D.C. Explained - The 51st

An image of the empty council dais in the Wilson Building.

D.C. Explained

Everything you need to know about the D.C. Council

Be it resolved, you will learn plenty about the city's legislature.

Someone picks kale surrounded by orange flowers and greenery.

D.C. Explained

Climate change is making gardening in D.C. harder. Don't let that stop you.

D.C. faced record-breaking temperatures this year. We rounded up the best advice for gardening in a warming world.

A baby's tiny feet are being held in someone's hand with black fingernail polish.

D.C. Explained

How to access D.C.'s paid family leave benefits

The program is funded by a tax paid by participating D.C. businesses and nonprofits. First, check with your employer to see if they pay into it.

You Street

Discounts and free services for impacted federal workers in D.C.

A living guide to resources for federal workers let go in 2025.

A photograph of the inside of a police car, with an agent in the background and accessories in the foreground.

D.C. Explained

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

Trump has threatened mass deportations, but D.C. residents still have rights. We've rounded up strategies to protect yourself and your community.

A photo of someone getting arrested, as seen through the rear window of a police vehicle.

D.C. Explained

What to know if you're arrested in D.C.

Understanding your rights is crucial to protecting yourself and your neighbors.

D.C. Explained

A guide to giving and receiving help in D.C.

Where to find all kinds of assistance, from legal aid to food donations to political organizing.

D.C. Explained

Everything you need to know about clearing snow (or not) in D.C.

We might love seeing snow come down, but let's be fair: we're not very good about shoveling it once its on the ground.

A thermometer reads a freezing temperature.

D.C. Explained

What to do if your apartment doesn't have heat

D.C. law requires landlords to provide adequate heating in your apartment. Here’s what to do if they’re not.

Outside shot of a large stadium with a few cars in a parking lo

D.C. Explained

The saga of RFK Stadium, explained

Congress has approved a bill that transfers control over 174 acres of the RFK site to the District, which could use it for a new stadium, green spaces, residential buildings, and more.

Three protesters in front of the Supreme Court, one holding a sign that reads: "Stop Prosecuting Abortion."

D.C. Explained

How to get an abortion in D.C.

A resource for abortion seekers traveling to and living in the District.

A teacher sits cross-legged on a colorful rug with a circle of students.

D.C. Explained

Everything you need to know about D.C.’s school lottery

The lottery opens this year on Dec. 16. Before you apply, here are some things you should know.