Ashley Emerson, a second generation Washingtonian and Director of the Mayor's Office of African American Affairs, discusses the work she does, her personal experiences with Anacostia Park, and what it means to be a native of DC. She describes how important the Park is in her efforts to preserve African American culture in DC and help people with upward mobility. She talks about the Mayor's Office's efforts to invest in parks, schools, and small businesses. Ashley expresses the importance of sharing the rich history and culture of DC, and of bridging the tension between the old and the new; we need to reach out and communicate across cultures.
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."