Dear Ward 8 Residents,

This week, a mural was defaced by a staff member at a Washington Highlands convenience store. This act of disrespect came as a surprise to community leaders as an agreement had been made with the store owner to have the mural painted. I was contacted to investigate this issue by neighbors and community leaders. 

This mural paid tribute to 21-year-old Lorraine Marie Thomas, a beautiful young woman from the community who lost her life to gun violence just a month ago. 

The mural was a symbolism of a peace zone for rivaling neighborhoods. Violence interrupters and community leaders agreed with the business to paint this mural to bring solidarity to the block.

The DC Mayor's Office on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs (KARGO), and the community met after residents in the community refused to patronize the store until the situation was resolved. As a result, the building owner agreed to pay for the restoration of the mural this week.

I want to thank everyone who brought awareness to this cause and came out to support and honor Ms. Thomas' memory. Her family is extremely grateful. All power to the people! #LoveMore.

Regards, 



Trayon White, Sr.

The bill drew little controversy as it quietly moved its way through the legislative process over the last 18 months; there was no public opposition during a public hearing in June 2019. But it started attracting attention ahead of a first Council vote in October, when Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White — who initially co-sponsored the bill — announced his opposition.

“Parents have a fundamental right to direct the upbringing, education and care of their children,” he said, citing the example of his own 12-year-old son.

The Department on Energy and Environment (DOEE) assists income-eligible District households with heating and cooling energy costs through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Eligible households may receive energy bill assistance between $250 and $1,800 as a one-time regular energy assistance benefit. This benefit is based on household size, total household income, heating source, and type of dwelling.

For more information, visit https://doee.dc.gov/liheap.

• Utility Disconnections Prohibited: The COVID-19 Response Emergency Amendment Act of 2020 passed on March 17, 2020, prohibits electric, gas, and water from being disconnected for non-payment during the declared public health emergency.
• Pepco is waiving new late fees and suspending service disconnections through at least May 1 and will be working with customers on a case-by-case basis to establish payment arrangements and identify energy assistance options. Customers who may be experiencing challenges paying their Pepco bill should contact Pepco Customer Care at (202) 833-7500.
• The Utility Discount Program (UDP) assists low-income District residents reduce their utility costs. Eligible customers may receive a discount of up to $475 per year on their electric bill ($300 per year if non-electric heat).  District residents can visit the Department of Energy and the Environment website at doee.dc.gov to apply online or calling 3-1-1 to schedule an in-person appointment.
• The Greater Washington Urban League provides up to $500 in assistance to eligible customers facing disconnection. Customers can call 202-265-8200 or visit www.gwul.org.