Remembering women of the movement’s past stokes the power to continue the fight for freedom, equity, and opportunity. We learn from their stories, honor their legacies, and find fortitude in their ability to build community despite the odds. 

The following women took it upon themselves to show up and stand up for their rights. In their own unique ways, they took action, empowered others, and made meaningful contributions toward the freedom of Black women and their communities: 

Communities across the country, in Minnesota and beyond, are living in terror as federal immigration enforcement agents patrol, surveil, detain, arrest, disappear, injure, and kill civilians. 

We are witnessing firsthand the incredible power of everyday people to reject this assault on our communities, our Constitution, and our democracy. To continue exercising our people-power, we must understand what is happening and what rights we hold. 

Since its founding, the people of the District have not enjoyed the same rights as other Americans. As a result, Washingtonians are expected to bear the burdens and duties of citizenship and obedience to the laws while having no say in their creation, a major inequity in a republic that purports to stand for liberty and justice for all.   

This blog will examine the background of this inequality and feature the voices of LWVDC members and District residents who are currently undergoing illegitimate occupation by National Guard troops because of their lack of statehood.