Promoting Thriving Small Business in Ward 1 

Helping small and local businesses thrive has been a key part of Rashida’s work as an Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner for 10 years, working to support small businesses as cultural and economic anchors.

She’ll support anti-displacement policies proven to work in cities facing similar gentrification pressures—commercial rent stabilization, community ownership models, technical assistance programs, and equitable access to capital, especially for women- and minority-owned businesses.

WHAT RASHIDA’S DONE

Advocated for Columbia Heights and Lower Georgia Avenue small business preservation and supported longtime merchants facing displacement pressures from rising commercial rents and development

Supported Main Street programs for Columbia Heights, Mount Pleasant, U Street and Lower Georgia Avenue, which provide grants, technical assistance and supports for small businesses. 

Worked with the Georgia Avenue Business Association and community stakeholders to develop strategies that honor the corridor’s African American heritage while welcoming responsible growth.

Championed equitable development principles in Ward 1 redevelopment projects, ensuring community benefits agreements include commercial space for existing businesses and local hiring requirements

Supported initiatives to connect Ward 1 entrepreneurs with technical assistance, business development resources, and access to capital to help them compete in changing market conditions.

Advocated for infrastructure improvements along Georgia Avenue, including streetscaping, improved lighting, and public realm enhancements that support small business vitality.

Partnered with cultural institutions and community organizations to preserve and celebrate Georgia Avenues’ legacy as a historic Black business corridor.

WHAT RASHIDA WILL DO

As someone who has worked extensively with municipal governments across the country and in Washington, D.C., an Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner for 10 years, and a policy director in D.C. government, Rashida understands that economic vitality requires strategic investment in our communities' foundations. Rashida will support measures that:

Streamline permitting processes for small businesses, particularly those opening in neighborhood commercial corridors; she’ll do the same for home and center-based child care businesses 

Invest in public infrastructure that supports commerce, including improved sidewalks, lighting, streetscapes and other public spaces that make commercial corridors safe and welcoming

Support workforce development programs that connect District residents to quality jobs, reducing the skills gap that businesses report

Partner with local businesses to address public safety concerns that impact foot traffic and economic activity

Invest in child care infrastructure as an economic development strategy—working parents are a critical consumer base and workforce, and accessible child care supports both family economic stability and business growth

Build the supply of affordable and market rate housing around our commercial corridors and near local transit to support a vibrant local economy 

Increase taxes and close loopholes for major corporations so that they pay their fair share, while providing some relief to smaller businesses to succeed and thrive