IDA in Washington, DC

I really tried to limit my pictures this trip, but I always do so many things and I want to preserve the memories. So here goes… A trip to an International Downtown Association conference in DC, turned into 9 wonderful days hanging with work friends, and old DC friends and family, checking out new to me neighborhoods and the way old to me areas have changed.

I felt really blue and wary arriving in DC. It felt dystopian but I was warmed by little signs of resistance all over and the work me and my conference mates do focuses locally in a productive healing way so hearifn about their work seems like the ultimate antidote to these glum times. I did see my first group of ICE/Police/HSI, but thankfully didn’t have to watch them detain anyone.

I leave with renewed love for DC even if I feel a little down on our Democracy.

The 2013 Inauguration of President Barack Obama

I was lucky to be able to attend the Second Inauguration of President Barack Obama.  Washington, DC shined brightly as I toured its great monuments and enjoyed the political energy pulsing all over its streets.   Seeing the Martin Luther King, Jr. Monument for the first time on MLK holiday weekend moments before swearing in America's first black president for his second term, gave it even more meaning.  Seeing so many black faces in all the crowds who were so jubilant to live in a country that has come so far felt powerful.  What a weekend!

Click HERE to see more pictures from the weekend