Arlen Herrell Recognition Resolution of 2026

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Zachary Parker

The resolution publicly recognizes Arlen Herrell and DC Black Pride for leadership in workforce development, equity, and support for Black LGBTQIA+ communities.

Approved with Resolution Number ACR26-0168

Summary of CER 26-0172 | Arlen Herrell Recognition Resolution of 2026

Purpose and intent

This is a ceremonial resolution by the Council of the District of Columbia to recognize and honor Arlen Herrell during the 2026 DC Black Pride celebration.

The resolution designates the occasion as the 2026 DC Black Pride event and acknowledges Herrell’s public service, entrepreneurship, leadership, and advocacy, particularly in the areas of workforce development, equity, and support for Black LGBTQIA+ communities.

Key provisions and changes

Recognition of Arlen Herrell’s roles and contributions:

Senior Deputy Director at the DC Department of Employment Services, with leadership in workforce development initiatives aimed at training, career pathways, and economic mobility for District residents.
Experience across local, state, and national government, including service in the Obama Administration and advocacy for the My Brother’s Keeper initiative.
Entrepreneurial ventures, including founding AStatesman Consulting Group (focus: workforce development, government relations, program design) and ownership of ASC Properties (focus: expanding housing opportunities and economic stability through real estate investments).
Personal background as a Black gay man, public speaker on politics, culture, equity, and the empowerment of Black LGBTQIA+ communities.

Contextual information about DC Black Pride:

Describes DC Black Pride as an annual event promoting awareness and pride among Black LGBTQIA+ communities, supporting health, education, youth, and families.
Notes DC Black Pride’s historical significance as the world’s first Black Pride festival and its influence on similar celebrations globally.
Highlights the 2026 celebration dates (May 22–25, 2026) and the theme “New Black Renaissance,” addressing ongoing issues such as HIV, inequity, homophobia, and transphobia.
Emphasizes the event’s scale, drawing thousands locally and internationally and contributing to awareness, funding for HIV/AIDS prevention, and combating bigotry and violence.

Affected parties

Honoree: Arlen Herrell is the primary person recognized.

DC Black Pride organizers and attendees benefit from formal recognition of the event’s significance.

Public understanding of DC government’s support for diversity, equity, and LGBTQIA+ communities.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduced in June 2026 by Councilmember Zachary Parker (CER 26-0172).

The action history shows the measure was introduced on June 18, 2026, and retained by the Council on June 30, 2026.

The resolution takes effect immediately upon adoption.

Overall impact

The bill provides formal ceremonial recognition of Arlen Herrell’s work and the DC Black Pride celebration, aligning the District’s official acknowledgment with the values of equity, inclusion, and community leadership. It does not enact policy changes or allocate funds but publicly elevates the contributions of an influential local leader and the significance of DC Black Pride.