Democratic Discussion

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Trump, Your Rights, and Resistance,”** an overview of the legal landscape in the District of Columbia just over one year into Donald Trump’s second administration, with Scott Michelman, legal director of the ACLU of D.C. and lecturer on law and Shikes Fellow in Civil Liberties and Civil Rights at Harvard Law School. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-trump-rights-resistance](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-trump-rights-resistance) ] Our nation looks a lot different just over a year after President Trump took office in January 2025. What has actually happened—and what does it mean for our rights? Get an informed breakdown on the civil rights and civil liberties issues that have defined the period since Trump's second inauguration with Scott Michelman, a legal scholar who last January gave an excellent talk on the legal guardrails potentially checking Trump’s actions. He’ll discuss what has been happening with immigration policy, criminal justice reform, domestic military deployment, discrimination, and threats to free speech. He’ll identify troubling patterns, explain where advocates have successfully pushed back in the courts, and outline the unresolved concerns ahead. The talk will also explore what individuals can do next, from understanding their rights to participating in elections that will shape the future of this administration and our country. (Door: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: The October 18, 2025 “No Kings Day” protest in Washington D.C. (Photo by Geoff Livingston / Wikimedia Commons.)

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/3/f/8/event_160705592.jpeg (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=ZA8SWMLWS7WHA) NOTES 1. The conversation course is continuing education, designed to excel students' Amharic conversation skill. 2. The course runs for 12 weeks. 3. We don't give placement test. The students place themselves and they can switch to a level up or down, after they examine themselves. 4. Class cancelled due to 'Force Majeure', will be recovered at the end of the course. 5. Arriving by Metro: The closest metro stations are Farragut West and Farragut North. 6. Meter parking is also an option. It is about $ 0.25 for 8 minutes. 7. The payment for each class is $ 15.00 per person per hour. It will be $ 20.00 per person per hour for walk-ins. However, it is depending on availability. 8. Students can bring friends and pay $ 20 for 2 persons per hour. But it has to be an advance payment.

What Ancestral Contracts are you carrying that don’t belong to you? Are you repeating the same story as your parents, grandparents and other ancestors? If the answer is yes join us Tuesday March 3rd for our Full Moon Breaking Ancestral Contracts Ceremony with Maestra Ixtoii Paloma Cervantes a recognized elder Shaman in our Curanderismo Tradition where you will be guided to break and release ancestral contracts holding you back and find freedom. We will finish ceremony with a soothing sound healing session. **What you may experience during this session:** -Ability to connect to your higher self and your Ancestors -Improve emotional balance -Increased feelings of joy, happiness, and inner peace -Ability to create self-love and improve relationships -Stress Relief -Connection with like minded individuals **What to bring:** -Your own water bottle -A pen and notebook \- A Yoga mat \(or use one at the studio\) -A blanket ( or use one at the studio) -Eye mask (if you have one, this will enhance your experience) -Comfortable clothes to breathe and lay down (If you are very sensitive to sound you may wear earplugs) **About Ixtoii Paloma Cervantes: Maestra Ixtoii Paloma** is an elder, instructor, or “Maestra” of the Curanderismo Tradition and also a full-time Curandera and Shaman. She was born and raised in Mexico into the tradition. She started working full-time as a Curandera in the 1980’s. In the late 90’s she moved to the UK and then to California (USA) where she kept her practice and started to teach Mexican Shamanism and Curanderismo and other spiritual modalities. Now not only does she teach in California, but also in other states and countries. It is important to know that she is not an anthropologist or historian. Paloma learned from her teachers in the ancient way, “oral tradition”. \*IMPORTANT NOTE: Paloma is a Mexican Shaman who believes that "medicine plants" are helpful to some people only when used properly in ceremonies. The use of any conscious expanding plant or animal medicines should only be used with the strict and loving guidance of an experienced facilitator. She does not allow the use of any plants, brews, ceremonial tobacco, recreational drugs, alcohol, cannabis, etc. in her workshops or healing ceremonies. Please do not use these before or during her events and services. If you do so you will be asked to leave the event immediately and without a refund. For medicinal plant or animal medicine guidance, please arrange for a private consultation to discuss your particular needs and expectations. **About Jenny Perez Curandera:** Jenny is a Curandera and Shamanic healer. She offers a variety of ceremonies, workshops, and group events to assist everyone in bringing back balance into their mind, body, and spirit. Private bookings are available for healings and readings. If you would like to book a private tarot reading before/after the sound healing send an email to [healing@curanderasheart.com](mailto:healing@curanderasheart.com) or text (703)531-7046 **Details** * Address: Address: 5852 Washington Blvd unit5 Arlington VA 22205 (We are located on the second floor above trade roots coffee shop. Must enter on the side of the building and go upstairs) Our studio is located in the Westover Village in Arlington VA a walkable neighborhood with plenty of food options and street parking.(Please arrive early to set up your spot we will start on time, space is limited allowing all of our events to have an intimate vibe) * Tuesday March 3rd, 2026 * 6pm-730pm * Energy Exchange: $60 * Info: [healing@curanderasheart.com](mailto:healing@curanderasheart.com) 703\. 531\.7046 call or text \*\*\*\*Cancellation Policy: There are no refunds for missed or canceled reservations\*\*\*\*

