This bill designates a portion of Sumner Row in Washington, D.C., as "Alexei Navalny Way" to honor the Russian political activist and symbolize solidarity with those fighting for freedom in Russia.
Richard Durbin
Senator
IL
This bill designates a portion of Sumner Row Northwest in Washington, D.C., as "Alexei Navalny Way" to honor the Russian political activist and his fight for democratic freedoms. It requires the District of Columbia to erect street signs with the new designation near the Russian Ambassador's residence, symbolizing solidarity with the Russian people who are fighting for fundamental freedoms. Congress finds that the Putin administration has been involved in repressing people, assassinating political opponents, and committing human rights abuses. Alexei Navalny fought against corruption in Russia and was allegedly murdered by the Putin regime.
DC Street to Be Renamed 'Alexei Navalny Way' Near Russian Ambassador's Residence
This bill is all about sending a message. Congress wants to rename a chunk of Sumner Row in Washington, D.C. – specifically the part between 16th Street NW and L Street NW, right near where the Russian Ambassador lives – "Alexei Navalny Way."
Making a Point
The bill, [H.R. XXXX], lays out some serious accusations against Putin's government: assassinations, poisonings, human rights abuses, the whole nine yards. Then it connects those actions to the death of Alexei Navalny, a Russian political activist who fought corruption and, according to the bill, was essentially killed by the regime. The findings section details Navalny's work and the many awards he received. (Section 1)
Street Signs and Symbols
So, what does the bill actually do? It tells the District of Columbia to put up two new street signs. One goes above the existing signs between 1135 16th St NW and 1119-1125 16th St NW. The other gets its own post at 1555 L St NW, and it's supposed to look like a Metro station sign. (Section 2)
The Bigger Picture
This is pure symbolism. It's not going to change Russian policy. What it does is show where the U.S. stands – with the Russian people pushing for freedom, not with the current government. It's like a very public, very pointed statement right on the doorstep of Russia's official presence in D.C. It puts Navalny's name – and by extension, his cause – front and center in a highly visible location. The requirement to use a metro-style sign is an interesting design choice to catch eyes.
Real-World Impact, or Lack Thereof?
Honestly, the direct impact on most people's daily lives is zero. No businesses are being displaced, no taxes are changing. It is a name change. It is a statement. It's about as direct a message as you can send without actually changing any laws or spending any money. The only practical challenge might be for D.C. to get those signs made and installed, but that's about it.