Censorship and Freedom of Speech

Join us for a friendly and relaxed English meetup in South Melbourne! This gathering is perfect for anyone who wants to practise English, meet new friends, and feel part of a welcoming community. Whether you’re an international student, new to Melbourne, or simply looking to connect with others, you’ll find a supportive space to learn and grow. Each week, we run **two simple sessions**: **Daily English**, where you learn useful everyday vocabulary, and **Learning English from the Bible**, where we explore short passages in clear, beginner-friendly English. You’ll also meet people from different cultures and enjoy meaningful conversations in a warm, inclusive environment. Come along, make new friends, and enjoy learning English in a place where everyone is welcome. We’d love to meet you!

MUST TAP “ATTEND” (PLEASE SPECIFY NUMBER OF GUESTS) FREE ENTRY ONLY IF YOU BRING A FRIEND. This is an extremely popular event so please RSVP EARLY to avoid disappointment as PLACES ARE LIMITED. Please arrive on time at 8pm as NO ADMISSION WILL GRANTED ONCE THE VENUE REACHES FULL CAPACITY. LAST ENTRY STRICTLY AT 8.30PM

In the 1950s, young Marty Mauser pursues his dream of becoming a champion table-tennis player. Movie starts at 6.40pm. Vmax. Discount tickets through RACV membership. Meet in cinema area at Southland. Cast Timothee Chalamet Gwyneth Paltrow etc.

We created a spontaneous coffee catch up and you showed up for the most amazing time with less than a week’s notice. So we’re back with another last minute, spontaneous event. Join us for a pizza networking night at Pino Pinelli’s - known for their wood fired pizzas. This will be an inclusive, low key night full of community, and an amazing opportunity to meet new friends. At its core, Girls Who Boss is built on a simple and well-supported idea: *When women have access to strong, intentional support networks, they are better positioned to thrive - professionally, creatively, and personally.* Networks influence far more than career progression. They shape how women access information, perspective, opportunity, and confidence across many areas of life. These connections often become places where we test ideas, refine values, learn from one another’s decisions, and make sense of complex seasons - whether you’re creating a business, chasing your career dreams, or working on personal development, this is the space for you. We can’t wait to see you there.

For many First Nations People Jan 26th is a day of mourning. I am Aboriginal and will be attending this Mourning Ceremony, feel free to join me. 🖤💛❤️ — 🎟️ This event is free but requires a ticket, the link is below. — ✏️ Bring your sketchbook along if you feel like sketching. I will bring mine. — ☕️ Drinks will be available but they request you bring your own reusable cup. ——————————————————— Join Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Elder Uncle Bill Nicholson for the January 26th Mourning Ceremony: Healing, Resilience and Survival. January 26th is a day of grief for many First Peoples, as it marks the beginning of dispossession and ongoing impacts of colonisation. In 2017, Merri-bek City Council chose to no longer refer to January 26th as Australia Day and supports calls for a new day that brings people together. This ceremony is a time to reflect on resilience and survival, to listen and learn, and to stand together for truth-telling, justice and Treaty. Light refreshments will be provided at 9am. ——————
This event is proudly presented by Merri-bek City Council on the unceded land of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples. Merri-bek pays our respect to Elders past, present and acknowledges that sovereignty was never ceded. ———— This event is free but requires a ticket via this link - https://events.humanitix.com/26-january-2026-merri-bek-city-council-mourning-ceremony/tickets?utm_content=linkstream_stream&utm_source=storystream&fbclid=PAVERFWAPeWdBleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAafC0_xxH7gkNOfci-16kOKycRa7JvXrXWOn3bkf16yzGJfcC1B7lsM0QFtRkA_aem_XqemOFMXOv2OjTo63R8Uuw

