Civil Rights

Please join us for our fun and friendly monthly VSDC Vegan Potluck in Arlington VA on Sunday, May 10th. It will start at 6 pm and will go until 10 pm. There is no charge to attend the event. ***\*\*Note: you must provide your 1st and last name plus your contact email to receive the specific location about 2 days before the event. If you do not, then you will not be provided the location and allowed to this event - NO EXCEPTIONS.\*\**** We plan to meet and eat on the rooftop of the host’s apartment building; grills may be available for our use. **Items to bring to the potluck:** \- Vegan potluck dish \(no animal products of any kind\) to share\. For food quantity\, please bring 4 to 6 times the number of servings times the number in your party\. \- A serving utensil for your dish \- Ingredients list or recipe for your dish \- ***Please print or write it out in advance*** \- Beverage for yourself or one to share \- To help reduce waste\, bring your reusable plate\, cup\, and utensils [VSDC will provide basic supplies and drinking water.] Please Note: \- Be sure to help leave the space clean before leaving the potluck and take the containers and utensils you brought with you\. *\- Vegans do not consume any animal products or byproducts \(no meat\, chicken/poultry\, fish/sea animals\, eggs\, milk or dairy products\, honey\, etc\)\.* **LOCATION** Arlington VA, near the Ballston Quarter shopping mall. The exact location will be sent a few days before the event to registered attendees who provide their first and last name and email, as instructed when you RSVP for this event (only the organizers will see this extra info you enter). **PARKING** Yes, there is free street parking in this residential neighborhood. Another option is the parking garage attached to Ballston Quarter mall at 627 N. Glebe Rd, Arlington VA 22203 - only $1 for the first 3 hours. *Please read and follow all parking signs.* **METRO** This location is accessible by public transport. It is a short walking distance from the Ballston Metro (Orange and Silver lines). ***Please plan your trip in advance and ask any questions at least one day in advance. The organizers will do their best to answer questions but ones on the day of the event will be difficult for responses.*** Email potluck@vsdc.org for questions or to help plan future potluck events. ***Don't be a no show! If your plans change, update your RSVP.*** **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are so glad to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we enjoy seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](vsdc.org) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The VSDC membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Become a member of VSDC](https://vsdc.org/membership/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

The Black Mother’s March on the White House is more than an event—it’s a movement. Now in its 5th year, this powerful gathering serves as a platform to make the struggle to rescue our children a vital part of the larger fight for Black liberation. This Mother’s Day, we unite as a collective to condemn the colonialist policies that undermine the centrality of Black life. These policies target Black families, isolate individuals, and victimize entire communities. Through this march, we give a voice to those who have been silenced and take a stand against the injustices of the Family Policing System. The march is an opportunity to reclaim our power, amplify our voices, and resist a system designed to oppress. Together, we will demand accountability, justice, and the freedom to build futures where Black families are protected and cherished. Whether you are a mother, father, grandparent, an advocate, or a co-conspirator, your presence matters. Join us in Washington, D.C., to honor our shared commitment to liberation, community, and our theme this year: WE GOT US! **[Registration is free.](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-mothers-march-2026-tickets-1982027506627)**

Speaker: Natalie Fulton, YouTuber, Content Creator, and Social Media Professional for Pro-Animal Future. Natalie will share effective ways to use social media to bring attention to animal issues, build more activists for the animal rights movement, and change the narrative around animal protection. 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.

Join our ASL Brunch on Sundays in Greenbelt! All ASL users and learners are welcome. Brunches are alternately held at two restaurants in Greenbelt, both in the same town plaza. ODD WEEKS: 1st, 3rd, and 5th Sundays, we meet at Cedars of Lebanon, 103 Centerway. EVEN WEEKS: 2nd and 4th Sundays, we meet at New Deal Café,113 Centerway. We are the Greenbelt ASL Community, a group of both Deaf and hearing people who hang out, chat about everyday goings on, trade stories, get to know each other better, and of course, enjoy food together. Many members use ASL as their primary language, several are interpreters or other fluent ASL users, while others are ASL learners who wish to improve their skills while making new friends. Before or after brunch, you can visit the farmer's market and small coop grocery store in the plaza. Please RSVP so we can contact you via email if needed. Our group is on Facebook as Greenbelt ASL Community. Some long-time group members don't mark their attendance here, so feel free to stop by even if you don't see others who have RSVP'd on Meet-up.

