Current Events

**Braver Angels holds workshops, debates, and public presentations designed to bridge the political divide we are experiencing in our country.** Our events help conservatives, liberals, and independents get past stereotypes and have civil conversations about current issues, helping open the way to productive problem-solving, mutual respect and understanding. We have an exciting discussion planned for February and we hope you will join us. It’s been only a month in 2026 and it seems that everyday there is some news or the other that sparks more controversy and creates more polarization than ever before. **A Case in Point:** In Minnesota, current events—specifically Operation Metro Surge, a large-scale federal immigration enforcement operation—have sparked a significant constitutional crisis involving the Second Amendment, the rule of law, and freedom of speech. **1\. Second Amendment \(Right to Bear Arms\)** The fatal shootings of Renee Good, a mother of two, and Alex Pretti, a nurse and concealed-carry permit holder, by federal agents in January 2026, has put the role of ICE, Freedom of Speech and Assembly, the Rule of Law and the Second Amendment at the center of the conflict. * **The Conflict:** Administration officials, including FBI Director Kash Patel, argued that carrying a firearm with multiple magazines to a protest implies violent intent and is not a protected right. * **The Backlash:** Gun rights groups like the [National Association for Gun Rights](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=54af438f89&e=500efeae3d) and the [Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=9b87a21916&e=500efeae3d) have condemned these statements, noting that Minnesota law explicitly allows permit holders to carry at protests. They argue that exercising one right (First Amendment protest) does not negate another (Second Amendment self-defense). **2\. Freedom of Speech and Assembly** The [ACLU of Minnesota](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=d306a09b8d&e=500efeae3d) and other advocates allege that federal agents are systematically suppressing dissent through force and targeted arrests. * **Renee Good:** The January 2026 killing of Renee Good by an [ICE agent](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=ddc5885c7c&e=500efeae3d) in Minneapolis raises critical constitutional issues regarding the Fourth Amendment’s prohibition on excessive force and unreasonable seizure. It tests the limits of federal officer immunity, specifically challenging claims of "[absolute immunity](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=55da441d59&e=500efeae3d)" under the [Supremacy Clause](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=90f0fb9009&e=500efeae3d). The case also spotlights the lack of legal mechanisms for holding federal agents accountable for violating civil rights. * **Journalist Arrests:** On January 30, 2026, journalists Don Lemon and Georgia Fort were arrested on federal charges related to their coverage of an anti-ICE protest at a church. * **A Chilling Effect?** Organizations like [FIRE](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=db63d21e6b&e=500efeae3d) argue that federal investigations and grand jury subpoenas of state officials (including Governor Tim Walz) are intended to "chill" speech and discourage citizens from observing or filming law enforcement. **3\. The Rule of Law** The "rule of law" is currently being tested through a jurisdictional battle between state and federal authorities. * **Federalism and the 10th Amendment:** Minnesota's Attorney General and a coalition of cities have [filed a lawsuit](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=dd3fa783e5&e=500efeae3d) alleging that the federal government is "commandeering" local resources and violating the 10th Amendment by bypassing state authority. * **Accountability:** Groups such as the [Society for the Rule of Law](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=176c834bfb&e=500efeae3d) have criticized the administration for "dismissing core constitutional rights" and failing to provide evidence for claims that protesters are engaging in "riots" to justify the use of force. **Some Crises Make Strange Bedfellows:** The situation in Minnesota has become a notable **crossover issue**, creating an unusual alliance between progressives, libertarians, and mainstream conservatives who are increasingly uncomfortable with the federal government's tactics. Traditionally, gun rights are a conservative priority, but the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by federal agents has caused a rift. Groups like the Gun Owners of America and the National Association for Gun Rights joined progressives in criticizing the administration, arguing that a lawful gun owner should not be criminalized for exercising their rights during a protest. Republican governors have joined Democratic counterparts to urge federal accountability, arguing that the operation is a test case for federal "retribution" that could eventually target any state. Both sides have condemned the use of warrantless raids, the arrest of journalists, and the prevention of state investigators from accessing federal crime scenes. Libertarians and progressive legal advocates (like those at the [Public Rights Project](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=6e3eaeaafb&e=500efeae3d)) are unified in the belief that the federal government is "unconstitutionally coercing" local law enforcement and schools to serve a federal immigration agenda. Meanwhile, Republican-leaning pollster [Cygnal](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=e05c097435&e=500efeae3d) reports that deportation and ICE are overwhelmingly supported by voters. So, where do we go from here? While we, as individuals, can exercise our freedom of speech and participate in protests to advocate change, real change will require action from Congress. And we can do our part in telling Congress exactly what we think! **What We Hope to Accomplish this Evening:** After some brief introductions, we will breakout into groups (how many will depend on the number of attendees) to discuss this issue.The groups will be chosen randomly *(as this is a crossover issue)* and will report back to answer this question: ***What would you convey to your Member of Congress about Minneapolis?*** **Time:** * Introductions - 10 minutes * Discussions - 60 minutes * Report Back - 30 minutes * Closeout and Next Steps - 10 minutes **Where and When:** ***Date:*** Tuesday February 10, 2026 ***Time:*** 7:00pm (doors open at 6:30 – snacks and mingling) ***Venue:*** McLean Governmental Center [1437 Balls Hill Road, McLean, VA 22101](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=f600773430&e=500efeae3d) For questions, message Jennifer Ibarra or email fairfax-va@braverangels.org. We hope to see you there! If you like you may also register on [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/what-would-you-tell-congress-about-immigration-events-in-minneapolis-registration-1982075915419?aff=oddtdtcreator&discount=BRAVER), though registering on both platforms is not necessary. **[Help us counter division! Click here to make a donation to our local alliance.](https://braverangels.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=eb070968609f8aecc37a46472&id=29336f40c5&e=500efeae3d)**

