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Neighbors,

This week, I had the opportunity to connect with residents at the Ward 7 Town Hall on Monday evening. It was a meaningful chance to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and engage in honest dialogue on the issues that matter most.

Many of you raised important questions about the proposed return of the Washington Commanders to the RFK site—and I was glad to speak about where things stand. As we consider this potential investment, I remain focused on ensuring it brings real economic opportunity for Ward 7 residents, from job creation to support for local businesses and long-term community benefits.

These kinds of conversations are at the heart of what public service should be. Thank you to everyone who showed up and made your voice heard. I look forward to continuing to work together to build a safer, stronger, and more equitable D.C.

In service,
Kenyan
Legislative Updates
Tuesday's Committee of The Whole Meeting

Legislative Update from Councilmember McDuffie: Advancing the Disconnect Act of 2025

On Tuesday, during the Committee of the Whole meeting, I joined my colleagues in unanimously advancing Bill 26-73, the Disconnect Act of 2025. This legislation requires local education agencies (LEAs) to implement policies that limit student use of personal wireless devices—such as cell phones, gaming devices, and smartwatches—during the school day, with reasonable exceptions.

As a parent and policymaker, I’ve seen how personal devices can create distractions in the classroom and contribute to challenges in school climate. The Disconnect Act is an important step toward promoting safer, more focused, and equitable learning environments across the District.

While supporting the bill, I also raised several key considerations to ensure its successful and equitable implementation:
* Allowing sufficient time and flexibility for LEAs to comply with the new requirements;
* Establishing a feedback mechanism to better understand implementation challenges and potential unintended costs;
* Providing adequate resources to support schools in developing and enforcing these policies effectively;
* Ensuring equity in discipline, especially given the disproportionate rates of school discipline among Black students, as noted in the Racial Equity Impact Assessment (REIA).

I also highlighted the importance of making sure educators are not left to carry this out alone in the classroom without the institutional support they need. The bill rightly aligns discipline under existing law, but we must be mindful of how this will play out at the school level and ensure it does not deepen existing disparities.

As the bill moves forward to a full Council vote, I remain committed to ensuring that it is implemented in a way that is thoughtful, well-resourced, and rooted in equity—for the benefit of every student in the District.


** Team McDuffie In The Community
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Ward 7 Town Hall: Community Voices on the Future of RFK

On Monday, I had the opportunity to join Councilmember Wendell Felder, Deputy Mayor Nina Albert, and Kirtan Mehta, Vice President of Public Affairs for the Washington Commanders, for a meaningful Ward 7 Town Hall held at The Strand Theater on Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue.

Community members came ready—with questions, ideas, and a shared commitment to ensuring that Ward 7 has a seat at the table. The evening was filled with powerful dialogue, particularly around the proposed RFK Stadium redevelopment and the potential return of the Washington Commanders. We heard directly from residents about their priorities—from job creation and infrastructure to housing and youth investment.

Thank you to everyone who showed up, spoke up, and made this town hall a true reflection of community engagement. Your voices are shaping the future of Ward 7—and I remain committed to making sure that future is inclusive, equitable, and full of opportunity.
🤝Connecting with Neighbors at the Ward 6 Democrats Meet & Greet

On Tuesday, May 13, I was excited to attend the Ward 6 Democrats’ Spring Meet & Greet at Mr. Henry’s on Pennsylvania Avenue—an evening focused on building community, engaging with elected leaders, and hearing directly from residents about the issues that matter most.

The event brought together neighbors, community advocates, and civic leaders for thoughtful conversation around local priorities including housing, public safety, education, and economic opportunity. It was a pleasure to connect with so many Ward 6 residents and learn more about your concerns and hopes for our city.

Thank you to the Ward 6 Democrats for creating space for this dialogue and for continuing to foster civic engagement across the ward. I look forward to carrying your voices with me in the work we do every day at the Council.
🛒 Trader Joe’s Opens in Brookland: A Win for Ward 5

Yesterday, Trader Joe’s officially opened its newest location at 701 Monroe Street NE, bringing a fresh and affordable grocery option to the heart of Brookland. This long-anticipated store is a major win for Ward 5, expanding food access and contributing to the neighborhood’s ongoing economic revitalization.

Team McDuffie was proud to attend the grand opening, joining neighbors, staff, and community leaders for the ribbon-cutting celebration. The energy and excitement were palpable as residents explored the 11,000-square-foot store—part of the Monroe Street Market development—and welcomed Trader Joe’s to the community.

