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Neighbors,
This week, the District of Columbia is facing some financial challenges. Congress’ recent Continuing Resolution (CR) decision has led to a proposed $1 billion cut to D.C.’s budget—a devastating reduction that would impact schools, public safety, affordable housing, small businesses, and critical infrastructure. This is not just about numbers; it’s about the services and resources that our residents rely on every day.

But D.C. is strong, resilient, and united. My colleagues and I on the D.C. Council are working tirelessly to push back against these harmful cuts and fight for a budget that protects our communities.

As always, my office is here to support you, and we will continue working tirelessly to protect the resources and services our community depends on.

In service,
Kenyan
Legislative Updates


** Wednesday's Public Roundtable: Building a Resilient Economy
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On Wednesday, March 12th, the Committee on Business & Economic Development held an in-person public roundtable titled "Building a Resilient Economy: Strategies for the District’s Future Growth, Investment, and Stability." The discussion brought together business leaders, developers, affordable housing advocates, and key stakeholders to address the challenges and opportunities in strengthening D.C.’s economy.

Key topics covered included:

✅ Challenges in Development & Affordable Housing – Engaging directly with developers and affordable housing advocates to understand the obstacles they face in doing business in D.C., including rising costs, permitting delays, and financing hurdles.

✅ Economic Stability & Growth – Exploring strategies to bolster the District’s financial health, attract investment, and ensure long-term sustainability.

✅ Small Business Support – Identifying ways to expand access to capital, simplify regulatory processes, and create new opportunities for entrepreneurs.

✅ Workforce Development – Discussing employment programs, job training initiatives, and strategies to connect D.C. residents with quality career pathways.

With the District facing ongoing economic challenges, including concerns over credit ratings and potential funding cuts, this roundtable was a vital opportunity to collaborate on solutions that promote growth, stability, and equity.

As a member of the Council, I remain committed to advocating for policies that uplift businesses, support workers, and drive inclusive economic development. I appreciate the engagement and insights shared by all participants and look forward to working together to build a stronger, more resilient economy for all District residents.

Stay tuned for future hearings and legislative updates!
Upcoming CBED Public Hearing
Your input is invaluable! 📢 Share your thoughts and help shape the conversation by submitting written testimony or registering to testify at the upcoming hearing. Join the discussion and ensure your perspective is included by signing up here: Submit/Testify ([link removed]) . ([link removed])


** Team McDuffie In The Community
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Speaking at the Greater Washington DC Black Chamber of Commerce President's Circle Executive Reception

On Tuesday, March 11th, I had the pleasure of attending the Greater Washington Black Chamber of Commerce (GWBCC) President’s Circle Executive Reception at the stunning Foley & Lardner LLP office space at 3000 K Street NW. This gathering brought together a dynamic group of business leaders dedicated to advancing Black entrepreneurship and economic opportunity in the District.

During my remarks, I reaffirmed my commitment to creating pathways for small businesses to thrive, emphasizing that my office is a resource for entrepreneurs looking to grow and succeed. I personally invited every business leader in attendance to visit the John A. Wilson Building, meet with my team, and engage with us on ways we can support their businesses.

Following my speech, I had the opportunity to connect one-on-one with members of the GWBCC’s President’s Circle Cohort, engaging in meaningful discussions about their experiences, challenges, and aspirations for the future of Black business in D.C.

A special thank you to GWBCC President & CEO Aisha Bond for her leadership and dedication to Black businesses, and to Frederick Von Bryant and Foley & Lardner LLP for their generous hospitality and continued support of economic empowerment in our communities.

I look forward to working alongside GWBCC and our local business community to build a more equitable and thriving economic landscape for all.
Connecting with Ward 8: Community Office Hours at Grounded

On Thursday, March 13th, I had the privilege of hosting Ward 8 Community Office Hours at the beautiful Grounded: Plant Shop, Café & Wellness Studio, located at 1913 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave SE. This welcoming space provided the perfect setting for meaningful conversations with Ward 8 residents about the issues that matter most to them.

Engaging directly with the community is a cornerstone of my work, and this gathering was an opportunity to listen, learn, and discuss key challenges and opportunities facing Ward 8. One of the highlights of the evening was swearing in Fred Nelson, a newly elected Ward 8 ANC Commissioner. This moment reinforced the importance of civic engagement and local leadership in shaping the future of our communities.

I remain committed to amplifying the voices of Ward 8 residents—showing up, listening, and advocating for meaningful change. Looking ahead, I’m eager to continue these conversations, meet with more Ward 8 residents, and work together to build a brighter, more equitable future for our community.

