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Neighbors,
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, I want to take a moment to recognize the invaluable contributions of women across our city—leaders, entrepreneurs, advocates, and everyday changemakers who continue to push our communities forward. Their impact is woven into the fabric of D.C., and I remain committed to uplifting and supporting women in all sectors.
I’m also excited to update you on the progress we’re making at the Council to improve our city. During Tuesday’s legislative meeting, we successfully passed two important bills on final reading, moving them one step closer to becoming law. These measures reflect our commitment to strengthening our communities, supporting local businesses, and ensuring a thriving and equitable D.C. for all.
This week, I also had the privilege of supporting and celebrating eight incredible local businesses as they received grant funding through Pepco’s Energizing Small Business Grants Program. These businesses are making a real impact by expanding food access and driving economic growth in under-resourced communities, and I look forward to seeing their success.
Meanwhile, members of Team McDuffie were out in the community, attending ANC and CAC meetings to stay connected with residents and help inform the work we do in the office. Your voices shape our policies, and we remain committed to listening, engaging, and delivering results for the District.
In service,
Kenyan
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Councilmember McDuffie Statement on Moody's Review of District of Columbia's Credit Rating
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Tuesday's Legislative Meeting: Council Passes Key Legislation to Support Businesses and Economic Growth
At this week’s D.C. Council Legislative Meeting, I was proud to support and advance several key pieces of legislation from the Committee on Business & Economic Development that will help local businesses thrive and boost economic development across the District.
The Council passed the following measures:
- (Passed First Reading) On-Premises and On-Site Extended Hours Program Amendment Act of 2025 – Expands opportunities for local businesses to extend their operating hours for special events, supporting nightlife and tourism.
- (Adopted by the Council) Eastern Branch Boys and Girls Club Disposition Extension Approval Resolution of 2025 – Allows for the continued redevelopment of the Eastern Branch Boys and Girls Club, ensuring that this historic space can serve the community.
- (Adopted by the Council) National Links Trust Inc. Revenue Bonds Project Approval Resolution of 2025 – Approves financing for improvements to public golf courses, enhancing recreation opportunities for residents.
Each of these bills is part of our ongoing work to create a stronger, more inclusive local economy. I remain committed to ensuring that small businesses, cultural institutions, and public spaces receive the support they need to grow and serve our residents.
Cannabis Emergency Legislation Passed:
The Medical Cannabis Clarification and Program Enforcement Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 aims to crack down on illegal cannabis businesses operating without a license.
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Team McDuffie In The Community
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Delivering Remarks at the Pepco Energizing Small Business Grant Event
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This past Wednesday, I had the honor of delivering remarks at the 2025 Pepco Energizing Small Business Grant Program award event, where we recognized eight outstanding local businesses that are expanding food access and strengthening our communities.
This grant program, launched by Pepco in 2024, is a vital investment in our city’s small food businesses, helping them grow and bring fresh, healthy, and affordable food to neighborhoods that need it most. Through $700,000 in funding, these grants support tenant improvements, expansion efforts, and innovative food solutions in communities like Deanwood, River Terrace, Carver-Langston, and Eastland/Kenilworth.
At the DOES Community Room, I had the opportunity to celebrate and congratulate the 2025 grant recipients:
- Thai Zest
- Fresh Food Factory Market
- Union Kitchen
- Fight Juice
- Deanwood Deli
- DMV Meat LLC
- WellBody
- Jarabe
Each of these businesses is making a tangible impact by addressing food insecurity and creating economic opportunities in our communities. Their work demonstrates the strength of small businesses in building a more equitable and food-secure city.
I want to extend my sincere gratitude to Pepco for their commitment to supporting small businesses and investing in communities that have historically lacked food access. As we continue working toward a stronger, healthier, and more inclusive D.C., my office stands ready to support these entrepreneurs and ensure their success.
Together, we are making real progress—one business, one meal, and one opportunity at a time.
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Team McDuffie Attends the 19th Annual Blacks in Wax Event
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Today, Team McDuffie had the honor of attending the 19th Annual Blacks in Wax event at THEARC, a powerful celebration of Black history and culture. Organized by the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center (SETLC) in partnership with DPR and the Recreation Wish List Committee, this year’s performance highlighted the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and featured local youth portraying influential Black leaders through drama, music, and dance.
