Sponsored by:

Welcome to The Washington D.C. Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• GSA awards $524M contract to build cybersecurity agency's D.C. headquarters.

• Upcoming Darius Concert

• A deep-dive into the life of Dorothy Height

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“So many things are possible just as long as you don’t know they’re impossible.”

–Norton Juster

Sponsored

Renewal by Andersen Summer Savings Event Is Here: Buy One, Get One 40% Off + $200 Off Your Order!

Ready to transform your home? Invest in beautiful, energy-efficient windows from Renewal by Andersen^®. For a limited time, you’ll receive Buy One, Get One 40% Off + $200 off your order¹, and enjoy the benefits of increased comfort, lower energy bills, and enhanced curb appeal. Get your free quote!

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Which Washington DC museum is dedicated to the exploration and celebration of the history of the postal service in the United States?

A) The National Postal Museum

B) The National Museum of American History

C) The Smithsonian Institution Building

D) The Newseum

Answer to Week 39's Trivia:

The bridge in Washington DC adorned with unique bronze statues and serves as a ceremonial entrance to the city from Virginia is C) The Arlington Memorial Bridge

News

💼Business

Suspect Nabbed in String of Northwest Washington D.C. Business Robberies (Link)

Businesses in D.C. Blame the Government for the District’s Empty Offices (Link)

🏒Sports

How Big Is The D.C. Sports Betting Market Post Expansion? (Link)

DC hires high priced venue management company to help bring the Washington Commanders back to RFK (Link)

🏦Finance

FICO Brings Free Financial Literacy Workshops to Washington, D.C. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports Events

⚾ Connecticut Sun at Washington Mystics
St. Elizabeth East Entertainment and Sports Arena, Washington, DC
Saturday, August 31st | (More info)

⚾ Chicago Cubs at Washington Nationals
Nationals Park, Washington, DC
Saturday, August 31st | (More info)

Concerts

🎵 DC JazzFest - Samara Joy
901 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC
Friday, August 30th | (More info)

🎵 BALTHVS
2047 9th St NW, Washington, DC
Tuesday, August 27th | (More info)

Family-Friendly Events

🌸 Family Story Time
Takoma Park Neighborhood Library, Washington, DC
Wednesday, August 28th | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Washington DC where architecture is inspired by different musical genres” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Washington D.C. Historical Events

Civil Rights Act of 1964 Signed in D.C. - Landmark legislation that outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

The Civil Rights Act of 1964, signed into law in Washington D.C., represents a monumental landmark in the struggle for civil rights in the United States. This transformative legislation was designed to combat the pervasive discrimination and segregation that had marred American society for decades. It specifically outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, marking a significant step forward in the pursuit of equality. With its passage, the federal government reinforced its commitment to protecting the civil rights of all Americans, challenging deeply ingrained societal biases and practices.

The Act was comprehensive in scope, addressing discrimination in multiple areas including employment, education, public accommodations, and federally funded programs. Title VII of the Act, for instance, prohibited employment discrimination by large employers, whether private or public, as well as labor unions and agencies. This was a powerful move towards ensuring equal opportunities in the workplace, a crucial aspect of economic and social equality. Additionally, the legislation accelerated school desegregation efforts and aimed to break down racial barriers in public accommodations like hotels, restaurants, and theaters. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 thus laid the groundwork for a more inclusive and equitable society by legally affirming the principles of equality and justice for all citizens regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

The signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 in Washington D.C. was not only a pivotal moment in American history but also a testament to the tireless efforts and sacrifices of civil rights leaders and activists who had fought courageously for change. Their persistent advocacy, peaceful protests, and strategic legal challenges culminated in this groundbreaking legislation. The Act has since served as a critical tool for combatting discrimination, inspiring further progress in civil rights legislation, including the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the Fair Housing Act of 1968. As we reflect on its significance, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 continues to stand as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the ongoing journey towards achieving true equality and justice for all.

Famous People From Washington D.C.

Sterling Brown (1901–1989) - Poet, professor, and literary critic, influential in the New Negro Movement and Harlem Renaissance.