Thank you to everyone who joined me, and a special thanks to Grounded for providing such a wonderful space to connect. I look forward to continuing these important discussions in the weeks and months ahead!
Team McDuffie Visits Friendship Heights

Today, Team McDuffie embarked on a tour of Friendship Heights with the Friendship Heights Alliance, strolling down Wisconsin Avenue to explore the rich history of the former Belmont neighborhood and current plans for the area. As they delved into the neighborhood's past, the Committee gained a deeper understanding of its potential.

The tour was followed by a conversation with Natalie Avery, President and Executive Director of the Alliance, who shared her vision for the area’s future—highlighting the transformative possibilities of expanded housing opportunities, enhanced placemaking, and strengthened ties with Maryland to drive development and growth.
Team McDuffie's Spring Renewal at Lederer Gardens - Get Involved🌱🌸

Spring is in the air, and Team McDuffie has been busy weeding the garden beds at Lederer Gardens, preparing for upcoming plantings that will bring fresh, free produce to the community!

Lederer Gardens is a hidden gem in D.C., providing residents with access to free, locally grown vegetables throughout the growing season. As we gear up for another bountiful spring, we’re encouraging community members to stop by, take advantage of the fresh produce, and lend a helping hand!

🌿 Volunteers Needed!
Lederer Gardens thrives because of dedicated volunteers who help with planting, weeding, and harvesting. If you’re looking for a great way to give back to the community and enjoy the outdoors, consider joining the effort!

📩 Interested in volunteering? Contact Josh Singer at for more details.

📍 Lederer Gardens ([link removed]) – 4801 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave NE, Washington, DC 20019

Come be a part of this community-driven initiative and help us grow something amazing this season! 🌾🥕🥬
Bison Basketball Dominates: Howard's Rising Stars Shine!


** Small Business Spotlight
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Tropical Smoothie Cafe Monroe Street Market - Brookland (Ward 5)


** Small Business Spotlight: Tropical Smoothie Cafe Monroe Street Market – Brookland 🌴🥤
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Located in the heart of Brookland, Tropical Smoothie Cafe Monroe Street Market – Brookland is a Black-owned gem serving up delicious and nutritious smoothies, wraps, sandwiches, and more! Whether you're looking for a post-workout boost or a quick, healthy meal, this spot has something for everyone.

📍 Address: 716 Monroe Street, N.E., Washington, DC 20017
🌐 Website: Tropical Smoothie Cafe – Monroe Street Market ([link removed].)


** What They Offer:
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✅ Refreshing Smoothies – Made-to-order with real fruit and fresh ingredients.
✅ Wholesome Meals – Wraps, sandwiches, flatbreads, and bowls packed with flavor.
✅ All-Day Breakfast – Enjoy hearty options like the Peanut Butter Banana Crunch Flatbread.
✅ Tropic Bowls & Kids Menu – Something for the whole family to enjoy!

About the Owner: The cafe is owned by Scot C. Moore, who brings a passion for healthy eating and community engagement to the Brookland neighborhood. Under his leadership, the cafe has become a vibrant spot for locals to enjoy nutritious meals in a welcoming atmosphere.​local.yahoo.com+3yelp.com+3maps.roadtrippers.com+3 ([link removed])

Next time you're in Brookland, be sure to stop by Tropical Smoothie Cafe Monroe Street Market – Brookland to support a Black-owned business and treat yourself to something delicious! 🍓🥑🥤
Upcoming Events in the Community
5B07 Community Clean-Up Event
The Lowe's Foundation Gable Grants Program
As part of the Lowe’s Foundation’s ([link removed]) 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:
* Gable Grant Eligibility Guidelines
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* Gable Grants FAQs
([link removed]
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* Lowe's Foundation Fact Sheet
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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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As the District finds itself under assault by the federal government, the DC History Center invites the residents of the District of Columbia to attend the 51st DC History Conference ([link removed]) , Thursday, April 3 through Sunday, April 6. This is a time for Washingtonians to stand proud, rooted in our distinctive history and deriving strength from our long record of resilience and endurance.

Co-presented by the DC History Center ([link removed]) , DC Public Library, and HumanitiesDC, the DC History Conference takes place again at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library. We expect more than 1,000 attendees this year. The short program is linked here
([link removed]) , and you are warmly invited to join us at any time.

On Saturday, April 5, at 3:30 pm, the Letitia Woods Brown Memorial Lecture will feature Georgetown University Historian Maurice Jackson ([link removed]) in conversation with E. Ethelbert Miller for “Hoops and Soul: Black Resistance and Resilience through Sport and Sound,”

Please note registration is now open ([link removed]) and free to all attendees.

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Connect with our Constituent Services ** Portal ([link removed])
and Director, Kelley Cislo, at ** [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])
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