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Our next event...

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RSVP Here!!

Make plans to join us for our April 2021 public meeting where we will discuss the latest on DC Statehood efforts as well as what's in the $2 Trillion American Rescue Plan for DC residents. Confirmed guest joining us for our meeting...

UPDATE ON DC STATEHOOD:
  • Rep. Oye Owolewa
    DC Shadow Representative
  • Bo Shuff
    Executive Director, DC Vote

UPDATE ON AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN:
  • Councilwoman Elissa Silverman
    At-Large DC Council (I)
  • Jessica Giles
    Executive Director, Education Reform Now DC

And as usual, we will take questions on these topics and others related to the Democratic agenda.
See you Saturday!

Ward 8 Democrats Mourns Passing of WTU President Elizabeth Davis  

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Ward 8 Democrats’ President Troy Donte’ Prestwood issued the following statement on the sudden passing of Washington Teachers Union President Elizabeth Davis:

“The DC education community suffered a tremendous loss with the tragic passing of Washington Teachers Union President Elizabeth Davis. Liz was an amazing and formidable education leader who was fearless in fighting to make the District’s public education system work better for families, students, and teachers.

“Liz’s remarkable four decades of service to students and families of the District can’t be understated. She has taught thousands of students in schools across the District. She was a force at DC Council hearings fighting for funding for teachers and schools, most recently working to ensure every school was safe for teachers and students during the pandemic. She has left an ineffaceable mark on the lives of countless young people, educators, and leaders in our ward and beyond.

“She was a beloved figure in the community. I had the honor of engaging with her on several policy discussions around improving the quality of our schools. And just last year, we served together as Delegates to the 2020 Democratic National Convention.

“Our prayers are with Liz's family, friends, and colleagues at the Washington Teachers Union. We also mourn with the family of the other person who passed. May their memories be a blessing to all who are hurting at this difficult time.”



Honoring the Women of the

Ward 8 Democrats

The Ward 8 Democrats honors our own “Ward 8” Democratic women who represent the ward in the DC Democratic Party. They are innovators, organizers, doctors, fighters, entrepreneurs, and, yes, bosses. They are leaders among leaders who make “Ward 8” proud.`

:: WATCH VIDEO Honoring DC Democratic Women Elected Officials


Watch our Women's History Month Celebration

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DC women's history always passes through Ward 8. Join the Ward 8 Democrats as we celebrate and honor the contributions of women to the DC Democratic Party and to Ward 8.
Special guests included Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, former DC School Board President Linda Moody and her son Duane Moody. We also featured former DC First Lady Cora Masters Barry and former Ward 8 Councilmember Sandy Allen, both of whom received Lifetime Achievement Awards. Tiffany Lancaster and Aiyi’nah Ford will recite spoken word pieces.

You can watch the program here. You don't want to miss it or it will be HER-Story!
WATCH VIDEO: Lifetime Achievement Awards Program


Ward 8 Democrats Lifetime Achievement Awards

The  Ward 8 Democrats presents its 2021 lifetime achievement awards. The award is the organization’s highest honor and is bestowed on individuals who’ve made an indelible mark on the greater ward 8 community.
 
We recognized these exceptional honorees for their lifetime of outstanding achievements and contributions as trailblazers, inspirational leaders, and public servants.
 
The nine award honorees are:

  • Denise Rolark Barnes
  • Rev. James E. Coates
  • Arrington Dixon
  • Barbara Jones
  • Absalom Jordan
  • Philip Pannell
  • Rev. Wanda Thompson

“On behalf of the Ward 8 Democrats executive committee, we are thrilled to bestow our highest honor on these deserving individuals who epitomizes the meaning of servant leadership,” said Troy Donte Prestwood, president of the Ward 8 Democrats. “Each honoree are some of the most influential minds in public service in the District and beyond. But for us, their Lifetime Achievement is for their dedicated service and deep commitment to the residents of Ward 8.”
 
