Multiracial Adoption

We’re excited to continue building AI in Practice with our monthly social! 🎉 Each month, we’ll host an informal happy hour and dinner at Upside on Moore in Rosslyn. Come join fellow AI builders, professionals, and curious minds for a relaxed evening of conversation, connection, and community. Whether you’re working on AI systems, advising on responsible adoption, or just interested in how AI is shaping law, compliance, finance, healthcare, defense, software, mission-driven organizations, or public service — this is a chance to meet like-minded people and help shape what this community becomes. 🍸 Drinks and food are available for purchase at the venue. 🤝 No formal agenda — just introductions, networking, and sharing what excites us about AI in practice. We’re so grateful for the early enthusiasm, and we look forward to seeing you each month as this community grows! **Date, Time & Location** 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM Tuesday 14 April 2026 Upside on Moore 1831 Moore Street Arlington, VA 22209

Calling all Crew Members! 🚢 BBaddies On A Track! We will be meeting at 6am to hit the track. We will do a warm up and then a few drills and sprints on the track! We will also have fun and be in community!

Come learn how money really works. We’ll cover how to grow it, protect it, get out of debt, and use smart retirement and infinite banking strategies to build long-term security.

Join the DC Portuguese Conversation Group at Courthaus Social in Arlington for an evening filled with Portuguese practice. **This is our first event in Virginia!** 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. (IF YOU ARE STILL LEARNING THAT IS FINE, ALL LEVELS WELCOME). Come ready to engage in stimulating conversations, make new connections. Ate ja, tchau!

Have you been thinking about trying self-defense training, but do not want a loud, aggressive, or overly competitive environment? This free intro class is a simple way to get started. Maryland Systema offers practical self-defense training for adults in Rockville with a focus on movement, awareness, breathing, posture, and calm under pressure. This class is designed for beginners and first-timers who want real-world self-defense training in a welcoming setting. You do not need experience. You do not need to be in top shape. You do not need a martial arts background. You just need to show up ready to learn. This is not a sport-based class built around winning points, memorizing routines, or trying to look impressive. It is a more practical approach to adult self-defense training that helps you stay balanced, aware, and functional when things feel uncertain. If you have been searching for self-defense classes in Rockville, beginner self-defense near you, or practical self-defense training for adults, this class is a good place to start. **What you will work on** * Breathing and staying calm under pressure * Movement that improves balance and mobility * Awareness and posture * Simple partner drills * Practical self-defense training for beginners **Who this class is for** * Adults new to self-defense training * Beginners looking for a low-pressure class * People who want practical self-defense instead of sport martial arts * Adults in Takoma Park, Silver Spring, Rockville, and nearby areas looking for realistic self-defense classes **What to wear** Please wear comfortable workout clothes. No uniform is required. **Why start with this class** This free intro class gives you a chance to experience the training, meet the group, and see whether Maryland Systema is the right fit for you before joining regular weekly classes. **RSVP** Reserve your spot and come try a beginner-friendly self-defense class in Rockville.

Let's visit the National Museum of African Art for their Pride & Belonging in African Art Exhibition! **Address:** National Museum of African Art 950 Independence SW Washington, D.C. 20560 ### Free Admission & No Passes Are Needed to Enter! **What is the Pride & Belonging in African Art Exhibition?** ***From the exhibition's webpage on the Museum's website:*** *"Here: Pride and Belonging in African Art* explores how LGBTQ+ artists from Africa and its diaspora are part of a larger, joyful story of African art history. Artists’ voices are central to this exhibition, which features works by Zanele Muholi, Toyin Ojih Odutola, Rotimi Fani-Kayode, Leilah Babirye, Jim Chuchu, Ṣọlá Olúlòde, among many LGBTQ+ artists from across Africa and its diaspora. *Here* is based on years of close collaboration and dialogue with these artists and their communities. Through their art, they invite us into their worlds and explore themes of identity and belonging. *Here* is the largest exhibition on this subject to date, with nearly 60 artworks. While their experiences are unique to them, they speak to issues that unite everyone: the importance of family, spirit, standing up for oneself and others, imagining the future, making intimate connections, finding belonging, embracing potential and, above all, experiencing joy. They are united by a simple, shared declaration: We are here. **Exhibition Website:** https://www.si.edu/exhibitions/here-pride-and-belonging-african-art%3Aevent-exhib-6763 More Information on the Exhibition: https://africa.si.edu/exhibitions/here-pride-and-belonging-african-art?utm_source=si.edu&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=MyVisitSI **Museum Hours:** 10:00 A.M.-5:30 P.M. daily

