laboratory will receive $119,000 to outsource between 11 and 17 DNA cases and purchase mobile

Grab a blanket or lawn chair, pack a picnic dinner, and bring your family and friends to various arts performances. Groove to LIVE jazz, rock and roll, soul, R&B, oldies, and dance music.

Take in a performance of Shakespeare in the Park’s As You Like It. Relax at these FREE performances at parks throughout Prince George’s County.

up-to-date listings, please visit pgparks.com/events or scan the QR Code.

online today at wicharities.org

BUSINESS

RAMMYS Nominees Showcase Breadth of Culinary Traditions in D.C.

Executive Chefs at Isla and Marcus DC Share Inspiration, Goals

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

As people across the DMV and nation are gearing up to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) is preparing to host the 44th RAMMYS on June 29 at The Anthem and Arena Stage in Southwest, D.C., honoring the strength and importance of the local food and beverage industry.

“At the RAMMYS, you’re immersed in the full experience of what makes the D.C. region such a powerhouse

for dining,” said Shawn Townsend, RAMW president and CEO in a statement.

This year’s event not only continues the annual tradition of celebrating and showcasing the value of D.C’s dining culture, but many of the nominees highlight the breadth, beauty and diversity of the local restaurant scene.

“These finalists aren’t just doing exquisite work, they’re also elevating the standard and creating the kind of special moments that keep people coming back and talking about the Washington region as a must-try dining destination,” Townsend continued.

“That momentum is real, and it keeps on growing.”

Lonie Murdock, owner and executive chef of Isla— a RAMMY-nominee for New Restaurant of the Year— said she feels fortunate to bring “global soul cuisine” — inspired by her Jamaican roots— to the District’s growing food industry.

“We're kind of like new D.C. transplants.

So, coming into this new city and being welcomed by everybody, so graciously… so genuinely and offering help in navigating a new city, a new life for, for myself… that was part of

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

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The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Property Management Operations (PMO) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide professional, licensed Pest Control Services throughout various DCHA properties.

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PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 12:00 PM

Email LaShawn Mizzell-McLeod, Contract Specialist (OAS) at LMMCLEOD@dchousing.org for additional information.

[Isla’s success]. And it is really special to be nominated amongst some fantastic people who I now know and… in a city that has an amazing culinary chef and restaurant scene,” said Murdock, who lives between Toronto and D.C. “We don't take it for granted.”

Since opening in the restaurant in October 2025 with her husband and business partner Darren Hinds, who is Guyanese, Isla has been a place for diners in downtown D.C. to be flavorfully transported to the Caribbean.

“We really wanted to celebrate, not just our lineage, but like the lineage of the islands through cuisine. And in doing so, really kind of highlight the beauty of the ingredients from… the Caribbean diaspora,” she told The Informer. “We do that through using global techniques and a focus on a global menu. So instead of seeing a very traditional Caribbean dish at your table, you'll get these threads of tradition. And if you are, if you are from the islands, you'll be like, I recognize this.

And if you're not, then you might recognize the dish from something else.”

At Isla, diners can try several dishes with island flavors, such as crudo with soursop— a fruit often used in Caribbean dishes— patties filled with oxtail or crab, curry goat, and a coconut chiffon pie.

“We really pay homage to island ingredients through the dishes themselves,” the restaurateur added.

Marcus DC Offers a Tasty, Educational Dining Experience

Isla is one of 10 restaurants nominated for New Restaurant of the Year,

many of which boast globally inspired dishes, including: Barbouzard, Casamara, Chai Pani, Elmina, Maison Bar à Vins, Minetta Tavern, The Occidental, Tapori and Marcus DC.

Having opened in June 2025, Marcus DC is another restaurant that highlights Black culinary traditions— blending flavors from the District to Ethiopia.

“It's just all the influences and experiences I've been able to have throughout life and connections— with people, with chefs, with food and cultures. So it's ever growing, it's ever developing because there's always something new and more for me to learn,” Anthony Jones, executive chef at Marcus DC, told The Informer. “So that's just how I want to keep tackling the menu: How can I expand on it?”

Some of the dishes at the restaurant, located in Northeast, D.C.’s NoMa neighborhood, include blue cornbread, baked Chunu oysters, a roasted bird with mambo sauce, and collard greens.

For Jones and the Marcus DC team, the menu is not just about enjoying food, but teaching others about various cuisines, first through his team and then diners, to “have them love it and appreciate it as well.”

As executive pastry chef, Rachel Sheriffe said Marcus DC is: “an educational experience for myself and also for the team and the guests.”

“I like to tap into my family background, which is from Jamaica. So I'm learning new things about my country and my family through all these recipes that I discover on a daily basis,” Sheriffe continued. “So it's just cool to be able to express my culture specifically through my desserts, and then to share that with the rest of the team and the guests as well.”

Celebrating D.C. Culture

While the teams at Marcus DC and Isla wait to learn who wins New Restaurant of the Year at the RAMMYS on June 29, they are steadily working to elevate their businesses and contribute to the DMV overall.

“I just want to keep building up the restaurant and our reputation,” Jones said. “We're trying to make it better than how we found it.

And, you know, just keep improv-

RAMMYS Page 15

5 People try out food during Chef’s Best, where 30 local restaurants and bars—many recognized by Michelin and the James Beard Foundation— donated their time and skills to provide gourmet tastings for guests. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

explained Chef’s Best helps continue the organization’s work and mission of providing medically tailored meals to people acoss the DMV area.

“We need all the resources we can get to give over 2 million free meals to people with chronic illnesses and hopefully help them get better,” Dupree said.

Plus, Food & Friends has more big goals ahead, such as a $30 million new capital campaign called “Nourish Together: Building A Healthy Community,” announced during the Chef’s Best celebration. Having already

raised more than $23 million toward the goal, the organization hopes to open a newly renovated facility to strengthen operations, increase meal productions and storage capacity and have room for more volunteers.

“We buy food to cook for our clients, we deliver food to people, we are expanding for a new building, and everything that we're doing right now takes resources, and we want to reach more people,” Dupree told The Informer, before emphasizing the importance of events like Chef’s Best.

“We want to grow to help more people… and we’re fundraising for that right now.” WI

from Page 14

ing the food culture and dining culture that D.C. has to offer.”

Already having been embraced by the region’s restaurant community since her decision to open Isla, Murdock is excited about how guests have responded to the establishment’s food and vibes.

“What's really special for me, especially being new to D.C., is hearing how people say this reminds them of old D.C.,” she said. “I've always had this really amazing idea of what D.C. was like. I went there probably like 20

3 Excitement as Michael Akin of Link Strategic Partners wins a prize during the live auction and raffle. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

years ago before we came back for Isla, and I had a great time.”

One of Murdock’s favorite things about the nation’s capital, when she first visited and today, is the diversity in the locale once called “Chocolate City.”

“I'm always so astonished by the beauty of Blackness in Washington, D.C., and I mean that on so many levels, like just not just the beauty of the people, but the professionalism, the amount of camaraderie between the diaspora in that city is something that I've never seen before, even though I live in a multicultural city.” WI

HURRICANE AND RAINY SEASON

AISHA from Page 4

Osa’s first demonstration of the chatbot used its voice feature.

“Hey Aisha, what should I have for dinner tonight?” the CEO asked.

A voice reminiscent of a Black woman with artificial enunciation replied: “Try some jerk chicken with rice and peas tonight.”

The Onyx Impact founder continued the demo by prompting ChatGPT by Open AI, and Aisha with the same question: “How should I talk to my son about interactions with the police?”

Both chatbots acknowledged that a variety of factors can impact the conversation and emphasized the importance of a specific protocol for behavior. With Aisha, however, the major difference was that the chatbot presumed the user was Black without being asked.

Chromatics AI co-founder and CEO, Larry Adams, was also in attendance. Through his experiences working with HBO Max, Vimeo, and Whoopi Goldberg on a streaming service called BLKFAM, he saw how technology often reflects its creators.

With the partnership between Chromatics and Onyx, Adams said he hopes that Aisha can be “a part of the fabric of how [people] move through their day.”

Addressing Concerns About AI

Critics of artificial intelligence

companies denounced the technology's reliance on stolen copyrighted works and environmental harms from the infrastructure needed to support it, which has affected numerous Black communities across the nation.

When asked about environmental effects, Osa said Aisha’s servers are provided by Contabo, which uses hydroelectricity to power its servers and returns water back to the source rather than consuming it outright.

Chromatics AI’s Chief Technical Officer, Mohamed Mann, said that the product is not trained on user data. Instead, it uses simulated conversation data from Onyx Impact. For more complicated questions, he said that Anthropic’s Claude model –– a “second brain” –– is used, and for web search, the AI prioritizes Black media outlets.

“That’s how we guarantee we don’t misinform people or pull from news sources that don’t support the Black community,” Mann said.

The specificity of the training data for Aisha, set to launch June 25, was the key argument the creators presented for the validity of the tool.

“What research tells us is that when you build technology that works for the people that it’s always failed, you build technology that works better for everyone,” Osa said. “At the end of the day, if these large language models are determining our truth and our moving forward, then this is something that we had to be at the table.” WI

INTERNATIONAL

Africa Bears Growing Burden of a Warming World

WMO Report Warns Africa Faces Increasing Climate Threats After Record-Breaking 2025

By Mya Trujillo WI Multimedia Reporter

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From record-breaking warming, to rising sea levels, to severe weather, Africa bore the brunt of intensifying climate threats in 2025, as made apparent in the World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO) most recent State of the Climate in Africa report. After such an alarming year, climate experts are encouraging the establishment of more stable environmental policy, preparedness efforts and global collaboration.

The report is an extensive analysis of the climate conditions of the year prior, examining anomalies across the continent, recurring or destructive weather events, and the causes and effects of these conditions.

“You can see that the environment is affecting many sectors, not just livelihoods, [but] infrastructure and many of the ecosystems,” WMO Coordinator for Climate Services in Africa Zablon Shilenje told The Informer. “We need to have equipment and systems in place to ensure that we are monitoring what is going on in the environment.”

While the entire planet is experiencing rapid warming, with every year between 2015 and 2025 being among the 11 warmest on record, Africa is warming faster than the global record. In 2025, the global annual mean near-surface level temperature was 1.08°C above the 1961-1990 baseline. The temperature relative to the same threshold on the African continent was 1.21°C higher. Additionally, last year, the annual surface air temperature on the continent ranked between the third and seventh-highest on record at 0.51°C above the 1991-2020 average.

Aside from concerning levels of warming, Africa also faced numerous extreme weather events, which affected at least 13 million people and caused more than 3,000 fatalities. Floods accounted for more than half of these incidents, and droughts affected more than 8.5 million people in the continent’s Eastern region. This extreme weather is likely to worsen, as the second half of 2026 is predicted to see strong El Niño conditions.