Fun and uplifting stories about Lafayette Square’s many heroines and inspiring events. Come join us on this special Mother's Day walking tour of America’s most historic park, Lafayette Square, D.C.! e’ll focus on fun and uplifting stories about the Square’s many heroines and inspiring events. (As well as a few femme fatales.) And tell the general history of the locale. When: Sunday, May 10, 4 pm! Where: MEET in the grand lobby of the Willard Hotel, 1401 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004 The tour will draw on stories from the guide’s book, The White House’s Unruly Neighborhood: https://www.google.com/books/edition/The_Secret_History_of_the_Capitol/NaC-zQEACAAJ?hl=en Our fun itinerary will select from: • The capital's newest and most inspiring memorial • The “miracle mansion” that saved the Mayor’s sister • How an enslaved grocer founded a family dynasty that ended segregation • How an intrepid First Lady saved the Constitution and the Declaration • The hilarious political fundraiser that gave us the terms “Big Cheese” and “Mammoth” • How a future First lady saved the family of Lafayette! • The benign, mysterious ghosts of St. John’s Church • Where a most famous anthem was written • Female spiritualists and ladies' seances • Where a most famous speech was authored • The woman who wrecked an entire presidential Cabinet • Camels, bears, and sheep about the Executive Mansion • The First Lady who saved Lafayette Square • The most eligible women in the nation's history • How an opera diva brokered civil rights • The wildest, most fun Inauguration of them all • The most effective lady spy of America's largest war • A famed author’s moving tribute to his deceased wife • How Southern bankers and Northern belles conspired to save Mt. Vernon • The most effective female spy of the world's greatest war • Presidential humor • How Mrs. Grant escaped death • How a humble washerwoman helped rebuild the District And more! Your host is a former Presidential speechwriter and “Tonight Show” writer, and author of such books on history as: Femme Fatalite: https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalité-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0 We'll wrap up in time for you to take your mom to dinner. This tour makes for a great gift, and is a sure-fire way to further spice up a festive day!

Open gaming at Panera! New players welcome. We have many games on hand or you can bring your own. We are happy to teach or learn one of yours.

Join us for a night of music, laughter, and sisterhood as we take over a private karaoke room at Echo Bar in DC! Whether you’re ready to belt out your favorite tunes, cheer on your sisters, or simply enjoy a delicious meal and drinks in great company, this is the perfect opportunity to unwind and connect after work. Come sing with us in French, English, Kreyòl, Spanish, or any other language you know. If we can find the song on YouTube, we can sing it, so feel welcome to share top hits from your culture! 🎤 **What to Expect:** * **4:00 PM:** Doors open—settle in, order dinner or drinks, and warm up your vocal cords! * **4:30 PM:** Karaoke officially kicks off! Sing your heart out or sit back and enjoy the performances. * **6:45 PM:** Wrap-up and final songs. 🍹 **Food and Drinks:** Korean dishes and a full selection of beverages will be available to enjoy in the private room. 📍 **RSVP Details:** Space is limited, so RSVP early to secure your spot. Please arrive promptly to maximize our time together! Price TBD based on number of guests. We can’t wait to see you there! Check out ECHO BOX's website: https://www.echoboxus.com/