AfropolitanDC Presents: The Borderless Black Diaspora Experience \| Thursday April 16th \| World Bank Spring Meetings Editions RSVP Now At: [AfropolitanDC](https://AFPDC2604.eventbrite.com/?aff=MU) Get ready for another amazing night of connections and culture over cocktails Join us for AfropolitanDC: Industry Night—a premier cultural mixer and one of the most anticipated social experiences on the sidelines of the Worldbank Spring Meetings DMV’s largest cultural mixer returns with The Borderless Black Diaspora Experience—a celebration of global Black unity, identity, and culture. From New York to Accra, Kingston to Lagos, and Washington D.C., the Black experience knows no borders—only shared rhythms, roots, and brilliance. This is the spring meetings social social where global leaders, entrepreneurs, creatives, and policymakers converge to network, celebrate, and reimagine the future of a borderless Black diaspora. Designed to harness the convergence of global and local influence during spring meetings week, this evening fosters collaboration and partnership across the diaspora while showcasing its vibrant culture. What to Expect Power Networking with global leaders, professionals, and innovators Afro-Caribbean Social & Party with top DJs and vibrant diaspora sounds Red Carpet Experience to capture your spring meeting's night in style Cocktails & Culture featuring Afro-Caribbean bites and curated drinks Borderless Connections Mixer with interactive networking and idea-sharing

Face-to-face Role Playing Game Session

Join us on the Spirit of Washington for their Signature Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise! Let's set sail and relax! **About the Cruise:** "Set sail for a memorable experience on the Potomac River with a Washington, DC Signature Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise that is as scenic as it is delicious! You'll savor a chef-prepared buffet and bottomless mimosas while staying cozy and warm in our comfortable indoor areas. Marvel at unparalleled views of Washington, DC's iconic landmarks, such as the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial from inside or enjoy fresh breezes on the open-air decks. This fun-filled dining experience for all ages is complete with lively DJ entertainment, dancing, games, and a fully stocked cash bar. Elevate your weekend plans with a one-of-a-kind brunch cruise on the water!" **What to Expect:** * 2 Hour Cruise * Brunch Buffet * Unlimited mimosas * Live DJ entertainment * Scenic Potomac River views * Lively Book Discussions and Activities * Dress code: Casual Attire **How to Attend:** **Cost: $107 per person** ***Payment is due at the time of registration in full, NON-REFUNDABLE.*** Space available for 20 members. Must have at least 10 members for event to occur. **Meeting Location:** Pier 4 580 Water Street SW Boarding Time: 10:30am Cruising Time: 11:30am-1:30pm Parking is located at The Wharf Parking Garage This is an excellent opportunity to dance, relax, and eat with good company! Great views of the monuments, free-flowing champagne, mimosas and sparkling cider, freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts, Unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea and water- all with your book girlfriends! Join us for a fun-filled time!

Emotional Honesty & Real Optimism This session explores the limits of constant positivity and offers an alternative: emotional honesty paired with real optimism. Inspired by Barbara Ehrenreich’s Bright-sided and an NPR Life Kit conversation on “real optimism,” we’ll examine how our culture often encourages us to look on the bright side too quickly—and what we might lose when we do. While positivity can be helpful, it can also unintentionally minimize real experiences or shut down deeper understanding. Together, we’ll explore the difference between forced positivity and a more grounded form of optimism—one rooted in resilience, curiosity, and a clear-eyed view of reality. The NPR discussion highlights that real optimism is not about ignoring hardship, but about recognizing it fully and still believing in our ability to move forward. This session creates space to reflect on our own emotional patterns and how we respond to difficulty. Through individual reflection, partner discussion, and group dialogue, participants will practice naming emotions, understanding their origins, and considering what it means to respond thoughtfully rather than reactively. The goal is not to reject positivity, but to use it more intentionally—after we’ve acknowledged what’s real. As always, come as you are. Bring your curiosity. Leave with insight, connection, and steadiness.