During an El Niño event, trade

5 With intensifying climate threats in Africa, such as record-breaking warming and severe weather in 2025, climate experts are encouraging the establishment of more stable environmental policy, preparedness efforts and global collaboration. (Courtesy Photo)

winds weaken, and warm waters are pushed East. Global ocean warming between 2005 and 2025 is more than double what scientists observed between 1960 and 2005, and rising sea levels in Africa are exceeding the global average between 1999 and 2025. These conditions, combined with this year’s expected “super El Niño,” could make for much more severe weather across the African continent.

“I expect that this might introduce some shocks to the environment, and the world will need to be prepared–especially in Africa,” Shilenje told The Informer regarding the forecasted El Niño. “We need to be prepared for any impacts that might arise because of these projected changes in the environment.”

In response to the forecast, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Food Program (WFP) announced on June 18 that they launched the Joint Anticipatory Action Appeal, requesting $202 million to protect the anticipated nine million people who could be affected by intensified weather patterns across 22 countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean.

Funding from this appeal, which was originally set to support anticipatory action for 1.2 million people, will go towards the following measures: cash assistance, the distribution of drought-resistant or flood-resistant seeds, livestock protection, water harvesting and storage, flood protection infrastructure, agricultural advisories and the circulation of premature warn-

ing information. Assistance like this is necessary, as according to the WMO’s report, fewer than 40% of African countries reported preparedness and response capabilities.

“Experience consistently shows that early action is more effective and less costly than responding after a crisis has escalated,” said Beth Bechdol, FAO deputy director general, in a statement. “When resources are available before trigger thresholds are reached, countries can protect food production, reduce humanitarian needs and help families safeguard livelihoods before critical planting, harvesting and livestock production windows are lost.”

Looking at Nigeria: A Need for Further Action

Nigeria, which experienced severe flooding in May 2025 that caused more than 200 deaths and further exacerbated the country’s humanitarian crisis, could benefit from international assistance like the Anticipatory Action Appeal and further climate policy implementation from its government.

Between conflict, displacement, public health emergencies and severe flooding, more than 8.8 million people in Nigeria needed humanitarian assistance in 2025, according to the U.N. International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF). During the rainy season, flooding affected 252,878 people across 25 states, displaced more than 105,849 communities and dam-

Page 20

Million Man Vote understands liberation as the disciplined, collective, and continuing work of removing every barrier that prevents Black men, Black families, and Black communities from living with dignity, security, health, knowledge, economic stability, and political power. Inspired by the Ethiopian biblical tradition, the Black church freedom struggle, and the principles of liberation theology, MMV connects faith with action, service with systems change, and moral conviction with measurable accountability.

We reject the idea that freedom can be reduced to individual success while entire communities remain burdened by poverty, preventable illness, underfunded schools, housing insecurity, discrimination, unjust incarceration, political exclusion, and the continuing effects of historic harm. We affirm that every Black man possesses inherent human dignity, regardless of his income, education, employment status, health condition, housing status, voting history, or involvement

with the justice system.

We register voters, educate communities, develop leaders, promote health and literacy, mentor boys and young men, meet urgent community needs, hold institutions accountable, and advance the Black Man Agenda as a public covenant for justice, repair, and human freedom. This covenant requires action throughout the year—not only during elections. It requires research, service, political education, coalition building, leadership development, advocacy, and transparent measurement of results.

Million Man Vote is nonpartisan, but it is not neutral about injustice. We will not be silent when laws, budgets, institutions, or public practices deny Black people the opportunity to live fully and freely. We will work with any person or institution prepared to advance justice, and we will hold every person and institution accountable to measurable outcomes.

The Black Man Agendatm: What We Want, What We Believe

1. WE WANT FINANCIAL FREEDOM AND ECONOMIC SECURITY THROUGH GUARANTEED JOBS, BASIC INCOME, and SUPPORTS FOR BLACK MEN AND FAMILIES.

We BELIEVE every Black man deserves a job to support themselves and their families with family sustaining wages or a basic income. We also want programs to help fathers, cash assistance for black teens, and low-interest capital loans for Black-owned businesses.

2. WE WANT JUSTICE AND FREEDOM FOR INCARCERATED BLACK FATHERS.

We BELIEVE no man should be jailed for failing to pay child support if he cannot afford it. The 2011 Supreme Court ruling in Turner v. Rogers made it clear that no one can be jailed without proof they can pay. We call for the release of all Black fathers imprisoned for nonpayment since 2012. WE also demand laws that allow fathers to remain part of their children’s lives, even if they cannot provide financial support, through mediation and shared custody options tied directly to financial support. We demand an end to states and counties using protective orders as a substitute for custody. The justice and family court system must stop breaking Black families apart.

3. WE WANT FULL HEALTHCARE FOR BLACK MEN AND FAMILIES.

We BELIEVE every Black man deserves free and quality healthcare (e.g. Medicare For All) that prioritizes and focuses on mental health, substance use disorder, suicide, chronic illnesses, and preventive care grounded in the social drivers of health framework. We also want community-based health interventions, such as lead removal, and comprehensive education about issues impacting health and opportunities for more Black men in healthcare professions. Research should target health and environmental issues affecting Black men. We demand an end to environmental racism and exploitation that harms the health of Black communities.

4. WE WANT AN END TO POLICE BRUTALITY AND RACIAL PROFILING.

We BELIEVE in holding the police accountable for ongoing brutality and racial targeting. We demand Congress and States pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, which would stop police from abuses of power. In recognition of this Act, we honor Black Americans killed unjustly by law enforcement, and stand in solidarity against police, political and community violence of all kinds. We want to eliminate qualified immunity, chokeholds, no-knock warrants, racial profiling and pre-textual traffic stops. NonArmed community policing, universal de-escalation officer training, mandatory body cams and residency requirements must become a normal part of policing.

5. WE WANT THE RIGHT TO VOTE GUARANTEED AND PROTECTED.

We BELIEVE every Black man should have equal access to voting. That includes the automatic right to vote for justice involved Black men that have completed their sentences. We believe that Congress must pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to protect voting rights and stop states from blocking or limiting our votes. We also believe that States should pass versions of the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act when the Congress fails to or is unable to pass this legislation.

6. WE WANT STEM-H3 EDUCATION FOR ALL OUR CHILDREN.

We BELIEVE in schools and community institutions that teach Pre K-12 SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, MATH, HISTORY, HUMANITIES (Art, Culture), and HEALTH that reveals the truth about Black history and prepares our children for success. We also support alternative learning models, vocational education and training. We believe in multiple resourced pathways for access to higher education and low-interest student loan and forgiveness programs. We believe that all public education must be equitably funded, reflect ALL cultures, and teach about the challenges we’ve endured and the challenges we still face.

7. WE WANT GUARANTEED AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND SUPPORT FOR HOME OWNERSHIP.

We BELIEVE housing is a right and that every family deserves safe, healthy and affordable housing. We demand programs for building low-cost housing, cooperative housing, support for first-time homebuyers, and resources to make homeownership possible for all. We demand an end of homelessness among black people.

8. WE WANT A MARSHALL PLAN FOR REBUILDING BLACK COMMUNITIES.

We BELIEVE that through racism, Jim Crow laws and redlining, federal, state and local governments have neglected or disinvested in Black communities resulting in poverty, food deserts and crumbling housing, businesses, schools and infrastructure. We demand that there must now be an investment in our neighborhoods with clean environments, job training, education and programs that will stop violence and poverty. Justice 40 funding should go only to states that follow fair rules for supporting our communities.

9. WE WANT LAWS THAT CONTINUE THE COMMITMENT TO END DISCRIMINATION.

We BELIEVE in DEI, and an end to discrimination because of hair, race, religion, sex, culture or background. We want an end to corporate exploitation, white privilege, and racial and social preferences. We demand national and state laws, like the CROWN Act, to protect us in schools, workplaces, and public spaces.

10. WE WANT GLOBAL SOLIDARITY AND RESPECT FOR BLACK MEN WORLDWIDE.

We BELIEVE the fight for Black men’s dignity doesn’t stop at the border. U.S. foreign policy must reflect a commitment to the well-being of African and Afro-diasporic men globally. That includes peacebuilding, fair immigration policies, and partnerships that empower—not exploit—Black nations.

11. WE WANT REPARATIONS FOR CENTURIES OF RACIAL INJUSTICE.

We BELIEVE Black men are owed reparative justice for slavery, segregation, and systemic harm. Reparations must include direct payments, land, debt relief, and investments in housing, education, and health. We believe that our labor should be valued and celebrated. We demand action on and passage of H.R. 40 and programs that build generational wealth.

12. WE WANT FULL HUMAN RIGHTS AND EQUALITY.

We BELIEVE Black men deserve equal protection, dignity, and freedom from discrimination in race, religion, sex, culture and ethnicity, political identity, economic status. We believe Black men deserve the same rights, opportunities, and dignity as anyone else. We demand strong civil rights enforcement and policies that uphold our humanity and spiritual enlightenment in every system. We demand laws and policies to fix the systems that have harmed our families and communities for far too long.

EARTH OUR

from Page 18

aged 35,157 homes and 41,657 farmland, roads and water systems.

“All these challenges are not really affecting the people that are [making] the decisions, but really affecting the people on the receiving end,” Olumide Idowu, executive director and founder of the International Climate Change Development Initiative (ICCDI), told The Informer.

The Nigerian climate change activist believes the biggest threat to his country and the continent’s environmental health is the lack of follow-through from leaders. In a country where open defecation runs rampant, heavy storms and inadequate sanitary infrastructure could worsen both public and climate health through stormwater runoff.

Working in the intersections of climate change and disaster reduction, water, sanitation and hygiene, sustainable agriculture and food security pushes Idowu and the ICCDI to urge stakeholders to invest in Nigeria, and Africa as a whole, while teaching communities how to engage with the government to push for policies that will protect them and the ecosystems surrounding them.

“We need a strong environmental governance to make sure there is a lot of investment in the kind of infrastructure we need to put in place,” Idowu told The Informer, “and we must create more awareness and community-driven solutions.”

While Africa is the continent that contributes the least to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions— accounting for roughly 2 to 3%—- it is one of the most affected by the consequences of the pollutants’ release into the atmosphere. For that reason, Idowu believes that developed countries outside of Africa need to support the continent’s pathways toward becoming more sustainable.

Idowu told The Informer that many promises are being made in Nigeria through frameworks such as the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), which recognizes that sustainable progress is necessary for the country’s well-being, and have good intentions, but lack implementation. He explained that while African countries receive financial assistance from developed nations outside of the continent, these funds are rarely meant for real environmental solutions. For example, air pollution is the second-largest threat to public health in Africa, but the continent receives less than 1% of global outdoor air quality funding.