The Ward 8 Democrats Lifetime Achievement Award is the organization’s  highest honor. The selection of award recipient is made by the majority of the executive committee to honors individuals or entities who have made outstanding contributions to the
Ward 8 community.

Criteria for the award include:
•    Sustained, long term commitment to the Ward 8 Community;
•    Significant contributions to advancing the Ward;
•    Noteworthy achievements through public service, business, education, research, scholarship, artistic and curatorial work, and/or other meaningful activities in support of the Ward 8 community.

Re-watch: Citizen 101

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With the election season officially over, now it’s time to become more active and engaged in the political process. But how?

Join the Ward 8 Democrats for the first of our new discussion series on Citizen 101 - Going from Active on Election Day to Activism 365 Days a Year. The first series will center around the District’s 2021 budget process and how to fight for your priorities.

Our incredible speaker lineup includes elected officials, community leaders, and grassroots activists who will help guide our discussion on everything from successfully advocating for policies and issues to connecting with the decision-makers and influencers among us.

Special Guest Speaker:
  • Phil Mendelson, Chairman, DC Council

Panelists:
  • Nikki Peele, Community Advocate and Publisher, Congress Heights on the Rise
  • Jatarious Frazier, President, Gertrude Stein Democratic Club
  • Latisha Atkins, Community Activist, and Founder, Building Bridges to Success, Inc.
  • Zach Israel, National Committeeman, DC Young Democrats

Watch it again on Facebook!

Re-watch Virtual Kwanzaa Celebration

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It's a Ward 8 cultural tradition that's going virtual this year. Re-watch and re-live our 2020 Kwanzaa Celebration.

Kwanzaa is a seven-night holiday that honors African-American and Pan-African culture and traditions and stretches across millions of homes and communities including here in the District. The seven principles translated into English are unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.

This year's Kwanzaas speakers are:

Umoja (Unity)
SPEAKER: Nakia Blacknell, Ward 8 Resident & Community Activist

Kujichagulia (Self-determination)
SPEAKER: Jacque Patterson, At-Large Member-elect, SBOE

Ujima (Collective work and responsibility)
SPEAKER: Rep. Markus Batchelor, Ward 8 Representative, SBOE

Ujamaa (Cooperative economics)
SPEAKER: Lafayette Barnes, Business Owner and Ward 8 Resident

Nia (Purpose)
SPEAKER: Toni Harper, President, The Federal City Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Kuumba (Creativity)
SPEAKER: Shaniyah Robinson, Junior, Ballou High School & Vice President, SGA
SPEAKER: Damien Thurston, Junior, Anacostia High School

Imani (Faith)
SPEAKER: Rev. Wanda Thompson, Ambassador Baptist Church


Rewind and Watch: What Now?!

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Twenty-twenty has turned out to be one hell of a year. From protests to the pandemic and from loud calls for police reforms to the movement for Black lives, it's enough to make your head spin. And with the November General Elections "almost" over, people are rightly asking where do we go from here. Join us for a conversation on "What's Now?! -- a discussion the local DC election, the presidential race, and what it all means for the future of the District and the country.

Our esteemed panel includes:
  • Charles Wilson, Chair, DC Democratic Party
  • Dr. Ravi Perry, Chair, Political Science, Howard University
  • Keith Hasan-Towery, Chair, Voter Outreach & Education, DC Democratic Party
  • Troy Donte' Prestwood, Moderator & Chair, Ward 8 Democrats

**Click Here to watch**


General Election Statement from

the President of the

Ward 8 Democrats

Ward 8 Democrats President Troy Donte' Prestwood issued the following statement on the results of the November 3, 2020 General Election where Ward 8 voters selected impressive Democratic candidates up and down the ballot: 
 
“While we optimistically wait the outcome of the presidential race, we can definitively declare the winner of a race much closer to home. Having captured nearly 80 percent of the vote, on behalf of the Executive Committee of the Ward 8 Democrats, I congratulate Councilmember Trayon White on securing a second term as the Ward 8 Member on the DC Council. Councilmember White ran an impressive campaign that resonated with so many Ward 8 residents who want a safer, economically stronger, and more inclusive ward to live, work, and raise a family.” 
 
