D.C. Looks Ahead: June 2020

D.C. LOOKS AHEAD. While we begin to wrap our heads around what life in the DMV looks like as restrictions are lifted and we cautiously enter the next phase of our new normal, we remain acutely aware of the challenges ahead. At a time when the District, and our nation as a whole, is reeling not only from the pandemic but from rampant racial injustice, it feels fitting to focus on safe, inclusive spaces in the city in our June issue. Now is the time to stand in solidarity as a community, and highlight the local luminaries creating platforms that allow us to stand together and support those who need us most.

When I entered Femme Fatale DC’s current location downtown in May for our first social distancing cover shoot, I immediately felt at home. CEO Cee Smith and COO Adriana Mendoza opened their doors to my team, and as we explored the space and navigated how to communicate effectively with our masks on, I had the overwhelming sense that we were among friends. With each nook that our visionary photographer Tony Powell picked for the dynamic pair to sit or stand in, we heard more of their story and why they crafted this platform for women creatives and entrepreneurs. I also had the chance to sit down with them again several days later to ask more in-depth questions about what brought them together, how they’re pivoting during Covid, and the responsibility they feel as leaders in the LGBTQ community to act as a voice for all women and tap into the right resources to help those they serve.

Smith and Mendoza are just two of many locals we spoke with for our June issue to take their temperature on what’s next for our city and the ways we can work together to rebuild. Trent Johnson spoke with many members of the LGBTQ community about how they’re celebrating Pride virtually during the pandemic. He picked the brains of Capital Pride Alliance Executive Director Ryan Bos, Queer Artist Collective Founder and TRADE Manager Aaron Riggins, Makers Lab Director of Programming Patience Rowe, and SMYAL Director of Youth Housing and Programming Jorge Membreño, among others including drag queens, DJs and business owners.

We also chatted with City Kids Program Director Monique Dailey, up-and-coming rapper Dayon Greene, Booze Free in DC Founder Laura Silverman, Washington Spirit forward Ashley Sanchez and other D.C. area notables making an impact and finding creative ways to stay connected. Our team also took some deeper dives into how our lives have changed over the past few months. Courtney Sexton interviewed locals about sex (or lack thereof) and relationships during the pandemic, how to support the fine arts community, and Tail Up Goat’s at-home wine school. Kelsey Cochran tackled the subject of outdoor etiquette and spoke with sommeliers about their plans for the future. M.K. Koszycki wrote about saving our independent music venues and resources for parents striving to keep their kids engaged, and Keith Loria reported on how performing arts institutions are planning their next season. Lani Furbank covered everything from DIY oyster roasts and reconnecting the food supply chain to local grocery delivery options and ways to reduce waste in your cleaning routine. Plus, illustrator E$’s creative interpretation of how we all feel like bustin’ loose, another music-themed crossword from our friends at I.M.P. and our latest roundup of virtual events to keep you from going stir-crazy. As always, thank you for reading.

Enjoy this piece? Consider becoming a member for access to our premium digital content and to get a monthly print edition delivered to your door. Support local journalism and start your membership today.