"The Battle for D.C.’s Future: Will Black Communities Survive the Next 20 Years?"
- Brother Levon X
- Mar 20
- 3 min read
Story by Contributing Writer / Grassroots organizer Brother James Shabazz
Washington D.C. has entered a new 20-year cycle of its Comprehensive Plan (2025-2045), a strategic framework that will guide the city's development for the next two decades. This marks the third iteration of the D.C. Comprehensive Plan since its inception during the Marion Barry Administration in 1985. As history has shown, these plans significantly shape the political and economic landscape of the city, but the question remains: will the voices of D.C.’s Black communities be heard this time?
A Look Back: Who Really Shapes D.C.’s Growth?
The previous Comprehensive Plan (2005-2025) was largely crafted by powerful entities such as the Federal City Council, the National Capitol Planning Commission, national and foreign real estate investors, and the Wall Street bond market. Unfortunately, the direct input of D.C. residents—particularly Black citizens—was either overlooked or ignored. This resulted in policies that prioritized economic interests over community needs, leading to widespread displacement and gentrification, particularly in historic Black neighborhoods.
Now, D.C. residents, voters, and taxpayers have a renewed opportunity and responsibility to ensure their voices are included in shaping the 2025-2045 Comprehensive Plan. This is a crucial time for activism, advocacy, and strategic community planning.
Wards 7 and 8: The Battleground for D.C.’s Future
Wards 7 and 8 are home to D.C.'s largest Black populations. These areas are rich in history, culture, and strong community ties. However, they are also prime targets for redevelopment due to their proximity to significant waterways, making them a focal point in the city’s future commercial plans. The reality is stark: many of these economic plans involve large-scale displacement of low-income Black residents to make way for high-value commercial projects.
Muhammad Mosque No. 4: A Cornerstone for Community Stability
One of the key institutions in this ongoing struggle is Muhammad Mosque No. 4, located in Southeast D.C.. This mosque, alongside Black churches and single-family homes in Wards 7 and 8, represents more than just places of worship and residence; they are pillars of stability and self-determination for the community. Their role is crucial in resisting displacement, advocating for economic empowerment, and preserving the integrity of the Black community in the area.
In 2005, Minister Louis Farrakhan introduced the "National Agenda," a comprehensive blueprint for the spiritual, political, and economic advancement of Black communities nationwide. This framework provides key strategies that can help Mosque No. 4 and other community institutions assert influence over the future of Ward 7 and beyond.
What Can Be Done? Action Steps for the Community
Educate Yourself on the D.C. Comprehensive Plan – Visit the D.C. Government’s Office of Planning website to review official documents and understand the city's development agenda.
Engage with Grassroots Activism – There are numerous community meetings and lectures available online, including on YouTube, that break down how these plans impact Black neighborhoods.
Hold Elected Officials Accountable – With Wardel Felder replacing Vincent Gray as Ward 7’s new City Council Member, community members must ensure he prioritizes the needs of Black residents over corporate interests.
Strengthen Community Institutions – Support Black-owned businesses, churches, mosques, and local organizations that serve as economic and social anchors in Wards 7 and 8.
Mobilize and Organize – Form neighborhood coalitions that advocate for fair housing policies, sustainable economic development, and protection against displacement.
Conclusion: The Fight for the Future Starts Now
The next 20 years will determine whether Black residents in D.C. maintain their presence and power or become casualties of unchecked urban redevelopment. The Comprehensive Plan should serve the people, not just investors and developers. This is the time to act—to defend, protect, and advance the political and economic interests of D.C.’s Black communities.
By staying informed, engaged, and united, residents can influence policy decisions and ensure that their neighborhoods are not erased but instead thrive for future generations.
Sources & Further Reading
D.C. Government Office of Planning: planning.dc.gov
National Capitol Planning Commission: ncpc.gov
Federal City Council: federalcitycouncil.org
"The National Agenda" by Minister Louis Farrakhan (2005)www.noi.org
Various community lectures and discussions on YouTube regarding the D.C. Comprehensive Plan and its impact on Black communities.
"The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of BLXCR
Comments