On the footsteps of the Capitol, Principal Griot LeAlan Jones welcomed the press to the national launch of the StoryCorps Griot INITIATIVE.

Esteemed Congressman Charles B. Rangel kicked off the morning’s remarks. Mr. Rangel was followed by StoryCorps’ fearless leader Dave Isay, CPB President Patricia Harrison, and NMAAHC Deputy Director Kinshasa Holman Conwill.

Perhaps the most moving words came from lawyer, activist and humanitarian Marian Wright Edelman. Edelman is best known for founding the Children’s Defense Fund.

Before heading out of town for the next chocolate city, the Griot team stopped off at the D.C. staple Ben’s Chili Bowl. Known for famous clientele like Bill Cosby, the hot dog joint has been honored with the naming of the alley adjacent to the building: Ben Ali Way. Ironically, we had a celebrity sighting while we were in the restaurant when Mr. Cosby himself stopped in for his favorite chili half-smoke!

Photos courtesy Rob Lowell