**\*\*\*This group is filled. Check out our next departure on Feb 20, 2026:** **https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/310787716/\*\*\*** Gaze at the Northern Lights, enjoy a sleigh ride, be a reindeer herder for a day, learn about the Sámi culture, visit an ice hotel, catch a fish (or two) through a hole in the ice, taste some good Scandinavian delicacies, visit the ABBA museum...My, oh my! These are just some of the fun activities we are planning to do during this once-in-a-life time adventure! Like all our adventures, this one is crafted from the ground up with the true spirit of Meetup in mind. We handle every little detail before and during the trip, accompany and guide the group, creating a stress-free journey with a laid-back, friendly vibe. No big tour operators, no inflated prices — we work directly with locals to give you authentic experiences and unbeatable value. Come as strangers, leave as lifelong friends — and make memories that stick forever! ***We visit:*** * Stockholm * Kiruna (Lapland) * Helsinki * Copenhagen (optional extension) ***The trip includes:*** \* 2 nights in Stockholm \* A night train from Stockholm to Lapland in a private sleeping compartment \* 4 nights in Kiruna \* 3 nights in Helsinki \* Airfare from Kiruna to Helsinki \* Arrival and departure transfers \* Sightseeing tours in Stockholm and Helsinki \* Boat ride in Stockholm \* Food tasting in Helsinki \* Breakfast daily \* 2 dinners and 3 lunches \* Northern Lights Tour \* Jukkasjärvi Icehotel Half-Day Tour \* Full-Day Reindeer Tour \* Ice Fishing or Husky Sleigh Ride **Price per person, double occupancy: $4770** (we match roommates for those wishing to share) **Price for single room: $6320** ***Not Included:*** x Transatlantic Airfare (we can help you arrange that) x Meals not listed above x Tips and any personal and incidental expenses x Optional extension to Copenhagen The only way to secure your spot is a $500 deposit **\*\*\*Deposit link removed as this date is sold out. You can reserve your spot for our next departure on Feb 20, 2026 [HERE](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/310787716/) \*\*\*** Deposit is refundable up to 90 days before the departure (less PayPal fees).\*\*\* Final payment due 60 days before departure\*\*\* ***[Click Here](https://forms.gle/MqXy8zWAB6pv2dW37)***[ and Fill out this Form if you are making a Deposit](https://forms.gle/MqXy8zWAB6pv2dW37) For a detailed Day By Day itinerary: **[Click Here](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8)**[ to fill out our info request form](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8) Limited capacity of 14 total. This trip will fill up extremely quickly. \*\*\*Airfare from/to the US not included\*\*\* **OPTIONAL EXTENSION TO COPENHAGEN offered at $590 per person/double or $785 solo occupancy (air from Helsinki to Copenhagen not included)** ***[Click Here](https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=131297062)***[ to Message Direct to Anna with any questions including airfare quotes.](https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=131297062) She can help you arrange the airfare and answer any logistics questions. [Click Here to see all our other fun events](https://www.meetup.com/CulturalArts/Events) SOT 2000318-10

NOVA Adventurers League Campaign: *Baldur's Gate - Descent into Avernus, Session 12* * Based on previous playthrough, expect a total of \~13 sessions. * Players that start the campaign will have priority reservations. * Use of downtime for leveling is strongly discouraged. * **This campaign is full and is closed to new signups at this time.** This event is hosted using the Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition Adventurers League rules. Becoming a member in our Discord and accepting our Code of Conduct is required for play at all of our events. You must join and accept the Discord rules before signing up to any MeetUp events. These rules include but are not limited to: * Assigning your name and pronouns as your server nickname; * Confirming your age as 18 or older; * Participating in a respectful environment for both our AL DMs and your fellow players. **[Join our Discord!](https://discord.gg/mG24YCk7wj) Attending this event indicates that you agree to follow NOVA Adventurer’s League’s Code of Conduct, which can be found in the #code-of-conduct channel on our Discord.** If you do not join the Discord and accept these rules prior to signing up for an event, you may be removed from the MeetUp event or be required to join the Discord and agree to the Code of Conduct at the game table prior to playing.

