We all have common experiences that tie us to a shared culture, connect us to our communities, and remind us of a collective past. When these stories are collected and transformed into a physical form, they can become a commemorative work that can be appreciated for future generations. These symbols of our values and shared experience cultivate a sense of community pride and remind us of significant people and events that have shaped the world we live in. 

Commemorate DC is the District’s effort to honor the vibrant stories and profound impacts of Black Washingtonians and other people of color. In 2024, through the collaboration of residents, local artists and designers, Commemorate DC produced four design concepts for new commemorative works in Wards 4, 5, 7 and 8. Now, we're preparing to kick off a new program year, which means:

• working with the community to identify new subjects to commemorate,
• selecting artists to design works that celebrate those subjects
• and selecting sites to place the final designs.

We're bringing an arts advisor on board to help guide the community-led process of creating commemorations. The Request for Applications is open now through Dec. 3. Visit our project website for more information and to sign up for project news and updates.

The District is excited to partner with Capital Impact Partners and the US Department of Agriculture to launch the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure and Equipment Grants.

If you are a middle-of-the-supply-chain DC food business (processing, aggregation, manufacturing, and distribution of food for human consumption) in need of support for infrastructure projects and equipment purchases, apply to receive a grant. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. ET on January 12.

Learn more and apply!