“I want to also congratulate At-Large Councilmember Robert White who carried the ward for a significant win and a second term, as well as Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton; Senator Paul Strauss; and our very own Executive Committee member Oye Owolewa on his landslide win as the next Shadow U.S. Representative... >>>Read More!


 What's at stake: Our closing message to Democrats

Members of the Ward 8 Democrats of Washington, DC reminds a weary nation what's at stake in the upcoming election. What's the cure? Well, voting of course.

 #Ward8Votes
***Click Below***


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Early Vote Centers are open across the District including five here in Ward 8.

If you didn’t receive a mail-in ballot, need to do same-day voting registration, or don't want to use the U.S. Mail or ballot drop boxes, you can visit any Early Vote Center in the District from Tuesday, Oct. 27 through Monday, Nov. 2. Early voting hours are from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm.
On Election Day (
Tuesday) voting hours are 7:00 am to 8:00 pm. See list of locations below.

Be sure to review the graphics below showing all the ways you can vote in Ward 8.
Also, see all things related to voting in Ward 8 by visiting our special #Ward8Votes General Election webpage at www.Ward8Dems.com/Ward8Votes.

 Please share with your family, neighbors, and friends.


#Ward8Votes

Where to Vote in Ward 8


Rewatch: Ward 8 State Board of Education Forum

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The DC State Board of Education provides advocacy and policy guidance for DCPS and the District's State Superintendent of Education. However, the pandemic has completely upended traditional educational delivery systems in the District and parents are worried. For now, we've replaced chalkboards and outdoor recess with Zooms and keyboard strokes. Our children's futures hang perilously in the balance.

Meet the three candidates (LaJoy Johnson-Law, Carlene Reid, and Ryan Washington) running to become the next Ward 8 Member on the State Board as well as four At-Large Candidates (Christopher Martin, Jacque Patterson, Ravi Perry, and Mysiki Valentine) who want to join them. 

WUSA9's Michael Quander moderates.

#Ward8Votes

>> Download the Program Book


Ward 8 Democrats Re-starts
#Ward8Votes Campaign

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It's election season in Ward 8. We've got you covered on everything you need to know to get ready to vote in the November 3rd General Election. From our recent candidates' forum to providing ways interact with those vying for your support, we want you to have the best voting experience during the upcoming election. That's why we're launching the #Ward8Votes campaign to help residents develop a plan for voting. We are also encouraging voters to share stories and videos telling us why they vote. Tag us and we will share across all of our platforms. See you on the hashtag #Ward8Votes.
Meanwhile check out the candidates below...
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Rewatch: Journey from Ward 8 to the
DNC Convention

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The Ward 8 Democrats hosted an event with DC Delegates as they geared up for the 2020 Democratic National Convention. In this video you'll meet some of the delegates representing the District at this year's Convention. Hear why they ran for delegate, their thoughts on the new Biden-Harris ticket, and learn how you can help secure a victory for  Democrats this fall. James Wright of The Washington Informer will moderated.

Joining us for this discussion:
  • Delegate Jennifer Blemur
  • Delegate Christine Warnke
  • Delegate Monica Roache'
  • Delegate Brandon Frye
  • Delegate John Carlos Green
  • Delegate Troy Donte' Prestwood

Rewatch: Power to the...Ballot

Did you miss this incredible conversation about voting technologies and the real efforts underway to bring them to bear in cities like the District and beyond.

Watch as President Troy Donte' Prestwood sits down with DC Board of Elections Executive Director Alice P. Miller to discuss new changes to the upcoming fall election in the District.

 Keith Hasan-Towery, at-large committeeman & chair of voter outreach and education for the DC Democratic Party, moderates a panel discussion on how technology, politics, and voting will shape the elections of the future here in the District and around the country. Joining him are: Michael Bennett, chairman of the DC Board of Elections; Forrest Senti, director of business and government initiatives at the National Cyber Security Center; Pete Martin founder and CEO of Votem; and
Matthew Gallagher programs coordinator in the West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office.


