The resolution honors David Catania for his significant contributions as a member of the DC Council from December 1997 to January 2015, during which he became the first openly gay councilmember. Catania's career in public service began as Chair of the Sheridan-Kalorama Advisory Neighborhood Commission, and he was elected to the Council in a special election in 1997. Throughout his tenure, he served as Chairman of the Health Committee, where he made substantial advancements in public health, including initiatives to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic, expand health insurance coverage, and enhance mental health services. He also played a pivotal role in establishing affordable housing initiatives and advocating for same-sex marriage, culminating in the passage of the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Equality Amendment Act of 2009.
The resolution recognizes Catania's steadfast leadership and dedication to the District of Columbia and its LGBTQIA+ community, celebrating his legacy and impact on the city. After leaving the Council, Catania pursued a mayoral bid in 2014 and continued his work in public affairs, co-founding Georgetown Public Affairs, LLC, in 2018. The resolution takes effect immediately, reflecting the Council's commitment to honoring Catania's contributions to the District.