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Mayor to lead D.C. voting rights contingent in Pride Parade

Gray tells LGBT town hall he remains ‘vigilant, committed’ to LGBT equality

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Mayor Vincent Gray answered questions at the Blade's LGBT town hall (Blade photo by Michael Key)

D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray told an LGBT town hall meeting at City Hall on Thursday that he remains strongly committed to defending LGBT issues, including the city’s same-sex marriage law, and he plans to appoint a transgender person to the D.C. Commission on Human Rights.

Gray also made news by saying he has invited those who were arrested with him outside a Senate office building on Capitol Hill in April in a protest against congressional intrusion into D.C. affairs to join his contingent in the LGBT Capital Pride Parade on June 11.

“I’ve asked the five or six Council members who were arrested with me as well as the other members of the D.C. 41 — let’s have a contingent called the D.C. 41 in the Pride Parade this year,” the mayor said.

“[It] makes a statement about equality in the District of Columbia and frankly continues to make a statement about our resolve to be free in our ways in the city,” he said.

The LGBT town hall event, in which Washington Blade editor Kevin Naff interviewed Gray in the press room at the John A. Wilson Building, where the mayor’s office is located, drew an audience of about 125 people. The event was broadcast live on the city’s cable Channel 16 and was video streamed live on the Blade’s website.

In response to a question from Naff about whether he planned to appoint a transgender person to his administration, Gray asked his openly gay director of the city’s Office of Boards and Commissions, Ron Collins, where things stood on such an appointment.

Collins, who was present in the audience, said he was about to submit to the mayor the name of a transgender person as a candidate for a position on the D.C. Human Rights Commission, an adjudicatory body that rules on discrimination complaints filed by citizens. Collins didn’t reveal the identity of the transgender person.

“I will be happy to do that,” Gray said. “I will look forward to the next step, which will be appointing someone [from the transgender community] to the commission.”

The commission is charged with determining whether discrimination prohibited under the D.C. Human Rights Act occurs in employment, housing, public accommodations and other areas based on a wide range of categories, including sexual orientation and gender identity and expression, which covers transgender persons.

When asked by Naff how he would respond to an attempt by Congress to overturn the D.C. same-sex marriage equality law or to force the city to hold a voter initiative on the law, Gray said he would strongly defend the law.

“I haven’t heard of any efforts that are about to be launched or even discussed, but I think we all know that we have to remain ever vigilant, that there are people out there that don’t support this,” Gray said.

“Frankly one of my proudest moments was in December of 2009 when, after being one of the introducers of the legislation, being the Chair of the Council, I could raise my voice and raise my hand and say, yes, a resounding yes to being able to approve marriage equality here in the District of Columbia and to make us a leader to further level the playing field in this nation for the LGBT community,” he said.

“I’ve seen it in my own life. I’ve had things said to me, things done to me in the wake of my vote — and I won’t discuss those tonight — that are pretty untoward,” he told Naff and the audience. “I stand strong in my commitment. I stand strong in my conviction because I know that we did absolutely the right thing.”

Asked what he thought about a recent decision by D.C. Police Chief Cathy Lanier to name a civilian manager as head of the police division that oversees the department’s Gay and Lesbian Liaison Unit and other community liaison units, Gray said he was not aware of the development but would make an inquiry about it with Lanier.

He said he is strongly committed to ensuring that the GLLU remains strong and works with other police units to investigate hate crimes.

The LGBT town hall, which was sponsored jointly by the mayor’s office and the Washington Blade, can be viewed at washingtonblade.com or on the Cable Channel 16 website.

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Real Estate

Pride, patriotism, and prosperity

Real estate plays role in honoring servicemembers’ legacy

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(Photo by 1photo/Bigstock)

As the calendar turns to late May and early June, several powerful movements and celebrations converge in a profound and colorful tapestry of remembrance, Pride, and progress. 

Memorial Day in the United States honors the sacrifices of military personnel who gave their lives in service. Simultaneously, WorldPride and Black Pride commemorate both the historical struggles and enduring strength of LGBTQ+ communities worldwide. 