“When you give money to a continent that is still struggling [and] still trying to develop, then there’s going to be a lot of backlash and low efforts for them to pour back into the environment,” Idowu told The Informer. “These people need to understand that we are not really emitting, and they need to pay for it.” WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.;com.

EDUCATION

Cell Phone Ban Frustrates Parents, Students, Teachers at This Va. High School

By Simone Olatubosun Urban Journalism Workshop

This article was originally published as part of the Washington Association of Black Journalists (WABJ) 2026 Urban Journalism Workshop and lightly edited for style and clarity.

The school day was nearly over when Ruth España Ramirez’s phone buzzed during science class. The principal of her Virginia high school had just sent an email to the school community, notifying them of a medical emergency involving a student on campus. Ramirez’s parents, who are not fluent in English, received the email and grew worried it was about her.

“They were calling me and calling me,” Ramirez said of the Feb. 20 incident.

But, like all public K-12 students across the state, Ramirez is banned from accessing personal devices during class. As soon as she picked it up, she said her teacher threatened to write her up.

In an effort to make students more engaged, lawmakers in Richmond passed a bill last January requiring local school districts to develop a policy to keep students away from their phones at school. At Potomac Falls, officials came up with their own version to comply with the law – allowing phone access in hallways and at lunch, but forcing students to drop their devices in “holders” during class time. That policy changed this year, and students can no longer use their phones from “bell to bell.”

Experts say the cell phone ban helps stop disruptive behavior and creates more instructional time in class. Teachers have seen benefits, too, they said, but the policy can be difficult to implement and can restrict students’ access to devices in classes where they really need them. At Potomac Falls, located in Sterling, Vir-

ginia, and part of Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS), students said they prefer the old policy, in which phone use was allowed during downtime and for certain classwork.

“Now that we don’t have our phones, all we think about is having our phones,” Ramirez said.

Enforcing a New Policy

Former Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R) issued an executive order in 2024, directing state education and health officials to issue “guidance on the establishment of cell phone-free education policies and procedures.”

“The necessity of implementing cell phone-free education in Virginia’s K-12 public schools is increasingly evident,” wrote Youngkin, adding that social media and cell phones were having a negative effect on students’ mental health. Banning phones during school, he said, would “significantly reduce the amount of time students can be on phones without parental supervision.” WI Read more on washingtoninformer.;com.

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A Sanctuary of Dignity in an Age of Decay

The Opening of the Obama Presidential Center Reminds Us of Hope for a Divided Nation

On June 18, the Obama Presidential Center opened in Chicago's Jackson Park, marking the start of an era of political grace. The dedication ceremony was a powerful display of unity. Former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama and Joe Biden stood shoulder-to-shoulder.

This bipartisan gathering did not merely celebrate the legacy of the 44th president. It served as a stark, necessary reminder of what American leadership looks like when grounded in mutual respect.

The atmosphere in Chicago stood in stark contrast to the current occupant of the White House.

Today, the Oval Office radiates division, marked by a leader who relies on personal insults and partisan warfare. The current administration has routinely degraded the presidency, descending into racial vitriol by resharing clips depicting the Obamas as apes. President Donald Trump recently stated that Iranian leadership viewed his predecessor as a “stupid son of a b---h” when Obama successfully negotiated an agreement in 2015 on that country’s development of nuclear weapons.

This fits a broader, volatile pat-

Tragically

tern of global hostility. The current president's lack of diplomatic decorum has fueled international crises, prompting foreign adversaries— such as Iran's leadership— to publicly denounce him with vulgar insults.

The scene at the Obama Presidential Center stood in stark contrast to this toxic political landscape. The 19.3acre campus, featuring community gardens, a public library branch, and spaces for civic engagement, reflects a philosophy that democracy belongs to the people. In his address, Obama explicitly urged Americans to resist "cynicism and despair," reminding the audience that our democratic institutions are both precious and fragile.

President Obama also issued a defiant call to protect our shared values, explicitly declaring, “We want to find a way to turn towards each other again, not further away.”

For many Americans, the opening evoked profound nostalgia. It recalled a time when the White House spoke the language of aspiration rather than grievance. The event celebrated policy milestones such as the Affordable Care Act and marked a return to an era of genuine hope.

The contrast between the two lead-

ership styles is undeniable. One relies on polarization to hold power, while the other builds a coalition based on shared ideals. As visitors walk the grounds of the new center, the landmark stands as a monument to past achievements and a blueprint for a more dignified future.

It reminds us that unity remains possible and that hope is never entirely lost.

WI

The

scene at the Obama Presidential Center stood in stark contrast to this toxic political landscape.

for Transgender Americans, It’s Not Easy, Nor Sometimes Safe to be Proud

June is designated as Pride Month in the United States and while there have been plenty of parades, festivals, proclamations, and other celebratory events, those who are part of the LGBTQ+ community routinely admit that expressing pride can be a daunting experience.

In fact, for some, it can even bring the prospect of being harassed, attacked, or murdered.

According to data released by the non-profit Everytown for Gun Safety, the murders of trans people nearly doubled between 2017 and 2021 –73% killed with a gun.

In addition, Everytown's Transgender Homicide Tracker reported a 93% increase in tracked homicides of trans and gender-nonconforming people in the U.S. and Puerto Rico over the last four years.

And while only 13% of the transgender community is estimated to be

Black, according to UCLA School of Law's Williams Institute, Black trans women accounted for nearly three-quarters of the known victims.

“Bias-motivated crimes are a real, frightening problem in the United States, and LGBTQ+ people continue to be targeted because of who they are,” the Everytown report said.

Further, whether you believe transgender youth deserve the same privileges and protections as cisgender youth (a person whose gender identity corresponds with their sex assigned at birth), or not, the drastic surge in suicide attempts cannot be ignored.

According to the National Center for Transgender Equality's U.S. trans survey, the largest survey of transgender people to date, 40% of trans youth reported attempting suicide in their lifetime. That's nearly nine times the national average, according to Everytown.

Transgender Americans face severe systemic inequalities, including elevated rates of poverty, homelessness, and physical violence. They also navigate a complex system of legal challenges, from high rates of discrimination in housing and employment to state-level restrictions on health care access, public accommodations, and legal identification.

But they are still our children, brothers, sisters, parents, and friends – people who deserve the right to live their lives in peace. They, too, are Americans.

On Saturday, June 20, thousands of LGBTQ+ members of the community and advocates, flooded the streets of Washington, D.C. for the annual Capital Pride Parade. This year’s theme, “Exist. Resist. Have the Audacity!,” was fitting, given the way the pendulum has recently swung in America’s highest court and the

TO THE EDITOR

“Excellent expose of the Trump pernicious agenda against Black America.”

- Gregory Lewis (In reference to the article: “The Purge: Black Leaders, Black Workers, Black History and Trump’s Remaking of America.”)

“Good summary of assistance options for buyers and owners. I like that the article points readers toward affordability planning, because the full monthly payment can look very different once taxes, insurance, and mortgage insurance are included. Comparing those pieces early can prevent surprises later.”

-Qiu (In reference to the article: “Four Options for Homebuyers and Owners That Could Save You Thousands of Dollars.”

Trump administration.

During the 1970s, the U.S. witnessed an explosion of cultural pride, and a deliberate, retaliatory attack aimed at centuries of internalized shame and historical denigration as African Americans asserted, “I’m Black and I’m proud.”

But it was more than a slogan adopted from the lyrics of R&B superstar James Brown’s #1 hit, “Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud.”

For Black Americans, it was an

anthem, a defiant act of courage, and the defining soundtrack of the Civil Rights and Black Power movements, demanding equality and asserting self-love.

This is the task ahead for the LGBTQ+ community.

And slowly, but surely, they are moving up the mountain side, regardless of the personal, professional, and societal risks which come when one bravely dons the cloak of “pride.”

WI

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

Guest Columnist

Julianne Malveaux

America at 250: Patriotism Without Truth Is Propaganda

freedom, and then asked their descendants to celebrate as if history were a parade instead of a wound.

I have never been much for flag-waving patriotism. I respect the rituals, and I understand why some people are moved by them. But my own relationship with patriotism has always been complicated, even chilly. It is difficult to be sentimental about a nation that enslaved my ancestors, exploited their labor, denied them citizenship, terrorized them for seeking

I do not even pledge allegiance easily. Allegiance to what? To two nations, one Black and one white, under whose God, divisible, with justice for some? We are asked to place hands over hearts and recite words that have never fully described this country. "The land of the free and the home of the brave" too often reads, in Black history, like the land of the thief and the home of the enslaved. That is not cynicism. It is memory.

Guest Columnist

The Truth is the Light

majesty of God.

As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, we are sure to see fireworks, pageantry, speeches, flags, concerts and carefully choreographed displays of national pride. There will be much talk about freedom, democracy, courage and sacrifice. There will be less talk about enslavement, Indigenous dispossession, racial terror, women's exclusion, immigrant exploitation and the centuries-long struggle required to force this country to honor even a portion of its promises.

That is the problem with patriotic spectacle. It too often asks us to cele-

brate the promise while ignoring the breach.

The Declaration of Independence declared that "all men are created equal" in 1776, even as enslaved people were bought, sold, whipped, raped and worked without wages. The Constitution protected slavery. Black people built wealth they were forbidden to own. Women were excluded from the franchise. Native people were pushed from their land. And still, generation after generation, people denied the full benefits of citizenship fought to expand the meaning of democracy.

That is the America I honor — not the myth, but the struggle.

Black people have never had the luxury of simple patriotism. We have loved a country that did not love us back. We have served in its wars, built its institutions, paid its taxes, raised its children, enriched its culture and strengthened its democracy. Yet we have had to fight for every inch of recognition and every fragment of justice.

Consider the Black soldiers who fought for democracy abroad and

MALVEAUX Page 41

Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable. — Psalm 145:3 NRSV

This psalm of David exalts the name of the Lord Most High and rejoices in the glorious splendor of his wonderful works. It is a song of worship that lifts our eyes above earthly concerns and fixes our hearts on the

The psalmist's call to praise is just as relevant today as it was when these words were first penned. While life in our present time is often difficult and filled with problems, we are still called to acknowledge God with praise and worship. When we do, our hearts are lifted and redirected toward the one who is truly worthy, for the Lord is greatly to be praised, and his greatness is indeed unsearchable.

This text calls for perpetual and wholehearted worship because God's character is infinite and beyond full

human comprehension. It emphasizes continuous, daily praise, reminding us that God's mercy, power and love cannot be fully measured or understood. We are invited to praise God not only for what God does but also for who God is, encouraging believers to focus on God's limitless nature rather than on their temporary troubles.

