Dear Neighbors,

Last week was very special for me because I had the opportunity to put forth a ceremonial resolution that honors the legacy of not only a dear friend and mentor, but my predecessor as Ward 7 Councilmember, Vincent C. Gray.

He began his distinguished career as the Executive Director of the DC Association for Retarded Citizens, now called The Arc, before going on to serve as Director of the DC Department of Human Services, and later the co-founder and Executive Director of Covenant House. During his time in public service, he was praised for his fairness, steady leadership, and insistence on transparency and accountability in government.  

Furthermore, throughout his career, he remained a tireless advocate for equity, opportunity, and dignity for all residents, earning the admiration of colleagues, constituents, and community leaders alike.  

His decades of leadership across roles as the Ward 7 Councilmember, Council Chairman, and Mayor stand as a testament to his unshakable commitment to the people and future of the District of Columbia. You cannot have a conversation about the District’s most profound and impactful city leaders without mentioning his name.

I’ve been incredibly lucky to have had him serve as a mentor to me and help me navigate my own experience as a public servant. I’m honored to have the opportunity to carry on his legacy as the Ward 7 Councilmember, and I couldn’t let a significant amount of time go by while sitting on this Council before I gave him his well-deserved flowers.