Progressive Politics

A 1:1 Reiki journey where you receive focused healing, intuitive guidance, and space to reconnect with your inner flow. Discover more about me and my work on: https://thebecomingfield.com/

Chicas!! Vamos a ver una obra de teatro en español en Zúrich!!! Del grupo “Los Comicastros” 😃🎭👀😄 La entrada es gratis! (con colecta) 😁. En la pausa se puede comprar algo de tomar/comer, si se desea. Nos vemos ahí en la cola a las 7 pm (abren puertas a las 7:30 pm) para apartar buen lugar en la sala! Si quieres estar en contacto con nosotras para éste y otros eventos, solicita tu entrada al chat de whatsapp de nuestra comunidad (link en la descripciòn de “Amigas Hispanas en Suiza”) . Nota: Hay que sacar ticket! (gratis, link abajo) Saludos y hasta entonces! Ascia 🤗 ————————————- ¡Se acerca el estreno anual de los Comicastros! Esta vez presentamos la obra teatral "Todo el tiempo del mundo", de Pablo Messiez, autor argentino dedicado a la interpretación desde los 12 años. Entre sus maestros se encuentran Ricardo Bartis y Rubén Szuchmacher. Paralelamente a su intenso trabajo como actor, autor y director, desarrolla su actividad docente en diversos estudios e instituciones como Estudio 3 de Madrid, Universidad Menéndez Pelayo de Santander y La Térmica de Malaga. "Todo el tiempo del mundo" tiene lugar en la zapatería de Flores quien un día pierde la noción del tiempo y queda atrapado en una sola noche. Tickets (gratis) https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/theatre-stage/theatre/todo-el-tiempo-del-mundo-de-p-messiez-teatro-en-espanol-7458858811522042882.html

