Councilmember Anita Bonds

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution (CER 26-0083) formally honors Alma Woodsey Thomas, an influential African American artist and educator, by recognizing her groundbreaking career and legacy. It commemorates her life and contributions to the District of Columbia on the 134th anniversary of her birth, specifically acknowledging her as the first African American woman to have a solo exhibition at the Whitney Museum of American Art in 1972. The resolution has no legal effect or policy changes - it serves solely as a symbolic tribute with no direct impact on residents, programs, or funding.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution (CER 26-0081) honors Judge Rohulamin "Rohul" Quander, a DC native, Howard University alumnus, and former Senior Administrative Law Judge, for his lifelong contributions to public service, African American historical preservation, and education. It specifically recognizes his founding of the Quander Historical and Educational Society, his scholarship on the Quander family (one of the oldest African American lineages in the U.S.), and his work with The League of Enslaved Mount Vernon Descendants. The resolution formally expresses the Council of the District of Columbia's appreciation for his legacy and condolences to his family. It has no policy impact or direct effect on residents, as it is purely commemorative.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution honors Warren Graves, a longtime District of Columbia public servant who served under multiple mayors and contributed to education, policy, and community leadership. It symbolically recognizes his legacy through a formal council resolution, with no policy changes or direct impact on residents or government operations. The resolution takes effect immediately upon publication in the District of Columbia Register.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution (CER 26-0042) officially recognizes the 50th anniversary of the Blackbyrds' mainstream musical breakthrough in 2025. It honors the DC-based jazz-funk ensemble, specifically congratulating surviving members Keith Killgo and Joe Hall, for their cultural impact through hits like "Walking in Rhythm" and "Rock Creek Park." The resolution highlights how the band shaped Washington, DC's musical identity and influenced hip-hop through samples by major artists. As a symbolic gesture, it has no binding effect but formally celebrates their legacy as pioneers of jazz-funk and contributors to the city's cultural heritage.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution (CER 26-0043) declares May 1, 2025, as "DC Statehood Day" in the District of Columbia. It does not change laws or grant new rights but encourages District leaders and residents to discuss statehood and the lack of congressional voting representation for DC residents. The resolution aims to raise awareness about DC's status as a U.S. capital without voting representation in Congress, despite paying federal taxes and meeting population thresholds comparable to small states. It is a symbolic gesture by the DC Council, not a binding legislative action.

Maddy summaryThis bill temporarily expands background checks for staff and volunteers in District of Columbia youth workforce programs. It amends three laws to require the Department of Employment Services to conduct criminal and motor vehicle record checks on host employer staff or volunteers with direct contact with youth participants. The bill also updates definitions to include these host employers under "covered child or youth services providers" and modifies funding rules for food/beverages in summer programs. The changes are temporary, expiring 225 days after enactment.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution (CER 26-0022) formally honors Anita Bellamy Shelton on her 90th birthday, recognizing her over 50 years of advocacy for domestic workers, victims of discrimination, and families in need. It specifically acknowledges her work as DC Office of Human Rights Director, her role in securing the nation's highest minimum wage for domestic workers, and her leadership in organizations like DC Women in Politics. The resolution has no policy or legal effect - it is a symbolic gesture by the DC Council to celebrate her contributions. It takes effect immediately upon publication in the District of Columbia Register.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution (CER 26-0024) formally commemorates the 100th anniversary of the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), established by Congress in 1924. The DC Council resolution recognizes NCPC's century-long role in guiding planning for Washington, D.C., including preserving the city's historic character and collaborating on federal projects. It has no policy or funding impact - it solely expresses the Council's commendation of NCPC's "dedicated service" and commitment to future collaboration.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution (CER 26-0023) formally recognizes the Washington Nationals baseball team's 20th season in Washington, D.C., marking their 2005 return to the city. The Council of the District of Columbia "celebrates and commends" the Nationals for their 20 years of contributions to the community, extending appreciation for the "joy and unity" they provide. It does not create new laws or obligations but serves as a symbolic gesture of honor, referencing the team's history, fan engagement ("#NATITUDE"), and 2025 anniversary events like the "NATS20" celebration. The resolution takes effect immediately upon publication.

Maddy summaryThe LIGHT DC Amendment Act of 2025 requires the Mayor to install and maintain lighting on all designated pedestrian crosswalks and bicycle trails in parks and forested areas, operating from dusk to dawn. This legislation amends District law to add lighting as a mandatory safety feature for these specific locations, building on existing pedestrian safety measures. The bill aims to improve nighttime visibility for pedestrians and bicyclists, directly affecting residents and visitors using these areas in parks and forested spaces. It is based on evidence from past District initiatives showing that adequate lighting correlates with reduced injury risks and crime rates.