Ward 7 has long been a cornerstone of Washington, DC’s cultural, civic, and social fabric. Located east of the Anacostia River, Ward 7 includes some of the District’s most historic and tight-knit neighborhoods — Deanwood, Hillcrest, Hill East, Marshall Heights, Kingman Park, Fort Dupont, Rosedale, Capitol View, Fairfax Village, and others — each with their own unique identity and deep community roots.
Dating back to the early 20th century, Ward 7 became a beacon for African American homeownership, professional advancement, and family life during an era when segregation limited opportunities elsewhere. Generations of educators, clergy, entrepreneurs, and public servants built stable neighborhoods that offered a pathway to the middle class for Black families. Deanwood, for example, remains one of DC’s oldest African American communities, with a strong tradition of self-reliance, civic engagement, and artistic achievement.
Even as Ward 7 faced economic challenges, disinvestment, and systemic neglect during periods of urban decline, its residents have continuously demonstrated extraordinary resilience — advocating for better schools, public safety, affordable housing, transportation access, and economic opportunity.
