Evans has largely remained out of the spotlight since settling an ethics case with a $35,000 fine nearly four years ago. 

Mendelson says that Natalie Hopkinson and Cora Masters Barry are divisive and have “alienated” their colleagues. His critics ague that he’s punishing outspoken Black women trying to achieve equity in arts funding.

Mayor Muriel Bowser has also nominated new board members to the D.C. Commission on Arts and Humanities.