. ***Mostly outdoors event***, if rainy/cold we can go indoors . **❤️ WELCOME HOME** @ **Connection Space❤️** *Meet **new friends**. Reconnect with **old** ones. Feel at **home** — inspired by old traditional Greek cafés, where grandparents knew that the best connections happen over a drink and good company* . * **free** event. **No registration** needed - just **RSVP** below * **See** **[PHOTOS & VIDEOS](https://photos.app.goo.gl/o476bvQ6ZC8CGhG57)** of our previous events * **Join** our **WHATSAPP** with **zero-spam** promise (if link does not work try opening with https://web.whatsapp.com/ ) **[https://chat.whatsapp.com/G01nWpon13VB0gebrqFmfx?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/G01nWpon13VB0gebrqFmfx?mode=gi_t)** * **Join** our **[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/wearetheconnectionspace/)** for **latest info** on this event and **extra events** . . **Why? Offline fun meaningful connections** is what we all deeply desire and makes us truly happy and healthy (scientifically proven - read below)! . . **How?** We are not a "social drinks meetup" - instead we create **one** event to **make new friends** with many **free** and **fun** **optional** activities: * **mostly outdoors event**, weather allowing, if not we can go indoors * **19:00 - 00:00** join the fun and simply **talk to anyone** ! * **19:30** Gyros super-tasty food truck * **20:30** Slow-friending (meet new people in a fun process) * **21:00** Outdoors - live music * **22:00** Latin/90s/00s hits dance party (DJ X-Otic) * **23:30** After-Party [https://eventfrog.ch/connectionspace-afterparty](https://eventfrog.ch/connectionspace-afterparty) buy your tickers here - continuing to another location (cooperation with "Pub Crawl Zurich") * **New-comer area** (never was easier to spark a conversation, with ice-breakers, optional for first time attendees) * **Fun** social card/board **games** * **Mindful** card/board **games** * **Outdoors area -** beautiful & big * **4** **chill-out rooms** (if you prefer quietness) * **German-speaking** area (falls du nur Deutsch sprechen möchtest) . . . * We booked 100% of the location so its **safe to talk to everyone** * ***The event is inspired*** *by the [Swiss Stammtisch](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stammtisch) and Greek village coffeeshops ("[Καφενείο](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kafenio)"), once vibrant [community hubs](https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=569660528&sxsrf=AM9HkKlXnclaLfgcockKtdr9qHdmD5jaGw:1696060562834&q=greek+%5D(https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=569660528&sxsrf=AM9HkKlXnclaLfgcockKtdr9qHdmD5jaGw:1696060562834&q=greek+)%CE%BA%CE%B1%CF%86%CE%B5%CE%BD%CE%B5%CE%B9%CE%BF&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi52fX67dGBAxXnlf0HHZNiBHUQ0pQJegQICRAB&biw=1460&bih=913&dpr=2&udm=2) where people gathered daily. We innovate this concept with a modern twist. I, Christos, fondly remember visiting these with my grandfather and now revive this fading tradition with a modern twist. Hope you enjoy it ❤️* * 95% of people come **solo** \- you can too❤️ * Want to **host an activity** in 1 of our 4 private rooms? Workshops, games, connection activities, music, or any other ideas then send a message to Christos on 0768175380 * **Everyone is welcome**! Wir wollen gerne mehr **Schweizer/innen** dabei haben! Alle sind willkommen und die meisten können Deutsch sprechen. Not an expat event. **Everyone is welcome**! * The "**Connection Space**" meetup group is an independent meetup group and not associated any other group * **Testimonials** (scroll to "photos" section to read testimonials) *"The best event I know on Meetup to connect to new friends."* *"First participation, an evening to remember!"* *"So far in 7 years this is the first time I see a really good organised event!"* *"Mega schön" "Had a blast!"* *"I was positively surprised. They organized everything so well; I met some interesting, friendly people. I highly recommend it"* *"Great! Everything excellent, super organized... lots of people. Great atmosphere"* *"I am really grateful for the warm atmosphere, inspiring moments"* * We encourage no/low alcohol consumption and only allow responsible behaviours. . . . . . Want **more info** than our Summary above? Then please read below: . . . . . **WHY?** we ❤️ **uniting people** and building **community** while having **fun!** We truly believe that **fun meaningful offline connections** to new & existing friends makes us truly happy and healthy! Our community meets **every 2 Fridays** in a **homey,** caring and **welcoming** "come as you are" environment ! . **WHAT is this event?** We are not a "party or drinks" meetup, nor we follow a "forced" process and agenda. Instead, we are a **Connection Community** inspired by Greek village cafes and Swiss Stammtisch — a welcoming environment where neighbours gathered as equals to share stories and build lasting friendships. We meet in a "**fixed-rhythm**" every 2 Fridays in a **homey** & **lovingly-hosted space** so you can connect with new and familiar faces. We provide **several optional activities** to help you **connect** with others—so you're free to **explore what resonates** with you! Together these activities create a unique **Connection** **Event.** . . . . **TIPS on how to connect:** * **Look out for a good smile/vibe** in a person/group of 2-3 people and say "Hi my name is xxx, can I join?". * **Try something different** (person, game, table, activity) often until you find **fun** **quality connection.** We have a lot of activities * **Ask** **Support:** we understand going out to meet friends can be a stretch. We make this easy with a fun and safe event. Also you can ask for help from our clearly communicated (see photos of this event) "**People Connectors**" who can help you discreetly to connect with others * **Invest time**(not quickly just come by) as friendships are an investment * **Come back**: big turnaround, people come randomly at each event, so you never know who you ll meet . . **.** **Some final words:** * **Bravo** **to you** for the courage to go out to meet new people! We know **everyone is unique** \- thats why we got a big new\-comer area\, 4 co\-hosts welcoming and connecting you\, and many activities for you to **choose** from to find what **suits you**! * **Weather?** Event takes place rain or shine, with indoors rooms and outdoors area that is ultra rain-protected * **Coming late?** no problem, we got many people until closing at 00:00 so come whenever! * **Too many attendees?** no problem, we got the space! Also as per the "what" above: you define what makes the event meaningful for you! Furthermore, the co-organisers have one goal: to say hi and introduce you to the event and people (if you want to please ask)! Finally remember: you dont have to talk to everyone, focus in a few people! Less is more! If you dont know where to start look for a good smile or an activity more matching to you. From there keep on trying people and activities.. * **Why so many options above for connection?** We always have: a first-timer area, Fun social games, Mindful games, ice-breaker questions or simply just talk freely to anyone. Often we add: Speed-friending and a Music jam. We believe **you are unique** and each of us prefers different ways of connection. Also we want to provide an opportunity for everyone to try something new * **Easy and Safe:** We have the whole location reserved for us so its safe to open up and meet new friends (unlike bars in Zürich where people find it strange if strangers talk to them). Christos and volunteers will also help with connection. Read more info below. * **Christos** (see [PHOTO](https://photos.app.goo.gl/pdtVaVGCyDEJ28uE8)) and our co-organisers will be wearing name budges and will aim to **welcome** **everyone.** * more info via our **[LINKS](http://linktr.ee/connectionspace)** * Yes YOU are **good** & **courageous** for looking for new fun connections! * Everyone is in same situation and you ll be surprised how **friendly people** are ❤️ * Come **early** though **later** also ok as many people there **until 00:00** * **It works**! We heard of many new friendships, living together and even getting a new job * **Mindful Connection Games:** from [The School of Life](https://www.theschooloflife.com/shop/?_product_type=games-card-sets) available: Confessions Game, The Friendship Game, Connection Game, The Loser Game, Games for grown-ups and three sets of "100 questions" (Conversation Toolkit & Careers & Relationships) * **Fun Social Games:** bring your own **board/card games** or choose from: Cards against humanity, Exploding Kittens, Codenames, Debatable, Sotally Tober, Taboo, Mafia, Uno, Monopoly and more. . . . . ``` Disclaimer & participation terms (Connection Space): By registering for and/or attending this event (“Event”), you agree: Registration required. Follow organizer/venue instructions; we may refuse entry or remove anyone for safety/behavior.You attend voluntarily and at your own risk; risks include injury/illness, conflicts/harassment, emotional distress, and property loss/damage.To the maximum extent permitted by law, Connection Space/organizers/staff/venue/partners aren’t liable for injury, loss, theft, damage, or costs; this doesn’t limit liability where unlawful (e.g., gross negligence/intent).Zero tolerance for violence, threats, harassment/discrimination, unwanted touching, weapons, illegal drugs, or unsafe/excessively intoxicated behavior. Report issues; we may remove participants and contact security/police/emergency services.You’re responsible for your health/fitness, alcohol use, transport home, allergies/diet; no allergen-free guarantee.You’re responsible for your belongings and any damage you cause.Photos/video/audio may be recorded and used for marketing by Connection Space/partners; opt out by telling us at check-in (we’ll try, but can’t guarantee exclusion from background footage).You must follow third-party venue rules; we may change schedule/location/format for safety or operational reasons. Finally, the organisers have the right to refuse entry with and without a ticket as the organizers see fit. In case of a ticket purchase a full refund will be made in that case. ```

