I wanted to take a moment to respond to the recent article by Alan Suderman entitled "Running for Second in Ward 8." This article demonstrates the unfortunate climate in which some journalists, excuse me bad bloggers operate on a daily basis; thus never addressing the many social ills of our community. To that point, I will say the article is laced with inaccuracies from both the reporter and another Ward 8 Council candidate.  Additionally, the article fails to highlight the true intent of my visit to the Council of the District of Columbia and sit-in in the Office of Councilman Marion Barry, as well as, the accomplishments of the day on behalf of Ward 8, its residents and business community.

First, this event was never designed to be a campaign demonstration; instead it was a demonstration by concerned residents of Ward 8. Yes, some of those who attended are in full support of my candidacy. However, I specifically invited all Ward 8 Council candidates and their supporters to attend so that we, as a Ward, could join together, in spite of our political affiliations, for the greater good of our community. Not surprising, but worth mentioning, one candidate publicly confirmed his attendance, but privately failed to show up. Also, it is rather unfortunate, and to a degree, disappointing that the other candidates and even some community leaders, could not put their personal/political likes or dislike aside for something that ultimately will affect the place we call home for years to come.

Second, yesterday's demonstration did exactly what it was intended to do. And that is, raise the conversation to the appropriate powers that be, through the most effective means by which we may achieve our desire results. Thus, our meeting with Councilman Jim Graham, Chairman of the Human Services Committee who oversees such issues on group homes and shelters, and to Councilman Michael Brown who sits on that committee. Our sit-in at Councilman Barry's office was just that – to send a message that his office doesn't belong to him, but instead to the people of Ward 8. He is merely our representative. And when he stops representing our issues on our behalf, then we are coming to regain our office back, and let our voices be heard.

As I have said from the very beginning, I am the only candidate in this race who truly knows how to bring out effective change; who truly understands the dynamics of the Council; and who truly knows how to work those longstanding relationships to get the job done. It is not done through grandstanding on Facebook or conducting countless neighborhood meetings that are not result-oriented.

However, it is done through taking your issues to the doorstep, in the faces of those who have it within their full capacity to fix. I stand firm in my decision to take the issue of oversaturation of group homes, shelters, and social services facilities to City Hall, which by the way do nothing to increase our tax base, create employment opportunities and bring real estate prosperities back on the market at affordable and market rates.



As a result of a few concerned Ward 8 residents' appearance at City Hall the broader issues have been introduced to the appropriate Councilmembers, and the first steps are being taken to begin to find resolve to this problem. Imagine what we could have done if we came together and showed up by the hundreds? (More to come)

While Mr. Barry has served as President of the District of Columbia School Board, Mayor of the District of Columbia for four terms, and Councilmember both At-Large and Ward Eight, three terms, the continued rise in the negative elements in our community, under his leadership, have far outpaced the elements necessary for a positive and wholesome community. Its time for new leadership Ward 8.

The many social ills impacting our community are constantly being pushed to the back burner on the agenda of so many people, especially those in leadership. Far too long, the acute issues of poverty, educational inequality, unemployment, the oversaturation of shelters, group homes and social services have overshadowed the economic needs of Ward 8. And today, our residents and business leaders in Ward 8 are saying enough is enough. They want something different - someone with the courage, energy, and the discernment to know how to fight for a cause and then have the capacity to negotiate for your desired outcomes.

That someone is me, Natalie Williams. While I did work as a top aide to Mr. Barry, I did not get my "first summer job" from him. In fact, I enjoyed a wonderful career as a journalist and as an entrepreneur long before joining his team. However, even if I did I think speaking out on the issues that are killing our people TODAY and keeping many from realizing their dreams and aspirations TODAY, is far more important than Mr. Suderman's characterization of me and yesterday's events as "trying to get noticed".

You should know, that as a result of our sit-in yesterday and meetings with both Councilman Graham and Councilman Michael Brown the conversation is being addressed at the highest level. I thank both Councilmen for taking the time to listen to our concerns, and for taking the first step of addressing this issue.

Now ... as it relates to my campaign --- I have maintained from the beginning of my decision to become a Ward Eight resident that I want to use my skills, business and professional experiences and connections to highlight and bring resolve to the many problems affecting our Ward. Unlike the incumbent and my fellow candidates, I am willing to take the chance of using what I have to bring attention to the plight of those in our Ward. And as for the title of the article "Running for Second in Ward 8" --- 2nd place has never been and is not an option for me. I am a leader by design, and that means coming in 1st place.

That's all for now! See you on the campaign trail.