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What exactly constitutes American history?

It’s a simple question that seems to continually get harder to answer.

While each and every one of the 400,000 veterans, and their eligible dependents, who have been laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery played a role in American history, how they’re identified now factor in to how easily they can be located.

As part of the revisited DEI directive brought on by the White House, Arlington National Cemetery’s website scrubbed various pages, lists, maps and lesson plans on grave sites that highlighted the specific efforts of African American, Hispanic American and select Women service members who are buried on the grounds.

Arlington calls them modules—featured stories for visitors, families, researchers and educators that help guide walking tours and learning opportunities.

The affected pages were “unpublished,” but it’s unclear if or when the pages will be republished.

I’m a descendant of General Benjamin O. Davis Sr., America’s first Black general, and his son, General Benjamin O. Davis Jr., America’s second Black general, who was commander of the famed Tuskegee Airmen. These two generals had been prominently featured in African American history education programming on the website. And while you can still search for them by name in the “find a grave” section in the Arlington Explorer App, they—along with many of the men they served with—are no longer easy to locate without knowing and searching for each veterans’ name individually. Sadly, this isn’t the first time the government has treated them as they were invisible.

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And it’s not just names. It’s also sections and history of Arlington itself. Established in 1864, for over 80 years, African Americans were forced to be buried separately from white service members, until President Harry S. Truman issued Executive Order 9981 on July 26, 1948, integrating the military, for both the living and the deceased. Listings regarding the history of the land have been removed from previous versions of the website, including:

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These details aren’t strictly African American history, nor are they DEI.

This is American history.

The Military Is Diverse By Design

When it comes to cultural diversity at scale, the American military may be the most diverse organization in the United States. Of the just over two million Americans serving, 17% of the force is Black, 17% is Hispanic/Latino, and nearly one-fifth is women, a number that has increased as more military specialties have become fully integrated by gender.

That is today’s reality.

Looking back, most of the military trailblazers who were part of an ethnic minority or historically underrepresented groups were described as such, with their names listed alongside their ethnic background as part of their military biography. Not because they chose this, but because at the time, the accomplishments and awards they were receiving were so rare. Which is why scrubbing them is, in part, removing their legacy—or at a minimum making it hard to build one.

Where Do We Go From Here?

As the narrative around DEI becomes more a part of the cultural zeitgeist, editorial calendars and political agendas, an interesting question is being raised: Will Black history and Hispanic history continue to be classified under DEI and thus need to be removed, to align with the “mandates, policies, programs, preferences and activities in the federal government”?

Or is it time we communicate that we’re integrating all history into American history?

It was Morgan Freeman who famously said in reference to Black History Month, “I detest it, the mere idea of it. You are going to give me the shortest month in a year? And you are going to celebrate ‘my’ history?! This whole idea makes my teeth itch. It’s not right.”

At what point does America define Americans without the need for dual terms such as “Hispanic American” and “African American”?

ForbesThe Tuskegee Airmen Are Not DEI, As Air Force Reinstates Curriculum On First Black PilotsBy Doug Melville

During his lifetime, General Benjamin O. Davis Jr. would often be referred to as the United States Air Force’s first African American general. After living half of his life in a segregated nation, he’d correct people and say, “I have earned the right to simply be called an American—with no disclaimer. An American general is what I am.”

I think it’s important to continue honoring these veterans by sharing their stories and what they believed.

At this moment, perhaps more than ever, we should collectively refer to trailblazing Americans as simply Americans, and honor them by highlighting their achievements. Instead of scrubbing ethnicity out of it, let’s put into action the vision of what a fully integrated America can be for those still living—and for all the veterans who came before us.

They fought for us, and many gave their life for this country. Now is the time we should fight for them.

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The rankings evaluate programs in a variety of disciplines, including engineering, medicine, business, law, education and more.

Megan VerHelst, Patch Staff

VIRGINIA — Sixteen colleges in Virginia were ranked among the Best Graduate Schools in the country by U.S. News and World Report, which released its annual rankings Tuesday.

The rankings, intended as a guide for prospective graduate students, evaluate programs in a variety of disciplines, including engineering, medicine, business, law, education, nursing and social sciences.