Twenty years ago, George Mason University professor Zachary Schrag published the definitive history of the Washington Metro: "The Great Society Subway". With the 50th anniversary of the system coming up at the end of March, TEDC founder Will Rice will make a presentation based on the book. Many elements and conflicts combined to create the Metrorail we now enjoy: a trust in big government projects; the battle over urban highways; the emerging D.C. home rule movement; Black-white relations; and the balance of city and suburban interests. Come learn more about it all! Also at the meeting: pick up your pre-ordered Metro 50 t-shirt (for new purchases, an order form is [here](https://transitenthusiastsdc.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/t-shirt-order-form.pdf)). And hear the latest news on how we plan to celebrate the system's golden anniversary on March 27!

Please do not arrange to play earlier than the scheduled start time UNLESS you are able to stay till the end of the event, we do not want people leaving early and creating uneven numbers. Hello members, Tennis has become much more popular since the pandemic started and court space has been harder to come by. Following these simple rules will help everyone get the most out of MoCo Topspinners Meetup. • If you RSVP for an event, please attend that event or cancel at least two hours before the event starts. Members that no-show will receive one warning then will be benched (suspended) from events for two weeks. Three no-shows can result in a permanent ban. (No-shows create uneven numbers and prevent folks on the waitlist from playing. Please do your part to un-RSVP as soon as you know that you cannot attend an event.) • Members must have a way to communicate with organizers and hosts. This can be through the Meetup app messages or by providing other contact info. • Any member can ask a host or organizer to have their skill rated for event attendance purposes. You will not be allowed to participate in events higher than your NTRP rating. (We may try to limit numbers or have multiple events on a given day to accommodate players of different skill levels and also to help alleviate the court availability problem). • All members shall conduct good sportsmanship and be courteous to other members at all times. • Sexual harassment, racism, sexism or any kind of intolerance will not be tolerated and will result in the permanent ban from the group. • If member receives three warning infractions, the member will be suspended from the Meetup for a period of one month. If a member is suspended twice (six warnings), that member will be permanently banned and any membership dues will then be forfeited. • If you are scheduling to play with others outside of a MoCo Topspinners event, and you know that there is a MoCo Topspinners event scheduled for that day at that time, please try to use courts other than the courts where the event is scheduled, or move your time so that it does not conflict with the Topspinners event. For a list of complete rules and definitions you can see the MoCo Topspinners front page. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are hoping for a fun season but we may have to wait for courts and leave earlier than we are used to. Please be patient as we adjust to this new normal and try a few different things that will hopefully help the situation. Happy playing! If you would like to attend this event you must be a of minimum 3.0 level. USTA guidelines prior for signing up for the Meetup: https://assets.usta.com/assets/1/15/ExperiencedGuidelines_02142011_V2pdf.pdf • What to bring Tennis Balls, Racket, and Water.

Join the DC Portuguese Conversation Group at La Cosecha by Union Market for an evening filled by practicing Portuguese on Tuesday the 3rd. (IF YOU ARE STILL LEARNING THAT IS FINE, ALL LEVELS WELCOME). Come practice Portuguese, build new connections and broaden your cultural/lusophonic horizons with us! Whether you are a native Portuguese speaker, an English-speaking expat looking to practice Portuguese, or simply interested in making international friends, this event is perfect for you. Come ready to engage in stimulating conversations, make new connections. Ate ja, tchau!

📚 Do you love reading, but wish you had a structure and a community to share your insights with? Join our small circle of curious minds (just 4 members per gathering) as we come together for an hour of focused reading—in the calm setting of a library or the cozy atmosphere of a café. Here’s how it works: First part: Quiet reading on your own—bring a book you’re exploring, whether it’s philosophy, history, psychology, literature, or anything meaningful to you. Second part: We regroup and each person shares key takeaways, insights, or questions sparked by their reading. This sparks a structured yet free-flowing conversation around ideas, perspectives, and personal reflections. Why join? Add structure to your reading habit. Discover new books, authors, and ideas through others’ choices. Build real connections by sharing and listening deeply. Socialize around something meaningful instead of small talk.

Socrates Café meets on the first Saturday of each month. Though this may be considered a "philosophical" group, there are no rules as to what is discussed. Usually, the topics revolve around social concerns, morality, and the first principles of things. Prior to each meeting we vote online for the questions we will discuss. That way, we will have enough time to ruminate on them and have more in-depth conversations. If you RSVP to a meeting, you may post your question in the event comments section below. I'll send out a survey for voting a few days prior to the meetup. We discuss two questions each night. So you will get to cast two votes in the survey. When we meet, we break into smaller groups of five to seven to discuss the top two vote-getters. Each group discusses one question for around 45-50 minutes, and we then take a short break. After reconvening, each group moves on to its second question. Hope to see you there! -Brian

**To receive future event updates, register on Luma:** **[https://luma.com/6qii7007](https://luma.com/6qii7007)** Let's discuss a podcast by Anders Ericsson, author of the renowned book "Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise". Anders demonstrates that talent is overrated and peak achievement is dependent on a specific type of learning called "deliberate practice", and that your skill in any area is a function of the quantity and quality of “mental representations” you have for that activity. We explore the science of learning and of skill mastery -- how it happens, and how to do it. **Please watch this YouTube video (try 1.25x speed) before joining the discussion:** [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiBne5EGBQ8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiBne5EGBQ8) If more than 8 people join the discussion, we will break out into smaller groups. **(max 8 people per group)** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 1. **Mastery requires focused quality over mere repetition. How can we ensure our daily efforts are intentional enough to foster genuine growth?** 2. **Effective mentors provide the roadmap for stretching our abilities. How might we better identify the guides who can point out our hidden obstacles?** 3. **Immediate feedback loops are essential for identifying and correcting technical errors. How can we build systems that provide the rapid insights necessary for our collective improvement?** 4. **Peak performance often requires unlearning habits that limit our ultimate potential. What fundamental methods could we refine to ensure our foundations support world-class excellence?** 5. **Growth occurs when we consistently set goals just beyond our current comfort zones. How do we determine the ideal balance between manageable challenge and productive discomfort?** 6. **Elite performance is sustained through intense concentration followed by restorative rest. How can we better value recovery as a vital component of our highest achievements?** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 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.

Fasting is one of the oldest and most widespread spiritual practices across cultures and traditions. From ancient rituals to modern mindfulness practices, people have fasted as a way to cultivate clarity, self-discipline, compassion, repentance, gratitude, and deeper awareness. This discussion offers a thoughtful, respectful space to explore the spiritual dimensions of fasting — whether you are experienced, curious, or simply seeking a deeper understanding. Together, we’ll explore questions such as: * What is the purpose of fasting in different spiritual traditions? * How does fasting shape the mind, body, and spirit? This gathering is open to people of all faith backgrounds — and to those who approach fasting from a philosophical or contemplative perspective rather than a religious one. **All are welcome.**

Curious about DSA? Thinking about joining but want to hear more info first? Attended a few of our events already and ready become a member? Already a member and want to get more involved? If so, this event is for you! You'll learn about DSA, what we do, and how you can get involved in the fight for a brighter future. We'll outline our chapter's structure and our campaigns, working groups, and branches. Our chapter covers the DMV area, including the district, Northern Virginia, and Montgomery County and Prince George's County in Maryland. Unable to join in person? Consider joining [our next virtual orientation](https://actionnetwork.org/events/why-you-should-join-dsa-new-member-orientation-168/) on Wednesday, March 18! Please RSVP on [Action Network](https://actionnetwork.org/events/why-you-should-join-dsa-new-member-orientation-179/) to receive further updates on this event. \* \* \* This event is open to both DSA Members and supporters. Not a Member? Please consider [becoming a Member](https://dsausa.org/join?source=Metro%20DC). Fees are on a sliding scale according to what you feel you can afford.

