Neighbors,

This week, my committee advanced and passed key legislation to strengthen our Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) Program, focusing on compliance and enforcement to ensure that the District’s commitment to supporting local businesses is not just a promise, but a practice. This legislation will help level the playing field and keep more contracting dollars in our communities.

We also successfully moved forward three Revenue Bond projects, critical investments that will support job creation, infrastructure, and economic opportunity across the District. These wins reflect our ongoing commitment to inclusive growth and strategic development that benefits all residents.

As we close out this week, we’re also looking ahead — the Mayor’s FY 2026 proposed budget is expected soon, and with it, the start of one of the most important conversations we’ll have all year. Budget season is a time for reflection and prioritization, and I’ll be focused on ensuring our investments align with the values and needs of the residents of the District of Columbia.

In service,
Kenyan

📌 Emergency Legislation Passed During Tuesday's Legislative Meeting

🔹 Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) Program Compliance and Enforcement Support
Bill: B25-0345 (Emergency) & B25-0346 (Temporary)
The Council passed emergency and temporary legislation restoring critical oversight provisions to the CBE Program. This legislation strengthens enforcement mechanisms and ensures that certified businesses are independently owned and operated — reinforcing the integrity of the District’s small business development efforts.

Revenue Bond Projects Approved

PR26-0144 – Georgetown University Revenue Bonds Project
Authorization for the issuance of up to $675 million in revenue bonds to finance capital improvements at Georgetown’s campuses in Wards 2 and 6, including academic, administrative, and student life facilities.

PR26-0145 – Society for Science and the Public Revenue Bonds Project
Approval for up to $25 million in bonds to support improvements at 1776 Massachusetts Avenue NW, enhancing the organization’s capacity to advance science education and public engagement.

PR26-0158 – Maret School, Inc. Revenue Bonds Project
Authorization for up to $37 million in revenue bonds to finance and refinance infrastructure and educational facility upgrades at Maret School’s campus.

Team McDuffie In The Community

On Thursday, April 3rd, I had the pleasure of visiting Generation Hope, an inspiring nonprofit headquartered right here in the District at 1401 Okie Street NE, Suite 300. I met with Nicole Lynn Lewis, the organization’s dynamic Founder and CEO, and toured their office to learn more about the incredible work they’re doing to support student parents and their children.

Generation Hope has made a significant impact on our city by providing holistic, two-generation support to teen parents pursuing college degrees. Through their Scholar Program, they offer mentoring, tuition assistance, case management, mental health support, and career readiness training — all designed to help student parents thrive academically and professionally. Their Next Generation Academy provides critical developmental support for their scholars' children, ensuring these young learners are prepared for kindergarten and beyond.

What began in D.C. has now grown into a national model. Generation Hope has expanded its reach to Dallas, Texas and New Orleans, Louisiana, continuing to uplift student parents and their families with the tools and support they need to succeed.

Teen parents deserve the opportunity to continue pursuing higher education, career advancement, and financial stability — and Generation Hope is proving that when we invest in young families, we create stronger communities for everyone. I’m proud to support their mission and look forward to continued partnership in service of student parents across the District.

On Thursday, April 3rd, I had the opportunity to visit Anacostia Organics, the first and only licensed cannabis dispensary East of the River in the District of Columbia. It was a pleasure to tour the store, learn more about the wide range of products and services they offer, and hear directly from the team about the work they’re doing to serve our community.

Anacostia Organics is more than just a local business — it’s a national leader. Founded by Linda Mercado Greene, the dispensary is proudly one of only three Black mother-and-daughter-owned cannabis businesses in the country, and it has made a strong commitment to hire only D.C. residents to staff the operation. That kind of community investment is exactly what we should be uplifting and supporting.

This past January 24th, 2025, Anacostia Organics celebrated six years of serving the Historic Anacostia community. In that time, they’ve gained national recognition — from leadership roles in cannabis trade associations, to speaking at major industry conferences, to being featured in prominent local and national media.

I remain committed to being an advocate for licensed cannabis businesses like Anacostia Organics — businesses that operate responsibly, reinvest locally, and reflect the values of equity, opportunity, and community impact that we strive to advance across the District.

Anacostia Organics is located on 2022 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE, Washington, DC 20020

On Thursday, April 3rd, Team McDuffie joined a community walk along Minnesota Avenue NE in Ward 7, coordinated by ANC Commissioner Ashley Ruff. The walk brought together some of my colleagues on the Council as well as multiple District agencies, community-based organizations, and engaged residents to spotlight critical issues along this vital corridor.

