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Robert C. White
At-Large Councilmember
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Monthly E-Newsletter December 10, 2024 |
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Pictured: Councilmember White speaking with Talbert Street owners last week
Since leading the Housing Committee, I’ve fought for Talbert Street homeowners—46 majority Black families who became first-time homeowners in Ward 8, only to see their dreams shattered. Shortly after moving in, severe foundation issues made their homes uninhabitable. Last week, the Council passed a bill limiting DC’s liability in city-financed projects like Talbert Street. I introduced an amendment to protect these families’ rights to compensation—it failed, but I’m not giving up. With my colleagues’ support, I’m working to secure funds so these families can recover and rebuild. Stay tuned as we fight for justice.
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Celebrating DC Culture
This month, we’re shining a light on Justin “Yaddiya” Johnson, a true champion of DC culture and activism. A DC native, Yaddiya began as a Go-Go concert promoter, transforming his passion for music into a platform for political change. From pushing for DC statehood to preserving Go-Go as the city’s heartbeat, he’s educated residents on engaging with local politics and inspired young people to embrace social activism.
If you love that Go-Go is officially DC’s music, thank Yaddiya. He’s also brought his vision to Georgetown, opening an art gallery that celebrates local creativity and culture. Whether rallying at the Council or turning up the streets with his legendary “Moechella” concerts from a flatbed truck, Yaddiya keeps DC’s spirit alive. We’re lucky to have leaders like him.
We want to hear from you! Send us your nominee for who we should feature next:
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What's Happening at the DC Council? |
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What Passed:
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Pets in Housing Act – Last week the Council passed my bill in a first vote to protect affordable housing for residents by capping extra fees like pet rent, ensuring homeless residents can bring their pet with them to at least one DC shelter, and ending breed bans which have been used to racially discriminate against renters.
Pictured: My daughter Monroe as a baby with our beloved pitbull mix pup, Roscoe
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Youth Mentorship Through Community Engagement Act – In response to rising juvenile crime, I introduced this bill to address what young people told me they need: jobs and mentors. It creates a paid mentorship program for youth who’ve faced childhood trauma and expands mentoring by giving DC government employees an hour of weekly leave to tutor or mentor. On the jobs front, my Vocational Education for a New Generation Act had a hearing in October, and I’m pushing for its passage next year!
What's Coming Up:
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Sneak peek: Ever wondered what my Council office can accomplish in one year? I'm launching my 2024 Annual Report next week but wanted to share it here with you first! Check out the progress my team and I made on pressing issues like public safety and affordable housing this year.
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Cast your vote: December marks the end of this Council Period. In the new year, we will have many crucial issues before us: Public safety, housing conditions, emergency rental assistance, and much more. Which issues are most important to you? Vote here:
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Best kept secret: a.litteri— A shop packed with bold flavor—artisan olive oils, hundreds of wines, and deli sandwiches so big, they’re practically a meal in themselves! |
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Angelikafilmdc-- Don’t even think about skipping the concessions—Jeni’s ice cream cups, wine, beer, and of course, the buttery popcorn that’ll make you forget you ever wanted anything else! |
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I always want to meet residents where you are. This month I want to hear from you: Where do you get your local news and updates? Let me know in this quick survey:
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This month, my team and I supported dozens of residents navigating all kinds of issues, including:
- Assistance navigating taxes on a late parent's home
- Reporting poor housing conditions
- Speeding up responses to sanitation requests
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If you're facing issues like any of these, or something else, my team and I are here to help! If you have a constituent services request, call my office at (202) 724-8174.
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My office is available to you: Please call my personal office at (202) 724-8174, or my Housing Committee office at (202) 727-8270. |
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