Updated 2 p.m. 3/17/21 with recordings and additional resources.
Street musicians are some of the artists hardest hit by Covid-19 and related shutdowns. Instead of considering assistance for musicians and the city’s musical culture, the DC Council has introduced legislation to ban amplification. To discuss these developments: Ronald Moten, director of the GoGo Museum and Cafe and co-founder of the “Don’t Mute DC” movement.
In the second segment, Dr. Carlene Reid, Ward 8 Representative to the State Board of Education (SBOE), discusses the new East of the River caucus for the State Board, fresh approaches to stakeholder engagement, and on-going disconnects between community needs and government responses in education.
Also this week: hate crimes in history and this past year on “Pandemics and Economics in History.” Episode #5: Disease and Outsiders. Visit the podcast site for full historical text plus links to national report on hate crimes against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and some materials for addressing disinformation.
Amplified “Noise” Legislation
From the Secret Garden, behind We Act Radio and Check-IT Enterprises, March 9 — “Don’t Mute Street Performance and Conversation
Legislation on “noise” amplification and sound-proofing:
2018 version (B22-0839) includes public hearing links, which provide text and video options
2019 version (B22-0030)
2021 version (B24-0137)
Please note that Councilmember Pinto (Ward 2) was asked to share background and reasons for introducing a third attempt at criminalizing street music. The Councilmember did not reply. Neither did bill co-sponsors Council Chair Phil Mendelson and Councilmember Anita Bonds (At-large).
In a different approach to noise complaints, new legislation is expected to be introduced to require new construction near public squares to include sound-proofing. More information as it becomes available.
Education, especially East of the River in DC
“East of the River Education Caucus” March 2 hearing, first of its kind forum linking Ward 7 and Ward 8 SBOE representatives, as well as At-Large SBOE member Jacque Patterson, and community members discussing education needs, particular to Wards 7 and 8.
Also visit Dr. Carlene Reid’s public Facebook Page, her Twitter feed, and/or Instagram
Ward 7 Education Council — Facebook page
Ward 8 Education Council — Facebook public group
State Board of Education website
“Community thru Covid” airs Wednesdays at 11:00 a.m. EASTERN Tune in on We Act Radio (audio) and YouTube Live. Or check back for recordings posted shortly after air time. Subscribe for regular updates.
Community Thru CRT: 