Welcome to The Washington D.C. Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• EagleBank taps Truist market president Evelyn Lee for top lending post.

• Upcoming Washington Spirit match

• A deep-dive into the life of Jeannette Rankin

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“There is virtue in work and there is virtue in rest. Use both and overlook neither.” 

–Alan Cohen

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 institution is dedicated to the study of the Holocaust, providing exhibitions and educational programs about this historical tragedy?

A) The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

B) The National Museum of American History

C) The Museum of Tolerance

D) The Smithsonian Institution

Answer to Week 43's Trivia:

The Washington DC museum dedicated to the presentation and preservation of Asian art, boasting a collection spanning thousands of years, is A) The Freer Gallery of Art.

News

💼Business

Jubilee Housing moving headquarters to future Adams Morgan development site. (Link)

Former Rosetta Stone exec to lead Arlington's StraighterLine. (Link)

🏒Sports

Pavia wins debut, helps Vanderbilt stun Virginia Tech in overtime. (Link)

Carolina Hurricanes reach eight-year, $63.2 million deal with rising forward Seth Jarvis. (Link)

🏦Finance

EagleBank taps Truist market president Evelyn Lee for top lending post. (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

⚽ Portland Thorns FC at Washington Spirit
Audi Field, Washington, DC
Saturday, Sep 7th | (More info)

🏈 Mercyhurst Lakers at Howard Bison Football
Greene Stadium, Washington, DC
Saturday, Sep 7th | (More info)

Concerts

🎵 Don Omar
Capital One Arena, Washington, DC
Sunday, Sep 8th | (More info)

🎵 Nicki Minaj
Capital One Arena, Washington, DC
Monday, Sep 9th | (More info)

Family

🎨 Amiracle Kids Interior Design Program
3419 18th Street Northeast, Washington, DC
Saturday, Sep 7th | (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 “An architecturally symmetrical Washington DC” 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

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Dedication (1982) - The Wall becomes a profound symbol of sacrifice.

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, often referred to simply as The Wall, was dedicated on November 13, 1982, in a ceremony that marked a poignant moment in American history. This memorial, situated in Washington D.C., was created to honor the service and sacrifice of the U.S. armed forces members who fought in the Vietnam War. Its dedication represented a long-awaited acknowledgment for the approximately 2.7 million Americans who served in Vietnam, especially at a time when the war's veterans were often met with indifference or hostility upon their return home. The Wall quickly became a profound symbol of sacrifice, a place for reflection on the costs of war, and a site for reconciliation among Americans.

Designed by American architect Maya Lin while she was still an undergraduate student at Yale University, the memorial's simple yet evocative design features two black granite walls engraved with the names of over 58,000 servicemen and women who died in Vietnam or remain missing. The names are listed in chronological order based on the date of casualty, underscoring the sheer human cost of the conflict. Its reflective surface allows visitors to see themselves alongside the names, a powerful reminder of the connection between the past and the present. The dedication of The Wall was attended by thousands, including many veterans and their families, and it marked the beginning of a healing process from the nation's divisions over the war.

Over the years, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial has become one of the most visited and poignant memorials in Washington D.C. It serves as a place of mourning, remembrance, and healing for veterans, their families, and the general public. The Wall transcends its physical form to stand as a symbol of national conscience, compelling visitors to reflect on the complexities of war and the sacrifices made by those who serve. Its dedication in 1982 enabled The Wall to become not just a memorial, but a vital part of the narrative of the Vietnam War and its enduring impact on American society and its collective memory.

Famous People From Washington D.C.

Jeannette Rankin (1880–1973) - The first woman elected to the United States Congress, was a resident of Washington, D.C., during part of her career.

Jeannette Rankin, a pioneering force in American politics, shattered the glass ceiling by becoming the first woman ever elected to the United States Congress. Her story is a testament to courage, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of justice.

Early Years and Education (1880–1902)

Born in Missoula, Montana, to a schoolteacher and a carpenter, Jeannette Rankin was the eldest of seven children. She grew up in a time when women's voices were barely heard in the public arena. Determined to make a difference, Rankin pursued higher education, graduating from the University of Montana with a degree in biology.

A Call to Social Work (1903–1910)

After college, Rankin felt compelled to address the social issues of her day. She moved to New York City, where she joined the emerging social work movement. Working in settlement houses, Rankin witnessed firsthand the struggles of the working class, fueling her passion for reform and justice.

Suffrage Movement Leader (1911–1916)

Rankin's commitment to social change soon led her to the women's suffrage movement. She returned to Montana and became a powerful advocate for women's voting rights. Through tireless campaigning, she played a pivotal role in securing the vote for Montana women in 1914.

A Historic Congressional Campaign (1916)

In 1916, Rankin made history by becoming the first woman elected to Congress. This groundbreaking achievement not only shattered gender barriers but also spotlighted Rankin as a national leader for women's rights and social justice.

Advocacy in Congress (1917–1918)

During her first term in Congress, Rankin championed numerous social reforms, including worker protections and child welfare. However, she is best remembered for her staunch pacifism. Rankin voted against U.S. entry into World War I, a stance that was both controversial and courageous.

Between Congress Terms: Advocacy and Activism (1919–1940)

After her term, Rankin continued her advocacy, focusing on peace and social justice issues. She worked for organizations such as the National Council for the Prevention of War and was a vocal critic of military aggression.

Return to Congress and WWII Vote (1941)

Rankin returned to Congress in 1941, just in time to cast a vote on U.S. entry into World War II. Once again, she stood firm in her pacifist beliefs, casting the sole vote against the war following the attack on Pearl Harbor. Her commitment to peace remained unwavering, even in the face of widespread criticism.

Post-Congressional Years and Legacy (1942–1973)

After leaving Congress, Rankin never ceased her advocacy work, focusing on civil rights and opposition to the Vietnam War. She remained active in political debates and was a mentor to the new generation of activists until her passing in 1973.

Connection to Washington, D.C. (Throughout Career)

Jeannette Rankin's career had a profound connection to Washington, D.C., not just as the stage for her Congressional service, but as a hub for her advocacy efforts. She engaged with policymakers, influenced legislation, and brought her peace-first agenda to the nation's capital, making her mark in the heart of American politics.

Remembering Jeannette Rankin (1973 and Beyond)

Rankin's death in 1973 marked the end of an era, but her legacy lives on. She is remembered as a trailblazer for women in politics, a tireless advocate for peace, and a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity. Her life's work continues to inspire future generations to speak truth to power.

Key Achievements of Jeannette Rankin:

• First woman elected to the U.S. Congress.

• Played a key role in the women's suffrage movement, contributing to the right to vote for women in Montana.

• Known for her pacifist stance, being the only member of Congress to vote against U.S. participation in both World Wars.

• Advocated for social reforms, including child welfare and worker protections, throughout her career.

• Left a lasting legacy as a pioneer for women's rights and a beacon for peace advocacy.

Jeannette Rankin's life story is a narrative of breaking barriers and advocating for justice. As the first woman in Congress, her unyielding commitment to peace, equity, and social reform carved a path for future leaders. Rankin remains an enduring symbol of courage and conviction, reminding us that standing up for one's beliefs can indeed change the course of history.

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-Matthew Larsen

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