Birth Advocacy

*Beyond Curfews and Toward Real Community Safety*. While youth curfews in DC continue to be pushed in the name of “public safety,” we must shift the focus toward what real safety looks like when communities lead. Instead of policing and punishment, this discussion explores how investing in youth, housing, education, and opportunity can prevent harm at its roots. Grounded in PACA’s vision, this **Assata Shakur Popular Education (ASPE)** session will examine how residents can take decision-making power over safety, resources, and accountability. Together, we will identify concrete steps to move beyond curfews and build community-led, youth-centered systems of care and safety. Food will be provided! *Food will be provided!*

*You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf) and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.* Distance: 3.5 miles Elevation change: about 100' Earth Day is Wednesday, April 22! How far have we come since the first Earth Day in 1970? Join us at the 500-acre Lake Accotink Park, a surprising retreat in the middle of suburban Fairfax County. We'll walk partly on and partly off the main trail and along the lake shore on natural surface trails (about 4 miles total). We'll walk by an active eagle nest that is visible from the trail, unless the leaves are out. We may see the eagles flying around the lake. We'll find a variety of native plants, including the native azalea. **We meet at the parking lot by the dam**, then hike on natural surface side trails that most park visitors don’t know about. I'm also a naturalist, so we will stop occasionally to look at spring wildflowers. Some of the terrain is hillier than the main trail around the lake, with an elevation change of about 100 feet from lowest to highest, with many short but steep hills that make for a good workout for a suburban location. The route has small rocks, roots, and a couple of small stream crossings and is not suitable for people with difficulty walking. Pace is about 2 mph average with occasional short stops for checking out nature and discussing Earth Day. Restroom: By the pavilion (about a 5-minute walk from hike start) No dogs, please Park Entry Fee: NONE [Park map](https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sites/parks/files/Assets/documents/waterfront/lakeaccotink/lake-accotink-brochure-map.pdf) * NOTE: Alternate directions if you are coming to the Park from the direction of Tysons Corner on 495 (Beltway): You may enter the Park at an entrance on Heming Ave. From I-495, take Exit 54 East onto Braddock Road (east). From Braddock Road, turn right onto Heming Ave., then right into the parking lot for Lake Accotink Park. HOWEVER, you cannot drive from that parking lot to the hike starting place. The two parking lots are connected by a paved walkway through the Park. It's a short walk down the hill to the lake (passing restrooms at pavilion), and then follow road to the dam. Please allow 10 extra minutes once you park to find your way and to walk to the dam if you arrive that way.

Link to purchase tickets: [https://filmfestdc.org/filmView.cfm?passID=10](https://filmfestdc.org/filmView.cfm?passID=10) As part of this year’s Film Fest DC we will be attending a screening of TCB: The Toni Cade Bambara School of Organizing with a Q&A by the director Louis Massiah. *This is the first of two screenings! We will include a meetup for the second screening on April 23rd.* **April 22 screening**: Producer/Director Louis Massiah and Director/Editor Monica Henriquez with guest moderator Dr. Rhea Combs, curator, writer, arts leader, Senior Curatorial Fellow, Baltimore Museum of Art, Former Director of Curatorial Affairs National Portrait Gallery Synopsis: TCB – The Toni Cade Bambara School of Organizing is a biography of the influential writer Toni Cade Bambara, whose literary works and film collaborations were a catalyzing force in 20th century cultural and political movements. The documentary is made up of stories shared by friends and colleagues including Toni Morrison, Nikky Finney and Haile Gerima.

Tickets: [https://www.dcimprov.com/shows/main-showroom/what-on-earth](https://www.dcimprov.com/shows/main-showroom/what-on-earth) Every April 22, we celebrate Earth like a coworker's birthday -- suddenly very supportive and acting like we didn't forget. This year, we're adding a comedy show to your annual celebrations to help get over any existential doom you feel about our home planet, even if temporarily. Comedians from NYC and DC, appearing on HBO, Comedy Central, The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and more, will deliver thoughtfully absurd punchlines about life on Earth. If you're a human on Earth, this show is for you.