Melbourne Central Food Hall on Level 2. Far back corner near large windows to outside. Look for the colourful piano! See below for exact instructions on finding us. IMPORTANT: Please turn up if you RSVP. Other writers are counting on you being there with them so no one sits alone!!! Currently we have part-time hosts and regulars who will turn up and sit together. EVERYONE, please keep a look out for newly arriving people in the group and make them feel welcome, especially if they say: Are you with the writing group? If you arrive first and have an A4 piece of paper, it is a good idea to write on the paper: Writing Group. This way everyone will find each other. Bring your writing tools, and anything that you have written recently (optional). Remember your earphones if you like to listen to music while you write. There are no rules :) You can write. Or you can chat and write. You can share your work. Or not share your work. (If you need silence to concentrate then headphones are a good idea considering it is in a public space.) Bring pen and paper as a backup. Melbourne Central wifi available. Who: People who write and/or want to write (more) What: An open group of writers who meetup in a stimulating space to write together, share writing and ideas and support each other’s writing goals Why: Inspiration, motivation and space to write. Where: Melbourne Central - see photo for our location. Red shaded area would be ideal if available when you arrive. Detailed instructions if you do not know the area: 1) Go to the Shot Tower (the old building inside Melbourne Central with the big cone glass roof above it). 2) Go up the the escalators (there’s only one set of up- escalators near the Shot Tower, you can’t miss it). 3) You are now on level 2, Dining Hall (there are signs to the right, just slightly, stating this). 4) Top Juice store is to your right. Turn right so you pass Top Juice and walk toward the food hall. 5) You are now in the food hall near a black piano. Go past this. Go to the seating at the far back corner where there are large windows facing outside. 6) Look for us writers. There should be a sign on the table. Call out your hosts name and ask if this is the writing group. We will say YES, here we are! Additional hosts wanted!!! Please contact Mat Clarke. Please only RSVP if you can make it. And also un-RSVP if you need to cancel. Thank You, Melbourne Writers. Great Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelbWriters What we have written so far: www.worldwriterscollective.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/MelbCityWriters Blog: http://melbournewriters.wordpress.com **Help us by adding to these social pages and site**

Please join us this Sunday as we discuss nation, identity and Australia Day. We will meet at the Captain Melville, 34 Franklin Street in Melbourne CBD, at 2pm for a 2:15pm start sharp. There is no pre-requisite preparation necessary, nor a philosophical background, all that is required is a curious mind. These discussions are both a Socrates Cafe style discussion and lively metaphysical dojo, in the spirit of learning and friendly debate, so please feel free to challenge assumptions and be prepared to have your own assumptions challenged. Glen will be leading the discussion this week. We have started to split into two tables to discuss as we have had increased numbers lately, and are looking for regular attendees who would be comfortable leading the discussion on the second table to put their hand up. Find below some questions to consider, however these are free-ranging events and the below serve as a springboard for the discussion. Some points and questions to consider * What is a nation? * Is national identity something we inherit or something we choose? How does one come to belong to a nation? What are the benefits and costs of belonging to a nation? * What role should historical truth play in national rituals? * What obligations do present generations have to past injustices? * Do all nations tell simplified myths about themselves? * What does Australia Day actually commemorate? * What does Australia Day mean to different groups of people? Are there other countries with similar issues? * How might recent migrants relate to debates around national identity and to Australia Day? * Would you make changes to how Australia Day is currently celebrated?

‼️ Public transport is free on weekends during January‼️So let’s explore a new location 😄 For this event we will be going to Coburg Lake 🌿 Bring any art supplies you like, We will be wandering around the park sketching together. If you aren’t sure what to draw the club has a weekly drawing theme, just ask me what the prompt is 😊 ✏️ We welcome all artists of any skill level or medium, Whether you’re a beginner or pro, traditional or digital, absolutely anyone can join. ⚠️IMPORTANT⚠️ Please do not attend if you are sick. I have multiple chronic illnesses so my immune system is extremely weak. keep everyone safe by staying home if you are unwell ☔️ If the weather changes ill try to find an indoor location nearby —————————————————— Check out our instagram @shypeoplesdrawingclub to see more about our awesome group. We also have a Discord group for online events if you would like to join and chat with more artists. ✨

Join us for a free improv session each Sunday until Feb 22nd! Each week, a new experienced teacher from The Improv Pit will run some simple warmups and games for us to build up our skills, but most of all to have fun. Open to anyone so please bring any friends that might be interested and let’s all enjoy this beautiful summer weather ☀️

Looking for a quiet, focused space to write? Come be part of our writing group—a dedicated time just for writing alongside fellow writers in your community. No readings, no critiques, no peer-review—just you writing within a supportive atmosphere. 7pm-7:15pm: Find your seat, set up your writing station, quick intro's. 7:15pm-8:45 pm: An hour and a half of silent focused writing. 8:45pm-9pm: Quick debrief, pack and head home. Can't wait to see you! :)

