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Informer Founder Calvin Rolark Honored with a Plaque at The Clara

June 25, 2025

Dr. Calvin Rolark, founder of The Washington Informer newspaper, was honored with a commemorative plaque unveiling ceremony at The Clara at MLK complex in Washington D.C. on June 24. Despite record heat, approximately 40 people gathered to celebrate Rolark's legacy as a civil rights activist, community leader, and founder of multiple influential organizations including The Washington Informer (now celebrating its 60th anniversary) and the United Black Fund. Speakers recalled Rolark's significant contributions to Ward 8 and African Americans in the District, including his advocacy for teaching Black history in schools and establishing The Informer as the only Black newspaper to serve as an official Spelling Bee outlet for the national competition.

Who is affected

  • African Americans living in Washington D.C., particularly in Ward 8
  • The Washington Informer newspaper and its readership
  • The Rolark family, including daughter Denise Rolark Barnes (current Publisher)
  • Community organizations supported by the United Black Fund
  • District residents who benefited from Rolark's civil rights activism
  • Young people who participate in The Informer's Spelling Bee competition

What action is being taken

  • A commemorative plaque honoring Dr. Calvin Rolark is being unveiled at The Clara at MLK complex
  • The Washington Informer is currently celebrating its 60th anniversary
  • The Informer continues to serve as the official Spelling Bee outlet in the District for the national competition
  • The Rolark family is participating in ceremonies to honor Dr. Rolark's legacy
  • Community members are gathering to commemorate Rolark's contributions to the District

Why it matters

  • The plaque ensures Rolark's contributions to Ward 8, the District, and African Americans will be remembered
  • Rolark established important institutions that continue to serve the community, including The Washington Informer newspaper and the United Black Fund
  • He was instrumental in the District's civil rights movement, working alongside figures like Marion Barry and Rev. Walter Fauntroy
  • Rolark advocated for Black history education in schools and created academic opportunities like the spelling bee competition
  • The commemoration occurs during The Informer's 60th anniversary, highlighting the newspaper's enduring legacy and impact

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer

Informer Founder Calvin Rolark Honored with a Plaque at The Clara