**Women Who Wonder, intergenerational Women's Circle** **The topic of this circle is "What is love?"** The question came up in the last circle. In this circle, we will explore love and how we can support ourselves and our neighbourhood in being and becoming the loving space we need and deserve. **Why we need an intergenerational women's circle** Since the industrialisation of the 19th century, we have been segregated into age groups since kindergarten. This disconnect between generations costs us well-being, resilience, and even years of our lives. Women Who Wonder brings back the receptive, responsive relationships between generations. We sit together in a circle for 90 minutes, not to advise but to share, listen to and witness each other. Each participant speaks without interruption and can ask for the kind of response she would like, or silent appreciation. Being witnessed this way creates a tangible, lifting energy. **About the topic: What is love?** We have been created by love and raised in an environment we perceived as love, an environment that meets our needs. Could we just be ourselves, or did we need to be a certain way for that? How are we being loving today, and what do we need from our neighbourhood to feel safe and loved? **How it works** Every participant shares what she likes to. We pass an hourglass as our talking piece. To create a safe and confidential space, every attendee signs our circle agreements on arrival. In short: we don't interrupt, we are non-judgemental, we don't fix, and we don't sell services. What is shared in the circle stays in the circle. **About me** My name is Barbara, Dr. Barbara Kleeb, I'm a coach, healer, gynaecologist and obstetrician with experience from birth to consultation, from hormones to operation. I am interested in many things, have written and recorded songs and created an online networking event for polymaths that lights people up. I feel that it is time for women to support each other, to learn with and from each other across generations. **Practical details** This meeting costs 50 francs. You can pay in cash on arrival. Students and AHV with card 30 francs. Sponsorships available on request, send me a message. Places are limited to 20 women. The circle is held in Swiss German and English. **Where and when** **Seeburg Park Zürich**, 8008 Zürich. Date: **Friday, June 12th, 5:00–6:30 pm** **How to find it** You can enter Seeburg Park Zürich either from Zollikerstrasse, Bus 33, Botanischer Garten, or from Feldeggstrasse, Tram 11 and 15, walk up Feldeggstrasse, turn right at Mühlebachstrasse, and find the park entrance and spot us in the park. Take whatever makes sense for you to sit, a towel, a cushion, or a folding chair (I will sit on a chair). It will be a bit cold, so you might need a cozy jumper and a warm blanket to sit on and wrap around your legs. **When it's truly heard, your story becomes wisdom**

