March 15, 2023 Press Release EDGEWATER, MD – This afternoon, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) received a briefing and tour at the Ralph J. Bunche Community Center in Edgewater, Maryland. Last year, Congressman Hoyer helped secure $750,000 in funding for improvements and restoration to the site, which preserves African American history in the community. “Preserving the history of our people allows us to honor those who have come before us and those who contributed to building the community that we see today,” said Congressman Hoyer. “I was glad to secure $750,000 to help renovate the Ralph J. Bunche Community Center in Anne Arundel County. This historic property’s existence has spanned generations. Beginning as a segregated school for African American students in the 1920s, this center has been vital to the community as a safe place and resource to all those in the surrounding neighborhoods. “While the building itself needs repair, the presence of the Ralph J. Bunche Center remains strong in Edgewater. I look forward to seeing the progress following investments I secured in the FY23 Omnibus, and will be glad to partner with Anne Arundel County in ensuring this significant site has what it needs to remain a source of history and strength for years to come.” The Ralph J. Bunche Community Center will create programs and opportunities for the African American community and the public once fully restored. The Center's purpose is to support individuals and organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life for citizens in Edgewater. The Center will preserve and display artifacts of African Americans' rich heritage for generations to come. It will also provide an enhanced educational, recreational, and social environment while inspiring and encouraging others to continue the legacy of sharing their knowledge, gifts, and talents to preserve African American culture. ### For more information about our releases, please contact Maya Valentine at 202-226-1290.