Why Commemorative Works:

Commemorative works are symbols of our shared past and values that can create distinct identities for neighborhoods, inspire us to live better lives, and remind us of the people and events that shaped the world we live in. Washington, DC is a city full of monuments and memorials to subjects associated with our nation’s history – some with a controversial past. There are few dedicated to Washingtonians that tell the story of our residents, neighborhoods, and local history. Residents shared with the Office of Planning (OP) that they value the sense of community pride created by commemorative works, as well as how they educate new residents or children in their neighborhoods. Eighty-eight percent of residents expressed interest in having a commemorative work in their neighborhood. 

To learn more about the people, places, and events currently honored in DC neighborhoods, check out featured commemorative works posted on OP's website.

About the Initiative:

Commemorate DC will support local partners participating in the program to increase commemoration of Black Washingtonians and other leaders of color in all Wards of the District. After subjects and sites have been identified, a design team and public artists provided by OP and the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities will prepare concept designs. 

As the Nation’s capital, monuments and commemorative works have typically been focused on or reserved for commemoration to individuals or subjects of national importance within the monumental core, the original L’Enfant City, and mostly in Wards 1, 2, 3, and 6. Many of these subjects participated in slavery, systemic racism, and the mistreatment of, or took actions that suppressed equality for, persons of color, certain groups of people, and women.

DC's Commemorative Works Program reviews proposals submitted by sponsors, but since the program was established in 2001 has received only a handful of applications for local subjects. OP's Commemorate DC work includes technical assistance to community partners in all Wards to identify commemorative subjects and sites before supporting efforts. The Office of Planning's partners are convening meetings with community groups and residents to discuss subjects to commemorate, appropriate sites, and concept designs of commemorative works. Concept designs will be reviewed by the Commemorative Works Committee who will make a recommendation on each proposal to the Mayor and District Council, who have final review and approval.

Contact Us:

Zhetique Gunn, Program Manager, Urban Design 

Marvin Hodges, Community Planner, Urban Design 

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (202) 442-7600

We look forward to hearing from you!