In Virginia, the following institutions made the rankings:

Best Business Schools

Best Law Schools

Find out what's happening in Arlingtonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Best Engineering Schools

Best Education Schools

Best Nursing Schools: Master's

Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice

Best Medical Schools: Research

Best Medical Schools: Primary Care

This year’s rankings emphasize the results that education can bring. There were minimal changes in this year’s ranking formulas. A few new rankings were computed to help students make the best-informed decisions for their careers.

Three new law school rankings focus on different career outcomes for graduates, including employment in full-time, long-term jobs at big law firms (greater than 500 attorneys), in federal clerkships and at public interest organizations.

Here are the top schools by category:

Best Business Schools: Executive MBA

1. The University of Pennsylvania – Wharton 2 Northwestern University – Kellogg (Illinois) and Stanford University (California) (tie)4. University of Chicago (Illinois)5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Best Law Schools

1. Stanford University (California) and Yale University (Connecticut) (tie)3. The University of Chicago4. University of Virginia5. University of Pennsylvania – Carey

Best Education Schools

1. University of Wisconsin – Madison2. Teachers College – Columbia University (New York), University of Michigan – Ann Arbor and Vanderbilt University (Tennessee) (tie)5. University of California – Los Angeles

Best Engineering Schools

1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology2. Stanford University (California)3. University of California, Berkeley4. Georgia Institute of Technology5. California Institute of Technology

Best Nursing Schools: Master’s

1. Emory University (Georgia)2. Johns Hopkins University (Maryland)3. Ohio State University4. Vanderbilt University (Tennessee)5. Duke University (North Carolina)

Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice

1. Johns Hopkins University (Maryland)2. Duke University (North Carolina)3. University of Washington4. Rutgers University – Newark (New Jersey) and University of Minnesota – Twin Cities (tie)

Best Medical Schools: Research (Tier 1)

Baylor College of Medicine (Texas)Case Western Reserve University (Ohio)Emory University (Georgia)Hofstra University/Northwell Health (New York)The Mayo Clinic School of Medicine (Minnesota)Ohio State UniversityUniversity of California – Los AngelesThe University of California – San DiegoThe University of California – San FranciscoThe University of North Carolina – Chapel HillThe University of Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania)The University of Rochester (New York)The University of South FloridaThe University of Texas Southwestern Medical CenterVanderbilt University (Tennessee)Yale University

Best Medical Schools: Primary Care (Tier 1)

East Carolina University – Brody (North Carolina)East Tennessee State University – QuillenSaint Louis University (Missouri)Texas A&M UniversityTexas Tech University Health Sciences CenterUMass Chan Medical School (Massachusetts)University of Arizona – TucsonUniversity of Arkansas for Medical SciencesUniversity of California – DavisUniversity of California – San FranciscoUniversity of Hawaii – ManoaUniversity of Kansas Medical Center,University of MinnesotaUniversity of New MexicoUniversity of North Carolina – Chapel HillWestern University of Health Sciences (California)

Additionally, U.S. News issued new rankings of graduate programs in other popular academic disciplines, including computer science and public affairs. Because each program is different, the rankings methodologies vary by discipline and graduate degree level.

With thousands of federal workers and contractors laid off or facing job losses as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) continues making cuts, the Washington, D.C. region has been deeply affected. Roughly 175,000 Northern Virginia residents—more than 107,000 of them in Arlington and Fairfax counties—hold federal civilian jobs, Northern Virginia Regional Commission numbers show. The following local businesses, nonprofits, public schools and municipal governments are offering help in the form of job fairs, discounts and deals.

Updated April 7.

“Arlington is working to support federal employees and contractors in our community who may need unanticipated help,” says the county website. Find a local government gig in Arlington County or get free assistance with resumes, cover letters, interviewing and using LinkedIn for networking from the Arlington Employment Center.

The library’s calendar is chock full of worker-focused programs at branches countywide. Attend self-help courses such as Practicing Mindfulness and employment info sessions such as interview workshops and drop-in resume and job search help.