### Monthly Group Mentoring on Prosperity **with Rev. Honi Borden & Michael Abramson** This Monthly Group Mentoring on Prosperity is a sacred, ongoing space for individuals who desire to **Align with the Frequency of Prosperous Beingness** as guided and embodied by Rev. Honi Borden and Michael Abramson. Prosperity is not something to acquire—it is a **state of being** already available through God Almighty. Within this mentorship, participants are lovingly and powerfully guided to **tune into the frequency of prosperity from within**, experience its presence internally, and recognize how it naturally seeks to express itself through their life. As you align with this Prosperous Beingness, you will: * Experience what prosperity **feels like** on the inside—peace, trust, sufficiency, divine flow * Gain clarity on what prosperity **looks like** when lived in alignment with God’s design * Discover **practical, actionable steps** to allow more prosperity into your daily life, work, service, and relationships * Release unconscious limitations that restrict the natural flow of God’s blessings This **embodied, frequency-based mentorship** is designed to support the integration of prosperity into your consciousness, choices, and lived experience—so prosperity becomes a natural expression of who you are, rather than something you strive for. It is for individuals who truly desire to **live their highest and greatest purpose-filled life**—a life led by God, designed to **impact lives, uplift humanity, and serve with meaning and integrity**. In this space, prosperity becomes the natural fuel for service, generosity, and inspired contribution. When we live aligned with the Prosperous Beingness God has placed within us, our lives become a blessing—not only to ourselves, but to the world. This mentoring is an invitation to live from that truth. It meets last Wednesday of every month with group of Dedicated, Devoted & Desciplined individuals that have a Deep Desire To FullFill Their Life's Purpose By Being Truly Prosperous In Every Way. *** ✨ **DETAILS** 🗓 **Last Wednesday of each month** ⏰ **2:00 PM EST** 📍 **Live on Zoom** (Replay provided if Zoom is missed) 💎 **Investment:** $188 USD • 1st Tier Ascension Alchemy Members Price: $100 USD To Register, please email: Info@AscensionAlchemists.com so we can provide you with the link for payment and all the details. *(Please enter the amount manually)* EMAIL: Info@AscensionAlchemists.com To Register

Looking for a quiet, focused space to write? Come be part of our writing group—a dedicated time just for writing alongside fellow writers in your community. No readings, no critiques, no peer-review—just you writing within a supportive atmosphere. 7pm-7:15pm: Find your seat, set up your writing station, quick intro's. 7:15pm-8:45 pm: An hour and a half of silent focused writing. 8:45pm-9pm: Quick debrief, pack and head home. Can't wait to see you! :)

**✅ First class is FREE – only 10 spots available!** Learn real self-defense skills in a small-group setting. No experience needed, open to all adults. 📲 RSVP now and text Jim at **301-326-9146** to confirm—once spots are gone, they’re gone. ## **Free Intro Self-Defense Class – Maryland Systema** Want to learn how to protect yourself while also improving your health, focus, and confidence? Join us for a free first class at **Maryland Systema**, a unique approach to self-defense that blends both physical and mental training. *** ### **Why This Class is Different** Unlike most programs that only teach physical moves, Systema trains your body **and** your mind. You’ll explore: * **Structure** – staying balanced under pressure * **Breathing** – keeping calm and controlling fear * **Relaxation** – avoiding panic and wasted energy * **Movement** – adapting naturally to any situation You’ll also learn to read an attacker’s intentions and respond proportionately—aligned with Maryland’s self-defense laws. *** ### **What You’ll Gain** ✔ Practical skills you can use right away ✔ Better stress control and awareness ✔ Improved strength, mobility, and coordination ✔ Confidence in handling real-world situations *** ### **Class Info** 📍 **Location:** Woodley Gardens Park in the brick building (free parking) 🕒 **Length:** 1.5 hours 👥 **Small Group:** Max 10 students for personalized guidance 👖 **What to Wear:** Comfortable long pants and clothes you can move in 💵 **Cost:** Free for first-time students *** ### **How to Join** RSVP here on Meetup to save your spot, then text Jim at **301-326-9146** to confirm. Spots are limited—once the group fills, we close registration. *** **Maryland Systema** Real-world self-defense training for adults—helping you stay ready, stay calm, and stay safe.