[Exceptionally at ramram cafe, inside the PBZ Altstadt library, while Strauhof is closed for the summer!] Join us for an opportunity to write together in a beautiful setting. This will be an informal session to work on your own creative project and to meet other writers doing the same, while getting a little extra motivation. We hope that you will be able to join, and look forward to seeing you there!

Discover **exhibitions across all Löwenbräukunst institutions and galleries until 21:00**, with a **DJ set** by artist Jan Vorisek at 20:00 on the Weisse Terrace, and **food and drinks** served until 23:00 (not included). Home to Kunsthalle Zürich, Migros Museum für Gegenwartskunst, Museum Haus Konstruktiv, Luma Westbau, Hauser & Wirth, and Edition VFO, Löwenbräukunst offers a multi-perspective view on contemporary art. Join us for an inspiring evening and connect with the international and local art community. **How to join:** * 📍at **6pm** on the courtyard terrace * 🎟️ no tickets required for the opening night, but some events may be ticketed: **please check the** [Programme](https://zurichartweekend.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/ZAW2026_GUIDE-1.pdf) to see what you'd like to visit * 💬 **join** the [Museums & Exhibitions chat](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CzUzNEBSxfe3LeqCHnozcv?mode=gi_t) for coordination purposes **What to expect:** It'll be a busy public event, especially if the weather shows out. We won't be able to move through the exhibitions as a group. I am providing a meeting point where you can connect with others and we can go to the various performances and openings in small groups. We can all reconnect at 8 or 9pm for the DJ set, dancing and drinks💃🏽🕺🏻 **If you want to continue the party:** From 10pm until 3am Mohamed Bourouissa will be hosting a late-night party in honour of his exhibition Pour Noubia (Migros Museum für Gegenwartskunst) at the Schiffbau, a 5min walk from Löwenbräu. Free entry! See you there🤩

We are in the heart of summer, and nature calls us to pause, breathe, and reconnect. This full moon, we return with the **second year edition of our creative laboratory**, the **Horizontal Audiovisual Experience**. In the middle of the forest, with immersive sound and visuals, we guide you on a journey to your innermost being. A space for healing, enjoyment, and sharing, with your body embraced by Mother Earth. This is a **horizontal, immersive experience**: a journey to be felt lying down, with images that can be observed with open or closed eyes. Warm ceremonial cacao invites the heart to remain present as sound opens new inner landscapes. ✨ **What to Share:** * Cacao circle with medicine from Peru * Live visuals by Diogo * Sound healing journey with **Jkson & Friends** * Closing circle to share and connect **Event Details:** Date: 13\.06\.26 \| 04\.07\.26 \| 15\.08\.26 Doors open: 20:00 \| Start time: 21:00 Duration: approx. 1.5 hours Location: Kaferberg (exact details shared in our groups on the day) **What to Bring:** * Drinking water * A small offering for the spirit of cacao (flowers, seeds, fruit, tobacco) * Something comfortable to lie on (blanket, pillow – limited space) * We recommend fasting at least two hours before the gathering for deeper connection **Contribution:** Donation-based to support cacao, logistics, and event costs Suggested contribution: 33 CHF Limited to 20 participants **About the Sound:** Jkson is an Argentinian musician and producer deeply rooted in Andean and Amazonian traditions. His work blends ancestral chants, natural textures, and electronic elements, crafting immersive soundscapes that invite stillness, listening, and presence. [www.jksonmusic.com](http://www.jksonmusic.com) **Connect with us:** * [WhatsApp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CbTg7sUdnB35gLX6jILEGS) * [Telegram](https://t.me/+5Bu537lvzWplZjNk) * [Newsletter](https://www.mama-cacao.ch/contact-7) **Supported by:** Dharma Collective **In collaboration with:** Chakana Project

