Post by : Meena Ariff

Residents in Congress Heights, a neighborhood in the southeast corner of Washington, have shared mixed feelings about President Donald Trump’s promise to “liberate the city from crime.” Many people here face crime in their daily lives, including robberies and violent attacks, but they are questioning whether the President truly cares about their community.

Concerns About Fair Treatment

Some residents wonder why federal agents and National Guard troops appear more often in wealthier, predominantly white areas, while Congress Heights, a largely Black neighborhood, seems to receive less attention. Karen Lake, a 62-year-old lawyer who has lived in Congress Heights since 2017, said, “If Trump is concerned about the safety of DC residents, I would see the National Guard in my neighborhood. I don’t think Trump is bringing in the National Guard to protect Black babies in the southeast.”

Residents feel that their neighborhood is often overlooked, despite facing serious crime challenges. Ward 8, which includes Congress Heights, has reported 38 homicides in 2025 alone, almost ten times the number reported in Ward 2, which includes the National Mall and other popular tourist areas.

Pride in the Community

Despite these challenges, many residents take pride in their neighborhood. Local community worker Le’Greg Harrison said, “Our neighborhood is beautiful, and crime does not define us. We need help, but not in a way that unfairly targets Black people.” Residents want support to make their community safer, but they also want respect and fairness in how law enforcement operates.

Mixed Reactions to Federal Involvement

Federal authorities say they are increasing their presence across all neighborhoods, including Ward 8. Abigail Jackson, a White House spokeswoman, said arrests have been made for illegal guns, drugs, murder, and elder abuse. “President Trump is committed to making DC safe again for all residents,” she said.

However, reactions among residents are mixed. Some, like Gerald Walker, 38, welcome federal help. “The National Guard, the FBI, and more police—whatever helps keep us safe, the better,” he said. Others, like retired bus driver Ronnie McLeod, 68, are skeptical. He pointed out that crime is already down in parts of Congress Heights and believes the President’s actions may serve other purposes, like showing action for wealthier neighborhoods.

Distrust of Presidential Motives

Many people here feel that Trump does not understand or care about the everyday residents of Washington. Michelle Lee, 42, said, “He’s very out of touch with DC people in general. He may know the political culture of the city and the fancier parts, but he has no idea what an actual resident goes through.”

Residents also recall past incidents where crimes affecting white political staffers received strong federal responses, while their communities often saw little attention. Some see the current federal measures as selective and believe they primarily serve wealthier, white neighborhoods.

Concerns About Gentrification

Another major concern for residents is gentrification. Many Black families in Congress Heights have already been pushed out due to rising rents and new developments. Jimmie Jenkins, 35, who grew up in the area, said, “The city spends more on luxury condos than on community centers for children.” Tyree Jones, 30, added, “They are trying to push more Black people out.”

Residents worry that an increased law enforcement presence could accelerate gentrification and lead to more harassment or displacement of long-time families.

Balancing Safety and Respect

While residents want their neighborhood to be safe, they also want law enforcement to be fair and respectful. Harrison, 40, recalled growing up in the 1990s when Washington faced very high crime rates. “Crime is a challenge, but we don’t have a state of emergency. Extra enforcement must be done with sensitivity toward Black residents,” he said.

Many residents also feel personally disrespected by how the President talks about their city. They believe that their culture, contributions, and struggles are often ignored, and that their children are unfairly portrayed as threats.

Community Strength and Resilience

Despite these challenges, residents of Congress Heights are proud of their neighborhood. Local business owners and community workers have worked to bring shops, restaurants, and other opportunities to the area. Many residents want federal support, but only if it genuinely serves their community and does not treat them as a political tool.

Residents believe that safety measures should address real needs, such as providing better schools, community programs, and fair policing. They want to see support for their neighborhood without fear, harassment, or selective treatment.

As federal actions continue, residents say they will closely watch how these measures are implemented. They hope for interventions that protect their community while respecting the people who live there. The community wants safety, fairness, and recognition for their efforts to build a thriving, resilient neighborhood despite challenges like crime, gentrification, and historical neglect.