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We have an opportunity to capitalize on DC’s challenges
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Washington, DC, is known around the world as a capital for politics and partisanship, but locally, the District of Columbia’s prosperity over the last 25 years can be credited to leaders who have been guided by evidence and empathy – not ideology. Now, however, the District’s economic and social health is at risk. Washingtonians feel increasingly unsafe. Our central business district’s future is uncertain. The pandemic undid our school system’s progress. Too many DC residents feel unseen and unsupported.
OUR MISSION
Opportunity DC wants Washington, DC, to be known as a world-class example of equitable prosperity and effective local governance,
not simply as the capital of the United States. We recognize
the root causes and connections among community
welfare, neighborhood safety, and District-wide
prosperity – and we promote sensible solutions and
pragmatic leaders to advance all three. Our coalition
seeks to foster a local business climate that is equally
attractive to global corporations, innovative
entrepreneurs, and neighborhood merchants, in
addition to the federal government. Such a vibrant,
diverse economy will generate the resources
necessary for outstanding public services, including
education, health care, and housing. And by extending
high-quality services to all residents who need them, DC will promote public safety and support the workforce needed to power the District’s economic vitality.
OUR PRIORITIES
Safe Communities
Government’s greatest responsibility is keeping residents safe and making sure they feel safe – in their homes, in schools and places of worship, at work, and around town. Opportunity DC supports a comprehensive approach to public safety that invests in law enforcement along with social services and root-cause solutions to crime.
Crime often stems from poverty, addiction, and mental illness, and we endorse programs and policies that are appropriately compassionate and evidently effective. At the same time, violent offenders cannot be allowed to traumatize communities.
We are grateful for DC’s police officers, other first responders, and the risks they take to protect all of us. Anyone who abuses their authority should be held accountable.
In the long term, investing smartly in workforce development, affordable housing, equitable food access, high-quality schools, and productive activities for young people will be critical components of an effective public safety strategy.
Quality Education & Workforce Investments
Every DC student deserves the opportunity to attend a publicly funded school that meets their unique needs and prepares them for a successful future. Opportunity DC advances policies that promote equitable education funding and facilities access, so all students have the resources to learn.
With our partners in business and higher education, we support connecting K-12 to the workforce through career-relevant high schools, modern apprenticeships for youth, and flexible, local, and affordable college degree programs.
Efficient Government & Equitable Growth
When it comes to economic development, government should first do no harm. Opportunity DC endorses policies that clear pathways to business ownership and family-supporting jobs, to advance household and District-wide prosperity. We promote making government agencies easier to navigate and more responsive to the needs of DC businesses and residents.
We also recognize that historically marginalized groups have been excluded from capital and funding sources to build their businesses. Therefore, Opportunity DC supports targeted investments and public-private partnerships that empower native Washingtonians and widen the pool of enterprises contributing to the District’s economy and tax base.