A 1:1 Reiki journey where you receive focused healing, intuitive guidance, and space to reconnect with your inner flow. Discover more about me and my work on: https://thebecomingfield.com/

*Huelga Feminista Suiza 2026 – Zúrich (14 de junio)* El 14 de junio se celebra en toda Suiza la Huelga Feminista, una jornada de movilización que tiene su origen en la histórica huelga de mujeres de 1991, cuando cientos de miles de mujeres salieron a las calles para exigir que el principio de igualdad incorporado a la Constitución en 1981 se hiciera realidad. Hoy, la movilización continúa reivindicando la igualdad de género, denunciando las violencias machistas y visibilizando el trabajo de cuidados y otras desigualdades persistentes. La jornada en Zúrich comenzará con una clase de yoga al aire libre de 11:00 a 12:00 h en el parque Josefwiese, siempre que las condiciones meteorológicas lo permitan. A partir de las 13:00 h en el Kasernenareal, habrá puestos informativos, talleres, intervenciones, conciertos y actividades para todas las edades. Entre las actividades programadas destacan un taller sobre la huelga de cuidados (Care-Streik Workshop), una sesión de autodefensa con Fightback y diversas propuestas culturales y comunitarias. También habrá espacios de cuidado infantil durante parte de la programación. A las 17:00 h dará inicio la gran manifestación feminista, que partirá desde Ni-Una-Menos-Platz y recorrerá el centro de la ciudad. 📅 Domingo, 14 de junio de 2026 📍 Josefwiese, Kasernenareal y Ni-Una-Menos-Platz, Zúrich La programación completa, con horarios y ubicaciones detalladas, puede consultarse aquí: https://feministischerstreikzuerich.ch/2026/04/08/14-juni-2026/

Sundays, 2pm-3pm. Trial class: CHF 20 Drop-in: CHF 35 Book here: www.balancewithale.com/zurich/handstand "I'll never be able to handstand". You kick at the wall but see no progress. Your wrists hurt. You don't know how to improve... It doesn't have to be this way. Progress doesn't come from trying harder — it comes from practicing smarter. Handstands are a skill, and when you train them as such, they begin to click in a way that feels almost magical. This class builds the foundations (strength, alignment and technique) that make handstands feel achievable and fun. Through clear progressions and personalized drills, you'll discover how capable your body truly is, and how handstands start to feel within reach when you train with intention and support. Because drills are tailored to you, the class welcomes all levels — from "I've never kicked up before" to confident freestanding balancers who want to develop greater control.

**☀️Nourish your mind & body first thing in the morning 🌻** 🎟 Entry: **Free** 🗓 Date: **Sunday, 14 June** 🕗 Time: **10:00 – 12:00** 📍 Location: **[ANNTIN studio,](https://maps.app.goo.gl/V3Ym1aCMCZRgygxeA)**[ ](https://maps.app.goo.gl/V3Ym1aCMCZRgygxeA)**[Glattbrugg train station](https://maps.app.goo.gl/V3Ym1aCMCZRgygxeA)** (10 min from HB, 7 min from Hardbrücke, 2 min from Oerlikon) ⸻ **What to expect** 🕙 **10:00 – 10:15:** Arrival & welcome 🌬️ **10:15 – 11:00:** Breathwork session 🫐 **11:00 – 12:00:** Social gathering with vegan breakfast ⸻ Start your weekend with calming your mind & nervous system by learning different breathing techniques. The practice is followed by meaningful connections over light & vegan breakfast. Sip coffee, matcha or other hot drinks available on site while meeting like minded people who care about wellbeing. 🎟 The breathwork and breakfast are free, however if you want to support the owners of [ANNTIN studio](https://www.anntin.ch/), simply order a hot drink after breathwork ☕ ⚠️ Limited spots available - join the event to save your spot ⚠️⚠️Please cancel if you know you can't come, it will give chance to others to enjoy the event. In case of any questions contact us here: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/CSCUj3b814E7OagroDneOO?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CSCUj3b814E7OagroDneOO?mode=gi_t)

