Respect DC was honored with an Activist Award Thursday night by the Washington Peace Center. Accepting the award (r-l) Rev. Edwin Jones, Local 400 Macy’s member Kimberly Mitchell and Respect DC leader organizer Mike Wilson. Photo by Karina Rosado.
When Walmart attempted to enter DC in 2010, a coalition concerned about Walmart’s negative impact on communities founded Respect DC. This group canvassed neighborhoods targeted by Walmart location developers, flashmobbed stores, advocated for residents to have the right to refuse or accept Walmart and to hold the company accountable to community standards. Campaign contributions to DC elected officials from Walmart developers skewed the fight for community rights, and in late 2011 Mayor Vincent Gray and Walmart jointly announced a “Community Partnership Initiative” that lacked both accountability and sincere public relations. Respect DC responded in January 2013 by promoting the Large Retailer Accountability Act, which would require Walmart and other big box stores to employ people at an actual living wage. The LRAA passed the City Council in a historic vote that was watched by activists and business leaders nationwide. Unfortunately, DC Council chose corporate greed over the city’s need and failed to override Mayor Gray’s veto. However, Respect DC’s fight helped to publicize Walmart’s poverty wage model and uncover the company’s lies about plans for higher wages in its DC locations. Respect DC now works with residents, faith leaders as well as labor, community, and student groups to raise the minimum wage and pass more robust law concerning paid sick leave. They will not stop until Walmart and other such corporations show deference to communities. Congratulations RESPECT DC!!!
Follow them on Twitter: @Respect_DC