Dear Ward 8 Residents,

We are living in a warzone. 

I held a press conference this week because I am frustrated at the number of grieving mothers I have to console, devastated by the loss of a child due to gun violence. I called to do something extreme this week because we are in harsh times.

I announced an idea to call on the National Guard to provide a presence in the District to support the Metropolitan Police Department and serve as a deterrent for violent individuals. 

The reality is we need more officers. Our officers are outnumbered and outmatched by the heavy artillery the individuals committing the crimes carry. I have witnessed several crime scenes where militarized weaponry has been used -- leaving hundreds of rounds in its aftermath. 

Already this year, more than 160 lives have been lost in DC. We are burying our children at an alarming rate. The time for us to unite and take action to increase the safety in our community is right now.

Respectfully,

Trayon White, Sr.
Councilmember, Ward 8