Recently laid off federal workers can see a performance by this drummer and composer with his quintet for free (use code FED at checkout). The first Little City Concerts Commission, the show is titled Rest/Imagine: Themes for a Bloodline looks at literacy, Black imagination and family histories. Catch it April 5, 7:30 p.m. at the Falls Church Episcopal church. // 115 E. Fairfax St., Falls Church

This Vienna-based real estate firm is offering to help affected federal employees with home sales. If federal workers who buy a home through Boeser Group agents in the next six months are laid off, the company will list the home for a 0% listing fee for up to one year.

This organization partners with more than 400 others in the area to help people experiencing food insecurity, and on April 5, it’s launching pop-up markets where people who have been affected by reductions in federal jobs and funding can pick up shelf-stable pantry items and fresh produce twice a week. Find them Thursdays, 5-7 p.m., and Saturdays, 9-11 a.m., or until supplies last. So far, the Virginia locations are at a Giant grocery store in Springfield and a Safeway in Dale City, but check the website for more information.

Together with the Northern Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, this new initiative aims to support former federal employees and contractors. On April 9, 6 p.m., share your experience and learn what Career Reignite can help with at a virtual focus group. Register to get a link to join via email.

Makeup artist Nicolette Elm is offering half off her services for affected federal workers. Reach out via Instagram or email her at makeupbynikkie101@gmail.com.

Former feds looking to launch a business can learn how through this Fairfax County resource. The Fairfax CORE Business Startup Guide has info on planning, permitting and launching, and the Resource Navigator connects budding business owners with more than 120 resource providers who offer free, specialized assistance. Check the Events Calendar for free and low-cost education and training.

Watch this webpage for updates on local resources and employment fairs, plus links to available jobs and help with health care coverage and financial assistance.

Virginia’s largest school district is offering to help federal workers transition into careers in either educational or operational positions. The webpage “Continue Your Public Service Journey at FCPS” links to a self-paced online teacher-prep program and explains how to obtain a teaching license. People with bachelor’s degrees can get provisional licenses within weeks. FCPS also offers a variety of operational roles in departments such as finance, human resources, safety and security, food service, transportation and facilities. Slides from a recent presentation to current and former federal workers and contractors are available here.

A new webpage from the city of Falls Church lists area opportunities and resources. Find a lit of state, regional and local resources, plus dates for upcoming events and job fairs.

A master trainer and nutritionist for 27 years, Meaghan Faragasso is offering discounted personal training sessions to federal workers. “Working out is the best way to ward off anxiety, depression and stay productive,” she writes in a Facebook post. Sessions take place at the Fairlington Community Center & Park. Contact her at (202) 627-0383.

The college is offering free tickets to performances across Mason Arts venues for federal employees and contractors who recently lost their jobs. The offer includes 23 professional and student performances at the Center for the Arts and Harris Theatre on the Fairfax Campus and the Hylton Performing Arts Center on the Science and Technology Campus in Manassas. Free content is also available online through Mason Arts Amplified. Reserve a ticket (amounts vary by location) by phone or in person two Tuesdays before each performance. “Individuals will be asked to confirm government agency and date of separation,” according to the announcement.

This 24-hour emergency care center for pets is waiving ER exam fees and will set up payment plans for pet owners who have been affected by the federal government layoffs. “If you or a family member have been affected, simply bring proof of recent government employment to your visit,” according to the March 11 announcement on Facebook. “Our goal is to ensure your pets receive the care they need without added financial stress.” // 140 Park St., SE, Vienna

This organization is hosting an online support group April 24 specifically for federal employees who have lost their jobs. It’s free and you do not need to be Jewish to join. Register here and select “Federal Employee” under the list of RSVPs for national support groups.

The Leadership Center of Arlington and by Arlington Economic Development will host this free event happening April 5, 1-5 p.m. Attend leadership development seminars, connect with community leaders and swing by a job fair, plus get free headshots taken. // DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Washington DC – Crystal City, 300 Army Navy Drive, Arlington

Get pro bono financial planning with a certified financial planner who specializes in working with federal workers in the DMV. Schedule a virtual session with by contacting Andrew Katz-Moses at andrew@katzmosesfinancial.com.

A former photo editor at USA Today and director of photography at USA Weekend—not to mention an Arlington Magazine contributor—Matt Mendelsohn has been offering free headshots to federal workers who have lost their jobs since Jan. 20. Email him at to info@mattmendelsohn.com to set up an appointment.