Climbers of all skill levels are welcome to Join "Sends with Friends" rock climbing community for an indoor rock climbing (top rope or lead) event at [Movement Rockville gym](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZZD5jntgU4Y6fY9A9)! **$15 Day-Pass for non-movement climbers!** Here's what you need: 1. Signed [waiver](https://movementgyms.com/waiver/): https://movementgyms.com/waiver/ 2. Belay check, which can be done the same day. See [Your First Visit](https://movementgyms.com/first-visit/) page for more info: https://movementgyms.com/first-visit/ If this is your first time signing the waiver with Movement gyms, **your first visit will be free of charge**, all climbing gears included. To find us, go past the front desk and turn left. We'll gather by the benches next to the fitness room entrance. If you are completely new to climbing, you are welcome to come and try it with us after you take the Introduction to Rope Climbing Course which will be free of charge for you if you let me know. This meetup is free and run by volunteer organizers, however, access to Movement gyms requires a membership or purchase of a day pass. This meetup is for belaytionship only, unwanted advances will not be tolerated. **Sends with Friends Rock Climbing Meetup Waiver and Release of Liability** **NOTICE:** By signing up for this event, you agree to the terms outlined below and acknowledge the inherent risks associated with rock climbing activities. Participation in any event organized by this Meetup group is contingent upon your agreement to this release form. **1\. Assumption of Risk:** I, the undersigned participant, acknowledge and fully understand that rock climbing is a high-risk activity. I am aware that participation involves risks including, but not limited to, physical injury, permanent disability, or death. These risks may arise from, but are not limited to, natural hazards, equipment failure, human error, and the actions or negligence of others. **2\. Release of Liability:** In consideration of being allowed to participate in any activity organized by this Meetup group, I hereby release and discharge the organizer(s), co-organizer(s), event leaders, and all other participants from any and all claims, demands, actions, or causes of action arising out of or connected to my participation, including claims arising from negligence or gross negligence. **3\. Personal Responsibility:** I acknowledge that I am solely responsible for my own safety during these events. I will use my own judgment in evaluating the risks involved and will take appropriate precautions, including but not limited to: * Wearing appropriate safety gear. * Using reliable climbing equipment. * Following established safety protocols. * Refraining from participating in activities beyond my skill level. **4\. Medical Fitness:** I affirm that I am in good health and physically capable of participating in rock climbing activities. I assume full responsibility for any medical conditions that may affect my ability to participate safely. **5\. Indemnity Agreement:** I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the organizer(s), co-organizer(s), event leaders, and other participants from any claims, damages, or expenses (including legal fees) arising out of or related to my actions or participation in these activities. **6\. Photo/Video Release \(Optional\):** By signing this waiver, I grant permission for any photographs or videos taken during the events to be used for promotional or group-related purposes. (Participants may opt out by notifying the organizer.) **7\. Agreement to Follow Rules:** I agree to abide by all rules, instructions, and guidance provided by the event organizers and leaders. Failure to comply may result in my removal from the group. **8\. Acknowledgment of Agreement:** By joining any event organized by this Meetup group, I acknowledge that I have read and understood this waiver and release form. I agree that my participation in any event constitutes my electronic or physical signature to this agreement.

Come join us for bingo at Atlas Brew Works in Alexandria. It's free to play. Win prizes on every round, and the winner of the final round gets a $50 Atlas Brew Works gift card for your next visit! More information: https://atlasbrewworks.com/pages/events#calendar-c3cfc1a3-4344-434e-a1b2-fb876f819883 Parking: Wegmans has a parking garage (via the Stovall St entrance) and is next to Atlas Metro: Eisenhower Ave (yellow line)

I've tweaked the Strixhaven cube and am slowly replacing the SOS proxies with real cards! Fortified with Avatar lessons, I'm calling the format "Aang Goes to College." See the list and practice draft here: https://cubecobra.com/cube/list/strixavatar?display=spoiler NOTE: Pest tokens have been errata'd to have BOTH the new "Whenever this token attacks, you gain 1 life" text and the "When this token dies, you gain 1 life" text. You're welcome, Witherbloom players! **CONDUCT POLICY** We cultivate a safe, friendly atmosphere. Derogatory comments of any kind are unacceptable, as is behavior that may make others uncomfortable, such as rage-quitting. Thank you! **TARDINESS POLICY** If you're more than 10 minutes late, I'll enlist my wife to draft for you until your arrival. If she's unavailable, we'll make random, blind picks for you.

