El Ritmo De DC

Everything started to pick up, and I’m beginning to understand the rhythm of this city more and more each day. I have come to the conclusion that Washington, D.C. is actually the city that doesn't sleep. There is so much going on all the time, and everywhere, there is no possible way you can keep up. To start off, I finally got my desk assigned at LULAC!!! I have never experienced what it is like to have your own office space, it's quite nice. Everyone in the office is so kind and amazing to work with. I have felt like the work I do has so much meaning and the possibility to create change; it inspires me every day to get up and give my 110%. 

Wednesday, June 11th, Irene Bueno got us tickets to the Congressional baseball game. As a baseball player, coach, and adamant viewer, I was ready for some ball! Angel and I got there early enough to get some of the free swag they gave out before the game. I was able to gather all sorts of things, literally two bags' worth. After the rest of the HEP CAMP interns had gotten there, we were treated to some food…you know I had to get a hot dog. Before the game started, I thought it was going to be very competitive, but after the first inning, I quickly realized this was a televised men's softball league. I had to remind myself multiple times that this was a charity game and I shouldn't be expecting representatives to make all these “routine” plays. Compared to last year's score (31-11), I heard there were improvements within both teams, but the score (13-2) was still drastic. Regardless, I still had fun and was so grateful that I was able to experience such a game and be in such a beautiful ball park.

Friday was a scheduled lunch-in with Marco Davis, President and CEO of CHCI. I, alongside 4 other interns, got to experience a meal at the National Democratic Club. This restaurant was A1, we were the only ones in there, but you could feel the vibrance and the conversations the walls had listened to. Also, we were all so confused because when we ordered water, we got sparkling water, and we drank it even though none of us liked it. I don’t know why we were nervous to ask for tap water LOL. I ordered a ribeye, and it was one of the most delicious meals I've had in a while. By the time I finished, everyone was barely halfway, which was funny to me, but I got to know him a little more and found out more about his past. This man was a slide master and just decided to work with CHCI afterwards, which is so fascinating to me. Hearing his story in a way was motivating to hear, knowing there isn't a single route to getting to your desired spot in life.

The build-up to Saturday, June 14th, was quite something. The night before it was pouring cats and dogs, and there was lightning the whole night. Since I live pretty high up, my view of the skyline is decent enough, where the storm looked surreal. I could see how strong the wind was blowing and heard the rain bang against my window. It was so silly because some of the interns came to my room and we just told each other scary stories while watching the storm. It was very fitting. Morning of the 14th, we got ready and headed out for the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Getting there was a stretch since the Military festival was going on, and many streets were blocked off. We walked quite a bit to get there, but once we did, it all became well worth it. The architecture of the building is amazing. But the stories each floor told and how much history those four walls hold were beyond me. I saw Chuck Berry's infamous Cadillac, Prince's concert outfit, and a Celia Cruz dress. I can’t recall how long we spent there, but I thoroughly enjoyed every level, reading every panel. It was by far my favourite museum out of all that I have visited.