Join the DC History Center to celebrate its special issue of Washington History magazine recognizing the 50-year legacy of Home Rule in Washington, DC.

This program has reached in-person capacity. Join the waitlist to be notified if room becomes available. To meet the overwhelming interest and the importance of this topic for Washingtonians, we will livestream the program. Enjoy the conversation from the comfort of your home by selecting "Virtual Registration" at checkout.

The 1973 DC Home Rule Act established a local government for Washington, DC allowing residents to vote for mayor and a city council for the first time in a century. Fifty years later, this special issue underscores the democratic progress that Home Rule represented and highlights its limitations and inherent vulnerability. As Michael Fauntroy writes, “Congress still can do whatever it wants, whenever it wants. A détente of sorts emerged during the past two decades, but, as evidenced by recent events, it is one that can be ended at any time. The District still is not fully free.”

On January 30, the DC History Center hosts a timely conversation with historian Michael Fauntroy, nephew of civil rights activist Walter Fauntroy, and journalist Martin Austermuhle considering the long struggle for self-determination in the nation’s capital. During the program, we recognize the contributors who made this special issue possible.

5:15 Member pre-program, registration required, more information below
5:45 Doors Open
6:00 Program in West Gallery
7:00 Snacks and beverages in Memorial Hall

Special thanks to the DC Office of the Secretary for their support of Washington History.

SPEAKERS

Michael K. Fauntroy is an associate professor of policy and government and the founding director of the Race, Politics, and Policy Center at George Mason University. He previously worked in the political science department at Howard University. Fauntroy served as a researcher and analyst at the Congressional Research Service and U.S. Commission on Civil Rights researching voting rights, fair housing, and education policy. The author of two books, he is widely published and is a regular commentator in popular news outlets. Fauntroy earned a BA in political science from Hampton University, an MA in public administration, and a PhD in political science from Howard University.

Martin Austermuhle is a local reporter covering politics, development, education, social issues, crime, and more. He currently writes for The 51st, and prior to that he worked at WAMU 88.5 for more than a decade. He got his start in local journalism as a writer for DCist.com, eventually rising to be the site's editor-in-chief. He has written for the Washington City Paper, Washington Diplomat, and other publications. Born in Switzerland, Austermuhle lived throughout Latin America. He holds a BA from Pennsylvania State University and a master’s degree in Latin American Studies from Georgetown University. He lives in McLean Gardens with his wife and their two daughters.

PROGRAM DETAILS

Registration is required. Please note that registration does not guarantee a seat during the program. Overflow is available in the Kiplinger Research Library, and the program will be livestreamed. Doors open at 5:45 pm. Whether you’re a past contributor, a DC History Center member, an advocate for DC statehood, or an avid reader, take this opportunity to get to know Washington History! If you require accommodation for a disability, email us at programs@dchistory.org. Please give us two weeks' notice to best meet your needs. We are committed to making events accessible for all participants. There will be photo and video taken at this event.

Member Pre-Program

DC History Center members are invited for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes program in the Kiplinger Research Library starting at 5:15 pm. Please see your email for a special invitation. Didn't receive an email? Email membership@dchistory.org. Want to become a member for access to special programs like these? Visit our website: https://dchistory.org/membership/.

ABOUT WASHINGTON HISTORY

Washington History magazine is the only scholarly publication devoted exclusively to the history of our nation’s capital. Its essays and articles are written by a diverse range of contributors–from distinguished historians to journalists and community members–offering a rich array of images as well as reviews and short features. To learn more, visit our website: https://dchistory.org/research/washington-history-magazine/.

DONATE / BECOME A MEMBER

Washington History magazine has been illuminating DC's rich past since 1989. With your generous support, we can continue to illustrate the stories of DC's communities with a diverse audience. By becoming a member or making a donation you help sustain this vital resource, ensuring that Washington's history remains engaging and accessible for all. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.

DC HISTORY CENTER PROGRAMS ARE SUPPORTED BY:

logos for EventsDC and DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities

Contact the host of Fifty Years of DC Home Rule: A Conversation and Washington History Release Party

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