President Prestwood Testifies before DC Council on June 2 Election Challenges

"The voters are the true heroes of the June 2 election."

On June 19, 2020, Ward 8 Democrats President Troy Donte' Prestwood testified before the DC Council Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety's Public Oversight Roundtable discussion on the June 2 primary election. 

He, along with other DC Democratic Party chairs discussed challenges confronted by voters in Ward 8 and across the District during the June 2 primary election.

President Prestwood laid out a series of recommendations to reform how DC Board of Elections conducts future elections, including allowing separate service from the general public for seniors and persons with disabilities, even if they don't have a car; engaging the state and local parties like the Ward 8 Democrats for future decision-making around the location of vote centers; and giving DCBOE resources for automatic vote by mail and other election technologies.

Watch the
short video here.

Rewatch: Fireside Chat with Councilmember Trayon White and Panel Discussion on LGBTQ Political Priorities for Ward 8

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Did you miss any of our historic June meeting? Well, you're in luck. Rewatch Ward 8 Democrats President Troy Donte' Prestwood's sitdown with newly re-elected Councilmember Trayon White as they discussed the recent election, current events, and his vision for the ward going forward.

We also hosted We Are One: Engaging LGBTQ Voters in Ward 8, our first-ever panel discussion on LGBTQ political priorities in the ward in celebration of Pride Month. The panel included moderator
Abdur-Rahim Briggs, CEO, Project Briggs, Inc., Jorge Membreño, director of youth housing and clinical services at SMYAL, and Ward 8 residents Antonio L. Walker, Bela Muney, and LaQueda Tate.

Click on the video to watch. And don't forget to like, share, and comment.


Special Election Statement from the President of the Ward 8 Democrats

Ward 8 Democrats President Troy Donte' Prestwood issued the following statement on the results of the June 2, 2020 DC Democratic Primary election: 

“With more than 99 percent of the vote counted, on behalf of the Executive Committee of the Ward 8 Democrats, let me be among the first to congratulate Councilmember Trayon White on securing his second Democratic Nomination for Ward 8 Member of the DC Council.

“I want to also congratulate Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, At-Large Councilmember Robert White, Senator Paul Strauss, and the Democratic nominee for U.S. Representative, our very own, ANC 8E Commissioner Oye Owolewa on winning their respective Democratic campaigns. Each of them will go on to compete in the November 3 General Election where we will vote for all Democratic candidates up and down the ballot.

It was a historic day in the Ward with extremely long lines at all three Vote Centers. I want to thank voters for their patience, endurance, and refusal to give up and leave. You are the heroes of the 2020 primary election. We will be providing an opportunity for you to share your experiences at the polls soon. I also want to thank Vote Center staff and volunteers at Anacostia High School, Barry Farm Recreation Center, and Malcolm X Opportunity Center for their service. 

“Councilmember White ran an impressive campaign that resonated with many Ward 8 residents who want to see our Ward grow and become a more inclusive and responsive place to live, work, and raise a family.  
 
“Our councilmember will need all of us on deck as our challenges are big – fixing our public education system, building affordable housing, improving access to health care, public safety, and economic development, to name a few. But we also know this very moment is pregnant with opportunity for all of us to roll up our sleeves, work together, and make our great Ward even greater.
 
“Please join me in thanking ANC 8C Commissioner Mike Austin, Attorney Yaida Ford, Ward 8 Democratic Committeeman Stuart Anderson, and Businessman Fred Hill for running spirited campaigns and for shaping the discussion on the future of our Ward. Not only will the councilmember need you but the community still needs your energy, ideas, and values to move our great Ward forward.
 
“Again, congratulations to all the Democratic nominees. We have much work to do before the November 3 General Election.”   