Greetings, Let's meet again (not exclusive to introverts, advocates, empaths, or neo-soul fans) for another Last Saturday of the Month **Advocates PreGame Dinner** at the Wharf DC SW Waterfront. **There is no obligation to dine or spend money if you RSVP as this is a free meet up event centered on building community, project development, purpose, partnerships, promoting advocacy, supporting others in various life goals, and conversing with those who share similar values and vision.** Topics include but are not limited to currently reading books, business partnerships, entrepreneurship, finances, relationships, conflict resolution, community service, health (e.g., habits, routines, self-defeating behavior, accountability), philosophy, metaphysics, and spirituality. **Restaurants and entertainment venues at the Wharf include but are not limited:** * **12 Stories Rooftop Lounge**--Hip Hop & R & B (usually opens at **6:00pm to 2:00am** for drinks, music, & food) * **Officina Italian Cuisine & Lounge** (**Great Energy Group hosts Saturday Night Hip Hop & R & B** weekly from **10:00pm to 3:00am**; **see link below)** * Live-K Karaoke (open until 3:00am) * **Restaurants/Entertainment Venues:** Milk & Honey Southern Inspired Kitchen (black/minority owned establishment), Fogo de Chao Brazillian Steak House (location of Dec 2024 dinner; vegan and plant based options available), Pappanonnock Oyster Bar, KinFolk Southern Kitchen, Bistro du Jour French Cusine, Mi Vida Mexican Restaurant; Zooz Cocktail Garden (Lounge & Bar), Charlie Whiskey's Lounge & Bar, La Vie Lounge and Restaurant; Politics & Prose Bookstore. **Additional Hip Hop and R & B Restaurants & Lounges across the DMV:** * The Gathering Spot NW DC (TGS; black owned co-working/networking space) * Eaton NW DC (Eaton Hotel/Wild Days Rooftop Lounge; vintage creatives space) * Gaia Supper Club NW DC * The Continent NW DC * Kitchen & Kocktails NW DC * AI Warehouse NE DC (MVEMNT DC's 90's/2000's Hip Hop & R&B Venue) * The Park 14th NW DC * Sost Lounge NW DC (Shaw/Howard/U Street Corridor) * Realm NW DC * Shanklin Hall Lounge NW DC (Adams Morgan) * HQ House (Gallery Place/Chinatown NW DC) * JoJo's Jazz Cafe (15th & U Street NW DC) **All are welcome to attend to include those of various backgrounds and ethnicities.** There is no set time to arrive so feel free to come as you please/arrange with others any specific plans. Parking Garages available, Waterfront Metro within 2 blocks of the Wharf, **ride share encouraged. If there are any questions or comments regarding this meeting, or if you would like to facilitate/co-facilitate (optional),** please do not hesitate to message via meet-up messages or phone at anytime, thank you. Note: Feel free to post/suggest, in the event chat/comment section, any **alternative Last Saturday of the Month evening/near future (e.g., April, May) events** (e.g., different dining locations, prescheduled events) if you would like to connect/PreGame with others regarding various activities in the DMV, thank you. **Great Energy Group Saturday Nights at the Wharf DC (25+):** https://www.greatenergygroup.com/ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Alicia (202) 627-0361 Tuesday April 14th, 2026 12:00pm (update)

Greetings, Let's meet again for another end of the month Melanated Investors Book Club discussion. Last year, several individuals participated in the virtual 12 month review of **Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings'**--financial literacy experts, master investors, and founders of the Earn Your Leisure PodCast debut book **'You Deserve to Be Rich'** (released January 14th, 2025; see link below). Prior to that, Jason and Cassandra Lockhart facilitated monthly virtual discussions pre and post pandemic (2021/2022 to 2024) before planning thier wedding in 2025. For those interested in **in-person book discussions** **(informal)** to include various topics related to leadership, advocacy, entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, financial literacy, and community services--**feel free to RSVP.** All are welcome to attend (no need bring a book or have read any featured text). As usual, feel free to discuss other topics to include books/content you are currently reading that extend beyond entrepreneurship. If you, or anyone you know, would like to partner, collaborate, or lead a discussion feel free to reach out via meet-up message or phone at anytime. Also, if there are any questions regarding this meet-up do not hesitate to reach out at anytime. Updates may also be added to the event chat/comment section at anytime, thank you. **Book Link:** [https://www.amazon.com/s?k=you+deserve+to+be+rich&ref=nav_bb_sb](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=you+deserve+to+be+rich&ref=nav_bb_sb) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Alicia (202) 627-0361 Tuesday April, 14th, 2026 12:00pm (update)

