This month, our neighborhoods are bursting with light and color: azaleas in full bloom, leafy trees overhead, and longer days inviting us to come on outside. The beauty of spring in our neighborhoods reminds us of nature’s resilience and constant renewal, even as the world around us may feel uncertain.
We have just passed the 100th day of the new administration. A lot has happened very quickly, and many of us are apprehensive about what is to come. Threats to home rule and to our neighbors’ safety, and concerns about the economy, the rule of law, and the future of our country weigh heavily for some of us – certainly they do for me. In times like these, it’s more important than ever to stay well-informed and connected.
CONNECTIONS
Among the opportunities for connection this month are a Happy Hour at Juneberry Garage on May 8th and a Lunch Bunch gathering on May 28th. On May 22nd our volunteer leaders will be offering a field trip to the National Museum of African American History and Culture to see the multi-media exhibition In Slavery’s Wake, highlighting how Black communities have navigated the global legacies of slavery and colonialism. Additionally, our visit will show our support for one of the many museums facing strong federal pressure to remove artifacts and reconfigure their illustrations of American history.
Also this month East Rock Creek Village is pleased to be a cosponsor of the DC Silver Pride Resource Fair & Tea Dance on May 21st at the Eaton Hotel, celebrating the contributions and stories of older Queer adults. All are welcome. Stop by the DC Villages resource table and stay for the dancing!
Don’t forget: ERCV’s 3rd annual June Jazz at The Parks at Walter Reed is coming! Join us on Sunday, June 8th for an afternoon of good music once again provided by James Zimmerman and his band. Be sure to save the date!
COMMUNITY
And be sure to check out our new Food Box Program that will be getting its trial run this month, as featured in this newsletter. This initiative is exploring another way that we at ERCV might help our members, and I’m quite interested in the results.
Finally, as we celebrate Mother’s Day this month, let us honor the mothers, chosen family, mentors, and friends who have lovingly nurtured, supported, and cared for those in need of some healthy mothering. In the words of Bob Dylan — to every mom — including my own: May your heart always be joyful / May your song always be sung / And may you stay forever young.