 Ward 8 Democrats  Candidates' Forum
Rewind & relive in real time

**Download Program Book**

Saturday, May 16, 2020 | Noon 

Agenda 

Call to Order
Troy Donte’ Prestwood 
President, Ward 8 Democrats

Moment of Silence

Greetings
Charles Wilson
Chair, DC Democratic Party

The Occasion/Rules of the Day 

Forum Moderator
Anna-Lysa Gayle
Reporter, ABC7 (WJLA-TV) 

Conversations with Candidates for District-wide Office 
Eleanor Holmes Norton
Candidate for Delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives 

Paul Strauss
Candidate for United States (Shadow) Senator  

Robert White
Candidate for At-Large Member of the Council  

Conversations with Candidates for Ward 8 Member of the Council
Mike Austin
Trayon “Ward Eight” White
Yaida Ford
Fred Hill
(Certified Write-in)  

Ward 8 Democrats Business Meeting
Business Meeting  
Old Business 
New Business 
Adjournment
Your Choice, Your Voice Offocial Program Book
File Size: 20400 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File



DC Board of Elections Announce Mail-In
Voting Measures
Amid COVID-19 Emergency

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As you know, the Ward 8 Democrats has pushed the District for years to allow vote by mail. We are now happy to report the way the District conducts its elections is about to change. The DC Board of Elections (DCBOE) announced new measures to increase voter access and safety during the June 2, 2020 Primary Election amid the recent COVID-19 outbreak nationwide.

The Board is encouraging voters to request mail-in ballots to protect the public and election workers. Here are the following ways to get a ballot:

  • Voters can request mail-in ballots online at https://www.vote4dc.com/ApplyInstructions/Absentee

  • You can also request a ballot on their Vote4DC mobile app

  • You can call the DCBOE at (202) 727-2525 or (202) 741-5283, or fax your request at (202) 347-2648

  • You can mail or drop off in person a ballot request form (https://dcboe.org/Data-Resources-Forms/Forms-and-Resources/AbsenteeBallotRequestForm.aspx) to the DC Board of Elections, 1015 Half Street SE, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20003

The Board will expand early voting locations from 15 to 20, and citizens will be able to utilize these locations regardless of their home address. They are planning to have at least two per ward as well as at 1 Judiciary Square.

Don't forget, you can always register to Vote HERE!

Please help to pass this on to all Ward 8 Voters.

A special message from our president...

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​Dear Democrats:

As you know, the District remains under a state of emergency due to the ongoing threat of COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Following current guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and local District leaders on social distancing and mass gatherings, we are cancelling our Ward 8 Democrats' March 21 and April 18 general body meetings. We invite you to stay tuned to our website and social media for updates on local and national politics as well as any virtual meetings in the works.

The DC Democratic Party State Convention, originally scheduled for April 18, has also been canceled. However, the selection of DC Delegates to the Democratic National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, now scheduled for August 17-20, 2020, will
continue through an online process being developed by the DC Democratic Party. You can learn more at www.dcdemocraticparty.org.

Lastly, we know these are uncertain times. The news surrounding the health crisis has left many of us with questions and anxiety around the future of our normal routines. I find reassurance in hearing first-hand from health experts who are following the science and briefing leaders with their best assessments. There are two reliable sources of information I encourage you to bookmark:

DC Government Guidance
coronavirus.dc.gov

Federal Government Guidance
cdc.gov/coronavirus

It's in times like these that neighbors help neighbors. So please check on our most vulnerable neighbors, especially seniors, and let them know of available resources in the District.

Please stay safe and comfortable. We will get through this together.

The very best,

Troy

Troy Donté Prestwood
President, Ward 8 Democrats, Inc.



Ward 8 Democrats hold community meeting on the District's 2021 budget

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Members of the Ward 8 Democrats Executive Committee, along with Panelists Councilmember Trayon White, Ed Lazere and Dr. Marla Dean.
On January 18, the Ward 8 Democrats held the very first community meeting on the District's 2021 budget planning process with an eye toward identifying key funding priorities for the ward. 

Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White, DC Fiscal Policy Institute Executive Director Ed Lazere, and Bright Beginnings Executive Director Dr. Marla Dean were part of an expert panel that closely examined the District's budget and how well it matches up with the needs in the community.

Residents and panelists engaged each other on how best to fund programs for the homeless and for families, with a particular focus on youth. They also discussed additional resources needed for housing, education, and public safety.  Councilmember White, Lazere and Dean each pointed out budget wins in fiscal year 2020 but urged residents to get engaged and speak up for what they want to see in 2021. The District's fiscal year starts in October.

The Ward 8 Democrats will soon issue a "Ward 8 Budget Priorities" resolution to the mayor and council as well as talking points for residents to advocate for themselves and their neighbors at upcoming budget forums and council hearings.


VIDEO: Annual Kwanzaa Celebration


Ward 8 Democrats Unveil New Community
Census Portal

PictureThe Ward 8 Democrats unveiled a new Census 2020 web portal on the Ward 8 Democrats website where residents can find the latest news and information on census activity in the ward.
To help residents prepare for the upcoming Census, the Ward 8 Democrats unveiled a new 2020 Census portal during its November 2019 public meeting on becoming Census Ready. 
The site features videos and links to resources for the Ward 8 community and includes content in Spanish.

According to multiple media reports, the Trump Administration is determined to make it harder than ever to count some residents and their families. This is important because the Census helps communities like ours determine everything from where to build schools and supermarkets to homes to hospitals. It also helps the government decide how to distribute funds and assistance to residents in our ward.

"We are excited to launch our very own Census 2020 portal as a tool for residents to access important Census news and resources," said Ward 8 Democrats President Troy Donté Prestwood. "We know there is a lot of misinformation out there about what the Census is and what it isn't. The site, which will be updated as new information is released, is designed to be a simple one-stop-shop that cuts through the noise to provide visitors with facts. It will also be a key resource for our new Census Ambassadors to help their communities become Census ready."

During the Ward 8 Democrats meeting, Melissa Bird, executive director for District Census 2020, led a powerful workshop on the importance of the Census, how people are counted, and what happens when members of our community go undercounted. An inaccurate Census can stop the flow of much-needed dollars into our communities. She also busted several myths around the Census and said it cannot be shared with government entities like Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE. Everyone in attendance received a certificate as "Census Ambassadors". 

Find the latest news and information on Census activity in our ward on our 2020 Census portal at www.ward8dems.com/2020Census 


Scenes from our November 2019 Meeting


Join our Team: Recruiting New Directors and
Co-Chairs for Executive Committee

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The Ward 8 Democrats is looking for spectacular individuals to join our high-energy executive committee to help us spread Democratic values of equity, inclusion, and freedom to every section of the ward, and beyond. We are seeking candidates with excellent communications and social skills, a proven track record of working successfully with diverse groups, and a passion and dedication to Democratic principles. If that's you, we want to know your name. 

We are looking for directors and committee members for the following positions:
  • Programming
  • Issues & Legislative Affairs
  • Senior Citizen Engagement
  • Membership
  • Public Relations
  • Fundraising/Development
  • Public Relations
  • Youth Engagement
  • Special Events
  • Precinct Captains
  • Organization Volunteers
Are you ready to help us take up this fight? Are you ready to join the chorus? If you are interested or know of qualified candidates who might be, please forward the announcement accordingly. All interested candidates should email us a resume/bio at info@ward8dems.com. Please put "I'm ready to Fight" in the subject line. Please note, these are all non-paid volunteer positions but great for your resume.

Ward 8 Democrats Elect New Officers at its 2019 Biennial Convention

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Newly elected Ward 8 Democrats Officers (L-R): Troy Donté Prestwood, President-Elect; Sheila Bunn, Corresponding Secretary-Elect; Maria Riri Johnson, Recording Secretary-Elect; Darryl Ross, Treasurer-Elect; Salim Adofo, 2nd Vice President-Elect; and Deloris Walker, 1st Vice President-Elect.
Check out The Washington Informer story: Ward 8 Democrats: New Leaders, Old Challenges

Democrats from across the ward elected the next leaders of the Ward 8 Democrats during its 2019 Biennial Convention at Martha's Table on Sept. 21.