This is an announcement for an event happening in DC. This event does not have an actual host. We hope you will attend and/or support this vegan lead initiative put on by friends of Rockville Vegans. Event Description: The Animals Lawsuit Against Humanity is an ancient animal rights fable that will be performed / read during DC Climate Week. For details please register at [https://luma.com/dzy3l4fl](https://luma.com/dzy3l4fl?utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e0_tv4&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExY3J4Qk1JclBuNk54SFExVnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6Z69y823leLnAxGFleK8KNDQjkKhAC0XlJwQ1nZI2hZptFCGv-J57GCB-XVg_aem_QOLOKj3wpiqlHRimgIZSnw) .

Please be sure to RSVP here! https://stampede.proanimal.org/events Join your fellow animal lovers and DC Animal Protection to discuss what’s happening in the animal advocacy scene in DC! This series is a weekly meetup, with guest speakers from all of the major animals rights orgs. We’ll host non-profits such as Pro-Animal Future, International Council for Animal Welfare, DC Voters for Animals, The Humane League, Mercy for Animals and Direct Action Everywhere as well as local grassroots groups like the DC Coalition Against Foie Gras and sanctuaries. We’ll also have special sessions related to health, nutrition and mindfulness! We encourage anyone who is interested in helping animals to attend- no need to be vegan! Come learn about our rich variety of local activism. With protests, outreach, wheat-pasting, signature collecting, leafletting, lobbying, tabling etc. there’s something to match everyone’s comfort level and skill set. Coffee, bagels and community will be provided! Feel free to bring any extra treats to share (no animal products please.) Hope to see you soon! :) Note: Unfortunately, animals are not allowed at our venue. Please leave your furry friends at home.

Let's celebrate Brandon's birthday

[Gypsy Kitchen](https://www.gypsykitchendc.com/#gypsy-kitchen)'s menu is peppered not only with familiar ingredients like housemade hummus and whole roasted branzino, but also lesser known, delightfully flavorful creations like smoked duck prosciutto cured with oranges and tuna crudo with harissa and squid ink tuile. Small and large dishes ranging from $12 to $38. Take a look at the [menu](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5f282a42c0c6057ff41202e8/t/68f00ee40354521ecb0ceb76/1760562916363/GKDC-MAIN-10.15.25-v1.pdf) for details. IMPORTANT INFORMATION: * **CASH only.** * **Only sign up if you can commit.** * **Do not sign up if you are a maybe.** * **Do not sign up if you were a no show or canceled at the last minute in 2026 for one of my events.** * If your plans change, update your RSVP even if you are in the Waitlist. * Individuals that don't show or cancel in the last 24 hours will not be able to join future events organized by me in 2026. * Four days before the event, I will ask everyone in the Going list to confirm they are attending. I will ask everyone to confirm by the end of the day. Individuals that do not respond/confirm will be removed from the list and I will ask who in the Waitlist would like to join. * Please, respect these simple instructions. * The organizer reserves the right to change, cancel, and/or manage the event as they see fit. See you at Gypsy Kitchen!

