Existing comment:
DC Riots
1968
During the 1960s, when people spoke ominously of a long, hot summer, they weren't referring to the weather. Riots and civil disturbances had become a summertime occurrence in African American neighborhoods through the nation. Black urban ghettos reverberated with broken promises and discontent, and young people filled the streets on hot nights looking for action.
DC experienced less violence than other black communities across the nation -- until 1968 and the assassination of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Activists led by Stokely Carmichael demanded that stores and businesses, many owned by whites and serving blacks, close for the day to honor King. Roving bands feeding on their own frustration changed the demand into an opportunity to loot the stores and then burn them. Days of fire and violence spread through central parts of the District and into Capitol Hill. Community leaders such as radio personality Petey Greene, city official Walter Fauntroy, and Mayor Walter Washington used their influence to end the violence. |