November 17, 2016 | Vol. 2, Issue 44
Dear Washingtonians,
In the past week, anxiety and fear about the future of the country has spiked. People are angry, anxious, and scared, and I am sorry that our country has made us feel this way. The election results have caused many residents to fear that they will be deported, that their families will be torn apart, or that they will be targeted because of their immigration status. This week, I issued a statement reaffirming Washington, DC’s status as a sanctuary city, and I will keep sending this message because it is important to me that District residents feel and are safe.
Every resident of Washington, DC should continue to work, play, go to school – go about your day-to-day lives – knowing that the government of Washington, DC is here for you. The job of the government is to serve residents and keep them safe, and all residents should feel comfortable calling on the government when they need help.
The District government does not target people based on or collect information about immigration status. No agency, including our public safety agencies, will ever discriminate against you because of your immigration status. If you believe you have been discriminated against because of your immigration status, you should report it to the District of Columbia Office of Human Rights at 202-727-4559.
On Saturday, November 19 at 4:00 p.m. I will host a Community Conversations telephone call with other District leaders. On this call, we will discuss what the incoming presidential administration means for Washington, DC. Sign up to join the call HERE.
Washington, DC is an inclusive and welcoming city. We have spent the first two years of my Administration working to create more pathways to the middle class and giving all residents a fair shot. From making our neighborhoods safer and stronger to improving our schools for all of our children and from making historic investments in affordable housing to setting us on a bold, new path to statehood, our determination will not ebb or slow. We can never be certain of exactly what lies ahead, but I can commit that we will take it on together.
Sincerely,
An original version of this letter stated that no agency will ever ask about immigration status. The letter has been updated to reflect that while some agencies will request this information, they will never discriminate based on immigration status.
ICYMI: It is once again time to recognize the people who provide outstanding public service in our community. Nominate an outstanding DC Government employee or an innovative team for the 16th Annual Cafritz Awards by November 28. Learn more HERE.
Download the "Stat of the Week" and share on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
On Tuesday, Mayor Bowser kicked off #ThankfulDC, a month-long effort to recognize and appreciate the many reasons we are thankful to live, work and play in Washington, DC.
Over the next month, District agencies will continue to share photos and videos on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram that represent some of the many reasons we are thankful to be part of DC's vibrant community. We ask you to join us by using the hashtag #ThankfulDC.
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In honor of National Adoption Month, the DC Child and Family Services Agency (CFSA), in partnership with the DC Superior Court, will celebrate the 30th Annual Adoption Day in Court from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 19. During the event, family court judges will officially finalize the adoptions of more than 20 families and information will be available for those interested in becoming an adoptive or foster parent. All are invited to help celebrate.
There are currently 86 children and youth available for adoption through CFSA. Those interested in learning more about becoming an adoptive or foster parent can attend an information session at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 10 at the CFSA headquarters (200 I Street, SE).
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This week, in celebration of National Apprenticeship Week, the Bowser Administration hosted several events to raise awareness of the District's apprenticeship programs. For residents, apprenticeships provide opportunities to earn a salary while learning the skills necessary to succeed in high-demand careers. For employers, apprenticeships help businesses grow while providing the necessary tools to develop a highly skilled workforce.
The District offers apprenticeship opportunities in a variety of fields including construction, plumbing, carpentry,electrical, computer programming and IT.
Follow #NAWDC16 for the latest National Apprenticeship Week updates.
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Last week, the Bowser Administration kicked off the "A Space to Dream" initiative. The goal of "A Space to Dream" is to transform underused spaces across Washington, DC through the addition of public art projects and the development of creative, temporary uses of space that add to the health and well-being of the community. The first site is located in Ward 8 at Wellington Park Apartments.
The kickoff event also featured a symbolic “Pass the Peace” ceremony to promote healing and peace in the community. During the event, District government agencies were on site to provide community members with employment opportunities and housing and health resources.
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This year marks the 20th year of public charter schools teaching DC's children. According to the School Quality Reports released by the DC Public Charter School Board (DCPCSB), there are more top performing charter schools than ever before. Learn more about the reports HERE.
Residents can join the DCPCSB for an evening of conversation and celebration tonight.
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Watch the most recent District Minute to learn more about what has been going on in DC. This week features stories about the referendum on DC statehood; the District of Columbia Housing Preservation Strike Force Final Report; and the Deanwood Hills groundbreaking ceremony.
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The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is committed to achieving an exceptional quality of life in the nation’s capital through more sustainable travel practices, safer streets and outstanding access to goods and services.
DDOT has an opening for a tree trimmer and remover. This position requires climbing trees of heights up to 100 feet in order to trim trees; assist in the removal of trees; and perform surgical work on trees. All details regarding this vacancy, including qualifications, can be found by visiting the job announcement.
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