**YES! YES!! YES!!!** **FREE HUGS on the National Mall are happening again!!** **"Spreading More Love"** Here are two videos of past FREE HUGS gatherings: [FREE HUGS October 2017. 32 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jh7v3zucDas) [FREE HUGS Veterans Day 2016. 58 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebTt9Q177zQ) **HEY EVERYONE!** Now that the Flu, COVID and RSV have subsided, we are **RESUMING OUR MONTHLY FREE HUGS GATHERINGS!!** FREE HUGS gatherings generate so much excitement, joy, appreciation, connection, peace, love, smiles, “Thank you’s,” lots of laughter and such positive energy!! Our FREE HUGS movement is all about "Spreading More Love" regardless of political, religious, racial or gender identification or any other identification. **!! IMPORTANT !!** We meet OUTSIDE of the National Museum of Natural History on the NATIONAL MALL SIDE OF THE MUSEUM near the Refreshment stand. ADDRESS: 1306 Madison Dr. NW · Washington, DC **PARKING:** On the street parking OR [Nearest Parking](https://washingtondc.bestparking.com/destinations/national-mall-parking) **METRO:** Smithsonian National Mall Metro Station (NOT Independence Ave.) **We hope you will join us for an AWESOME time!** **Lots of Hugs...jeff** 301-885-8259 (c) \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Note 1: if you agree to participate in any FREE HUGS Event, you agree to the following terms: By choosing to attend this event, you are acknowledging the risks involved (COVID, etc.), and you are committing to participate nonviolently and in accordance with the law. You agree: (i) not to engage in any act of violence or violation of any applicable law (ii) to obey the orders of authorized event marshals and law enforcement authorities (iii) that any Meetup group will not be responsible to any injury or damage to your person or property resulting from or occurring in the course of your participating in the Event; and iv) to release and forever hold harmless Jeff Maurer, Meetup group and their respective employees and volunteers from liability for any such injury or damage. Note 2: FREE HUGS gatherings are 1. NOT for advertising our businesses; 2. NOT about promoting political or religious or racial or gender issues or any other issues.

[The Kind Exchange](https://www.facebook.com/events/3087825058070662/) A gathering to share, swap, and connect with like-minded people who care about plant-based living, sustainability, and mindful choices. This is more than a swap — it’s a space to circulate what we already have and meet others in the community. Bring any of the following to share: * **Vegan-related books** (cookbooks, sustainability, mindful living, etc.) * **Plants or cuttings** (optional) Swap for something new-to-you from others. *The more you bring, the more there is to exchange!* Please RSVP so we can plan accordingly- [https://form.jotform.com/260975490897073](https://form.jotform.com/260975490897073?utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e0_tv4&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExVGxJeFRub0FQNmhUcmF3VnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4u9YhVWcSkITKfEn_NajeEUIyxFrXbcaG0HjFHoQn-MCxKlhGlUpFAnsMIzw_aem_vo9QISntFpTtGskmWaVEkQ) Unclaimed books/plants at the end of the event will be donated.

**💘 Zoom Speed Dating for Cleveland Locals – Matched by Age & Personality** A hosted online speed dating experience for Cleveland locals. We match you with compatible Cleveland locals using a quick personality quiz. You'll chat one-on-one on Zoom in short timed rounds while a host guides the session. **Pick your age group and sign up:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=dynamic-local-singles-speed-dating-meetup&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=476.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=dynamic-local-singles-speed-dating-meetup&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) **⚠️ RSVP alone won't secure your spot.** You need to register through your age group link below and complete the personality quiz. Places are limited. --- 👥 **Best for:** - 🎯 Busy professionals who don't want to waste evenings - Anyone curious about speed dating in a relaxed setting 🔄 **What to expect** 1. **Pick your age group** – Register through your link above. 2. **Complete the quiz** – Short personality quiz so we can match you well. 3. **Log in** – Connect to the Zoom session from home. The host runs the show. 📍 **Event snapshot** - ⚡ **Format:** Zoom video session – short timed rounds - **Location:** Wherever you're comfortable – no venue, no travel 💡 **Tip:** Prepare a couple of questions — it keeps the conversation moving. --- ✨ Register, take the quiz, and connect with Cleveland locals tonight. 💓 ✨ Quick version: this one gets straight to the point. Built for clarity over length.

Get ready for a fun night with amazing food, great energy, and even better company! 🥰✨ 🍽️ Portia’s Café — 6:30PM 🛼 Skate Zone 71 — 8:30PM Come join us for delicious vegan food and/or roller skating — it’s totally up to you! Whether you come for the food, the skating, or both… you’re in for a great time 💗 📍 Portia’s Café 4424 Indianola Ave Columbus, OH 43214 📍 Skate Zone 71 4900 Evanswood Dr Columbus, OH 43229