Welcome to the Open Level Play Session. This session takes place every Saturday from 12:15 to 13:45 at the Yonex Badminton Hall Hardbrücke. The number of players on the waitlist one week in advance determines the number of courts booked. If you are on the waitlist but can no longer attend, please remove yourself as early as possible. Open to players of all skill levels. This session is for doubles with a relaxed and social focus. Ideal for casual play, improvement and meeting new players. Payment can be made via TWINT after the session.

Join us at Crafthouse in Reston Town Center for Libertarian Happy Hour! Connect with fellow Libertarians in Northern Virginia and the wider DC area for good conversation, drinks, and food! We will have a reserved table at Crafthouse. Look for the LPNOVA sign. The Libertarian Party of Northern Virginia is your local affiliate of the national Libertarian Party. Since 1971, the Libertarian Party has been fighting for personal freedom, economic freedom, and peaceful foreign policy. We run candidates for office, advocate for liberty in our community through our presence at local fairs and festivals, and connect fellow DC area libertarians through events like these.

…Transform Our Lives, Work, and World (2024) by Jamie Metzl, 432 pages [Genetics] • Paperback • Hardcover • Kindle • Audiobook • Library: [https://fcplcat.fairfaxcounty.gov/search/title.aspx?ctx=1.1033.0.0.1&pos=1&cn=615082](https://fcplcat.fairfaxcounty.gov/search/title.aspx?ctx=1.1033.0.0.1&pos=1&cn=615082) Check the How To Find Us section for Zoom Link **(Remember, the Zoom Link is different each month, do not bookmark)** ### Review “In Superconvergence, Jamie Metzl takes readers on a magical journey through the science of the intersecting genetics, biotech, and AI revolutions, deeply explores the implications, and challenges us to think creatively and proactively about what comes next. Very few books are absolute must-reads. This is one.”―Siddhartha Mukherjee, assistant professor of medicine at Columbia University and author of The Gene: An Intimate History "During the 25 years I have known Jamie Metzl, he has always been ahead of the curve. There is no one better to help us understand and prepare for the fast-approaching technological revolutions. Superconvergence is brilliant. I can't recommend it more strongly."―Sanjay Gupta MD, bestseller author, neurosurgeon, and Emmy-award winning chief medical correspondent (CNN) "Our world is defined by our science and technology—whether we like it or not. The question now is not whether to use these powers, but how best to use them. In Superconvergence, Jamie Metzl takes us on a journey through the new capabilities that are radically transforming ecosystems inside us and around us, challenging each of us to get personally involved with building the future we want."―Beth Shapiro, University of California Santa Cruz evolutionary biologist and author of Life as We Made It: How 50,000 Years of Human Innovation Refined―and Redefined―Nature "In a fine counter-blast to the pessimism of today, Jamie Metzl lays out just how spectacular the future of humanity and planet can be if we harness innovation responsibly and imaginatively to create what he calls the 'spiral of progress.'"―Matt Ridley, author of How Innovation Works, and co-author of Viral: The search for the Origin of Covid-19 “A page-turning journey through space and time that shows us how our lives will be changed by imminent technological advances we once only dreamed of.”―David Sinclair, Professor of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, and author of Lifespan: Why We Age―and Why We Don't Have To “The superconvergence of the genetics, biotechnology, and AI revolutions provides spectacular opportunities for building a better world. It also represents an almost limitless investment opportunity. We were excited to collaborate with Jamie Metzl, one of the world's great experts on how these aspirations can best be realized, including in capital markets. Superconvergence is a master class for imagining, investing in, and building a future we'd like to inhabit."―Jeremy Schwartz, Global Chief Investment Officer, WisdomTree “A clear examination of a transitional moment in the story of life on Earth…. Metzl capably describes recent developments in genetics and biotech and looks at how AI is providing an analytical engine of unprecedented power…. An important book in which the author sets out a path for the future based on his experience and expertise.”―Kirkus “Erudite, optimistic, and timely.”―Science Magazine "[In Superconvergence] Mr. Metzl has identified an important truth: that the convergence of new technologies is galvanizing us to reimagine how to meet urgent challenges in medicine and the environment. It’s a compelling opportunity—provided we manage to sidestep self-induced catastrophes along the way."―The Wall Street Journal ### About the Author Jamie Metzl is a leading technology and healthcare futurist and the founder and chair of OneShared.World. He is the author of Hacking Darwin: Genetic Engineering and the Future of Humanity and four other books and was a member of the World Health Organization expert advisory committee on human genome editing. Jamie previously served in the U.S. National Security Council, State Department, and Senate Foreign Relations Committee and with the United Nations in Cambodia. His work has been featured by most major media organizations around the world, including 60 Minutes, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Fox, CNN, ABC, NBC, CBS, the Times of London, Le Monde, and Paris Match, and his podcast interviews with Joe Rogan, Lex Fridman, and others have reached tens of millions of listeners. He lives in New York City. Visit Jamiemetzl.com.

