What razing the fed. workforce does to D.C.

Hey there,

I recently listened to a podcast about how newsrooms across the country are overwhelmed covering the onslaught of executive orders, abrupt policy shifts, and rash decisions coming down from the Trump administration.

Then I thought of The 51st — our tiny local newsroom with six part-time team members — trying to decipher which stories most directly impact District residents and how we can add to existing reporting in meaningful ways. At times, I do feel underwater managing a flooded inbox of pitches and tips. But most often, I feel empowered to demonstrate how The 51st views journalism as a public service, no matter how limited our resources might be. 

While we don’t have the capacity to cover every story affecting our readers right now (though you can help us get there!), we’re focusing on what we can do: curate newsletters that cut through the noise, connect you to your neighbors, and help you navigate these times a little better.

Here is what's on tap for this week: 

• How federal job losses could impact D.C.
• An explainer on defending yourself against ICE enforcement
• A lesson on D.C. home rule 

If you’re not up for the heavy stuff, we’ve also got ideas for cheap dates and other things to do around the city this weekend. Keep scrolling for an opportunity to contribute to our coverage, and did I mention Overheards are back?

Enjoy!

Christina

Trump is razing the federal workforce. What will that do to D.C.?

We’re in the fourth week of Donald Trump’s second term, and the president is intent on keeping his campaign promise to gut the federal workforce. Some indications show D.C.'s economy has already started feeling the pressure. The 51st contributor Mikka Kei Macdonald spoke with economics and policy experts and District residents who've been laid off about the fallout from job losses affecting both the local economy and the everyday lives of residents.

How to defend your neighbors (or yourself) from ICE enforcement in D.C.

Trump’s border czar recently admitted that Know Your Rights trainings in cities like Chicago have made it difficult for ICE agents to make arrests. D.C. groups are staging similar sessions, because the more people understand their rights, the better residents can protect themselves. If you can't attend one, check out our ICE explainer, which includes guidance from legal experts and advocates in the city. Among the tips: don't open the door if ICE knocks, check for a warrant signed by a judge, and if you're a bystander you can film an arrest as long as you don't get in the way of law enforcement.

ICYMI: D.C.'s home rule is under threat

A week ago, Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) and Rep. Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) introduced legislation that could repeal D.C.'s home rule. Spitefully named after Mayor Bowser, the "Bringing Oversight to Washington and Safety to Every Resident" (BOWSER) Act could take away D.C. leaders' ability to do things like enact policies, programs, and budgets for various city departments and services (which is already limited and often threatened).

For insights into how the District came to govern itself — and what rights could be lost if the bill passes — check out our previously published home rule explainer by The 51st Contributor Martin Austermuhle.

Everything you need to know about D.C. home rule

The city’s power over its own affairs is imperiled by the incoming Trump administration. Here’s what you should know about the parameters of local control in D.C.

The 51stMartin Austermuhle

8 cheap but sweet spots for a D.C. date night

Whether it's your first Tinder date or your marriage therapist advised a night out, The 51st contributor Cornelia Poku has compiled a list of affordable D.C. restaurants that won't break the bank.

15 things to do around D.C. this weekend

From a polyamory workshop to a concert featuring 14th century poetry, there are plenty of V-Day events to remind you that all we really have is each other. Plus, we have some bonus events for folks who have Monday off.

Overheard in D.C.: Yikes!

Hey you — how's it going?

Last week, we heard from many of you about how you're coping during this time of uncertainty. We appreciate your feedback and wanted to give folks more time to share. Let us know how you're taking care of yourself, your family, and your community, and we may include your response in an upcoming story.

Did you know? Last week's explainer on what to do if you're arrested in D.C. is now available in Spanish.

Qué debe saber si lo arrestan en D.C.

Comprender sus derechos es crucial para protegerse a sí mismo y a sus vecinos.

The 51stMathew Schumer

Here's more news you may have missed this week:

• Trump overhauls Kennedy Center board of trustees, ultimately making himself chair. [Post]
• The president is also trying to crack down on crime and homeless encampments in D.C. via executive order. [Post]
• A new bill from Bowser would loosen eviction protections and significantly change the city’s TOPA process. [WCP]
• D.C.’s new 211 call center aims to offer easier access to social services like employment, housing assistance, and behavioral health. [WTOP]
• How SMYAL is supporting trans youth in D.C. under the new federal administration. [WAMU]
• Monumental Sports secured exemptions from D.C.’s climate law for its $800 million overhaul of Capital One Arena, bypassing energy-efficient standards mandated for other public buildings. [WCP]
• Recent D.C. restaurant closures include Makan, Eat Brgz, and Palette 22’s Union Market location. [Eater DC]
• Meanwhile, there still are lots of places to get Detroit-style pizza in the city. [Eater DC]

Your Civics Download

You’ll find this handy guide to public meetings at the bottom of every edition of The 51st. We’ll refine and improve along the way, so if you think we’re missing resources, please let us know!

• Today, Feb. 13, D.C.’s Department of Energy is tabling at the Benning Neighborhood Library. Residents can receive information about DDOE’s Solar for All program, which partners with organizations to install solar panels on single-family homes and multi-unit buildings.
• Tonight, Feb. 13, D.C. activist groups are staging a queer and trans dance party to protest Trump’s takeover of the Kennedy Center. Roll up to Washington Circle at 6:30 p.m. in your best (but warm) looks, per the invite. 
• On Friday, Feb. 14, Free DC and Harriet’s Wildest Dreams are hosting a community rally and speakout in response to Trump’s threats to “crackdown” on crime and “clean up” D.C. via executive order. You can RSVP for the event here. The group will be gathering at noon. 
• On Friday, Feb. 14, the D.C. Volunteer Lawyers Project will host a free walk-in legal clinic at the Bellevue Neighborhood Library. Residents can receive help with immigration, divorce, custody issues, protective orders, and more. For more information, you can call DCVLP at 202-425-7573. 
• On Saturday, Feb. 15, Stop Terror Police Project DC, Black Lives Matter DC, and the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement will host a Know Your Rights Street Law 101 training at the Black Workers Wellness Center from 12 - 2 p.m. The workshop will break down gaps between legal practices and policies and equip residents with strategies and tactics to navigate police interactions. Free food and childcare are available. RSVP to attend here or tune in virtually. 
• On Tuesday, Feb. 18, Empower DC will host an online information session for a campaign to shut down a toxic chemical site in Ivy City. Participants will learn about their ShutdownNEP plan, which aims to replace the chemical site with a community resilience hub. You can RSVP here. The event starts at 6 p.m.
• On Wednesday, Feb. 19, D.C.’s Department of Transportation will host a virtual public meeting about their Minnesota Ave SE Bus Priority project, which identifies ways to improve safety and bus operations along Minnesota Avenue between Pennsylvania Avenue SE and Marion Barry Avenue SE. Attendees will learn more about the selected roadway concept design. Register here to attend the event from 6 - 8 p.m. 

That's all for now. Take care!

Christina