This is the first event of the year where you can rent a canoe or kayak. Scroll down for more information on renting from Prince George's County. Postponing this by a week, so hopefully the forecast is warmer and less breezy. I've adjusted the times so there will still be plenty of water to explore Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. We'll shove off from Bladensburg Waterfront Park promptly at 1:30pm and head downstream towards Kenilworth, about two miles downstream. We'll do a loop around the wetlands and hopefully see some early blooms and plenty of birds. Once everyone regroups, we'll turn around and paddle back to Bladensburg, arriving before 4pm to accommodate rental returns. This is event is suitable for paddleboards (including iSUPs), recreational/touring kayaks, and canoes, but not inflatable kayaks. Everyone must WEAR, not just bring a USCG-approved life jacket or PFD. **RENTERS** The Prince George's County Parks Department rents single and tandem kayaks or canoes at this launch. You MUST reserve beforehand (several days before a nice weather weekend). Rentals run from 1pm-4pm. We will start paddling at 1:30 and be back at the ramp just before 4. **As a reminder, this group is geared towards paddlers with at least a modest amount of experience.** We do not offer instruction and highly advise against joining any of these events if you have never paddled before. [Double check the date and reserve boats here.](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?Action=Start&SubAction=&_csrf_token=kU6I180Y6V00232Y1Q452Q4D5X5Z545S0A6Y605H5P73595T6I4G035O645C656Q5X4J5C576L5S4B6H4V6R5V4J6P5271544Z565805534O4X53016E4Q5A5A076S405G&begindate=05%2F10%2F2026&enddate=05%2F10%2F2026&type=&subtype=&category=&keyword=&keywordoption=Match+All&features=&quantity=1&secondarycode=&features1=&features2=&features3=&features4=&features5=&features6=&features7=&features8=&blockstodisplay=24&begintime=01%3A00+pm&endtime=04%3A00+pm&primarycode=BWP+Rentals&timeblocksearch=&display=Graphical&layer=42018&module=RN&multiselectlist_value=&rnwebsearch_buttonsearch=yes) Single Kayaks: $25 for Prince George's and Montgomery County residents; $33 for non-residents Tandem Kayaks & Canoes: $30 for Prince George's and Montgomery County residents; $39 for non-residents

No one truly understands AI, not even experts, says Helen Toner, an AI policy researcher and former board member of OpenAI. But that doesn't mean we can't govern it. She shows how we can make smart policies to regulate this technology even as we struggle to predict where it's headed — and why the right actions, right now, can shape the future we want. ​​​​Here is how it works: * ​​​​​​​Prior to the event: **Please watch this YouTube video:** [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUn8IjZKBPg](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUn8IjZKBPg) * ​During the event: We will discuss the following questions: 1. Because AI is changing so fast, it is hard to predict what new things it will be able to do next month. What steps can we take to stay open-minded and adaptable as these tools change how we learn and create? 2. There is a big debate about whether using AI helps us learn faster or makes us skip the hard work of thinking. How can we find a healthy balance between using these new tools and keeping our own minds sharp and active? 3. History shows that the people who use a technology should have a say in how it is shaped for the future. How can we ensure that our local communities have a voice in how AI is developed and used? \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- To provide an enjoyable experience for fellow participants, here are three ground rules during discussion events: 1. Step up and step back. (If you feel that you’ve been talking too much, step back to listen more. If you feel that you’ve been relatively quiet, step up to share your perspective or ask a question) 2. Listen to understand, not to respond. 3. Be open-minded and value differences.