Psalm 145:3 highlights the supreme greatness of God. God's nature is unparalleled and incomparable, standing in sharp contrast to worldly power or human achievement. The word "unsearchable," drawn from the Hebrew

ein cheqer, conveys that God's greatness cannot be measured, calculated or fully explored. No matter how much we learn about God, we will never reach the depth of God's majesty, for God's nature is infinite.

Because God is perfect, faithful and good, God is worthy of constant adoration. God's immeasurable goodness, power and mercy call for maximum, heartfelt praise. This verse invites believers to fix their attention on God's eternal and majestic character rather than the overwhelming changes and challenges of life.

The verse also serves as a call to worship, functioning as a doxology — an expression of praise that moves us beyond casual acknowledgment into holy reverence and awe. It is often used as an opening invocation in worship and prayer, helping believers focus on God's majesty before bringing personal needs and concerns before God. In times of hardship, this text offers encouragement by reminding us to trust in God's power. It urges deep meditation on the Lord's glorious

Kevin Harris

Black Women Can Still Lead Democratic Tickets Despite Losses

Black women remain the Democratic Party's most loyal constituency. That reality has been repeated so often it risks sounding cliché. Yet despite Black women's contributions, many Democrats seem all too ready to accept Black women's labor but not their leadership.

Questions about Black women

and leadership continue to linger following the party's fumbled release of its 2024 autopsy. The autopsy cited the Biden administration's inadequate support for Kamala Harris as a major contributor to the party's eventual loss to Donald Trump. Many wonder if Democrats could've stopped Trump had the nominee not been a Black woman.

But Georgia's latest Democratic primary results offered another reminder that voters still place enormous trust in Black women

leaders. That trust comes even after Harris' 2024 loss to Trump and Stacey Abrams' historic but unsuccessful bids for governor in the Peach State.

Now that the general election ticket has been set, Georgia is moving forward with an impressive roster of Black women. Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms' crushing victory to secure the 2026 Democratic nomination for governor set the tone. Bottoms will campaign alongside Black women nominees for key

statewide offices including attorney general, secretary of state and labor commissioner.

This November, 12 Black women are on the ballot for seven of Georgia's nine statewide offices and five congressional seats, marking one of the strongest showings of Black women's political leadership in the state's history. A Bottoms victory would be historic. No Black woman has ever been elected governor of a state.

Georgia underscores a political truth that should not be ignored.

Voters are still willing to trust Black women at the ballot box despite failed bids from Harris and Abrams.

Republicans and too many Democrats have attempted to cherry-pick those losses as evidence that voters may be cooling on Black women candidates. Georgia Democrats just suggested otherwise.

They asked a valid question too many Democrats are uncomfort-

Page 41

Guest Columnist

Fair Housing Tools Are Fading. The Housing Crisis Isn't.

nearly all consumers suffer from housing cost burdens is but one of many dimensions to a national crisis affecting consumers, business and government alike.

An annual research report, considered by many to be the country's best barometer on housing issues, makes clear that in 2026, affordability is not the only housing crisis confronting Black America.

The State of the Nation's Housing 2026, newly released by Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies, makes clear that the financial anxiety

Over the past year, the future of fair housing has been the focus of increased advocacy. From federal funding and staff cutbacks to policy reversals, and lawsuits challenging these moves, Blacks and other people of color have sensed that many of the hard-fought battles of the 1960s face extinction.

"The U.S. faces interlocking housing crises — affordability, homeless-

ness, climate change, and discrimination — that demand coordinated action across federal, state, local, private, and nonprofit actors," the report states. "Discrimination in the housing market persists, but the tools to fight it are deteriorating. Obligations to 'affirmatively further fair housing' (AFFH) have been weakened by recent federal rollbacks that replace structured planning requirements with general commitments."

During the 2025 government shutdown, about a third of the 300 HUD employees laid off were people who

investigated fair housing complaints. Combined with resignations earlier in the year, the remaining fair housing staff is estimated to have decreased by about two-thirds. But over the past 10 years, the number of fair housing complaints has risen 20%, according to the National Fair Housing Alliance.

While about 1 in 5 (22%) of white homeowners are cost-burdened – each month spending more than 30% of their income on housing — disproportionately higher costs are borne by homeowners who are also people of color. Racially, Black homeowners suf-

Black Women Leaders Are Not Burnt Out, We Are Being Extracted From

tematically undervaluing Black-led work, despite repeated evidence that it outperforms on return on investment.

Let's start with the numbers, because America often values economic losses over human suffering.

According to a 2020 Citigroup analysis, racism cost the United States economy $16 trillion over 20 years. McKinsey & Company later estimated that the entertainment industry alone leaves roughly $10 billion annually on the table by sys-

Now imagine the cost across every sector where Black women are asked to save institutions while being denied the support, protection, and authority necessary to sustain ourselves inside of them.

Imagine the economic impact of forcing experienced Black women out of leadership. Imagine the innovation lost when women leave industries entirely after years of public

hostility, workplace retaliation, pay inequity, burnout, and institutional betrayal. Imagine what it costs this country when the very people expected to stabilize democracy, workplaces, schools, nonprofits, healthcare systems, and communities are themselves treated as disposable.

We do not have enough language for this crisis because we keep calling it burnout.

But burnout suggests overwork.

What many Black women are experiencing is extraction.

And extraction has become foun-

dational to how this country functions. Black women remain among the highest labor force participants in the nation while carrying disproportionate burdens from inflation, caregiving responsibilities, stagnant wages, rising grocery and gas prices, and housing insecurity.

We are navigating massive layoffs in industries that once loudly proclaimed commitments to diversity and inclusion. We are watching voting rights protections erode while redistricting battles deliberately weaken Black political representation and di-

Reducing Anger and Stopping Violence by Inspiring Self-Worth

ations that display destructive, violent behaviors, and this must be addressed with solutions — not just explanations.

People of color in America are witnessing crisis in families, communities and workplaces. Examples include violence from ICE attacks in communities, reactions to wars overseas and domestic violence tragedies across the country. While national statistics report that homicides and violence in the U.S. have reduced over the past few years, there are still far too many situ-

Some of the institutional causes of violence impacting our communities may include systemic racism, sexism and classism that rob men, women and children of their valuable self-esteem and self-worth and often result in individuals feeling inferior, lonely and lacking self-worth. Sadly, people who feel inferior and disrespected sometimes transfer their anger into violence,

causing great harm to family members and others. But how do we inspire people to believe "I Am Somebody," as the Rev. Jesse Jackson implored us to do? How do we inspire individuals to believe they were born for a purpose and they can choose to be positive and productive? How can we build on the concept of self-worth to help children and adults overcome pain without being destructive?

For 15 years, Black Women for Positive Change, in partnership with the Positive Change Foundation, have

sought to promote nonviolence during annual months of nonviolence, voters rights, self-worth and understanding AI. Over the years, we have examined tools that we believe can strengthen self-worth and help prevent violence and de-escalate conflicts. One tool we learned about and promote is called Peace Circles, and it was introduced to us by the DC Peace Team. Peace Circles bring people together in respectful, safe and supportive environments, with expert facilitators who create settings where individuals can express themselves, be heard and feel respected.

fer the largest burden at 32%, followed by Latinos (29%), Asians (27%) and Native Americans (25%).

The report also found that:

- For the fifth straight year, the median sales price for an existing single-family home hovered near five times the median household income.

Since 2020, home prices have increased by 54% nationwide and more than 50% in 73 of the nation's 100 largest markets.

- The median price of a new sin-

CROWELL Page 42

lute community power.

At the same time, Black women continue to be called upon to organize, mobilize voters, steady institutions, lead teams through crisis, and hold families together through economic uncertainty.

The language changes every decade. The dynamic does not.

We are expected to carry democracy while being denied full protection within it.

I know this because I lived it.

MYERS Page 42

For example, during the 10th annual Month of Non-Violence, an 11-year-old boy at a middle school participated in several Peace Circles. One day he told his teacher that his parents fought regularly, and one weekend when they were screaming at each other, he asked them to form a Peace Circle with him. His surprised parents agreed, and the three of them sat together and talked about why they were angry. The boy was proud to tell

STEPHANIE Page 42

WARS: RETURN OF THE JEDI IN CONCERT

TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE Mavis Staples

18

ERYKAH BADU De La Soul

LIFESTYLE Things To Do, DMV!

By Jordan Armstead WI Intern

As June winds down, wrapping up celebrations for Black Music Month and Pride, there’s a lot of fun programming and activities around the DMV region for the whole family to enjoy.

Check out a handful of the many events happening this weekend— and dive into the Washington Informer Calendar for more.

near the NoMa-Gallaudet Metro and Union Market, it’s perfect for evening commuters and locals alike!

Friday, June 26

Rock the Block; Featuring Perfekt Blend

6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. | Free Old Town Square, 10415 North Street Fairfax, VA 22030

RIVERDANCE 30

The New Generation

JUNE 26–28

HARRY CONNICK JR.

JULY 3

A.R. RAHMAN

National Symphony Orchestra

JULY 10

DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID IN CONCERT

National Symphony Orchestra

JULY 11

THE BEACH BOYS

JULY 23

KIDZ BOP LIVE JULY 31 Wolf Trap Opera Puccini TOSCA AUG 7 BEETHOVEN’S NINTH SYMPHONY

Stars

Thursday, June 25

Washington Nationals vs. Philadelphia Phillies

6:45 p.m. | $25.00 to $330.00 Nationals Park, 1500 S Capitol St SE Washington, D.C., 20003

Grab your friends, family and a hot dog (if you like) to cheer on the Washington Nationals as they play against the Philadelphia Phillies.

NoMa Farmers Market at Third Street

4:00 p.m to 8:00 p.m | Free Third Street, 1225 3rd St NE, Washington, DC 20002

Join the NoMa BID at the NoMa Farmers Market where you’ll find fresh produce, quality meats, and artisanal goods. Grab ready-to-eat meals and treats while enjoying live music and outdoor seating. Conveniently located

Beer garden pours, live music roars, and flavors to explore—bring a chair or blanket and kick back for good times, great tunes, and all the feel-good vibes! This Friday the 26th will feature Washington, DC–area powerhouse cover band Perfekt Blend. They are bringing the energy with a high-octane mix of live music everyone loves, through a blend of Top 40 pop, R&B, soul, classic rock, Motown, country, and blues, keeping every crowd dancing from the first note to the encore.

Saturday, June 27

Five Minute Horror Film Fest 5:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. | Free - Registration St. Mark's of Capitol Hill, 301 A Street SE Washington, D.C., 20003

Local directors showcase their spine-chilling 5-minute horror flicks created during the 5th cohort of DC

Chef Carla Hall Surprises Audiences In Her One-Woman Show

Talents Go Beyond the Kitchen

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

People across the nation and world have seen Chef Carla Hall’s enthusiastic smile on television as she shares recipes.