Though these observances may seem distinct, they share powerful commonalities — solemnity, resilience, and the pursuit of equity. When viewed through the lens of real estate and community development, their intersection reveals the critical importance of space, ownership, and inclusion.

Memorial Day is more than a barbecue, a long weekend, or the unofficial start of summer. It is a solemn remembrance of those who laid down their lives for the ideals of freedom and democracy. Many of these fallen heroes came from marginalized backgrounds, including a rainbow of LGBTQ+ Americans who served valiantly, often without recognition or equal rights at home.

LGBTQ+ service members have fought in silence for decades, only gaining the right to serve openly in recent years and then having that opportunity for some individuals snatched back simply because of who they are. Memorial Day is a chance not only to honor their service but also as a reminder of the injustices they endured.

Real estate plays a role in their legacy. For decades, returning veterans used the GI Bill to buy homes and build generational wealth; however, discriminatory practices like redlining and restrictive covenants denied Black veterans the same opportunities, contributing to the racial wealth gap that persists today. Similarly, LGBTQ+ veterans and their partners often faced housing discrimination with little legal recourse. These systemic barriers underscore how access to safe and equitable housing is part of the fight for justice.

Black Pride events emerged in response to racism within the broader LGBTQ+ movement, asserting that Black queer lives matter and deserve visibility. Held in cities across the globe, Black Pride is not just a festival — it is a political and cultural declaration. It amplifies voices at the intersection of race and sexuality, advocating for people who are disproportionately impacted by housing insecurity and gentrification. 

Many urban neighborhoods that were once cultural havens for queer communities are being transformed by rising rents and redevelopment. While revitalization can bring economic opportunity, it must be done equitably, with safeguards in place to ensure that long-standing residents are not displaced. Real estate, in this context, becomes a tool for resistance and renewal.

WorldPride, a global event celebrating LGBTQ+ rights and visibility, is hosted by a different city every few years. It draws millions of participants, shines an international spotlight on LGBTQ+ issues, and highlights disparities in rights and protections worldwide. In countries where queer identities are criminalized, safe housing can be a matter of life and death. 

Even in more progressive regions, LGBTQ+ individuals often face subtle yet persistent discrimination from landlords, real estate agents, and lending institutions. In the real estate industry, advocacy groups are working to increase representation, offer training, define ethical responsibilities, and advocate for inclusive policies to ensure housing is truly accessible to all.

The convergence of WorldPride with Memorial Day and Black Pride invites deeper reflection: What kind of world are we building in memory of those who came before? How can we ensure that freedom, the very principle so many fought and died for, includes the right to live openly and securely, regardless of race, gender, or sexuality?

The real estate industry has a unique role in shaping the future. From urban planning to homeownership policy, to income-based downpayment grants, it directly influences who has access to stability and opportunity. 

Developers, policymakers, and community leaders must work together to address housing disparities. This includes funding affordable housing, protecting tenants from discrimination, and investing in communities that have been historically excluded. It also means respecting cultural legacies and ensuring that neighborhoods reflect the diversity of the people who live in them.

Memorial Day reminds us of the cost of freedom. International Pride events remind us that the fight for freedom is ongoing. As we honor the fallen, let us also honor the living – those who continue to fight for their right to exist, to love, and to call a place home. Whether waving a flag at a Pride parade, laying a wreath at a soldier’s grave, or signing a first-time homebuyer agreement, these moments are connected by the enduring belief that everyone deserves dignity, safety, and a place to belong.

Valerie M. Blake is a licensed Associate Broker in DC, MD & VA with RLAH @properties. Call or text her at (202) 246-8602, email her at DCHomeQuest.com, or follow her on Facebook at TheRealst8ofAffairs

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Real Estate

Tips for buying a house in Rehoboth Beach

And why it’s a great fit for the LGBTQ community

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Rehoboth Beach, Del. (Washington Blade photo by Daniel Truitt)

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a charming beach house where flip-flops are considered formalwear and sunsets are your daily entertainment, Rehoboth Beach, Del., might just be your dream come true. It’s not just a beautiful coastal town—it’s also a long celebrated safe haven and vibrant hub for the LGBTQ community. Let’s dive into why Rehoboth Beach is a fabulous choice and how to make a savvy beach house purchase.