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Hidden Cleopatra,”** an excavation through myth and slander to uncover the real Egyptian queen, with Jacquelyn Williamson, an Egyptologist and associate professor of archaeology and ancient art at George Mason University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/hidden-cleopatra](https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/hidden-cleopatra) .] Depictions of Cleopatra are abundant in popular culture. A long list of painters have depicted her, Marilyn Monroe and Kim Kardashian have posed as her, and Vivien Leigh and Elizabeth Taylor famously portrayed her in Hollywood films. At the end of the day, however, what most of us think we know about Cleopatra is wrong, the product of the ancient Rome’s “fake news” and anti-Egypt propaganda. Learn about the real Cleopatra—and how our understanding of her came to be so distorted—with Professor Jacquelyn Williamson, scholar of women and power in ancient Egypt, teacher of courses on ancient Egyptian art and archaeology, and author of *Nefertiti’s Sun Temple: A New Cult Complex at Tell el-Amarna.* Dr. Williamson will walk us through how the first Roman emperor, Octavian, created the distorted image of Cleopatra as seductress that we know today as part of his political scheming to defeat his rival Antony and end the Roman Republic once and for all. Cleopatra has been the subject of debate and controversy ever since. William Shakespeare later relied on ancient Roman sources such as Horace and Plutarch in writing *Antony and Cleopatra*, and his play helped give rise to countless other works offering a distorted picture of her. Professor Williamson argues that “Cleopatra was a human being, like you and I,” and “deserves the dignity of being represented as accurately as possible.” Her efforts to set the record straight have met frustration, however—after being extensively interviewed for the recent Netflix historical docuseries Queen Cleopatra, she concluded that it, too, had missed the mark. You’ll gain a much deeper appreciation of the challenges of researching and accurately depicting the ancient past from Dr. Williamson, who also has taught at Harvard, Brandeis, and the University of California at Berkeley and is involved with an ongoing archaeological investigation of Queen Nefertiti’s sun temple. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Layla Taj portrays Cleopatra VII as part of an Egyptian Cultural Performing Arts Society production. (Photo by Amos Gvili / Wikimedia Commons.)

**A relaxed, good-vibe Valentine’s Day afternoon for adults who don’t want the pressure, awkwardness, or heaviness today.** Not a dating event. Not a support group. Just a warm room, good people, and simple **conversation games that make it easy to meet others who are also starting fresh.** If Valentine’s Day feels weird, quiet, or emotionally loaded this year, spend it in a space where you can actually laugh, feel lighter, and connect with grounded adults who get it. *** **🔍 What You’ll Experience** • Simple partner rotations (guided and easy) • Light, feel-good Valentine’s prompts **• Fun conversation games (not cheesy, not romantic)** • A mix of divorced and separated adults in similar life chapters • A comfortable, pressure-free room • Good energy without oversharing or awkward silence **Everything is structured. You show up — the flow does the rest.** *** **💼 Who It’s For** • Divorced adults • Separated adults • People navigating midlife transitions • Anyone starting fresh and not wanting to spend Feb 14 alone Most attendees are in their **late 30s to mid 50s** — grounded, normal people who want something better to do today than sit at home replaying the past. This is a chance to be around others in similar seasons without labels, pressure, or expectations. *** **✅ Location, Cost & Time** 📍 **Rented facility:** **Ashburn (zip 20147)** — exact address shared after RSVP 🕒 **2:00 PM – 4:00 PM** 💵 **$15 per person —** feel free to bring a guest (just have them RSVP separately). ☕ **Coffee + light snacks provided** *** **🎯 The Vibe** Think: **calm, warm, easy, friendly, real.** Not romantic. Not forced. Just a space where people talk, laugh, and feel human again on a day that can feel heavy. **And if a natural connection happens — great.** If not, you still walk away lighter than you came. **✅ Space is limited to keep the room comfortable and conversational.** RSVP if you’d like to join this small-group Valentine’s gathering. 🌐 Explore more: [https://midlifereinvention.co](https://midlifereinvention.co)