Now, audiences can get Hall’s backstory in a world premiere theatrical debut, “Please Underestimate Me,” currently at the Olney Theatre Center until July 12.

This is a one-woman production about how Hall built a successful career in the world of food as a chef, entrepreneur, author, and beloved media personality. But where Hall is now did not happen overnight.

“Everything that has happened in my life has been post-40 years old,” said the Emmy award-winning television star. “I didn’t get married, run my first marathon, be on “Top Chef” on ABC, and write my first cookbook until after 40.”

Timing is Everything

Co-written by Hall, Lorie Kay, and Leslie Thomas, “Please Underestimate Me” takes place on a set designed to look like a kitchen.

“I met Carla 10 years ago on “Halloween Baking Championship” on the Food Network,” said Thomas, a playwright and TV showrunner. “ She became a judge on[the] show. We immediately clicked.”

The set for the production adapts easily as the chapters in the chef's life unfolds. Known for her famous biscuit recipe, Hall is actually making the biscuit dough during her performance. A copy of the recipe is in the program book for “Please Underestimate Me.”

Hall, from Nashville, Tennessee, attended Howard University, majoring in accounting. She took the usual path after getting her degree and worked as a CPA at PriceWaterhouse. After years in the corporate world, Hall realized she wanted to do something else.

“I saw this accountant folding a piece of paper, lining up the edges, and I said, “‘That can’t be me. I don’t want to be 40 and hate my job,’” said Hall.

Attracted by her outgoing, effervescent style, Hall was a fan favorite on “Top Chef,” leading to her being one of the four co-hosts for the ABC daytime lifestyle show “The Chew.”

Hall reveals harsh workplace realities, such as leaders second-guessing the chef’s on-air delivery. She was too this or too that. There was a disparity between her salary and the three male co-hosts'. Most of the time, life was confusing and sucked, she explained.

“You feel ashamed, and that can shut you down,” said Hall about her experiences. “Sharing lets the light in.”

Lessons Learned, Bringing the Food World to the Stage

SALLY & TOM

SUZAN-LORI PARKS

DIRECTED BY TIMOTHY DOUGLAS

TO DO from Page 26

Public Library's filmmaking workshop series.

From an unexpected alien invasion, a surveillance gig gone awry, the evils of AI, genetic tampering and techno-obsession, these original dystopian shorts created by local filmmakers participating in our Spring 2026 library filmmaking workshop will terrify, astound and entertain.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic refreshments.

The Cookout: A Celebration of Black Improv in the DMV

4:00 p.m.- 9:30 p.m. | $20College students receive half-price tickets via website Studio Theatre, 1501 14th Street NW Washington, D.C., 20005

Now in its sixth year, "The Cookout" is WIT's summer showcase of Black improv, featuring some of the funniest and most talented improvisers in the DMV. If you're a fan of The Second City and shows like "Dance Like There's Black People Watching"

or "Black Excellence Comedy," you do not want to miss "The Cookout!"

There are three sets of performances on Saturday, June 27 at 4, 6, and 8PM. (Each is approx. 75 to 90 minutes in length.) Tickets are going fast and all three performances are expected to sell-out. Please note: each performance has a separate line-up, and because improv comedy is invented on the spot based on audience suggestions, no two shows are ever the same.

Sunday,

June 28

Punch with Pride Boxing Class 1:00 p.m to 2:00 p.m | $23.18

TITLE Boxing Club - 9725 Traville Gateway Dr Rockville, MD 20850

Get ready to energize your day with the Punch with Pride Boxing Class! Join us in person for an empowering and invigorating boxing session designed to boost your confidence and fitness.

Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to connect, sweat, and punch with pride in a supportive atmosphere. Food and drink to follow immediately after the workout!

WI

CARLA from Page 27

Gaining courage, Hall learned that not holding back was the tool to move forward.

She lets the audience know that, in addition to her upbringing, attending a historically African American institution was where “Black Excellence” was drilled into her soul. The Howard University graduate embraced the fact that she was good enough and that the challenges she encountered on the path to success were not going to keep her down.

Helen Hayes Award-winning director Lili-Anne Brown's leadership is brilliant in “Please Underestimate Me,” as she helps navigate Hall’s dialogue in moments of whimsy, remembering childhood trauma, and the triumphs of self-discovery.

Honorary producers for the pro-

duction include Chef Eric Adjepong, owner of the D.C. restaurant Elima and, a featured chef on Food Network’s “Wildcard Kitchen”; author, restaurateur, and TV personality Chef Spike Mendelsohn; food and wine publisher Nycci Nellis; Emmy-nominated journalist and producer Erin Como; and Nina Oduro, co-founder of Black Women in Food.

“Please Underestimate Me” is not only entertaining but also encourages audiences not to hold back in pursuing their dreams.

“Not only is Carla a D.C.-based celebrity with global reach, she also happens to love, love, love theater,” said Jason Loewit, artistic director at Olney Theatre in the production’s program guide.

For more information, visit olneytheatre.org

WI

review wi book

"The Price of Exclusion: The Pursuit of Healthcare in a Segregated Nation"

By Nicole Carr

c.2026, Dey Street

$30

304 pages

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

Seven thousand steps.

That's what researchers say you need each day for optimum health. That's a little over three miles of walking, stair-climbing and running, and it's a lot, but you do what you can to stay healthy, right? So maybe it's time to check out these great books about health and well-being for African American readers …

At some point in the near future, in a month or 12, you'll probably need to make your annual appointment with your physician. But what does he or she look like? In "The Price of Exclusion: The Pursuit of Healthcare in a Segregated Nation" by Nicole Carr (Dey Street, $30), you'll see why that matters, why America needs more Black doctors, and how the lack could affect your health.

During the pandemic, says Carr, African American COVID-19 patients died at a much higher rate than did white sufferers. That may come as no surprise, but other information that Carr uncovers might shock you. Systemic racism has been an unfortunate fact throughout the past 170 years in medical facilities and medical schools. Efforts of Black researchers have been ignored, denied, or seized and subsumed by others. Patients have gotten subpar care. Black doctors have tried to fight back, both for themselves and for their patients; HBCUs and Black institutions offered medical education, but things were still slow to change.

Told alongside the story of her great-grandfather, a physician who worked as a doctor in the early years of the most recent century, this is a lively, very interesting book, and it's must-read for anyone who thinks about their health and longevity.

For Black women looking for healthcare, the struggle is different. And more urgent. In "A Terrible Strength: The Hidden Crisis of the Black Womb & Your Survival Guide to Healing" by Kemi Doll, MD, MSCR (Harmony Books, $28.99), you'll see why.

When Dr. Doll was in medical school, preparing to become a gynecologic cancer surgeon, she saw something unfathomable: even today, in supposedly modern times, racism runs rampant in health care for Black women, from charting to pain control to cancer treatments. It's especially insidious in gynecology, pregnancy and other reproductive health issues.

Doll uses stories to illustrate her points, but this book also includes advice, charts to explore, cautions and things to watch out for, and lots of ways for a Black woman to be her own best advocate. Read this book, take it with you to your next doctor's visit.

It's probably true that these books won't be enough, once you get started on reading the new information available to patients and their loved ones. There are lots of books on shelves that will give you more direction, more advice, and more ways to find the right doctor for you. All you need to do is to head to your favorite bookstore or library and ask for direction. The staff can help you find what you need — and more — so you can stay well.

As for these two great books, take steps to read them soon.

WI

horoscopes

LIFESTYLE

JUNE 25 - JULY 1, 2026

ARIES The decision you keep reframing as complex is only complicated because you've been treating your own hesitation as evidence. A professional door that looked permanently closed has developed a crack worth pressing on. Something you said in passing last week registered as a commitment to someone who needed to hear it; decide if you want to honor it. Lucky Numbers: 7, 33, 61

TAURUS The thing you dismissed as someone else's problem is going to circle back as yours by midweek; get ahead of it now. A creative instinct you've been suppressing in favor of the practical path deserves at least one conversation out loud. Something that required two people last month only needs you now, and that's a promotion, not a burden. The affirmation you've been waiting for from one specific person is not coming; find a different source. Lucky Numbers: 3, 44, 77

GEMINI The version of this situation you've been narrating to your closest people has a detail missing that changes the whole story. A financial opportunity that seemed to expire has more shelf life than you assumed; check again. Something you've been doing out of habit is producing results that would have required intention a year ago; don't let that go unnoticed. Lucky Numbers: 14, 38, 69

CANCER The goal you've been scaling back to seem reasonable is the right size; stop editing it for the room. A relationship that stalled in February is showing signs of motion that have nothing to do with what you did or didn't do; watch without intervening. Something you accomplished without fanfare this month established a precedent that will matter more than the win itself. Lucky Numbers: 9, 50, 83

LEO The audience you've been performing for isn't the one that actually needs what you have; recalibrate toward the quieter room. A plan you revised down to something survivable can be revised back up now that conditions have shifted. Something you walked away from last spring keeps reappearing because it wasn't finished; that's a door, not a haunting. Lucky Numbers: 21, 46, 78

VIRGO The standard you've been holding as a private benchmark is about to become a public one; be ready to own it. A conversation that ended unresolved two weeks ago has a thread still live that can be picked up without restarting from scratch. Something you've been categorizing as a flaw in your approach is actually a feature that sets a specific kind of result apart. Lucky Numbers: 16, 41, 73

LIBRA The compromise you landed on feels fair to everyone except you; that asymmetry is worth naming before it calcifies. A new connection that didn't seem professionally relevant has more overlap with your current work than the surface suggested. Something you've been holding back until conditions improve is actually what creates better conditions; lead with it. Lucky Numbers: 10, 35, 84

SCORPIO The intensity that served you through a difficult stretch is still running at full capacity in a situation that no longer requires it; dial it back deliberately. A project that felt finished in April has a second chapter that doesn't ask you to repeat yourself. Something someone offered you casually last month was not casual; they meant it and are still waiting. Lucky Numbers: 22, 56, 80

SAGITTARIUS The plan that looks reckless from the outside is the one with the most internal logic; stop explaining and start executing. A restlessness you've been treating as a character flaw is information about your environment, not your temperament. Something you gave significant energy to last quarter is now running on its own; redirect that capacity. The question you've been framing as unanswerable is really just unasked; ask it. Lucky Numbers: 18, 52, 76

CAPRICORN The shortcut you dismissed as too good is worth a second look if it was offered by someone whose judgment you trust in other areas. A dynamic at work that felt personal was structural; naming it as structural changes what's available to you. Something you've been treating as a long game has a near-term move that doesn't compromise the long view; find it. The discipline that got you here is not the same discipline the next position requires; start learning the new version. Lucky Numbers: 25, 60, 87

AQUARIUS The collaboration you've been approaching as a compromise is a genuine upgrade if you stop measuring it against the solo version. A boundary you set quietly six months ago has been holding in ways you haven't fully accounted for; give yourself that credit. Something that looked like public indifference to your work was a longer evaluation cycle; the results are coming in. The version of the conversation you've been rehearsing is better than you've been letting yourself believe; have it. Lucky Numbers: 12, 39, 70

PISCES The feeling you've been dismissing as irrational has a rational basis you haven't finished mapping; keep going. A window that opened quietly at the end of last month is still open but not indefinitely; decide whether you're walking through it. Something you've been describing as a long-term vision is achievable sooner, and the only thing extending the timeline is the story you're telling about your own readiness. Lucky Numbers: 1, 28, 67

SPORTS

Negro Leagues Night Honors Black Baseball Pioneers

By William Deffaa WI Intern

In the days leading up to Juneteenth, the Washington Nationals hosted Negro Leagues Night on Tuesday, June 16, at Nationals Park, honoring Black baseball pioneers.

