“Sometimes we have to do the work even though we don’t yet see a glimmer on the horizon that it’s actually going to be possible.”
— Angela Y. Davis
Black History Month may end in a week, but that does not mean we shouldn’t continue to appreciate the immense contributions of Black Washingtonians to our city’s culture, history, and identity. From New Balances to Mambo Sauce, from Go-Go music to Half-Smokes and Block Parties to championing Civil Rights Movements, Black Americans and immigrants in the District have not only shaped Washington, DC, but have also continued to protect it from the repeated attempts to interfere with DC Home Rule and centuries of racial and economic discrimination.
The District of Columbia is the home of Black excellence. Despite being silenced due to its status as the federal city and lack of statehood, our unique home has given birth to a voice, art, a music genre, and a flourishing culture. We proudly call it “Chocolate City.” The grounds we step on are where history was made, and our future is currently being shaped.
We honor those who paved the way, like Marion Barry, our “Mayor for Life,” who championed the establishment of Home Rule as a political activist. Chuck Brown, the Godfather of Go-Go, and his legendary band, The Soul Searchers, were “Bustin’ Loose” and became a symbol of resistance against attempts to destroy Black communities and criminalize and discriminate against Black and brown folk. The District of Columbia is Black history. It stands as proof that Black history cannot be erased or forgotten.
Yet, at this moment, we face a federal administration determined to bury this history–our history– dismantle the progress and turn back the clock on the advances we fought so hard for. But, like those before us, sitting back and waiting for things to get better is not an option. When there are systems in place that purposely prevent people of color from having a fair shot at a quality education, housing stability, safety, healthcare, and economic security, we must be just as determined to fight back.
At DC Action, we focus on ensuring that the District of Columbia remains a place where youth of color can learn about their history and identity while envisioning a bright, promising future without limitations. Though we find ourselves in challenging times, we take inspiration from past Black leaders who showed us that sticking together as a community, fighting for justice, resisting oppression, and remaining resilient will carry us to the “mountaintop” and beyond.