Some of the most challenging places to be LGBTQ+ are in Africa -- but that doesn't stop gorgeous queer expression there. The National Museum of African Art offers a beautiful collection of 60 works by LGBTQ+ African artists. Join us, and find a new favorite queer artist from Africa! MEET AT: Outside the main entrance to the National Museum of African Art. It is inside the gardens behind the big red stone Smithsonian Castle and looks like the picture above. Look for Molly with the rainbow LAL sign. COST: FREE! NEAREST METRO: Smithsonian **Exhibition description:** Artists’ voices are central to this exhibition, which is based on years of close collaboration and dialogue with African visual art practitioners who claim belonging in the LGBTQ+ community, however they define those terms. They are united by a simple, shared declaration: **We are here and always have been and will be.** The exhibition is part of a larger research initiative, the Here Project, that seeks to document these voices. The artists in the Project practice across the entirety of the African continent and its global diaspora, using their work to speak their truths. Inviting us into their worlds, they share complex stories of openly claiming their identities, their histories, and their place. While their experiences are unique to them, they address issues that unite us all: the importance of family, of spirit, of standing up for oneself and others, of imagining the future, of making intimate connections, of finding belonging, of embracing potential, and above all, of experiencing joy. *Here* is based on years of close collaboration and dialogue with these artists and their communities. Through their art, they invite us into their worlds, and share complex stories of openly claiming their identities, their histories, and their place. *Here* is in the largest exhibition on this subject to date, with nearly 60 artworks, demonstrating how they are a part of a larger story of African art history.

At Unity of Columbus, our Youth and Family Ministry nurtures the spiritual growth of children and families through love, joy, and practical spiritual teachings. Each Sunday, children explore timeless spiritual principles through stories, creative activities, music, and group sharing in a safe and welcoming environment. Our program encourages children to discover their own inner light, express kindness, and develop a personal connection with God. Together, we celebrate diversity, cultivate understanding, and inspire each child to live with purpose and compassion. Parents and families are invited to join in this uplifting journey of learning, laughter, and spiritual connection.

**💝 Cleveland Zoom Speed Dating – Personality & Age Matched** This online speed dating event is built around a host who sets the tone, keeps things easy, and helps people feel comfortable from the first minute. Meet Cleveland singles from home. We sort the matching, you just turn up. It's simple: complete a short personality quiz, jump on Zoom, and meet Cleveland singles in guided one-on-one rounds. Matches shared afterwards. **Pick your age group and sign up:** - 💡 **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=18-32&face_v=2.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=30-46&face_v=2.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=club-leading-local-singles-speed-dating&ar=40-58&face_v=2.0) **⚠️ RSVP alone won't secure your spot.** You need to register through your age group link below and complete the personality quiz. Places are limited. --- 🎯 **Especially useful for:** - Singles who prefer a hosted, structured experience - Singles in Cleveland who want to meet people from home - 🔥 Anyone curious about speed dating in a relaxed setting 📌 **What to know** - 🔥 **Format:** Virtual on Zoom – hosted and well-structured - **Location:** Your space – couch, desk, wherever suits you - 🎯 **Host:** Experienced host steering the session 🔄 **What to expect** 1. **Register** – Select your age group above and sign up. 2. **Take the personality quiz** – We use it to pair you with compatible Cleveland singles. 3. **Hop on Zoom** – Join the call and your host will walk you through it. 4. **Speed date** – One-on-one rounds with personality-matched Cleveland locals. **Frequently Asked Questions** **What if I'm shy?** The virtual setting and hosted rounds keep things comfortable for everyone. **What's the personality quiz for?** **How long are the chats?** --- ✨ Real people, real conversations — all from your home. 🥰 ✨ Lean version: fewer words, same core offer. Everything important, without the extra padding. 🤝 **Community angle** - Repeat attendees help create familiarity and momentum - The structure is designed to help people settle in quickly - The atmosphere is guided, social, and easy to join That community angle is deliberate: better conversations, more familiar faces, and stronger momentum over time.

Welcome, readers! Our April read is **_Martyr!_ by Kaveh Akbar.** The story follows a young Iranian American poet grappling with grief, addiction, and the aching question of what makes a life meaningful. Drawn into an unexpected friendship with a terminally ill artist, he begins to confront faith, love, and the seduction of self-destruction. Lyrical, darkly funny, and emotionally piercing, the novel wrestles with beauty and despair in equal measure. It’s a story about longing—to be seen, to be forgiven, and to matter. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

Over time I'm hoping to organize a hike to all the Franklin County Metro Parks. This is the first one so if you're interested jump in! We'll start with the Canopy Walk, a cool feature of this park. Climb 100 stairs to the top - or take the elevator if stairs aren't your thing. At the top there are a bunch of things to play on - a rope bridge, a fireman pole that we can slide down - and more! About fifteen minutes there and we'll head to the natural trail, Buttonbush, Maple and Beech Trail for 2.2 miles then do a 1.7 mile loop on the paved Greenway Trail. We'll be passing our cars as we transition if you only want to do the first loop, or the second loop. Pace of around 3.5 mph but no one left behind. If there is an interest we can grab lunch nearby afterward.

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