Video: Ra-Jah Kelly discusses the impact of Best of The DMV campaign

December 18, 2025

The Washington Informer launched its inaugural Best of The DMV campaign to recognize and celebrate local businesses, organizations, and individuals making positive contributions throughout the DC, Maryland, and Virginia region. The initiative generated significant community engagement with over 2,000 nominations and 15,000 votes cast by area residents. Ra-Jah Kelly, the publication's Chief Officer of Technology and Grants, emphasizes that the campaign serves to challenge negative stereotypes by showcasing regional excellence and cultural achievements.

Who is affected

Businesses, organizations, and individuals across the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) region who were nominated and voted for
The Washington Informer newspaper and its staff
Community members who participated through nominations and voting (more than 15,000 voters and 2,000 nominees)
Future recipients of the James Wright Memorial Scholarship

What action is being taken

The Washington Informer is hosting a Winners Celebration at Busboys and Poets in Anacostia where the James Wright Memorial Scholarship will be formally introduced.

Why it matters

The Best of The DMV campaign matters because it actively counters negative narratives about the region by highlighting local excellence and shared culture. It fulfills The Washington Informer's 60-year mission to uplift the community through stories of triumph and resilience, while strengthening community bonds through participatory recognition of meaningful local contributions.

What's next

The Winners Celebration will be held at Busboys and Poets in Anacostia, where the James Wright Memorial Scholarship will be formally introduced.

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer