Leftist Politics

Games night is back! With our favorite local game store opening back up, Games night will come back starting Monday June 7th! We are an lgbt+ games group that’s been going for nearly 3 years now! We welcome anyone in the lgbt+ community to come play board games every Monday with our fun and chaotic crew! If you’re brand new to board gaming and looking to make some friends or if you love playing 4 hour space operas and are looking to make some rivals, we’re the group for you! We are an lgbt+ group that focuses on creating a safe lgbt+ community. Non-lgbt+ individuals are welcome when attending with an lgbt+ friend, family member, or partner. Huzzah hobbies currently follows cdc guidelines, where customers who are vaccinated are allowed to not wear masks indoors. With their current hours on Mondays, they are open until 9pm; if they change hours and remain open later, games night will continue until close. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns please feel free to message us here!

MDC DSA’s New Magazine Essays Discussion Club meets in person to discuss new essays from some of the Left’s most thought-provoking magazines. All are welcome to join the group’s meeting at **Kalorama Park on Monday, May 18th at 6:30 p.m.** The club will be discussing three essays from the latest issue of *[The Drift](https://www.thedriftmag.com/issues/)*. For more details and links to the readings, check out the group’s [info doc](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hgx8ZJgQSPUvtbnKRDt5OXZWPij3jVEuLAY-5usdv5o/edit?usp=sharing). Note: This will be an outdoor meeting, so feel free to bring blankets, snacks, and drinks! If it's looking like we'll have cold or rainy weather, we'll try to update this page a few days in advance with a backup location. The group's info doc will have the latest details. Please RSVP on [Action Network](https://actionnetwork.org/events/new-magazine-essays-discussion-club-16?source=direct_link&) 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.

Specifically catering to those in the LGBTQIA+ community (though Allies are welcome), Queer Circle is a place to gather safely where space is held for everyone. Led by Ginny, the circle focuses on empowerment, individuality, and how our practices entwine with it all. Prepare to work with queer/androgynous deities and beings, and our queer/trans-cestors! HATE HAS NO HOME HERE. Please be conscious of shared experiences and how it may impact fellow circle members. 🏳️‍🌈 fee is $25 🏳️‍⚧️

Capitol Building & Congress’ Wild, Hidden History! The Capitol Building, home of the U.S. Congress, is justly renowned for its stunning architecture and landscaping. Yet its interior and grounds have also held court to When: Monday, May 18, 10:30 am. What: A walking tour of the Capitol’s grounds that covers two centuries of scandals and brawls, and many uplifting feats as well. Where: MEET outside the Sewall-Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument, 144 Constitution Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002 BONUS: We'll do a Lincoln and the Civil War tour, from the Botanical Gardens near the Capitol Building to Ford's Theater, starting at 2 pm. If you pay for either tour, you get to take the other one for free. Price: Starts at $22. Pre-register and Pre-pay via— Eventbrite: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/capitol-building-congress-wild-hidden-history-tickets-1988691894992?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/capitol-building-congress-wild-hidden-history-tickets-1988691894992?aff=oddtdtcreator) Or PayPal, sending $23 to: [paypal.me/EMoser460](http://paypal.me/EMoser460) Or pay $22 in cash at the start of the tour. Length. About 2 hours. We'll draw from the following episodes: • When the British entered Washington, D.C.--to burn it down! • Saving Private Ryan at the Capitol • The near fatal beating of a Senator by a Congressman • The story behind the statue of Freedom • Bootlegged spirits by the legislators of Prohibition • The lovely fountain of Central Park's designer • Where Washington & Jefferson fired L'Enfant • The astonishing "autograph" on the U.S. Grant statue • The Capitol curse of its workman • Anne Frank at the Capitol • The legislators’ ladies of the evening • The Army veterans vs. Eisenhower & Patton • Thomas Jefferson's faceoff with Aaron Burr • The unusual demise of convicted spies • The bombings of the Senate • The gunfight in the House of Representatives • The Father of American architecture And more! Your guide is a former writer for the “Tonight Show”, and ex-White House speechwriter, historian and professional tour guide, and author of 14 books, such as: The Lost History of the Capitol: [https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress/dp/B09LVXZB8T/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0](https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress/dp/B09LVXZB8T/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0) And his latest, Femme Fatalité, a Georgetown spy thriller: [https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalit](https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalit)é-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0 We’re on TripAdvisor!: [https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html) Think history’s boring? Think again!!

Curl up with a good book and a hot cup of your poison of choice. Maybe start a book club to talk about your favs and read together.

A Civil War & Lincoln Tour of Downtown D.C.!! Downtown D.C. from the Capitol Building to Ford’s Theater has dozens of locales relating to amazing events and personalities of the Civil War. This unique walking tour, held on the anniversary of Lincoln's tragic assassination, will touch on the startling events that occurred on these streets. BONUS: We'll do a Capitol Building & Congress history tour at 10:30 am that morning. ([https://www.meetup.com/washarea-discovery-hikes/events/314600728/?eventOrigin=group_upcoming_events](https://www.meetup.com/washarea-discovery-hikes/events/314600728/?eventOrigin=group_upcoming_events)) If you pay for either tour, you get to take the other one for free! MEET outside U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC 20001 When: Monday, May 18, 2 pm Length: About 2 hours. Fee: $22. Pre-Register and PrePay via: Paypal, sending $23 to: [paypal.me/EMoser460](http://paypal.me/EMoser460) Or Eventbrite: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2-for-1-the-civil-war-lincoln-tour-of-downtown-dc-may-18-2-pm-tickets-1988806833777?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2-for-1-the-civil-war-lincoln-tour-of-downtown-dc-may-18-2-pm-tickets-1988806833777?aff=oddtdtcreator) Or, pay in cash at the start of the tour. Some of our action-packed itinerary!: • The war’s unknown great photographer • The secret grotto for Civil War veterans • The statue of the hero of Gettysburg, who ran as a pro-South presidential candidate • The man who killed John Wilkes Booth—or did he? • The place which inspired an Oscar-winning movie, and where a plot to assassinate pre-war President James Buchanan was hatched! • The Confederate soldier who revolutionized warfare • The secret society of “free men of color” • The North divided: Yankees vs. Irish • Workplace of the most famous caregiver in American history, and the astonishing task Lincoln gave her • The lodgings of the Booth conspirators • The great inventor who botched antebellum politics • The military nurse who was the country’s most eminent poet • The place of the assassination of a President & former Union general • The astonishing plot to kill Confederate President Jefferson Davis • The hulking guard whose critical absence led to Mr. Lincoln’s demise • The building where Walt Whitman and Clara Barton worked • A reenactment of Lincoln’s murder • The Lincoln conspirators’ horrific fate • A slain President’s final and noble request Your guide is a former writer for the “Tonight Show”, and ex-White House speechwriter, and author of a book on the history of presidential politics, including several chapters on Civil War era presidents: [https://www.amazon.com/Two-Term-Jinx-Presidents-Washington-Theodore-Roosevelt-ebook/dp/B01K0NT0CK/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0](https://www.amazon.com/Two-Term-Jinx-Presidents-Washington-Theodore-Roosevelt-ebook/dp/B01K0NT0CK/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0) And his book on the Capitol Building’s wild history: [https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capital-Tumultuous-Congress/dp/1493055909](https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capital-Tumultuous-Congress/dp/1493055909) Also his crime thriller drawing on Civil War lore: [https://www.amazon.com/OLD-TOWN-HORROR-Americas-Historic-ebook/dp/B0BX27RWYG](https://www.amazon.com/OLD-TOWN-HORROR-Americas-Historic-ebook/dp/B0BX27RWYG) We’re on TripAdvisor!: [https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g28970-d12791843-Reviews-Lafayette_Square_Tour_of_Scandal_Assassination_Intrigue-Washington_DC_District_of.html) Think history is boring? Think again! 2 tours for the price of 1!!

Join us for an all plant-based meal at the always popular Sunflower Vegetarian Restaurant in Vienna, VA. We've made a reservation for 20 attendees, so don't delay in RSVPing as this will fill up. You can preview Sunflower's menu [here. ](https://www.crystalsunflower.com/menu) Parking is available in the restaurant's lot and the Vienna Metro station is 1.6 miles away. Rides may be available from attendees with cars so please communicate needs/availability in the comments below. Please note that there is no outdoor dining at this venue and that this is an indoor event. **Update Your RSVP** Out of respect for others interested in attending this limited-space event, please update your RSVP promptly as your schedule changes. **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) 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 membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being 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. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **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.**

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Popes and Politics,”** on the history of clashes between pontiffs and world leaders, with Vanessa Corcoran, medieval historian at Georgetown University and scholar of the history of the Roman Catholic church. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-popes-politics](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-popes-politics) .] President Trump recently shocked many by unleashing personal attacks on Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pope, in a post on the Truth Social platform. Trump has been widely criticized by religious leaders for these remarks, made in response to the pontiff’s advocacy of peace with the U.S and Israel at war with Iran, and for his separate posts of AI-generated images depicting himself as a pope and as Jesus. For his part, Pope Leo has told journalists, “I am not afraid of the Trump administration,” and has found himself at the center of a heated debate over the proper role of any pope when it comes to commenting on global politics. As unsettling as such developments might be to Roman Catholics, they’re hardly unprecedented. Disagreements between popes and world leaders go back to the Middle Ages, and have played a significant role in shaping the Church and its role in the world. Explore the long history of popes’ conflicts with politicians with Vanessa Corcoran, a historian of the Roman Catholic Church who previously has given excellent talks on papal conclaves and the evolution of nativity scenes. She’ll discuss fascinating developments such as the fourteenth century Avignon Papacy, when Philip IV of France got the upper hand in a feud with the Church by pressuring a papal conclave to select a French pope and then getting the church’s leadership relocated from Rome to Avignon for nearly 70 years. In drawing parallels between recent events and medieval attacks on the Church’s authority she’ll describe how today’s anti-Church memes echo the anti-pope and anti-Catholic images that Martin Luther disseminated in large numbers with the help of woodcut printing. We’ll look at tensions between past presidents and past popes over not just wars, but issues such as abortion, stem-cell research, and abortion access. The talk will leave you with a deeper appreciation of the inherent tensions between politics and matters of faith. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: From an 1866 Nicolò Barabino painting of the death of Pope Boniface VIII after he was kidnapped and held captive for three days at the behest of King Philip IV of France (Usher Gallery / Wikimedia Commons).

Qamaria Yemeni Coffee is authentic, spacious, has a helpful staff, and I like their espresso. If you try this place on your own, they’re open early and late. This spot has been recommended a couple times and I think it’ll make a great stop on our journey. Come out Saturday morning for a relaxed convo. (Please keep your RSVP updated if you know you won't be able to attend, so others who can join have the opportunity to. No discussions on politics, religion or potentially controversial topics. We're here to relax and have fun. Just be respectful and we'll be alright. Pay your own way, and enjoy!)

Join us for another optional writing session! Feel free to bring a project you're already working on or start something new with us. If anything interesting comes up while you're writing, you can share it with the group, but no pressure!

Libertarian National Convention Memorial Day Weekend - Once again LPNOVA will have several delegates joining the Virginia Delegation to represent our region at National. Please see link below for information and contact us if you wish to join us in Grand Rapids! [2026 Libertarian National Convention - Home](https://www.lnc2026.com/)

Come join us for in-depth discussions on topics relating to moral and political philosophy. This is a group for members who are comfortable discussing topics that are often anxiety producing and controversial. *"Aristotle was a realist who believed that reality and knowledge are found in the physical world, accessible through sensory experience and logic. This led to contrasting views on ethics, politics, and the nature of reality itself. Plato emphasized abstract, ideal concepts, while Aristotle prioritized empirical observation and the study of the natural world."* \- Google Gemini Following Aristotle's lead, this group will lean heavily on empirical data to make arguments. The Socratic method is still the preferred way to engage in conversation, and Platonic Idealism is still relevant to the conversation as points of reference.

**✨ Join Us at Nunu's Thai Dishes!** Join your DTs family and friends for delicious food and great conversation following our **Thursday night Happy Hour** at **Nunu's Thai Dishes**, 1100 Elden St, Herndon, VA 20170. 🌶️ **Authentic Thai flavors**, a cozy atmosphere, and a menu full of exciting dishes await! 🔗 [Check out their menu here](http://www.nunusthaidishes.com/) If possible, please RSVP on our **Facebook** or **Meetup** pages so we can let the restaurant know how many people to expect. We will have a few extra seats available for last-minute joiners, but we get a big crowd, so please let us know! We don't want to leave you sitting at the bar!

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Popes and Politics,”** on the history of clashes between pontiffs and world leaders, with Vanessa Corcoran, medieval historian at Georgetown University and scholar of the history of the Roman Catholic church. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/northern-virginia-popes-politics](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/northern-virginia-popes-politics) .] President Trump recently shocked many by unleashing personal attacks on Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pope, in a post on the Truth Social platform. Trump has been widely criticized by religious leaders for these remarks, made in response to the pontiff’s advocacy of peace with the U.S and Israel at war with Iran, and for his separate posts of AI-generated images depicting himself as a pope and as Jesus. For his part, Pope Leo has told journalists, “I am not afraid of the Trump administration,” and has found himself at the center of a heated debate over the proper role of any pope when it comes to commenting on global politics. As unsettling as such developments might be to Roman Catholics, they’re hardly unprecedented. Disagreements between popes and world leaders go back to the Middle Ages, and have played a significant role in shaping the Church and its role in the world. Explore the long history of popes’ conflicts with politicians with Vanessa Corcoran, a historian of the Roman Catholic Church who previously has given excellent talks on papal conclaves and the evolution of nativity scenes. She’ll discuss fascinating developments such as the fourteenth century Avignon Papacy, when Philip IV of France got the upper hand in a feud with the Church by pressuring a papal conclave to select a French pope and then getting the church’s leadership relocated from Rome to Avignon for nearly 70 years. In drawing parallels between recent events and medieval attacks on the Church’s authority she’ll describe how today’s anti-Church memes echo the anti-pope and anti-Catholic images that Martin Luther disseminated in large numbers with the help of woodcut printing. We’ll look at tensions between past presidents and past popes over not just wars, but issues such as abortion, stem-cell research, and abortion access. The talk will leave you with a deeper appreciation of the inherent tensions between politics and matters of faith. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: From an 1866 Nicolò Barabino painting of the death of Pope Boniface VIII after he was kidnapped and held captive for three days at the behest of King Philip IV of France (Usher Gallery / Wikimedia Commons).

**In a time of division and isolation, come be part of the community that's rebuilding the town square, one table at a time.** In BreadBreakers, we use the common space of the dining table to have conversations where neighbors can **hear, be heard, and know one another.** If you're hungry for good conversation and deeper community, join us for a Community Dinner in Reston and help blaze the trail to a healthier, more connected society and democracy. Here’s how it works: For just two hours, multiple tables of people set aside the need to "win" and instead focus on sharing, listening, and connecting. Guided by experienced table hosts, we'll tell our stories, try to understand each other, and practice being in community with those with different views or backgrounds. **At this dinner, participants will get to choose between three different topics, including some current events.** Topics range from the political, to the "slice of life", to the spiritual, to the philosophical, to the off-the-wall - but no matter which table you choose to sit at, you can be sure it'll be like no dinner conversation you've had before! You can also **suggest a topic** by emailing us at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com. Food will be provided for free. For those who wish to provide a donation to help fund BreadBreakers, you can [give here](https://pushpay.com/g/restorationrestonumc?fnd=pO6G-N7oO7FH7Mp1u-x6mA&fndv=Lock&r=No&lang=en&src=pcgl) or at the event. We'll have vegetarian and gluten-free options available. If you have any additional dietary restrictions (Celiac Disease, vegan, etc.) please let us know at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com so that we can implement the appropriate food handling procedures. **Join us, invite a friend, and be a part of the movement to mend our fractured society and normalize a better way of talking with one another.** BreadBreakers, an initiative by [Restoration United Methodist Church](https://restorationreston.org/breadbreakers) in Reston, VA, is a religiously inclusive community. We are a collaboration between people of all faiths and stripes. Our leadership, volunteer team, and community include people who attend Restoration and people who don't.

Games night is back! With our favorite local game store opening back up, Games night will come back starting Monday June 7th! We are an lgbt+ games group that’s been going for nearly 3 years now! We welcome anyone in the lgbt+ community to come play board games every Monday with our fun and chaotic crew! If you’re brand new to board gaming and looking to make some friends or if you love playing 4 hour space operas and are looking to make some rivals, we’re the group for you! We are an lgbt+ group that focuses on creating a safe lgbt+ community. Non-lgbt+ individuals are welcome when attending with an lgbt+ friend, family member, or partner. Huzzah hobbies currently follows cdc guidelines, where customers who are vaccinated are allowed to not wear masks indoors. With their current hours on Mondays, they are open until 9pm; if they change hours and remain open later, games night will continue until close. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns please feel free to message us here!

**Every Friday · 7:00 PM** **Location:** Google Meet **Join here:** [https://meet.google.com/jvc-ajhk-vci](https://meet.google.com/jvc-ajhk-vci) Can’t make it out in person? Join your DTs friends for our Weekly Virtual Happy Hour - a relaxed, welcoming space to unwind, chat, and connect from wherever you are. This is an easygoing online gathering for conversation, laughter, and connection. Whether you’re a longtime member, someone who hasn’t joined us in a while, or brand new to Dulles Triangles, you are welcome. Bring your favorite drink, get comfortable, and drop in when you can. **No RSVP is required.** Just click the Google Meet link and join us. Please note: On occasion, Virtual Happy Hour may be cancelled or rescheduled. We’ll share updates as soon as we’re able. Come relax, connect, and find your tribe with DTs - from anywhere. 💙💻

Join us for a VSDC volunteer day at Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary! It is a great way to lend a hand while enjoying up-close time with the more than 200 animals that call Poplar home. Volunteer tasks will range from those requiring mobility and strength to less demanding activities, including raking, cleaning barns and pastures, and washing and refilling water buckets. Wear clothing and shoes that you don't mind getting dirty. No food or drink is available on-site, so bring water. Please leave snacks in the car so the animals don't help themselves. Please arrive by 9:45 am so we can gather and start at 10 am sharp. Thank you for helping the animals, and we look forward to seeing you there! **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) 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 membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being 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. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. * **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **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.**