Beyond groceries, the new store brings local job opportunities and walkable retail to the area, reinforcing Councilmember McDuffie’s commitment to economic equity and neighborhood development. We’re thrilled to see continued investment in Ward 5 and look forward to the positive impact this store will have for residents across the District.
📍Team McDuffie at the DHS Citywide Resource & Empowerment Expo

Yesterday, Team McDuffie participated in the Find Your Future Expo hosted by the Department of Human Services at the University of the District of Columbia. This citywide resource fair brought together residents and over two dozen government agencies and community organizations—all committed to expanding opportunity and delivering services where they’re needed most.

Agencies like the DC Housing Authority, Department of Employment Services, OSSE, and DC Health were on hand providing information on housing support, job training, education programs, public benefits, and wellness resources. My team was glad to table at the event and share updates on our work to promote economic mobility, improve access to services, and do our part to ensure every DC resident has a fair shot.

Events like this remind us of the impact we can make when we work together. I’m grateful to DHS for organizing this important gathering and look forward to continuing our efforts to build a more connected, equitable city.
Empowering Youth at Ballou STAY: Jobs Not Guns/ Jobs Not Drugs Mini-Workshop

On Tuesday, Team McDuffie proudly participated in the East of the River Youth Career Building Mini-Workshop at Ballou STAY Opportunity Academy, hosted by the Jobs Not Guns/Jobs Not Drugs initiative. This targeted event was part of an ongoing, community-driven effort to reduce gun violence and drug use by creating real pathways to employment and opportunity for our youth.

The workshop brought together young people from Ward 8 to explore careers, connect with mentors, and engage with employers and training programs ready to invest in their future. Our office was on the ground sharing resources and speaking about our efforts to expand economic mobility and build safer, more connected communities.

From career coaching to firsthand testimonials, the event was a powerful reminder that real prevention begins with real investment—in people, in potential, and in neighborhoods too often left behind. We're deeply grateful to the Jobs Not Guns coalition for continuing to lead this work and proud to support every effort to build a safer, more hopeful DC.


** Small Business Spotlight
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Bailiwick Clothing Co. (WARD 4)

If you’ve ever wanted to wear your D.C. pride on your sleeve—literally—Bailiwick Clothing Co. has you covered. Founded by brothers JC and Jeff Smith, this Black-owned, D.C. based apparel brand is all about celebrating the people, neighborhoods, and culture that make the District one of a kind.

The name “Bailiwick” means a person’s area of expertise or influence—and the Smith brothers are definitely in theirs. They’ve built a brand that’s as bold and authentic as the city itself, with designs that nod to everything from Go-Go music and hometown heroes to iconic D.C. landmarks and movements.

You’ve probably seen their gear around—classic tees, hoodies, and hats that turn heads and spark conversations. Each piece is designed and printed right here in the DMV, and Bailiwick regularly pops up at community markets and events across Ward 4, making them a staple in the local creative scene.

But Bailiwick is more than just streetwear—it’s a platform for storytelling, identity, and belonging. JC and Jeff have made it their mission to highlight D.C.'s energy and resilience through apparel that reflects who we are and where we come from.

Whether you’re a lifelong Washingtonian or a proud transplant, Bailiwick’s got something that speaks your language.

Shop local pride: www.bailiwickclothing.com
Follow on Instagram: @bailiwick_clothing ([link removed])

Support D.C. resident-owned businesses. Support local. Look good doing it.
Upcoming Events in the Community
🍁🍂 Fall Permit Window Opens Soon 🍁🍂
[link removed]

Can you believe it’s almost time to plan for fall?!

The 2025 fall permit window opens June 1–10 for field and pavilion requests for the season running August 31 – November 29, 2025. Requests submitted after the deadline will be processed on a rolling basis—so don’t wait!
Please note the following dates with limited or no availability for permits:
* October 11
* October 22
* October 25-26
* November 1
* November 27

👉 Request a Field ([link removed])
👉 Request the Pavilion ([link removed])

Questions about fall permits? Please reach out to [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) .
-The Go Play Team
Help Shape the Future of D.C.:
Take the DC 2050 Vision Survey

The DC Office of Planning has launched the DC 2050 Vision Survey—a citywide effort to gather community input that will help shape the District’s next Comprehensive Plan. This is your chance to share your vision for what D.C. should look like 25 years from now—on issues like housing, transportation, climate, jobs, and equity.

The survey includes six short questions, along with a few optional background questions, and only takes a few minutes to complete.

Your voice matters. The feedback collected will directly inform long-term planning decisions that affect every neighborhood in the District.

📍Take the survey here: dc2050.dc.gov ([link removed])

Let’s plan for a more inclusive, sustainable, and vibrant D.C.—together.

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