Instead of the concourses of Nationals Park becoming a sea of scarlet, red, navy blue and white, the vibe around the park felt retro for the night. As fans entered the

gates of the stadium, they were greeted by a plastic bag containing a replica flannel-like jersey with “Grays” across the front.

For many Washingtonians, the jerseys served as a reminder of how far African Americans have come in the game of baseball.

“Even though Josh [Gibson], Satchel [Paige] and [James] Cool Papa [Bell] are not here to witness this… their future generations get to experience that for themselves,” said Banneker City Little League

director Jamall McKay. “That means a lot to me because it also gives my children, players in my league, the opportunity to come and be a part of this.”

But long before the Nationals arrived in D.C., baseball was thriving in the District, not just through the Washington Senators, but through their Negro League counterparts, the Homestead Grays.

In the early 1940s, the Grays split their home games between Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C.’s old Griffith Stadium in Northwest at what is now Howard University Hospital. But as the popularity of baseball grew in D.C., the Grays moved to having more than two-thirds of their home games at Griffith, before dis-

banding in 1950.

Throughout their time in Washington, the Grays enjoyed massive success, capturing eight league titles in the 1940s and playing home to legendary Negro League players such as Gibson, Bell and Buck Leonard.

The Nationals honoring the Homestead Grays meant the world to people like Doug Foster, the great-nephew of Negro National League founder Andrew “Rube” Foster, and the grandson of Bill Hendrick Foster.

“I feel like their story isn’t told enough,” said Foster. “Anytime I get the opportunity to come and just talk about not only who they are, but also what they did for baseball and American culture in general, I just jump at the opportunity.”

Beyond the simple giveaways, the Nationals hosted a panel discussion before first pitch, discussing the pioneers of the Negro Leagues and how these pioneers shaped the modern game of baseball.

The panel included Foster, Sean Gibson, the great-grandson of Negro Leagues legend Josh Gibson;

and Jamall McKay, the coach of Howard University’s Club Baseball team and director of Banneker City Little League.

A central focus of the discussion was MLB’s decision to integrate the stats of the Negro Leagues into the official MLB record books in 2024 and the long fight to get there.

Gibson spoke passionately about how this integration helped build a fundamental shift in the narratives for families like his, as his great-grandfather is now recognized as the MLB’s all-time career leader in batting average.

“May 29, [2024] will be a date that none of the families will forget, and that’s when baseball finally made the move to integrate the stats,” he said. “Stats were made to be broken, and they were broken in 2024.”

For many attendees, like Marc Harrison Sr., an assistant director of Athletics for D.C. Public Schools, the night was a celebration of coming together in the name of Black baseball pioneers –even in the midst of a heated election season and in a modern world of divisiveness.

“It’s a really beautiful thing to see so many people unified to recognize the true history of the game, not just the partial history,” Harrison told The Informer.

WI

CAPTURE the moment

People across the District flocked to Southeast, D.C. on June 19 for the 2026 Ward 7 Juneteenth Parade & Opal's Walk for Freedom. The celebration combined a 2.5-mile walk honoring Dr. Opal Lee— affectionately known as the "Grandmother of Juneteenth"— and a vibrant community parade showcasing African American history and culture.

(Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

RELIGION

How One News Error Shook Baltimore’s Faith Community

By Rev. Dorothy Boulware Word in Black

This article was originally published online with Word In Black, a collaboration of the nation's leading Black news publishers (of which The Washington Informer is a member) and slightly edited for clarity.

Long before the Rev. Antoine Burton, a Baltimore pastor and president of the nonprofit We Our Us board of directors, stood at a pulpit, his name was his reputation. It represented years of hard work in ministry, community ser-

vice and public trust — built one relationship at a time.

Then, in a matter of hours, The Baltimore Sun tarnished Burton’s reputation with one photo. The city’s venerable paper of record used a photo of Burton and mistakenly identified him as a man charged in a Park Heights shooting.

“A local news outlet published a photograph identifying me as the individual in this arrest,” Burton wrote in a Facebook post. “That photograph was wrong. They have since removed it — but I know how fast images travel, and I will

not let silence do the damage that misinformation already started.”

The error occurred on June 8 after Baltimore police announced charges against a Safe Streets violence interrupter, also named Antoine Burton.

The pastor continued: “I am here. I am at my post. I have not gone anywhere. We will be out tonight serving our communities.”

Clergy Outraged

The error, published on the newspaper’s social media platforms, triggered outrage among the city’s clergy, Maryland elected officials, and local community leaders. They said the incident reflected a deeper problem of The Sun’s carelessness toward Black public figures.

Faith leaders argued in social media posts and public statements that the incident is bigger than one photo. They say it was a careless mistake that damaged Burton’s reputation.

After criticism mounted, Trif Alatzas, The Sun’s editor in chief, issued a public apology.

“We corrected the mistake as soon as we caught it and have personally apologized,” he wrote in a social media post. “We regret the error and know that we have a responsibility to get facts correct and to uphold the trust our community expects from us.”

For many Baltimore clergy, however, the apology did not end the conversation.

The Rev. Dr. Heber Brown III, a minister and activist, publicly declined an interview request from The Sun, citing what he described as a pattern of disrespect toward Black Baltimoreans. In a letter posted on social media, Brown wrote that the newspaper’s leadership “is making it clear that they do not hold Black people in high regard, no matter their station in society or their intrinsic value to our community.”

“I cannot, in good conscience, grant an interview, subscribe, place an ad or even follow your company’s pages on social media until there is an acknowledgment of the harm done and substantive efforts toward repair,” Brown wrote.

The Sun’s Mixed Legacy

The controversy arrives at a particularly sensitive moment in Baltimore’s relationship with its flagship newspaper.

In 2022, The Sun’s editorial board issued a historic apology acknowledging its role in supporting racist policies and narratives during much of its 185-year history. The newspaper pledged to rebuild trust with communities it had harmed.

For some Baltimore residents, the Burton incident raised questions about whether those promises are being kept.

Media ethicists have long warned that misidentifications can create lasting harm to the misidentified, even after a news outlet

issues a correction. While digital content spreads rapidly, initial reports get far more attention than corrections.

It’s a particular concern for clergy, whose work depends heavily on public trust.

Damage Repair

A pastor’s reputation influences congregational relationships, community partnerships, fundraising efforts, and public credibility. Even a temporary association with allegations of violent crime can create confusion that lingers long after a correction is published.

The incident also exposed the vulnerability of Black leaders whose names and images are readily accessible online. In an era of rapid publishing and social media distribution, a single verification failure can transform a respected community figure into the subject of damaging misinformation.

Questions remain about which safeguards failed in Burton’s misidentification, or whether The Sun has taken steps to prevent it from happening again. What is clear is that many Black Baltimore faith leaders view the episode as more than an unfortunate mistake.

For them, the issue is not simply whether an apology was issued. It is whether institutions entrusted with telling Baltimore’s story understand the responsibility that comes with identifying the people who live it. WI

Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. — Galatians 6:2

Though this column is dedicated to an incredible upcoming wellness conference, allow me to briefly step aside to extend a massive congratulations to the 44th president of the United States of America, his family, his administration, and everyone involved in bringing a monumental vision to life. Congratulations to all on the grand opening of the historic Obama Presidential Center in Chicago! As the most expansive and visionary presidential library project in our nation's history, the weekend's celebrations completely held me captive. It is truly an extraordinary milestone. Bravo! Now, let us turn to the heart of this week's column.

In a world where many women silently carry the heavy loads of stress, burnout, and emotional sorrow, a divine call to collective healing is sounding. HER Cause, Inc. is preparing to host its 3rd Annual Wellness in Me Conference: See. Support. Connect. on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at The Den Event Hall in Fort Washington, Maryland. The conference is the brainchild of founder and CEO Iyona Blake, a singer, actress and entrepreneur and my good friend.

This one-day event is designed to equip women — with a special focus on Black women and women of color — with the spiritual, mental and emotional tools needed to foster true wellness within themselves and their faith communities.

Moving from Awareness to Action includes a spiritual moment. As Proverbs 17:17 reminds us, "A friend loveth at all times, and a brother [or sister] is born for adversity." Yet many well-meaning women in our pews want to help a hurting sister but sim-

WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Equipping the Sisters: Faith, Mental Wellness, and the Power of Sisterhood the religion corner

ply do not know how.

"Too many women care deeply but aren't equipped to respond in critical moments. This is about building confidence and connection," says Iyona Blake, CEO and president of HER Cause, Inc.

To bridge this gap, the conference is officially launching the See. Support. Connect. (SSC) Model. This culturally grounded, sisterhood-centered framework moves beyond traditional mental health awareness. It empowers everyday women, including ministry leaders, mothers, daughters and friends. "This conference honors the profound lineage of women acting as vessels of healing, individuals who intentionally hold safe spaces, disrupt systemic stigmas, and pass down the tools of emotional wellness to the next generation. Through seeing, supporting and connecting, we pour back into the community from a place of filled and transformed strength."

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Tyreese McAllister is a nationally recognized trauma-informed clinician, bestselling author and emergency mental health expert with more than 30 years of crisis recovery experience. As the founder of Clinical & Forensic Associates, Inc., she specializes in community wellness, crisis intervention and empowering women through radical resilience.

The Three-Pillar

Speaker Model:

1. SEE (Awareness & Understanding)

Speaker: Dr. Keisha Mack, Ph.D.

Focus: Mental health conditions in women of color, warning signs, stigma reduction and clarity.

2. SUPPORT (Skills & Response)

Speaker: Chivonne Gabriel, LCSW-C

Focus: Non-judgmental listening, crisis awareness, escalation and use of the SSC Toolkit.

3. CONNECT (Community & Sisterhood)

Speaker: Shoareged Phillpotts, MPH, LMSW

Focus: Creating sister circles, healing connections and culturally aligned wellness practices.