Why Rehoboth Is a Vibe (especially for the LGBTQ community)

1. A Welcoming, Inclusive Community

Rehoboth Beach has been lovingly nicknamed the “Nation’s Summer Capital,” and it’s not just because of its proximity to D.C. For decades, Rehoboth has built a reputation as a warm, inclusive, and LGBTQ-friendly destination. From gay-owned businesses to LGBTQ events and nightlife, this is a town where you can truly be yourself.

2. Packed Social Calendar

Poodle Beach, the LGBTQ beach hangout just south of the boardwalk, is always buzzing in the summer. Events like Rehoboth Beach Bear Weekend, Women’s FEST, and CAMP Rehoboth’s myriad of social and wellness events bring people together all year round. That’s right—you’ll never be bored here unless you want to be.

3. Small Town Charm Meets Big City Culture

You get art galleries, drag brunches, live theater, eclectic cuisine, and adorable boutiques—basically everything your soul craves—without the chaos and crowds of major cities. It’s quaint but never boring. Think: Key West vibes with a Delaware zip code.

Tips for Buying Your Dream Beach House 

1. Know Your Budget and Think Long Term. Beachfront and near-beach properties come at a premium. Expect to pay a bit more for proximity to the sand and ocean views. 

2. Choose Your Neighborhood Wisely. Do you want to be walking distance from the action on the boardwalk? Or do you prefer something more secluded in areas like North Shores or Henlopen Acres?

3. Rental Potential. If you’re not living there full time, your beach house could work overtime as a vacation rental. Rehoboth Beach has a healthy short-term rental market, especially in peak summer. Often times LGBTQ travelers actively seek inclusive, affirming places to stay.

4. Weather the Weather. Like all coastal areas, Rehoboth comes with a side of salt air and occasional storms. Invest in a good home inspection, especially for older homes, and be prepared for the maintenance that comes with beachfront living (yes, that includes sand everywhere).

5. Work With a Local Real Estate Agent. Look for an agent who knows Rehoboth inside and out and understands the unique needs of LGBTQ buyers. This isn’t just a house — it’s your happy place. You want someone who sees that and says, “Let’s find your sanctuary.”

Buying a beach house in Rehoboth Beach isn’t just about real estate — it’s about finding a space that reflects your lifestyle, values, and need for both community and calm. Whether it becomes your full-time home, your weekend escape, or your Airbnb side hustle, Rehoboth welcomes you with open arms (and maybe a mimosa).

Want personalized tips on navigating the Rehoboth Beach real estate market? Let’s chat! I’ll bring the listings if you bring the sunscreen. 


Justin Noble is a Realtor with The Burns & Noble Group with Sotheby’s International Realty, licensed in D.C., Maryland, and Delaware. Reach him at [email protected] or 202-234-3344.

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Real Estate

Impact of federal gov’t RIF on D.C.’s rental market

A seismic economic change for local property owners

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President Trump’s plan to cut the federal workforce presents challenges to local landlords. (Washington Blade file photo by Michael Key)

In a move that could redefine the federal government workforce and reshape the economic fabric of Washington, D.C., President Donald Trump has announced his intentions to significantly reduce federal government spending as well as the number of people the federal government employs.

Calling the federal bureaucracy “bloated” and “out of control,” Trump has repeatedly expressed his desire to cut thousands of federal jobs. While these cuts align with his long-standing push to “drain the swamp,” they come with potential and real collateral damage, especially for landlords in the D.C. area who have relied on government employees as some of their most reliable and long-term tenants.

The potential reduction of thousands of jobs in a city built around government work is not just a political shift—it’s a seismic economic change for the city government as well as for local property owners who have invested in the predictability of a near-constant demand for workers in the federal government agencies, government contractors and the economic ecosystem they sustain. 