Mayor Muriel Bowser, Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White, DC Office on African American Affairs Director Ashley Emerson spoke at the convention, which also featured a community health fair.

Troy Donté Prestwood was elevated up to president after previously serving as the corresponding secretary. His leadership with the organization began as chair the public relations committee where he helped develop a new website, social media channels, and increase communications with community stakeholders. As corresponding secretary, Prestwood led voter education, outreach and registration efforts as well as deployed new fundraising tools to raise dollars for the organization.

Returning with Prestwood is current 1st Vice President Deloris Walker, who was elected to her own term after being appointed late last year when outgoing President Leonard Watson, Jr. moved into the president role; public relations chair and DC Democratic activist, Sheila Bunn, will move up to corresponding secretary; and long-time executive committee officer, Darryl Ross, will retain his seat as treasurer.

Two new faces will join the executive committee in the new term. Salim Adofo will become 2nd vice president and Maria Riri Johnson will become recording secretary. Adofo is currently an Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner in ANC 8C and Johnson is a community activist in the ward.

The new officers will be officially sworn in at the next Ward 8 Democrats meeting on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019. 



Images from the 2019 Biennial Convention
See what they were wearing...


Latest News:
  • Click here to view Convention agenda
  • Click here to view Convention slides
  • Click here for "Rules of the Day" for officer voting
  • Click here for proposed changes to the Bylaws
  • Click here for proposed changes for the Ward 8 Democrats Platform
  • Ward 8 Democrats unveil 2019 Convention Sponsors. View full list!
  • Mayor Muriel Bowser to give remarks at Ward 8 Democrats Convention at 11 am
  • Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White to give remarks at Ward 8 Democrats Convention
  • View “Sample Ballot” of officer candidates
  • Ward 8 Democrats team up with healthcare partners to host health fair at 2019 Convention. See our list of partners!  

Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton addresses Ward 8 Democrats during June meeting


Please support our "Taste of Ward 8" Sponsors who helped make the DC Democratic Party visit to Ward 8 a massive success.

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Highlights from our May 2019 meeting on the District's 2020 budget and how to serve on one of the city's Boards and Commissions


Highlights from our March 2019 Meeting  Featuring a Community Discussion on Violence Prevention


Highlights from our February 2019 Meeting Celebrating Past Ward 8 Democrats Leaders and
Discussion on the DC Budget

Our annual Black History Month celebration looked back on the Ward 8 Democrats' 35-year history with an esteemed panel of former and current Ward 8 Democratic leaders. Panelists reflected on the organization's major milestones, accomplishments, and the path forward. Next up was Ed Lazere of the DC Fiscal Policy Institute, who led a discussion on DC Budget 101. Last fiscal year, DC programmed a record-setting $14.5 billion budget that many say left more to be desired for Ward 8. Lazere talked about the DC budget process and how to advocate for the interests of the community.

Highlights from meeting on the new "East End Hospital"

Highlights from Ward 8 Democrats at "Art All Night"



"Chocolate City" co-author discusses new book on the history of black people in DC


“Chocolate City" Co-Author George Derek Musgrove, Ph.D. participated in a special lecture series with the Ward 8 Democrats  about the history of African Americans in the DC. The book traces the city's massive transformations--from a sparsely inhabited plantation society into a diverse metropolis, from a center of the slave trade to the nation's first black-majority city, from "Chocolate City" to "Latte City," Musgrove and co-author Chris Myer Asch, Ph.D., offer an engaging narrative peppered with unforgettable characters, a history of deep racial division but also one of hope, resilience, and interracial cooperation. The Musgrove lecture was co-sponsored by the Anacostia Coordinating Council (ACC) and DC Vote. You can purchase a copy of the book here.

