One of the most notorious skate spots in D.C. is Pulaski Park, also known as the Freedom Plaza, located in the heart of downtown, which famous skaters like Tyshawn Jones and Bobby Worrsest have used for skate films. Another popular skate spot closer to school is Shaw Skatepark, which features numerous ledges, quarter pipes and a stair set for skaters.  

“Shaw Skatepark is like a second home for me,” local skater Andrew Thomas says. “The skate park has a community unlike any other. People help each other, encourage one another!” 

Skateboarding culture in D.C. is also supported by Crushed Skate Shop, which sells boards, clothing, and other accessories. Crushed also sponsors local skate events such as Go Skate Day, along with supporting the many skaters in the community. 

“One of the reasons I opened this skate shop is because I wanted to help skaters in any way possible,” owner Brian Aguilar, says. “When I was growing up, I did not have the support, so I wanted to support the local skaters. I’ve never been in the position that I’m in now, but I guess I’d say, just come out, come skate, get in the mix, take photos or film, there’s so many ways to apply yourself to skating or just the culture.” 

Crushed employee Jordan Taylor, also known as JT, is a local skater who has been running JT Skate School for more than two years now. JT teaches skaters of all ages, from kids all the way to adults. JT posts his students’ progress on his Instagram @jtskateschool. “Opening my school not only helps my students, but also helps me,” JT says. “I enjoy when new skaters reach a new level in their skate journey.”  

JT’s classes are taught at Shaw Skatepark and at Freedom Plaza. JT is also on the verge of being sponsored by “Real.” Though not a DC company, Real is active around the skate community and one of the top skate brands.

Pioneers of the skate community have found and created many things as a result of joining the skate community. Jahree Proctor says, “Skating came to me at a rough time in life, and it gave me a community to hang with. I started my brand there (@slugskate), which has given me more of a reason to throw myself into the skating community to spread my brand.”