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Welcome to The Washington D.C. Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• A new Black Wall Street

• Upcoming Washington Nationals match

• A deep-dive into the life of Josephine Baker

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Things work out best for those who make the best of how things work out.”

– John Wooden

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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!

In Washington DC, which public square is known for being a site of historic speeches and protests, located directly north of the White House?

A) Dupont Circle

B) Logan Circle

C) Lafayette Square

D) Freedom Plaza

Answer to Week 28's Trivia:

The Washington DC museum that focuses on the human impact of war, featuring personal stories and artifacts from conflicts around the world, is B) The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

News

💼Business

This D.C. Incubator Is Ushering in a New Black Wall Street. (Link)

DC Asks Small Business Owners for Security Camera Access. (Link)

🏒Sports

Former WTOP sportscaster Dave Johnson reflects on ‘joyous journey’ (Link)

BetMGM and Caesars launch mobile sports betting in Washington DC. (Link)

🏦Finance

Grant Thornton announces new leader for 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

⚾ Loudoun United FC vs Charleston Battery
Segra Field, Leesburg, VA
Wednesday, Jul. 24th | (More info)

⚾ San Diego Padres at Washington Nationals
Nationals Park, Washington, DC
Tuesday, Jul. 23rd to Thursday, Jul. 25th | (More info)

Concerts

🎵 IU
601 F St NW, Washington, DC
Monday, July 22 | (More info)

🎵 Hana Vu
2047 9th St NW, Washington, DC
Thursday, July 25 | (More info)

Family-Friendly Events

🎨Kids World 2024
1332 I St NW, Washington, DC
Saturday, July 27th | (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 at night, lit by neon and holograms.” 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

Million Man March (1995) - A large gathering aimed at promoting African American unity and family values.

The Million Man March, which took place on October 16, 1995, in Washington, D.C., stands as a monumental event in American history, specifically within the context of African American civil rights and activism. Conceived and organized by Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan, the march aimed to address the myriad challenges facing the African American community, with a particular focus on promoting unity, family values, and economic empowerment among black men. Drawing hundreds of thousands of participants, although estimates of the exact number vary, the march was one of the largest gatherings of its kind in the history of the United States.

The march came at a time of significant social and racial strife in America, amidst rising concerns over crime, poverty, and the disproportionate incarceration rates within the African American community. Framed as a day of atonement and reconciliation, participants were encouraged to reflect on their personal lives and contributions to their communities, vowing to improve family relationships and engage more actively in uplifting their neighborhoods. The event featured speeches and performances from a variety of speakers and artists, all focusing on themes of responsibility, spiritual growth, and social progress.

The legacy of the Million Man March is multifaceted. On one hand, it represented a powerful moment of unity and collective action for African American men, who publicly committed to making positive changes in their lives and communities. On the other hand, the march sparked debate and criticism, particularly regarding Louis Farrakhan's controversial views and the exclusion of women from the event. Despite these criticisms, the march is remembered as a pivotal moment in the struggle for justice and equality, inspiring subsequent gatherings and continuing to influence discussions on race, identity, and community in America.

Famous People From Washington D.C.

Josephine Butler (1920–1997)

Josephine Butler was a pioneering environmental and social activist whose efforts were crucial in the fight against environmental racism in Washington D.C. Her life story is a testament to the power of resilience, dedication, and passion in advocating for justice and equality.

Early Years and Education (1920-1941)

Born in 1920 in a small town on the outskirts of Washington D.C., Josephine Butler was the daughter of farmers who instilled in her a deep respect for the environment and the importance of community. Despite the racial and economic challenges of her time, Butler pursued her education with zeal, attending a local segregated school where she excelled academically.

Activism Begins: The Seeds Are Planted (1942-1959)

After completing her education, Butler moved to Washington D.C., where she became acutely aware of the disparities and injustices faced by her community. It was during this period that Butler began her journey as an activist, initially focusing on civil rights and later expanding to environmental issues.

The Fight Against Environmental Racism (1960-1975)

As Butler's activism evolved, she became one of the leading voices against environmental racism in D.C., drawing attention to how black communities were disproportionately impacted by pollution and environmental degradation. She played a key role in advocating for cleaner and safer living conditions, rallying both the community and policymakers to take notice and act.

Advocacy in Action: Leading Change (1976-1985)

Butler's efforts during these years were characterized by direct action and advocacy. She led numerous campaigns, organized community clean-ups, and collaborated with other activists to pressure the government to address the environmental injustices plaguing D.C.'s black neighborhoods. Her leadership was instrumental in bringing about policy changes and heightened awareness of environmental racism.

A Voice for the Voiceless (1986-1992)

Not content with just local activism, Butler became a national spokesperson on issues of environmental racism. She traveled across the country, giving speeches, participating in panels, and working with national environmental organizations to bring wider attention to the cause.

Building a Legacy: Educating Future Generations (1993-1997)

In her later years, Butler focused on educating the next generation of activists. She worked closely with schools and youth organizations in D.C. to teach children and young adults about the importance of environmental justice, instilling in them the values of stewardship and advocacy.

Josephine Butler's Connection to Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. was not only Butler's home but also the primary focus of her activism. She dedicated her life to addressing the environmental and social injustices within the city, transcending the role of a resident to become one of its most ardent protectors and advocates. Her work had a profound impact on the city, leading to tangible improvements in environmental policies and practices.

Final Years and Reflections (1996-1997)

In the final years of her life, Butler reflected on her journey as an activist. She remained hopeful for the future, confident that the seeds of change she had planted would blossom into lasting improvements for marginalized communities in D.C. and beyond. Butler passed away in 1997, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, leadership, and hope.

Remembering Josephine Butler (Post-1997)

After her passing, Butler's impact continued to be felt. Schools, libraries, and environmental groups in D.C. and across the nation celebrated her work, with many instituting programs and initiatives in her name to continue her mission for environmental justice and equality.

Key Achievements of Josephine Butler:

• Pioneering advocate against environmental racism in Washington D.C.

• Instrumental in bringing about policy changes to address environmental injustices.

• National spokesperson for environmental justice, raising awareness of the issue on a wider scale.

• Mentored the next generation of activists, focusing on education and youth engagement.

• Left a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship and community activism.

Josephine Butler's life was a remarkable journey of activism and advocacy. Her unwavering determination to combat environmental racism transformed not only the communities she served but also set a precedent for future generations of activists. As a mentor, leader, and visionary, Butler's legacy continues to inspire and guide those committed to social and environmental justice.

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

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