Ward 8 Democrats Push For New Election Reforms in WaPo Op-ed

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Much has been written and posted on social media about low voter turnout in June’s Democratic primary election, with pundits speculating about the causes. One popular narrative was that, counter to their well-to-do neighbors, residents of Wards 7 and 8 aren’t concerned about the future of the District or improving quality of life. This defeatist thinking is dangerous and harks back to an era when the District’s political class peered east of the Anacostia River and deemed residents’ calls for more jobs and less crime as undeserving of attention. Read full op-ed.

:: Do you have ideas to help make our elections run smoother in future? If so, we want to hear from you by CLICKING HERE!


Photos from the "Chocolate City" Discussion


Ward 8 Democrats Endorse
 Bowser, NORTON and Garcia's Reelection CAMPAIGNS;

Andria Thomas Comes Close but No Endorsement for DC Shadow Senator

The Ward 8 Democrats voted to support the reelection of Muriel Bowser for mayor of the District of Columbia. The Ward 8 political club also voted to support Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton’s attempt for a 15th term, and Shadow Representative Franklin Garcia's shot at his third. The endorsement forum was held at the Old Congress Heights School in the neighborhood bearing its name, and focused on a range of topics including affordable housing, development, public safety and schools and is the final forum before the June 19 primary.
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Program Book - May 19
File Size: 5244 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

Read Full Story


Ward 8 Democrats Endorse
Karl Racine to Keep AG Seat

Council Chairman Phil Mendelson Comes Close But No Endorsements for council chairman and At-Large Council Seats at Candidates’ Forum

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The Ward 8 Democrats voted to endorse DC Attorney General Karl Racine’s efforts to keep his seat for four more years. His endorsement came during the Ward 8 Democrats Candidates’ Forum for Council Chairman, At-large Councilmember and DC Attorney General. The forum focused on a range of topics including preserving affordable housing, increasing workforce development and fighting for stronger schools in Ward 8. The DC Democratic primary is Tuesday, June 19.
View Program Book:

Program Book - April 21
File Size: 1183 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

Read Full Story

New Officers Elected at
Biennial Convention

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Voters selected two new members to join three returning officers on the executive committee of the Ward 8 Democrats on Saturday, Sept. 16 at the organization's biennial convention.

Jackie Ward, long-time Ward 8 resident and business owner, was elected to the second vice president position. Advisory Neighborhood Commission 8A Chairman, Troy Donte’ Prestwood, will join the team as corresponding secretary. Prestwood, who chaired the 2017 convention committee, previously served as the chair of the organization’s public relations committee.
 
Ward and Prestwood will join returning officers Charles Wilson, who was reelected president; Leonard Watson, Jr., who will move up one spot from second vice president to first; Tangela Garnett, appointed recording secretary in 2016, was elected to the same role; and Darryl Ross, who was reelected as treasurer.


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Saturday, April 17, 2021
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How to get on a DC Board or Commission
Saturday, May 15, 2021
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LGBTQ Pride Celebration
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Photo highlights from 2017 Biennial Convention



Ward 8 Democrats Issues Statement on the Passing of Founder
Theresa Howe Jones


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The Ward 8 Democrats extends its condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Theresa Howe Jones, a founder of the Ward 8 Democrats, DC statehood activist, and longtime Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner from the Bellevue community.

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Ward 8 Democrats Statement on the Passing of Marion Christopher Barry

The Ward 8 Democrats joins with members of our community in mourning the loss of long-time resident and former Ward 8 Democratic city council candidate Marion Christopher Barry, the son the late mayor, councilman and civil rights leader Marion S. Barry.
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Trayon White Wins Ward 8 Democratic Primary

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Endorsed Ward 8 candidate Trayon "Ward Eight" White wins decidedly in a crowded five-way council race that included current incumbent LaRuby May as well as Aaron Holmes, Maurice T. Dickens, and Bonita Goode.

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Ward 8 Democrats Endorse Trayon "Ward Eight" White
For Council

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White becomes the first non-incumbent candidate to reach the necessary threshold for endorsement in recent election cycles.

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