Sheila Linder describes what Anacostia Park and skating means to her. She appreciates the programs and activities they provide for the kids, and remembers coming to events at the Park throughout the summer. She loves the music, skating, and entertainment at the Park and while some things have changed, she shares that most things have stayed the same.
Tammy Ingram, who grew up in Southeast DC, describes her past experiences with go-go music and the changes she's seen in her community. She describes her affinity for Anacostia Park as a home away from home, and reflects upon listening to go-go music throughout her life. She explains the changes she's seen in Southest DC, including the development of new buildings and destruction of trees and grass, and hopes that Anacostia Park will remain a green place of peace. She shows the centrality of her neighborhood and go-go music to DC: "Southeast, Anacostia Park, go-go: if we can keep all that alive, then you have the real city."
Tyrone Hall, a member of the National Reentry Network for Returning Citizens, reflects on his life experiences, the role of his organization, and the significance of go-go music. He explains how he returned from prison 8 months ago and the work he's done since to provide services for other returning citizens. He expresses the need for events like Late Skate for kids to prevent violence in the community. Tyrone discusses the significance of go-go music to DC, and the inspritation its served him as a rap artist. He reflects on gentrification in DC and the role of events like Late Skate that bring races together: "bringing everyone together is small, but it's monumental to me."