Panel: Building Support Systems

Moderator: Erika Harvey, MSW, LCSW

Panelists:

Dr. Camille Adams Jones, PMP, LCSW-C, CEAP

Dr. Vikki Johnson (Soul Wealth)

Michele Johnson, certified parent coach

Description: Mental health professionals and advocates discuss building emotional wellness networks and recognizing mental health needs within communities.

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com

Service and Times Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 AM 7 10:00 AM Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:00 AM

Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon

Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM

Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com

Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com

Motto:

Service and Times

Person Worship:  Sunday @ 9:30 A.M. Streaming: Sunday @ 9:30 A.M.  www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org

& Study:  Wednesday @ 12 Noon and 7:00

Church with a past to remember – and a future to mold” www.mtzbcdc.org

Foggy 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

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."

Froffice@firstrising.org Website: www.firstrising.org “Changing Lives On Purpose “ The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson

All are welcome to St. Mary’s to Learn, Worship, and Grow.

Website: Theplbc.org Email: churchclerk@theplbc.org

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2026 ADM 000597

Lillian M. Brockington Decedent

James Larry Frazier, Esq. 918 Maryland Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Randy A. Brockington and Patricia Brockington Brown, whose addresses are 1800 Metzerott Road, #405, Adelphi, MD 20783 & 7408 Wilhelm Drive, Lanham, MD 20706, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Lillian M. Brockington who died on 11/4/2025 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/18/2026. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/18/2026, 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: 6/18/2026

Randy A. Brockington

Patricia Brockington 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

2026 ADM 000625

Wondwosen Tadesse Decedent

Michele Hallman, Esq. Taxology, LLC 10770 Columbia Pike, Suite 300 #1003 Silver Spring, MD 20901 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Mareshet Habtemariam, whose address is 724 Hamilton Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Wondwosen Tadesse who died on July 1, 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 12/25/2026. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/25/2026, 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: 6/25/2026

Mareshet Habtemariam Personal Representative

TRUE

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2026 ADM 000620

Angela Entin Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Tyelynn Entin, whose address is 1522 Marion Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Angela Entin who died on March 8th, 2026 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 12/25/2026. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/25/2026, 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: 6/25/2026

Tyelynn Entin

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

2026 FEP 000076

August 29, 2024

Date of Death

George Alvin Thomas Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Barbara Jean Thomas whose address is 35938 Washington Avenue, Chaptico, Maryland 20621 was appointed personal representative of the estate of George Alvin Thomas, deceased, by the Orphan Court for St. Mary’s County, State of Maryland, on February 27, 2026. Service of process may be made upon Monifa Smith 2710 Terrace Rd., SE, Apt 601, Washington, DC 20020 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 property: 2710 Terrace Road, SE, Apt. 601, Washington DC 20020. 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: 6/25/2026

Barbara Jean Thomas Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2026 ADM 000626

Beryl L. Coley aka Beryl Elaine Coley

Decedent

Munir Avery, Esq. 2905 14th Street, NE Washington, DC 20017

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

James F. Coley, Jr., whose address is 1645 Crittenden Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Beryl L. Coley aka Beryl Elaine Coley who died on February 14, 2026 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 12/25/2026. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/25/2026, 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: 6/25/2026

James F. Coley, Jr. 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 2026 ADM 000612

Colleen M. Downing Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Christopher C. Downing Jr., whose address is 1334 Corbin Place, NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Colleen M. Downing who died on April 14, 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 12/25/2026. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/25/2026, 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: 6/25/2026

Christopher C. Downing Jr. 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 001115

James T. Dendy Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

David A. Marsh, whose address is 1218 Neal Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James T. Dendy who died on April 10, 2004 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 12/25/2026. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/25/2026, 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: 6/25/2026

David A. Marsh 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

2026 FEP 000032

November 15, 2024

Date of Death

Jewell Dukell Fenzi

Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Ruth R. Fenzi Reeder, whose address is 2 West Glendale Avenue, Alexandria, Virginia 22301 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Jewell Dukell Fenzi, deceased, by the Circuit Court for City of Alexandria, State of Virginia, on January 28, 2025.

Service of process may be made upon Joe R. Reeder, 2101 L. Street, NW, Suite 1000, Washington, DC 20037, 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 property: 1824 16th Street, NW, 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: June 25, 2026

Jewell Dukell Fenzi

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 000824

Estate of Barbara M. Johnson

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by LaVerne E. Johnson for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative

Date of first publication: 6/25/2026

Kathy Brissette-Minus Law Office of Kathy Brissette-Minus, LLC 9701 Apollo Drive, Suite 230 Largo, MD 20774 Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

CLASSIFIED

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opponent in the Democratic primary who conceded on Thursday morning.

Lewis George also recounted conversing with: D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, and Rep. Robert Garcia, a California Democrat and a member of the House committee that oversees the District.

“He was congratulating me but also saying to me, ‘I look forward to working together to defend D.C. autonomy,’” Lewis George said. “I'm so grateful that we already have so much support in Congress ready to fight for us.”

On Thursday, the Democratic mayoral nominee also expressed a willingness to build rapport across the aisle with any and everyone— including President Donald J. Trump.

“If the White House asks for a conversation or call, I am open to having that conversation in our call,” Lewis George said. “I want to respect…Mayor Muriel Bowser, who is continuing to lead and her team is continuing to have those initial conversations.”

Lewis George Outlines Her Priorities

Once Lewis George gets past a general election she’s likely to win, some of her other priorities include: expanding the District’s solar energy infrastructure via use of federal sustainability

DNA TESTING from Page 13 technology intended to improve case documentation and DNA interpretation.

The Baltimore Police Department Crime Laboratory will receive $394,000 to support four forensic science positions involved in DNA sample screening and processing while expanding training opportunities for laboratory personnel.

Baltimore County Police Department’s Crime Laboratory will receive $298,000 for equipment purchases, software upgrades, and advanced training in DNA mixture interpretation, one of the most technically challenging areas of forensic analysis.

The grants are funded through the Bureau of Justice Assistance’s DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction program, known as CEBR. The program was created to help state and local laboratories process forensic evidence more quickly and up-

funds, making local government more efficient, and ensuring District families spend no more than 7% of their income on child care.

“We are working now with budget analysts to see what is possible and how quickly we can open up our child care subsidy so that more families can benefit from that subsidy,” Lewis George told reporters. “...We are aggressively trying to get this done as quickly and as soon as possible.”

Lewis also designated equitable access to healthy food as an issue of significance to voters she engaged east of the Anacostia River.

“My message is consistent to the residents of Ward 7 and 8,” Lewis George said, “to fight for them to have access to fresh foods through all of the

load eligible DNA profiles into the FBI’s Combined DNA Index System, or CODIS, a national database used to connect suspects to crimes across jurisdictions. Federal officials say the program helps law enforcement identify serial offenders, solve cold cases, and reduce violent crime.

In D.C., the District of Columbia’s Department of Forensic Sciences spent years rebuilding after losing accreditation for forensic testing in 2021. During that period, evidence had to be sent elsewhere for analysis, contributing to delays and growing backlogs. The agency regained accreditation for key DNA and chemistry units and has since continued efforts to reduce pending casework and restore confidence in the laboratory’s operations.

Advocates for forensic reform say laboratory capacity is about more than technology. Reliable and timely forensic testing can help identify guilty suspects, clear innocent people, strengthen pros-

ers and, more recently, the high utility rates that have gripped her household.

Hours before speaking with The Informer, Osbourne was on the phone with Pepco about what she described as an exorbitant bill.

In reflecting on a Lewis George mayoralty, Osborne told The Informer that Lewis George has the wherewithal to effect change and protect the District’s sovereignty at the same time.

“Even though she has [spoken in favor of] programs that I don't necessarily agree with all the way, I do think she is the better candidate,” Osborne said. “I look forward to her standing up again for D.C…and pushing back against the Trump administration.”

means that are capable of doing so: a grocery store, farmer's markets, and teaching and helping our families and our students learn how to grow and cook fresh foods as well.”

Ayana Osborne, a case manager who lives in Ward 7, told The Informer that she expects Lewis George to speak and act on behalf of the least of D.C. residents.

“She might not be as stern as McDuffie about the culture, but Janeese will give us a new look on all things,” Osborne said. “I think that she will come from a more subtle projection on… where the residents stand with… the increases that seem to be pushing our native Washingtons.”

Osbourne counts among her top issues the availability of housing vouch-

ecutions, and improve confidence in the criminal justice system. Problems inside crime laboratories can have the opposite effect, slowing investigations and creating uncertainty for victims, defendants, prosecutors, and law enforcement agencies.

Federal officials have reported that DNA backlogs remain a challenge in many jurisdictions despite hundreds of millions of dollars in grant funding over the past decade. A Government Accountability Office review found that requests for crime-scene DNA analysis increased substantially even as laboratories worked to expand capacity, creating ongoing pressure on forensic systems across the country.

“This federal investment will equip local jurisdictions with the tools and resources to process evidence more efficiently and deliver accurate, timely results for the good of Maryland communities,” the lawmakers stated.

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The District’s economic standing took center stage during an election that kicked off months after Trump federalized the local police force and flooded D.C. streets with immigration agents and national guard troops.

In between her appearances on the campaign trail, Lewis George held her own against McDuffie and a contingent of current council members who wanted to pass emergency curfew legislation while federal were still out and about.

On Thursday, Lewis George, again, expressed her desire to end cooperation with ICE, further solidify the District’s sanctuary city status, and appoint new leadership of the Metropolitan Police Department.

“I've committed to rebuilding the trust that's necessary within the police department and the police department with our community,” Lewis George said. “Those conversations are important, especially we need to make sure that everyone is united in fighting for D.C.'s autonomy and standing up for D.C.'s statehood. We need to make sure that the police union understands how losing our autonomy and statehood could impact our officers and the work that they do every day.”

Looking Back: A Victory Etched in Stone a Long Time Ago

By the time Lewis George took to the podium on Thursday, D.C. Board of Elections reported that she secured 52.87% of the vote, compared to McDuffie’s 36.42%, not much of a change from election night.

Over the last six months, Lewis George, a former youth mayor and D.C. State Board of Education student representative, consolidated support among dozens of unions, Sierra Club DC, Free DC Project, and Jews United for Justice.

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from Page 8

tect each other…and to show that as time progresses, the center of the queer community stays the same –– and that's togetherness, safety, and love.”

‘So

Much More Than Being Released from

Chains’ Hailing from Texas, 24-year-old Duan Whaley said she hopes to see more progress from the ground up.

On the tip of the list is addressing the nationwide state of divisive — what the transwoman thespian considers planted seeds by external forces.

“There are times where we forget, or it's pushed to the side, but when we really get into our histories, we find that love is really what connects us all,” she told The Informer. “When we start focusing on stereotypes –– based on fear, rather than truth, rather than humanity –– that's that's where we started losing sight of our goals.”