Come join us on this special Mother's Day walking tour of America’s most historic park, Lafayette Square, D.C.! e’ll focus on fun and uplifting stories about the Square’s many heroines and inspiring events. (As well as a few femme fatales.) And tell the general history of the locale. When: Sunday, May 10, 4 pm! Where: MEET in the grand lobby of the Willard Hotel, 1401 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004 PrePay and Pre-Register at: Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mothers-day-tour-of-dcs-heroines-tickets-1988121821888?aff=oddtdtcreator Or, PayPal, sending $22 to savvyveteran@gmail.com via: https://www.paypal.com/us/home Or, pay $22 in cash at the start of the tour. The tour will draw on stories from the guide’s book, The White House’s Unruly Neighborhood: https://www.google.com/books/edition/The_Secret_History_of_the_Capitol/NaC-zQEACAAJ?hl=en Our fun itinerary will select from: • The capital's newest and most inspiring memorial • The “miracle mansion” that saved the Mayor’s sister • How an enslaved grocer founded a family dynasty that ended segregation • How an intrepid First Lady saved the Constitution and the Declaration • The hilarious political fundraiser that gave us the terms “Big Cheese” and “Mammoth” • How a future First lady saved the family of Lafayette! • The benign, mysterious ghosts of St. John’s Church • Where a most famous anthem was written • Female spiritualists and ladies' seances • Where a most famous speech was authored • The woman who wrecked an entire presidential Cabinet • Camels, bears, and sheep about the Executive Mansion • The First Lady who saved Lafayette Square • The most eligible women in the nation's history • How an opera diva brokered civil rights • The wildest, most fun Inauguration of them all • The most effective lady spy of America's largest war • A famed author’s moving tribute to his deceased wife • How Southern bankers and Northern belles conspired to save Mt. Vernon • The most effective female spy of the world's greatest war • Presidential humor • How Mrs. Grant escaped death • How a humble washerwoman helped rebuild the District And more! Your host is a former Presidential speechwriter and “Tonight Show” writer, and author of such books on history as: Femme Fatalite: https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalité-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0 We'll wrap up in time for you to take your mom to dinner. This tour makes for a great gift, and is a sure-fire way to further spice up a festive day!

Shall we draw at Quill & Crumb, the cafe in the Folger's Great Hall? It's a gorgeous setting where we'll undoubtedly find many interesting things to draw. From the website: "Quill & Crumb is located in the Folger’s historic Great Hall, which was originally designed by architect Paul Philippe Cret to resemble a gallery within a 16th-century English home. The Great Hall features strapwork plaster ceiling, oak-paneled walls, and intricately designed terracotta floors." Look forward to meeting you there!

Sign up to help with customer service at our Del Ray shop! **If this is your first time doing customer service at our shop**, **please direct message Elizabeth here via MeetUp** so she can ensure someone can be there to orient you. **What you'll do:** * greet customers * manage customer traffic * help customers find basic bike parts in our store * direct customers to the mechanics if they need a bike repair * help customers find a bike that fits them * set customers up to test ride bikes * work the register to conduct customer payments **Qualities of a good volunteer for this role:** * customer service oriented * willing to work outside most of the shift * able to work on their feet most of the shift * comfortable working in a faced-paced environment * open to a steep learning curve with a rewarding experience the more times you volunteer * excited to learn about Velocity Bicycle Cooperative and become part of our volunteer team that keeps our wheels turning! **What to Bring/Attire** * A water bottle & snack * Wear comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate for the day's weather * Sunscreen and a baseball hat if it is sunny **Age Requirements:** If you are under 18, you must bring a parent/guardian with you to the orientation to sign the waiver.

Sign up to help with customer service at our Del Ray shop! **If this is your first time doing customer service at our shop**, **please direct message Elizabeth here via MeetUp** so she can ensure someone can be there to orient you. **What you'll do:** * greet customers * manage customer traffic * help customers find basic bike parts in our store * direct customers to the mechanics if they need a bike repair * help customers find a bike that fits them * set customers up to test ride bikes * work the register to conduct customer payments **Qualities of a good volunteer for this role:** * customer service oriented * willing to work outside most of the shift * able to work on their feet most of the shift * comfortable working in a faced-paced environment * open to a steep learning curve with a rewarding experience the more times you volunteer * excited to learn about Velocity Bicycle Cooperative and become part of our volunteer team that keeps our wheels turning! **What to Bring/Attire** * A water bottle & snack * Wear comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate for the day's weather * Sunscreen and a baseball hat if it is sunny **Age Requirements:** If you are under 18, you must bring a parent/guardian with you to the orientation to sign the waiver.