Workers affected by federal reductions in force can find information by city and county, including job openings, health care assistance and food banks.

Chef Peter Chang’s small-plates restaurant is offering a BOGO Happy Hour for federal workers on Mondays-Fridays, 4-6 p.m. The deal is good on food items from both the happy hour and full dinner menus. To redeem the offer, just show a business card as identification. // 1550 Crystal Drive, Arlington (National Landing)

This local school launched on March 12 the NOVA New Employment, Exploration and Transition (NOVAnext), a comprehensive effort to help recently unemployed federal workers and contractors transition to their next careers. NOVA is committing up to $1 million in scholarship aid to allow approved participants to enroll in one of 14 courses at no charge and access NOVA-sponsored online workshops on resume-writing and job search techniques. Students can earn industry-recognized certifications in high-demand fields such as information technology, program management and human resources. To be eligible, federal workers and contractors must have been laid off on or after Feb. 1, 2025, reside within the NOVA service area, meet a residency requirement and fill out an online application, which will be reviewed by Virginia Career Works. // Check the website for locations.

With a goal of supporting early-stage tech startups and entrepreneurs, this organization has a free weekly co-working and support program designed to help professionals in career transition. Use a workspace with free Wi-Fi and stocked kitchens, get career advice, and learn the details you need start a new business every Tuesday. // 7950 Jones Branch Drive, McLean

The mobile mechanic company is offering affected feds 30% off any auto service, including maintenance and detailing, with code TOGETHER30.

Show your federal badge or business card to get a 60-minute massage for $99 throughout the month of March at this wellness center. // 4001 9th St. N., Arlington (Ballston)

This collective of regional theaters in the DMV is offering free and discounted tickets to shows through the end of April. Signature Theatre (4200 Campbell Ave.) in Shirlington is holding a daily lottery for two complementary tickets to In the Heights, which runs through May 4. Enter to win them here and note that this is “for federal employees or contractors who recently had their employment terminated. When picking up tickets at the Box Office prior to showtime, lottery winners will be asked to show an official letter or email confirming this change,” according to the website.

Stretch and relax at a free yoga session April 2, May 7 and June 4, 10-11 a.m. “Our thoughts are with our community members who may have recently lost their jobs or suffered other losses,” the website states. “Find solace and inspiration with the art that surrounds us.” Registration is required. // 3550 Wilson Blvd., Arlington (Ballston)

Celebrate with spring lamb, egg dishes, carving stations, cocktails and special activities to keep kids happy.

April 7, 2025

Want to treat the family to an egg-stra special Easter brunch? These local restaurants are serving up lamb and Benedicts, French toast, carving stations and mimosa towers. Some will have visits from the Easter Bunny, fairytale and princess meals and candy eggs to make sure everyone leaves hoppy.

Easter Sunday brings the famous bunny to Cheesetique in Alexandria and sister restaurant Corso Italian in Shirlington from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The celebrity rabbit will be handing out candy-filled eggs for kids and golden eggs for grown-ups stuffed with prizes and exclusive retail discounts. Both restaurants will show Easter movies throughout brunch service. Corso Italian will be serving an All-You-Can-Mangia Easter spread for $29, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations recommended. // 2411 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria (Del Ray); 4024 Campbell Ave., Arlington (Shirlington)’

Head to this award-winning, founders row eatery for an Easter brunch from the duo behind D.C.’s Michelin-starred Rooster & Owl. This year, find a new seasonal special “pastry basket” that includes Portuguese egg tarts, miso-caramel cinnamon rolls, and spam cheddar scallion scones. The basket was conceived by the restaurant’s new executive pastry chef, Corey Jamison, who just competed on Food Network’s Spring Baking Championship season 11, which began airing in March. // 125 Founders Ave., Falls Church

Chef Ben Murray will be whipping up a special Lamb Kofta pita with hummus, cucumber, tomato, garlic yogurt and chermoula for Easter. Also on the brunch menu: PB&J Bao Buns, a Peruvian double fried chicken sandwich and chilaquiles. // 4245 Fairfax Drive, Arlington (Ballston)