Sterling Allen Brown, a seminal figure in African American literature, was deeply intertwined with the New Negro Movement and the Harlem Renaissance. His life and work as a poet, professor, and literary critic have left an indelible mark on the tapestry of American culture.

Early Years and Education (1901-1922)

Born in Washington, DC, to a middle-class African American family, Sterling Brown was ingrained with a profound appreciation for the value of education and the richness of his cultural heritage from an early age. After graduating from Dunbar High School, he pursued further education at Williams College, where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa, and later at Harvard University, where he earned a master's degree. These formative years laid the foundation for Brown’s lifelong commitment to exploring and celebrating African American culture.

Beginnings of a Literary Career (1923-1931)

Upon completing his education, Brown embarked on a teaching career, joining the faculty of Virginia Seminary and College before moving to Howard University in 1929, a tenure that would span four decades. During these early years, Brown devoted himself to writing poetry and essays that delved into African American life, drawing on folklore, jazz, blues, and southern black speech to craft a deeply resonant and authentic voice.

The Harlem Renaissance (1932-1939)

While the Harlem Renaissance flourished in New York, Brown became a key figure in the movement through his literary contributions and correspondence with other African American luminaries. His first book of poems, Southern Road (1932), garnered critical acclaim for its vibrant portrayal of black life in the rural South, cementing his place within this pivotal cultural moment.

Advancing African American Literary Criticism (1940-1950)

Throughout the 1940s, Brown evolved into a prominent literary critic, challenging prevailing stereotypes and advocating for a more nuanced and respectful understanding of African American literature. His scholarly work, including his editorship of the influential anthology Negro Poetry and Drama (1937) and The Negro in American Fiction (1937), played a critical role in shaping the emerging canon of African American literature.

Activism and Academia (1951-1960)

Sterling Brown's commitment to civil rights and social justice became increasingly pronounced during this decade. At Howard University and beyond, he was not only a revered educator but also an outspoken critic of racial inequality. Through his lectures, writings, and personal mentorship, Brown inspired a generation of writers and scholars to engage with the political struggles of their time.

Recognition and Influence (1961-1970)

The 1960s saw a growing recognition of Brown’s work and influence. Despite facing challenges from the conservative climate of Howard University in the early part of the decade, Brown was awarded a Ford Foundation grant in 1969 to study and promote black American folklore, enabling him to further his research and writing on the subject.

The Emeritus Years (1971-1980)

Retiring from Howard University in 1969, Brown entered a prolific period of speaking engagements, workshops, and continued scholarship. His work during these years solidified his status as a venerable elder in the African American literary community, eagerly sought after for his wisdom and insights.

Honors and Legacy (1981-1989)

In his final years, Sterling Brown was showered with accolades, including honorary degrees from several prestigious institutions and the Lenore Marshall Poetry Prize. His passing in 1989 was mourned as the loss of a monumental figure in American letters, a tireless advocate for the true representation of African American life.

Connection to Washington DC

Central to Brown's life and work was his connection to Washington DC. Not only was he born and raised in the city, but he also spent much of his professional life at Howard University, where he influenced countless students. The city itself, with its rich tapestry of African American culture, history, and activism, deeply informed Brown’s literary output and academic pursuits.

Key Achievements of Sterling Brown:

• Renowned poet and key figure in the Harlem Renaissance.

• Esteemed professor at Howard University for over 40 years.

• Pioneering African American literary critic.

• Editor of influential anthologies and scholar of African American folklore.

• Recipient of numerous awards and honors for his contributions to literature and the humanities.

Sterling Brown's legacy is that of a trailblazer in African American literature and scholarship. Through his poetry, criticism, and teaching, he championed the depth, diversity, and richness of African American culture. His work not only illuminated the complexities of black life in America but also paved the way for future generations to explore the landscapes of their own experiences with authenticity and pride. As both a product and proponent of Washington DC's vibrant cultural scene, Brown’s influence remains a cornerstone of American literary and cultural history.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Poll