Jimmie Williams is CEO and president of the Washington Literacy Center and Adrian Jordan is a member of the board and works for Elevance Health. In this piece, they posit that improving adult literacy in Washington, D.C., is essential to strengthening public health, economic opportunity and civic participation, particularly as new challenges like ranked-choice voting emerge.
Tag: Washington, D.C.
Uncertainty looms for small businesses as RFK stadium project advances
As plans for the RFK Stadium redevelopment move forward, small business owners and community leaders in Washington, D.C., say uncertainty remains about how the project will affect local enterprises. While officials, including Councilmember Wendell Felder (D-Ward 7) emphasize economic opportunity and community benefits, residents and advocates are calling for clearer commitments to ensure small businesses are prioritized and not displaced.
U.S. Rep. Owolewa condemns federal overreach on D.C. traffic cameras
Washington, D.C.’s shadow representative, U.S. Rep. Oye Owolewa, called the U.S. Department of Transportation’s plan to ban traffic cameras a federal overreach. He said it threatens safety and undermines D.C.’s local authority.
Rev. Robert Turner to take reparations fight nationwide after years-long protest
Rev. Robert Turner, the pastor who has walked from Baltimore to the White House for 40 months, has concluded his monthly treks to bring attention to the need for federal reparations. Turner recently spoke with the AFRO about his next steps.
Anacostia Coordinating Council stays true to mission of promoting ‘all things good East of the river’Â
The Anacostia Coordinating Council (ACC) is a volunteer-based consortium of organizations and individuals working to revitalize the Anacostia neighborhood of Washington, D.C., which has faced significant challenges due to gentrification and historical disinvestment.
UDC launches School of Education and Learning Sciences
The University of the District of Columbia is reinvigorating its founding mission of training educators with the launch of the School of Education and Learning Sciences (SELS). The new school will offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees and aims to strengthen the District’s teacher pipeline while preparing a diverse generation of educators for every classroom.
National Guard troops to stay on Washington, D.C. streets through 2026
National Guard troops will be on the streets of Washington, D.C. until the end of 2026, according to a memo reviewed by The Associated Press, signed by Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and dated Jan. 14.
Mary’s House, D.C.’s first housing created for LGBTQ+ seniors, faces criticismÂ
Mary’s House for Older Adults was celebrated last year as Washington, D.C.’s first housing development created for LGBTQ+ seniors. Now, the housing complex is facing criticism from former residents and community members who allege problems with safety, management, affordability and accountability.
D.C and Maryland officials declare state of emergency ahead of winter stormÂ
A major winter storm is expected to hit 200 million Americans this weekend, prompting local officials in Washington, D.C. and Maryland to declare a state of emergency and urge residents to stay inside and be prepared.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre returns to D.C. with new artistic director and dancers
The Alvin Alley American Dance Theater has launched its 20-city U.S. tour with Washington, D.C. as its first stop, featuring 11 provocative performances and led by Artistic Director Alicia Graf Mack.
Faith community remembers sacrifice of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.Â
Faith leaders in D.C. honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy with a call to action. Bishop Mariann Budde delivers a powerful sermon on equality.
Kenyan McDuffie leaves D.C. Council after 13 years, says ‘the work is not finished’
Kenyan R. McDuffie resigned from the D.C. Council after 13 years of service, during which he championed policies that enhanced economic security, public safety, and affordable housing, and expressed interest in running for mayor in the future.