The walk served as a reminder of the importance of direct, on-the-ground engagement and the power of collaboration across agencies to address long-standing challenges. From public safety to beautification, infrastructure, and economic opportunity, it’s clear that consistent presence and partnership are key to lasting change.

In that spirit, our office is proud to announce a series of upcoming Takeover Tuesday events — multi-agency outreach activations designed to bring resources directly to the community:

Tuesday, April 15 | 9–11AM

In front of McDonald’s (3901 Minnesota Ave NE)

Tuesday, April 22 | 9–11AM

In front of MHCDO (3732 Minnesota Ave NE)

Tuesday, April 29 | 9–11AM

Corner of Benning Rd & Minnesota Ave NE (near the library and East River Shopping Center)

These events aim to activate public spaces, connect residents with critical services, and rebuild community through visibility, presence, and partnership. Because real progress happens not just in policy, but through persistent engagement, boots-on-the-ground collaboration, and shared commitment to the future of our neighborhoods.

This week, I had the opportunity to meet with Antwanye Ford, President & CEO of Enlightened, Inc., a premier Information Technology and Management Consulting firm based right here in the District. Founded in 1999, Enlightened has grown into a leading provider of cybersecurity, software development and integration, management consulting, and business process outsourcing services — serving clients across the federal, state, and local government landscape.

What stood out to me during our conversation was Enlightened’s commitment to building the next generation of tech leaders right here at home. Mr. Ford shared more about their internship and training program, which provides on-site opportunities for high school and college students to gain hands-on experience in the tech sector. These young people are learning critical skills in real-world settings — preparing them to enter the professional workforce with confidence and capability.

As we continue working to expand access to tech careers across the District, it’s partnerships like these — with businesses that invest in local talent and create clear pathways to upward mobility — that make a real difference. I’m grateful to Mr. Ford and the Enlightened team for their leadership and look forward to supporting continued efforts to connect our students with the careers of tomorrow.

On Tuesday, April 1, Team McDuffie visited Boone Elementary School in Ward 8 to meet with the Principal and Vice Principal and learn more about the impactful work happening inside and outside the classroom. The school is gearing up to host its Sneaker Ball on Wednesday, April 10 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM — an event that brings students, families, and staff together to celebrate community and school spirit.

We want to give a special shoutout to Andria Shaw and Jonathan Middlebrooks, who were instrumental in forging partnerships between Boone and local businesses. Through their leadership, the school connected with Surprise Market, a neighborhood grocery store at 2223 Minnesota Avenue SE, exemplifying how residents and small businesses can come together to uplift our youth.

Also in attendance and showing their support were ANC 8A01 Commissioner Tom Donohue and ANC 8A03 Commissioner Andrea Davis, both dedicated advocates for the Ward 8 community. We look forward to celebrating with Boone at the Sneaker Ball and continuing to support strong school-community partnerships across the District.

Small Business Spotlight

Located in the heart of the U Street corridor at 2017 14th St NW, St. James – Modern Caribbean brings bold flavors, vibrant culture, and a warm, elevated dining experience to the District. This standout local restaurant celebrates the rich culinary traditions of the Caribbean with a modern twist, offering dishes that are both comforting and creative.

Founded by Chef Peter Prime, who hails from Trinidad and Tobago, St. James is a deeply personal expression of Caribbean heritage. Chef Prime brings years of culinary experience — including training at the French Culinary Institute in New York and work in renowned kitchens like Citronelle and Equinox — to every dish. His cooking reflects a fusion of technical excellence and deep cultural roots.

From oxtail and jerk wings to rum-soaked desserts and vibrant cocktails, the menu showcases the diversity and richness of Caribbean cuisine. St. James offers more than just a meal — it’s a full-sensory experience and a celebration of tradition, innovation, and flavor.

Whether you're a longtime fan or visiting for the first time, make sure to support this incredible local gem and experience the tastes, sounds, and soul of the Caribbean — right here in Washington, D.C.

📍 St. James – Modern Caribbean
2017 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
🌐 stjames-dc.com

Date: Wed, Apr 16, 2025 at 12:00-4:00 PM
Location: 401 Oklahoma Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002

Join Events DC at Day of Play at RFK Presented by Giant on Wednesday, April 16, 2025! During Spring Break, they will host a day of fun at The Fields at RFK to allow DC residents an opportunity to play outdoors! This will be a free community-based event, with competitive field games, music, food trucks, and fun activities for all ages.  

While this event is free, registration is required. All youth must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 18. Adults do not need a youth to participate. 

Register here: https://www.universe.com/events/day-of-play-at-rfk-tickets-D3WT6V