In This Moment: What’s Happening, What It Means, and How We Respond

What’s Happening in DC

Washington, D.C. is currently experiencing a federal takeover of city policing ordered by President Trump. On August 11, he invoked Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to federalize law enforcement, which is typically under the mayor’s authority.

• National Guard Deployment: Hundreds of National Guard troops have already been deployed to the city, with more expected from states like Ohio, West Virginia, and South Carolina.

• Protests and Resistance: Since August 16, D.C. residents and civil rights leaders have been protesting this federal action, naming it as an infringement on the city’s autonomy and an unnecessary militarization of neighborhoods.

• The Reality of Crime Data: Despite the justification for this move, the data shows violent crime in D.C. is down significantly compared to recent years:

  • 2024 saw a 35% drop in violent crime compared to 2023.

  • Homicides were down 32%, robberies down 39%, armed carjackings down 53%.

  • 2025 year-to-date continues this trend with violent crime down 26% and sex abuse offenses down 48%.

While perception may suggest otherwise, the evidence makes it clear: crime is decreasing, not escalating.

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DC is not “Gotham City,” despite the narratives being spread by conservatives and MAGA supporters. This city is a rich, layered community filled with resilience, culture, and brilliance.

But let’s be honest: in the past week, the majority of those being policed and targeted are Black and POC residents. That’s not about crime — it’s about control.

This is not an isolated event. DC should be viewed as a warning of what could happen in any community with a strong Black, Brown, and POC presence.

My invitation: educate yourself. Learn how to be in community with others, know your rights, and decide how you can show up. We always have choice.

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Resources

If you or someone you know needs support in DC, here are resources to connect with:

• Pathways to Housing DC

• Sasha Bruce Youthwork

• CASA

• Catholic Charities: Immigrant & Refugee Services

• ACLU of DC

• Wanda Alston Foundation

• UPO Shelter Hotline: Singles, families, vets — call 311 or 202-399-7093

• Virginia Williams Resource Center (families and pregnant women) — call 202-526-0017

• DC Mutual Aid Apothecary

• Free DC Project (@freedcproject) — also offers community trainings

• Father McKenna Center

• Remora House (@remorahouse_dc)

• DC Coalition for the Homeless

• Thrive DC (@thrive_dc)

• So Others Might Eat (SOME) (@some_dc)

• Harriet’s Dreams — also offers community trainings

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How You Can Show Up

• Stay informed: Don’t just rely on headlines — read the data, listen to community voices, and challenge harmful narratives.

• Support local organizations: Donate, volunteer, or amplify the work of DC-based mutual aid and advocacy groups.

• Know your rights: If you participate in protests or community actions, make sure you are familiar with your legal rights. Groups like the ACLU provide resources.

• Be in community: Check in on your neighbors, especially Black and POC folks who are disproportionately impacted by heightened policing.