Team McDuffie had the opportunity to speak with Cora Masters Barry, whose leadership has made this program a lasting success. Her commitment to empowering youth through education and the arts is truly inspiring.
Blacks in Wax continues to be a vital tradition in uplifting Black excellence, and we are proud to support its mission. We look forward to seeing it grow and encourage everyone to experience this incredible event in the future!
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Team McDuffie Attends the Second Annual MPD Women's Conference
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From March 4-6, 2025, Team McDuffie was excited to attend the Second Annual MPD Women's Conference, hosted by MPD Chief Pamela A. Smith at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. This three-day event brought together women in law enforcement and beyond for leadership development, networking, and empowerment, while reinforcing MPD’s commitment to the 30X30 campaign to increase women’s representation in policing.
The conference featured workshops, panel discussions, and keynote addresses on career advancement, wellness, and leadership. A special highlight was the recognition of the Jackson-Reed High School Girls Varsity Soccer Team, which received the Chief Pamela A. Smith Youth Leadership Award. The JR Tigers earned this honor after winning the DCIAA Championship on October 30th, demonstrating outstanding teamwork, dedication, and leadership.
Team McDuffie was honored to witness the energy and inspiration among attendees and commends Chief Smith and MPD for fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for women. We look forward to supporting future initiatives that uplift and empower women across the District!
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Community Meetings Team McDuffie Attended This Week
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- ANC 2F
- ANC 1C
- 1D CAC
- ANC 4A
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Small Business Spotlight
Anacostia Arts Center (Ward 8)
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Small Business Highlight: Anacostia Arts Center
Located in the heart of Historic Anacostia, the Anacostia Arts Center is more than just a creative space—it’s a cultural and economic engine for the community. Since its founding in 2013, the center has provided a platform for local artists, entrepreneurs, and small businesses, enriching the neighborhood with exhibitions, performances, and economic opportunities.
Now operated by the Washington Area Community Investment Fund (Wacif), the center continues its mission of inclusive entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. The space includes a Black Box Theater, café, lounge, and The HIVE, a business incubator supporting local startups. Through its programming and partnerships, the center has amplified local talent, supported small businesses, and brought greater arts accessibility to Ward 8 residents.
The impact on the community has been profound—providing a space where creativity, business, and culture intersect. By hosting local performances, pop-up markets, and networking events, the Anacostia Arts Center fosters a sense of belonging while fueling economic development in an area rich with history and potential.
📍 Location: 1231 Good Hope Road SE, Washington, D.C. 20020
🔗 Learn More: anacostiaartscenter.com
We celebrate the Anacostia Arts Center for its commitment to uplifting local artists and entrepreneurs while strengthening the cultural and economic fabric of D.C.!
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Upcoming Events in the Community
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The Lowe's Foundation Gable Grants Program
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As part of the Lowe’s Foundation’s focus on closing the skilled trades gap across the United States, the Lowe’s Foundation’s Gable Grants program is accepting grant applications for community and technical colleges that offer innovative skilled trades training programs. The application window is open until March 31, 2025. Please share this opportunity with your constituents, as it is a great way to support workforce development in your area.
This round of Gable Grant applications is for community and technical colleges only. The next Gable Grant cycle for community-based organizations and nonprofits will open later this year.
The Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grants program is a 5-year, $50 million commitment to train 50,000 job-ready skilled tradespeople to build a stronger infrastructure that supports our communities for the long term. From 2023-2028, community and technical colleges and community-based nonprofit organizations across the country can apply for grants to recruit, train and employ the future skilled trades workforce.
Helpful Links:
Since 2023, the Lowe's Foundation has awarded over $34 million in Gable Grants to help educate and advocate for the next generation of skilled tradespeople by supporting training programs focused on carpentry and construction, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and appliance repair. This includes nearly $9 million awarded last month to 15 nonprofit organizations across the country, all aimed at supporting the skilled trades workforce. You can read more about these nonprofit organizations here.
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Today: Spirit at Pride for the Challenge Cup
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Click here for more information.
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