The UPDATE | January 19 | Over-Policing Black Children and Youth Won’t Solve Violence

 

Early Childhood Education and Before and Afterschool Programs Featured in Mayor Bowser’s DC Comeback PlanWe thank Mayor Muriel Bowser for her ongoing support of working families and our future workforce. In particular, we greatly appreciate her including a "multi-pronged childcare affordability initiative" in her recently released DC’s Comeback Plan. This inclusion recognizes that child care, quality early learning, and safe before and afterschool programs are essential elements of the District’s business infrastructure and economic well-being. We look forward to working with the Bowser Administration to bring these initiatives to fruition.

 

 

 

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New Blog Post: Over-Policing Black Children and Youth Won’t Solve Violence

Families across the District are reeling and demanding answers after the murder of 13-year-old Karon Blake by a still unnamed resident on the morning of January 7. The police have been slow to release details, but we know that the man allegedly confronted Karon, accused him of breaking into cars, and shot him after an altercation. It should not have to be said, but a child's life is infinitely more valuable than any amount of property, and Karon, his family, and our communities deserve justice. Read more in this blog post by DC Action Research and Data Manager Rachel Metz.
 

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Join Us for DC for Democracy's All About Oversight Season Webinar on January 26

Learn how District residents can participate in the performance oversight process. Ward 4 Councilmember Janeese Lewis George will share why testimony from residents matters and how it informs the Council's work. The presentation will include an overview of DC agencies, the hearing schedule, tips for drafting great testimony, and a chance to sign up directly to testify.

This event–free and open to the public–is co-hosted by ACLU of DC, DC Action, DC for Democracy, DC Fiscal Policy Institute, DC Justice Lab, Empower DC, Empower Ed, and the Fair Budget Coalition.

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Sign Up Now to Testify at Performance Oversight Hearings

The DC Council will begin holding performance oversight hearings next month, giving District residents and advocates the opportunity to hold city agencies to account for the programs services they provide. DC Action staff and coalition members will be testifying at the hearings that involve agencies whose work affects children, youth, and families. We encourage community-based organizations, partners, and residents to sign up to testify. Following are some of the relevant hearings and dates and more information about how to testify. If you would like any assistance writing your testimony, we would be glad to help. We will periodically update you on the hearing schedule and how to engage in the process as the season progresses.

Committee on Health hearing on the Department of Behavioral Health | February 1

Committee of the Whole hearings on education agencies including OSSE, DCPS, DME/Learn24, DCPCSB, and SBOE | March 1

Committee on Housing hearings on the Department of Human Services and the Interagency Council on Homelessness| February 13

Committee on Health hearing on the Department of Health | March 2

The schedule for all hearings, along with information for how to sign up for them, is available at the Office of the Budget Director.

 

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DC Action Welcomes Communications Manager Sierra Wallace

We are pleased to welcome Sierra Wallace, a dynamic and creative communications professional who brings expertise in public relations, marketing, project management, and crisis management to her role at DC Action. As Under 3 DC Communications Manager, Sierra will oversee branding, marketing and outreach for the coalition.

Sierra previously headed the communications department at Orleans Parish Communication District, home of New Orleans 911 and 311, and worked with Planned Parenthood to create campaigns that helped marginalized communities. She believes that advocacy is essential in one’s professional and personal journey. Sierra’s communication campaigns have earned awards such as the PRSA Fleurish Award of Excellence and the 2021 & 2022 Ragan’s Crisis Communication Awards. Sierra earned her bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing from the University of Memphis. She enjoys playing flag football and participating in the local art scene.