Book a table at the 4P’s and you won’t go hungry. A massive brunch buffet on April 20 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. includes roasted Leg of Lamb, Virginia ham, roast beef, Irish oak-smoked salmon, an omelet bar, bacon, eggs, waffles, fruit, Shepherd’s pie, seafood pasta, salads, desserts and a make-your-own bloody Mary bar. Reservations required. // 105 W. Broad St., Falls Church

Tuck in to unlimited small plates for $55 per person, or go a la carte with Persian-inspired dishes from James Beard semifinalists Chris Morgan and Najmieh Batmanglij. Easter menu highlights include a Sour Cherry Dutch Baby with rosewater pistachio cream and a breakfast parfait made with labneh, pistachio and kataifi granola, cara cara orange and orange blossom water honey. Specialty brunch cocktails, including mimosa towers, will also be flowing. Brunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and reservations are suggested. // 8045 Leesburg Pike, Vienna (Tysons)

At Makers Union, Easter brunch isn’t limited to one day. Bring the kiddos April 12 and 19 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for crafts, bunny photo ops and brunch specials such as eggs Benedict, cornflake-crusted French toast and chicken and waffles. Easter Sunday (April 20) brings a family-style or a la carte brunch from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with options such as deviled eggs, monkey bread, benedicts and French toast. Reservations recommended. // 1450 S. Eads St., Arlington (National Landing)

Neutral Ground will be serving its popular Sunday Jazz Brunch on April 20, with specials such as spring lamb, Eggs Sardou (creamy spinach Madeleine, artichokes, poached eggs and Hollandaise atop an English muffin) and fancy deviled eggs with crabmeat ravigote and smoked trout roe. Round out your feast with Easter-themed sugar cookies. // 6641 Old Dominion Drive, McLean

Celebrate Easter Sunday with a bottomless brunch between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. For $32 per person, enjoy unlimited menu items, including a chef-attended taco and waffle bar, plus a variety of sweet treats. The brunch menu features monkey bread, szechuan sausage biscuits, and French toast sticks, along with guest favorites—marinated cucumbers, jerk chicken skewers, and street corn brick oven pan pizza. Top off the experience with a Bellini, mimosa, or create-your-own bloody Mary for $4.22 each with the Bottomless Brunch option (all guests at the table must participate). // 4053 Campbell Avenue Arlington (Shirlington)

Treat yourself to a swanky Easter Sunday brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at hotel restaurant Santé, complete with live music and a visit from the Easter Bunny ($145 per person; $55 for children 4 to 12). Buffet selections will include a raw bar, chilled and grilled specialties, a carving station, a salad bar and desserts, plus mimosas, Bellinis and bloody Marys. Adults can enjoy a complimentary glass of Champagne. If high tea is more your style, an Easter Tea on April 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. ($88 per person; $55 for children 12 and under) brings petite sandwiches, pastries, scones and a variety of loose-leaf teas, plus bubbly. Young visitors can enjoy treats paired with tea or hot chocolate, as well as a take-home Easter bunny plush toy. //1250 S. Hayes St., Arlington (National Landing)

Treat yourself to a classy Easter Brunch from 10:30 to 2 p.m., April 20 ($165 per person; $60 for kids ages 4 to 12), complete with a live jazz trio and children’s entertainment area, plus caviar, sushi, a charcuterie station and carving station. Capture the moment at the portrait station, where a photographer will be snapping family pics. If you’re doing Easter at home, bring your little ones to an enchanting, fairytale-inspired Princess Fairytale Afternoon Tea on April 19 at 2 p.m. ($170 per person; $60 for children ages 4 to 12) featuring Cinderella-inspired cake pops and happily-ever-after citrus madeleines. Kids are encouraged to dress the part for this fanciful afternoon. // 1700 Tysons Blvd., McLean (Tysons)

Settle into the botanical dining room of this National Landing restaurant for Easter specials such as Chef Luis Gonzalez’s eggs Benedict with a house-made hollandaise, accompanied with your choice of cured salmon, prosciutto, Canadian bacon or wild mushrooms. Other creations include a tomato puff pastry tart, corn cheddar quiche and swirl pancakes. // 2117 Crystal Drive, Arlington (National Landing)