Known as DC's forever mayor, Marion Barry was an iconic man who championed civil rights and advocated for the city’s people that were often overlooked and left out. For many, Barry recalls an earlier time when the District was one of the influental centers of black America. With the development of his Summer Youth Program, to help employ DC's youth throughout the summer months, and increased other job opportunities for residents, Marion Barry created functional middle class of African Americans in the District of Columbia.