Looking for a quiet, focused space to write? Come be part of our writing group—a dedicated time just for writing alongside fellow writers in your community. No readings, no critiques, no peer-review—just you writing within a supportive atmosphere. 7pm-7:15pm: Find your seat, set up your writing station, quick intro's. 7:15pm-8:45 pm: An hour and a half of silent focused writing. 8:45pm-9pm: Quick debrief, pack and head home. Can't wait to see you! :)

# Emotional Reset - A Journey of Release & Renewal 🗓️ **Date:** **January31\,2026\,Saturday \| 🕘 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM** 📍 **DhyanYoga Meditation Center, Centreville, VA** 💝 **Suggested Contribution:** $20 🔗 **Reserve Your Spot:** [https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/emotional-reset-a-journey-of-release-and-renewal](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/emotional-reset-a-journey-of-release-and-renewal) Emotions are energy in motion — when they’re not fully felt, they get stored in the body. Over time, this can lead to emotional fatigue, heaviness, or even numbness. **Emotional Reset** is a powerful yet gentle half-day workshop designed to help you release stuck emotional energy, reconnect with joy, and return to a place of calm and clarity. Through guided practices that include emotional expression, laughter, and silent reflection, you’ll be supported in a safe and accepting space to let go of what no longer serves you and make room for lightness, freedom, and inner peace. No need to explain or analyze. Just show up — your body already knows how to heal. *** ### What We’ll Explore: * Guided emotional release through sound and movement. * Joyful release through spontaneous laughter. * Deep rest and inner stillness through silent sitting. * Simple integration practices for grounding and clarity. *** ### Who Is This For? This workshop is ideal for anyone who: * Feels emotionally overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. * Is navigating grief, burnout, or emotional fatigue. * Desires a deep emotional cleanse without needing to talk about it. * Is curious about experiential inner healing practices. *** 🗓️ **Date:** January31,2026,Saturday **\| 🕘** 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM **📍 Location:** DhyanYoga Meditation Center, Centreville, VA **💝 Suggested Contribution:** $20 🪔 **Spaces are limited** – reserve your spot early. *** ### What to Bring: * Comfortable clothing. * A water bottle. * A journal (optional). * An open heart and willingness to explore.

**In response to inclement weather this talk has been rescheduled for March 1st, with tickets for that date available at** [https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/nv-satanic-panics2 ](https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/nv-satanic-panics2). **Anyone who purchased tickets to attend this talk on January 25th will be getting a refund in the next week to ten days.** [Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Satanic Panics,”** a look at waves of fear of demonic activity as an American tradition, with Luxx Mishou, cultural historian and former instructor at the U.S. Naval Academy and area community colleges. The 1980s found the United States gripped by fear of Satanic cults targeting children. They were believed to be corrupting young ones in daycare centers and tempting teens through subliminal messages on heavy metal albums or through the quiet inclusion of demonic rituals in role-playing games. Satanic serial killers supposedly stalked the suburbs. Doctors helped patients uncover what were claimed to be repressed memories of ritualistic satanic abuse. Parents, police, and politicians were urged to protect impressionable youths from both moral and physical danger. With Satanic cults deemed to be a real and material threat, it was a frightening time for everyone, including those who suddenly came under suspicion for doing evil deeds. Then, suddenly, it all faded from public consciousness, just as surely as did eighties fads such mullet haircuts, leg warmers, and Cabbage Patch Kids. Why did it all start? Why did it stop? And has this happened before or since? Hear such questions tackled by Luxx Mishou, a cultural historian and media specialist who has long researched the devious and villainous in cultural artifacts. She’ll discuss moral panics as a longstanding cultural tradition, with each new one stemming from fear of cultural shifts and shaped by the time and place where it occurred. Among the panics we’ll look into are the Red Scare of the 1950s and the public response to the gruesome 1969 murders committed by the Manson Family. Delving into the 1980s panic, Mishou will describe how it began with the 1980 publication of psychiatrist Lawrence Pazder’s memoir *Michelle Remembers*, detailing the suppressed memories of ritualistic abuse reportedly suffered by a patient. As that book quickly became a best seller, its ideas saturated American culture. A California daycare center became the focus of a three-year investigation, followed by three years of trials, based on allegations that its owner had engaged in secret ritualistic abuse of the children in its care. Mishou will lead you through the media that convinced the public that devil worshipers were among them, and she’ll talk about how reactions to imagined threats can have very real social costs. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image by Canva.