According to the Houston native, boosting communal collaboration can translate to community gardening or crowdsourced support, as well as using digital platforms that foster awareness, solidarity and belonging among those seeking safe spaces.

In echoing Struckrath’s point, she called on marginalized communities to realign with their roots that refused to be oppressed.

“It's so much more than just being released from chains,” Whaley continued. “When we go back and look at how we resisted, how they've always felt about us anyway…[yet] we made these big changes happen because we had the courage to do so, that's something that we all really need to dive into. That's where liberation…where the resistance is really going to grow.”

Meanwhile, back in D.C., Elliott touted a similar charge to the beat of ancestral resilience.

In addition to encouraging voters to tap into local elections, the native Washingtonian noted several initiatives that can shape communal betterment for all marginalized groups, including: food and clothes donations, volunteer work, and investing in local resources –– all rooted in forging a “wider safety net.”

“The Black and brown ancestors that we have, and the…advocates that threw bricks and protected us…all had the same thing in mind: liberation and peace,” Elliott told The Informer. “No matter what tone of skin you have, no matter what affiliation, no matter what color of the flag or allyship or not, know that someone somewhere wants you to be liberated and wants you to live a life that is peaceful. The best thing you can do is want that for your fellow human.”

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MALVEAUX from Page 26

came home to racial terror at home. Some returned from World War I wearing the uniform of the United States Army, only to be beaten, humiliated or lynched by white mobs who understood that the uniform represented a claim to manhood, dignity and citizenship. Their service did not protect them. Their patriotism did not save them. Their sacrifice did not guarantee their safety.

That history must be part of America's 250th anniversary.

So must the history of Black women who marched, organized, taught, prayed, strategized, resisted and voted this nation toward a more honest democracy. Black women were pushed to the back of suffrage marches, erased from civic narratives and ex-

WATKINS from Page 26

splendor and reassures us that God remains sovereign over every circumstance we face.

The key takeaway of Psalm 145:3 is that, because God is perfect and unchanging, our worship should not be dependent on fluctuating situations. Instead, praise should be anchored in God's enduring goodness and unmatched power. This verse serves as a daily reminder to focus on God's

able acknowledging. If white male moderates can run and lose time and again, why should we preemptively disqualify Black women?

Georgia Democrats did not retreat from Black women and instead reaffirmed their belief that Black women remain among the party's most effective communicators, coalition builders and organizers.

The lesson from Georgia is not that Democrats are ignoring the electoral challenges facing the party. It is that Democrats still see Black women as central to solving those challenges.

That confidence is not rooted in nostalgia or identity politics alone. It is rooted in the receipts that Black women can show for their efforts to build the party. Black women have led voter registration drives, turnout operations and fundraising networks. They have governed major cities, served in Congress and led federal agencies.

And outside Georgia, there continues to be growing evidence of

pected to serve movements that did not always serve us. Still, we persisted. Still, we organized. Still, we claimed space.

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, then newly founded, marched in the 1913 Woman Suffrage Procession in Washington, D.C. Black women understood that the vote was not a gift. It was a weapon, a shield and a demand. Even after the Nineteenth Amendment, Black women in the South were blocked by racist laws and white violence. The right existed on paper before it existed in practice. That too is America.

Frederick Douglass asked in 1852, "What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?" His question still echoes because the contradiction still echoes. How does a nation celebrate liberty while denying it? How does a nation

sovereignty rather than life's problems and reassures believers that God is greater than any challenge they encounter.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we praise and thank you that you are our God, worthy of our continuous praise and worship. Fill our hearts each day with songs of thanksgiving and praise for who you are and for all that you have done for us. May we never forget your

Democrats standing behind Black women. Despite disappointment following Jasmine Crockett's Texas primary loss this year, the party is poised to have a historic number of Black women serving in the United States Senate. Illinois Lt. Gov. Julianna Stratton is heavily favored to win her Senate bid in November. She'll join Maryland's Angela Alsobrooks and Delaware's Lisa Blunt Rochester in Congress, marking the first time in history three Black women have served as senators at the same time.

A Black woman is likely to succeed Mayor Muriel Bowser in Washington following three successful terms leading the nation's capital. Washington will join the ranks of Baltimore and Atlanta, where Black women have succeeded each other as mayor of major cities. In Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass has overcome steep odds to potentially secure another term in November. If successful, Bass will remain the only Black woman leading a top-five city ranked by population. And Harris continues to top many 2028 polls for presi-

praise democracy while suppressing votes? How does a nation honor veterans while abandoning them? How does a nation speak of freedom while banning books, distorting history and punishing truth-tellers?

America's 250th anniversary could be an opportunity. It could invite us into a deeper, more mature patriotism — one rooted not in denial, but in honesty. A patriotism that does not require amnesia. A patriotism that understands critique as care. A patriotism that knows telling the truth about America is not the same as hating America.

But that will not happen if we allow the commemoration to become one more exercise in mythmaking. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

goodness and your grace toward all your children. Keep our hearts in a ready and worshipful posture of praise. God, you alone are worthy of honor and are greatly to be praised. Precious Lord, open the eyes of our understanding more and more, so that in every circumstance of life we can truly sing, "Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised; His greatness is unsearchable."

In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

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dent as she evaluates another potential bid.

The Democratic autopsy didn't really answer much. But one thing Democrats should stop obsessing over is the electoral viability of Black women. Democrats should not question if voters will stand behind Black women. They should not question if voters can assess Black women candidates based on the same qualities as white male candidates who rarely have their electability questioned in the same way.

Georgia Democrats still believe Black women are among the party's strongest political assets. And results around the country show Georgia Democrats are not alone. So might we see another Black woman atop the Democratic ticket in 2028? Georgia's primary suggests that's not as far-fetched as many would like us to believe. But should a Black woman come forward and compete, Democrats should recognize that race and gender are not the disqualifier many would like it to be.

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CROWELL from Page 25

gle-family home was $417,400 in 2025. At this price, a household needs an income of roughly $120,000 to meet the threshold, assuming a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, 6% interest rate, and 3.5% down payment.

- Home prices are declining in an increasing number of markets. Prices fell year over year in 41 of the nation's 100 largest markets in February 2026, compared with nine markets in 2025.

- Even so, the median age for owner-occupied homes rose to 42 in 2024, compared to 33 years of age in 2010.

These affordability challenges seep into the rental market as well. The median price for newly built units in 2025 was $1,900 per month. Additionally, by the first quarter of 2026, asking rents for professionally managed apartments had risen 29% since 2020,

MYERS

from Page 25

Like many Black women in leadership, I spent years believing that if I worked hard enough, sacrificed enough, and loved the mission deeply enough, the institution would eventually love me back. I worked through maternity leave while helping save a major American theater institution. I sat through back-toback meetings, afraid to drink water because even a short break would interrupt the demands being placed on me. I raised millions of dollars while navigating public scrutiny, political hostility, and private retaliation.

And when it was over, some people described the work as a "hatchet job."

That phrase stayed with me because it revealed something much larger than one organization or one industry. It exposed the ease with which institutions rewrite the labor of Black women once they no longer need us.

Across sectors, Black women are describing eerily similar experiences. Women recruited to lead the trans-

outpacing non-housing inflation.

"The existing stock of low-rent housing is shrinking rapidly, and private markets are incapable of producing enough deeply affordable units," said Alexander Hermann, senior research associate at the center. "The number of units renting for under $1,000 a month in real terms fell by more than 7 million between 2014 and 2024, while higher-rent units surged. Without significant new subsidies and stronger protections for at-risk properties, we risk losing even more of the limited affordable stock that remains."

Other factors heighten overall housing costs while diminishing funds for other living needs. For example, the report cites the ICE Mortgage Monitor report for March 2026 that found property taxes rose 31% nationwide between 2019 and 2025. Also in 2025, 23 weather- and climate-related

formation are blamed for the discomfort the transformation creates. Black women executives are questioned about whether they will "center their identity" in leadership roles despite decades of proven experience.

Leaders are publicly undermined by boards while simultaneously being asked to stabilize organizations in crisis. Women are pushed out quietly and then replaced through what I have come to call "trading" institutions, swapping one Black face for another to preserve appearances while leaving underlying systems untouched.

And all of this unfolds against a broader political backdrop in which the rollback of diversity efforts is now treated as pragmatic governance rather than what it actually is: a retreat from accountability.

The current backlash against DEI did not emerge because equity failed. It emerged because equity disrupted longstanding arrangements of power and comfort.

What many institutions wanted was representation without redistri-

disasters affected more than 72 million homes nationwide. Additionally, between 2019 and 2025, increased insurance costs added on average $2,412 per year, or $201 per month, to family budgets.

"Across the country, we see governors, mayors, and local leaders stepping up with creative solutions to expand supply and support vulnerable households," said Chris Herbert, managing director of the center. "But these efforts are patchwork and often precariously funded.

"Only the federal government has the scale and staying power necessary to close the gap between what our housing system produces and what our lowest-income households can afford. Without a more robust national response, we risk deepening inequities and entrenching housing instability for millions," Herbert concluded. WI

bution. Visibility without structural change. Progress without discomfort. But there are trap doors built into systems long before Black women arrive.

You can be the first woman. The first Black leader. The first after a crisis. The first after a founder. The first at a certain budget size. And still discover that your appointment did not close the trap doors beneath you. It only made you the next person expected to navigate them quietly. And perhaps most dangerously, extraction trains us to mistake trauma responses for leadership skills.

Hypervigilance becomes professionalism. Self-abandonment becomes dedication.

Overfunctioning becomes excellence. Silence becomes grace.

We call Black women resilient while watching them disappear in real time. What we are living through now is not simply a labor issue or a leadership pipeline issue. It is a democracy issue. WI

Read more on

washingtoninformer.com

his teacher how he helped his parents de-escalate their anger.

Another example of an informal Peace Circle was when I witnessed my father using Sunday dinners around the kitchen table to encourage family members to express themselves and their frustrations. I can remember uncles, aunts and cousins sharing experiences and challenges and often respectfully disagreeing. Over time, I saw their self-worth enhanced as they received

advice, implemented suggestions and found their lives improved with happiness.

Given the levels of stress, conflict, anger and violence we see reflected across America, it would be wise to view Peace Circles as demonstration programs in homes, schools, faith institutions, workplaces and communities. The goal would be to promote Peace Circles to enhance the ability of individuals and groups to focus on selfworth and to help prevent conflicts. Peace Circles should be evaluated to

determine how effective they can be in anger management, de-escalation of conflicts and prevention of fights. School districts and local governments could take the lead to fund demonstration Peace Circles to inspire higher levels of self-worth among young people and to train them in ways to ensure safer families, schools and communities. Interested parties can contact us at Positive Change Foundation (positivechangefdn@gmail.com) or visit blackwomenforpositivechange.org. WI

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