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

Connected Westerville Night of Networking flips the script on networking, with surprises and connections that'll make you say, "Who knew networking could be this much fun?!"

Join us as we get together to get together to help those in need at this CMG Gives Back event! We have a great little community of Movie Group friends so rather than see a movie this time, we’ll help “create a better world” by helping serve those in need. Here are complete details and our plan for this event: FAITH MISSION – GRANT KITCHEN: The Faith Mission kitchen and dining room serves residents 3 meals a day, every day of the year. For this event, our group will help prepare food, serve meals, assist residents in the dining room, wash dishes, and clean surfaces. PLAN: We will be preparing / serving / cleaning for BRUNCH from 10:30am to 12:30pm and have space for a total of 7 volunteers. Please arrive at 10:20am and wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. LOCATION: Faith Mission – Grant Kitchen is located at 245 N. Grant Ave. Enter the kitchen at Dock 1 (in the back of the building), indicated in the attached map. On-site parking in the adjacent lot and street parking is available in the surrounding area. Below are some links / attachments with additional info/details: IMPORTANT REMINDER: Our group will be providing all of the volunteers on this day so a firm RSVP count is essential. Please only sign up if you are certain you’ll be able to attend. If something unavoidable comes up, please try to update your RSVP no later than one week prior to the event. With few exceptions, no shows or cancelations within 1 week of the event will not be eligible for future CMG Gives Back events. I appreciate your understanding as we try to ensure the agencies have the volunteers needed to provide the essential services they provide to the vulnerable population they serve. Our Partner Agency for this event is Lutheran Social Services! A huge THANK YOU to all of YOU for volunteering at this (and any of our previous) CMG Gives Back events! Should be another good/fun/meaningful time together, Dan

WQC has weekly Thursday night social nights at the Westerville Java Central. Come and grab a coffee and connect with the community: low stakes, chill environment, and tasty drinks. No registration is required; come as you are.

**This month’s Creativity Circle is very timely. We will be making our own craft flowers out of paper, coffee filters, popsicle sticks, sparkles, cupcake liners, pipe cleaners and more! All ages welcome, show up as you can, bring a friend or a few if you would like to! Excited to see you there! Seats Limited. Held at the Westerville Public Library Meeting Room B.**

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.

Come assist Van Buren Shelter (https://ymcacolumbus.org/locations/vanburen) staff in serving dinners and cleaning up on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Dinner for the women is 5-6 pm and for the families is 6:15-7:15 pm. There is ample free parking available in the shelter's lot. The recommended area to park is in green in the image above. There will be a new entrance for the time being. We are asking all volunteers to enter through the Donation Dock door, the orange mark on the image above. This door is located between the Single Adults and Family Shelter. You will see 2 large garage doors with a large green trash compactor in the center. Please head to the closest garage door to the building wall, with a ramp leading up. There, you will see a door with a sign stating instructions on how to enter the building. Please ring the doorbell, and a staff member will come and escort you into the building. If a staff member takes longer than 5 minutes, please call the front desk at 614-689-2020. This is a new process for us, and we do not want to keep you waiting! We appreciate your patience as we navigate this temporary change. The shelter needs a volunteer count the day before the event so sign-up ends Monday at 4:50 PM. Afterwards some of us go to the Omnipresent Atheists Weekly Meetup in progress to have a bit to eat or drink (http://www.meetup.com/omnipresentatheists/). Volunteers must be 14 or older. Since we will be working around families, the YMCA does not permit volunteering by individuals with convictions for violent or sexual crimes. The YMCA reserves the right to run background checks on volunteers. For questions, comment on this page or contact: Andrew, awhit12@yahoo.com, (614)937-5802 (cell). Please let Andrew know if you volunteer anytime other than our COUNT events so that he can count your hours toward our service record.