Celebrate Black History this month and year-round by supporting local Black-owned businesses and brands, learning about DC icons from the Black community, tuning into conversations about Black U.S. Naval officers' original journey to freedom, and much more. Here are six ways to honor, support, and celebrate Black History Month in Capitol Riverfront.
Visit "The Beauty of Buzzard Point" Mural
The “The Beauty of Buzzard Point” mural by Kaliq Crosby and Rose Jaffe celebrates DC icons like Chuck Brown, Marvin Gaye, and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton; as well as their contributions to the District. While in Buzzard Point, be sure to also stop by and learn about the James C. Dent House (156 Q St, SW). This was the residence of Reverend James Clinton Dent, an esteemed community leader who was enslaved at birth, before gaining the freedom he should have always had as an adult, and served as the pastor of Mount Moriah Baptist Church. Opened on Juneteenth 2019, the Dent House serves as a community center and was in fact the place where many ideas for "The Beauty of Buzzard Point" mural were first conceptualized.
Celebrate with the DC Arts & Humanities Commission
Explore the 2025 Black History Month Calendar of Events, presented in collaboration with the DC Black History Celebration Committee. This guide features free educational events—both in person and virtual—throughout the city, from February 1–29. Whether you attend a local discussion, join an online program, or visit a cultural experience, there are many ways to celebrate, connect, and learn.
Support Black-Owned Businesses
This month and throughout the year, support Black-owned restaurants, shops, and services in the neighborhood including Somewhere, BOOMBOX Boxing Club, Navy Yard Dental, Ovation Eye Institute, Agua 301, 9Round and Sandlot Southeast (hello summer!).
Shop Black Brands at Steadfast Supply
Steadfast Supply is celebrating National Black History Month throughout February (and year-round) by supporting Black makers, businesses, and creatives highlighted throughout their storefront. Check out the store to learn more about the products, inspirations, and stories behind the talented Black-owned brands being featured. Stop by Tuesday through Sunday to shop brands from Black artisans like Bailiwick, 228 Grant Street, Aburi Botanicals, and Machee Creates; plus check out and purchase books for all ages that celebrate diversity and honor Black history in literature. 301 Tingey Street SE
Celebrate Abolitionist Frederick Douglass and The Bridge That Honors Him
Learn more about and celebrate the life of abolitionist leader Frederick Douglass, after whom the neighborhood’s newest bridge is named, by attending a Frederick Douglass Birthday Celebration on Saturday, February 8, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. The celebration will feature live performances by both the Jubilee Voices of the Washington Revels and the student winners of the Frederick Douglass Oratorical Contest. Following the celebration, a free shuttle will be provided between the Anacostia Metro Station, Martha’s Table, and the Frederick Douglass NHS so visitors can also take tours of Frederick Douglass’s Anacostia home, Cedar Hill.
Listen to a conversation with Jair Lynch
Listen in to Jair Lynch, Founder & CEO of Jair Lynch Real Estate Partners on the “Icons of DC Area Real Estate” podcast via Spotify, iTunes, and Stitcher. From his participation in two Olympic Games to his leadership in the development of real estate throughout the District—including Capitol Riverfront’s own eNvy condominiums and The Kelvin apartments—Jair Lynch is full of interesting perspectives.