For landlords, government workers have represented ideal tenants: strong income, long-term leases, and responsible rental histories. Now, that foundation is being shaken in a battle by the Administration against a workforce which is the backbone of the Washington area’s overall economy, and especially its rental market.

With uncertainty looming, landlords are left in a difficult position. If widespread layoffs come to fruition, rental vacancies could spike, rental prices would drop, and previously secure investment properties might become financial liabilities. The sudden shift forces landlords to consider their next moves: how to support tenants facing job losses, how to adapt to a changing market, and how to ensure their own financial stability amid the uncertainty.

For D.C. landlords, this isn’t just about policy shifts or budget cuts, it’s about economic livelihood. The challenge ahead isn’t about just reacting to change, but proactively preparing for it, ensuring they can weather the storm of political maneuvering.

Potential Consequences for D.C. Landlords

  1. 1. Increased Risk of Non-Payment of Rent
    • Job losses may lead to late or missed rent payments
    • As affected tenants struggle financially, they may ask to break their lease to live elsewhere or even move out of the region
    • Eviction lawsuits may rise, leading to a long and expensive process for landlords, all while not being able to rent their property to paying tenants.
  1. 2. Higher Vacancy Rates
  1. If many government employees leave the D.C. region in search of work elsewhere, the rental demand could decline significantly
  2. Rental properties may sit empty longer, requiring landlords to lower rents to attract new tenants and creating even more financial loss

3. More Competition from Other Landlords

  1. As many more units are vacant on the market, all competing for the same pool of potential tenants, older and smaller rentals, and those located further out from the core of the city will all struggle to find quality renters.
  2. Landlords will need to offer other ways to attract and retain tenants, such as incentives, which could quickly overwhelm the finances of smaller landlords who cannot keep up.

Proactive Strategies for Landlords

To mitigate risks and ensure future rental success, landlords should consider these defensive measures:

1. Strengthen Tenant Relationships and Communication

  • Encourage tenants to communicate if they anticipate financial hardship due to job loss.
  • Work out temporary payment plans or partial payments to prevent full non-payment or eviction.
  • Provide guidance on rental assistance programs available in D.C.

2. Offer Flexible Lease Terms

  • Consider shorter-term leases than a full 12-month term to accommodate the needs of tenants who may be uncertain about their long-term employment status.
  • Offer lease renewals at the same rent amount to keep stable tenants and avoid turnover

3. Diversify Tenant Base

  • If a large portion of tenants are government workers, a landlord may want to market to a broader audience or professionals in private industries.
  • Advertise on platforms that cater to diverse tenant pools, including students and international workers.

4. Adjust Screening Criteria Thoughtfully

  • While it’s important to ensure financial stability, consider creditworthiness, assets, and rental history rather than just employment status.
  • Consider alternative income sources, like family members assisting, part-time work or freelance gigs.

5. Protect Cash Flow with Rent Guarantee Options

  • Explore rental insurance policies or rent guarantee services to cover losses in case of non-payment.
  • Consider co-signers or guarantors on leases for new tenants in vulnerable industries, just in case.

6. Adjust Rental Pricing to Stay Competitive

  • Monitor the D.C. rental market and adjust pricing accordingly to attract new tenants.
  • Consider offering move-in incentives as a way to stand out.  Be creative!  Sometimes things you can offer are different and may catch someone’s eye

Long-Term Planning for Rental Success

  • Build reserves to cover expenses during potential vacancies or rent shortfalls.
  • Invest in property upgrades to make rentals more attractive to a broader audience, such as young professionals or remote workers.
  • Consider diversifying property holdings to include areas that are less reliant on government employment.

By taking proactive steps, landlords can safeguard their investments while supporting tenants through economic uncertainty, ultimately leading to a more stable and resilient rental business.


Scott Bloom is owner and senior property manager at Columbia Property Management. For more information, visit ColumbiaPM.com.

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