**Join us at the National Mall, your presence is as impactful as the 27,000 flags adorning the green. Share your story, begin your advocacy journey.**

Details Location: Crimson Whiskey Bar (Either the downstairs whiskey bar, or main floor bar, TBD) The purpose of Thinkers and Drinkers is to facilitate casual but meaningful and interesting conversations with other people in a face-to-face setting. The topics cover a wide variety of issues and are different for every meeting. While conversations may get heated at times, we ask that all members be respectful of each other and refrain from personal insults. Topic: The Gamblification of Everything Gambling is certainly not anything new. The idea of making a quick buck based on a game was just as appealing to ancient Mesopotamians as it is to estranged uncles who moved to Las Vegas. In the US, sports gambling has exploded since the Supreme Court ruling in 2018 that struck down a nationwide ban on sports betting. A [survey](https://sri.siena.edu/2025/02/18/22-of-all-americans-half-of-men-18-49-have-active-online-sports-betting-account/) released last year revealed 22% of Americans had an active sports betting account, and nearly half of men aged 18-40. This growth has mainly been associated with mobile apps like DraftKings, which thrive on allowing many small bets anytime, anywhere, on people's phones. Unsuprisingly this has led to a dramatic increase in gambling addictions for people in their 20s. It's not just sports gambling that has taken off, but other new betting markets like Polymarket that allow users to bet on anything from elections and international conflict to earthquakes and video game release dates. Meme/Joke markets like "[Whether or not Jesus will return this year](https://polymarket.com/event/will-jesus-christ-return-before-2027)" have popped up that have volume in the tens of millions of dollars. With prediction markets becoming legal in the US after a CFTC decision in October 2025, these prediction markets are set to grow more, both in terms of volume and the number of things they bet on. Questions to Consider: * Are sports gambling addictions overhyped? * Should the federal government put restrictions on sports betting and prediction markets? * How does the role of social media influence people's views on taking extraordinary risks to get rich fast? * What type of impact do prediction markets have on the things they are trying to predict? Could this provide adverse incentives for someone to influence an election just because of the bets they have taken?

We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another. Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us. Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.

Let’s meet, wander the exhibits and open galleries, and enjoy an evening out in the Franklinton Arts District. (Nearby pay parking is available in the garage on McDowell, right around the corner from One Line Coffee, and, past it along the curb as McDowell dead ends.)

The Humanist Monthly Program is our longest running event and still a community favorite. In the old days it used to be called "Going to HCCO" and we still like to think of it as our flagship event. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Our March speakers are Molly Gaines and Zack Parrish, co-organizers of the Secular Education Association: They will share their story of how a small group of Ohio parents grew into a national organization tracking released-time religious instruction and other church–state issues in public schools. The presentation will cover SEA’s early wins and hard lessons, what we’re seeing nationally right now, and how local advocates can play a meaningful role in protecting public education. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the landscape — and practical ways to get involved. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

Feeling down? Sometimes depressed? Can't focus? Negativity & stress? Recent losses? Creativity in career and personal life hindered by mental blocks? Sometimes we never fully recover from traumatic experiences. Whether it was yesterday, last week or a year ago, traumatic experiences - a loss of a loved one, losing a job, a breakup - can leave you scarred. You talk about it and feel a little better, but it never goes away. After you hang up the phone, it's still there; the sadness, the cloud, the over-thinking, the worry, the guilt. You try to focus, but you're blocked. You try to look forward into new experiences, new relationships but a cloud is hanging over you, casting a shadow on what you once considered a bright, cheerful future. What happened to your courage? Your strength of character? You're 'why not' attitude? Whoever said 'time heals' must have had a special time machine, because after weeks, months, years, you're wondering - when exactly does that kick in? Sometimes it seems like drinking or drugs are the way to go. But they wear off, and now the problem is still there with added side effects from the drugs. At this free local Meetup event we will talk about: * What causes grief, anxiety and depression to become chronic. * Is it possible to regain your joy and happiness even after traumatic experiences? * How to break away from negativity and focus on the future * What are the steps to take to get control of your mind and your emotions? Learn about a safe, gentle, do-it-yourself counseling that can be done in the comfort of your own home. Let's explore safe, effective solutions for healing from traumatic experiences. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to the event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is sponsored by the Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center.

[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

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

🌱 Vegan Dinner + Bowling Night 🎳 Join us for a relaxed vegan dinner at Loving Hut on Saturday, March 14 from 6:00–8:00 PM. We’ll enjoy delicious plant-based food, good conversation, and chill, friendly vibes. After dinner, we’ll head over for bowling at Holiday Lanes for some fun and laughs 🎉 ✨ All are welcome 🥗 100% vegan dinner 🎳 Bowling afterwards (optional) Come eat, connect, and enjoy a fun Saturday night together 💚 Locations: Loving Hut 6569 E Livingston Ave Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 Holiday lanes 4589 E Broad St Columbus, OH 43213