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, June 15 at 6:30 p.m.** The club will be discussing three essays from the latest issue of *[n+1](https://www.nplusonemag.com/magazine/issue-53/)*. 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. \* \* \* 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.

**In a time of division and isolation, come be part of the community that's rebuilding the town square, one table at a time.** **This dinner in particular will be very special as we celebrate America's 250th birthday. How better to honor a semiquincentennial of democracy that spending an evening practicing it?** 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.

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Can Artificial Intelligence ‘See’?”** A look at how humans and artificial intelligence systems interpret the visual world in fundamentally different ways, with Arryn Robbins, assistant professor of psychology at the University of Richmond and cognitive scientist who researches visual attention, perception, and category learning. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-can-AI-see](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-can-AI-see) .] Artificial intelligence can now identify faces, categorize objects, describe scenes, and outperform humans on certain visual tasks. But does AI actually “see” the world the way that people do? Or does it arrive at correct answers using representations that differ markedly from human perception? Join Arryn Robbins of the University of Richmond for a fascinating exploration of how humans and AI construct meaning from visual information and a look at comparisons between human perception and AI that reveal just how dynamic and context-dependent our own visual systems really are. Dr. Robbins, who previously has given excellent Profs and Pints talks on flaws and biases in human visual perception, will draw from research in cognitive science, visual perception, and AI vision systems. She’ll explain how human perception is not merely a simple recording of the world, but an active process shaped by expectations, context, goals, and recent experience. You’ll learn how humans form flexible mental representations that allow us to recognize objects across changing environments and conditions, and why those representations continuously adapt as we interact with the world. Many AI systems, by contrast, learn visual categories through statistical patterns in data. They can produce impressive results, but sometimes they also produce strange and unexpected failures, and sometimes they classify images in ways that seem strange to us. Dr. Robbins will discuss what these differences reveal about the nature of perception itself, and why the mismatch between human and AI representations matters for technologies like self-driving cars, medical imaging, facial recognition, and automated surveillance. Important for anyone trying to understand the rapidly growing role of AI in daily life, this talk will explore one of the biggest questions in cognitive science and artificial intelligence: What does it actually mean to “see” and understand the world? (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: “Eye Farm” by Nevit Dilmen (Wikimedia Commons).

**Join us for Soul Coffee, an informal gathering where we can connect a bit deeper, check in on each other, and share some real soul conversation together - as always, across beliefs and traditions.** Soul Coffee is a gathering by BreadBreakers, a community for people of all stripes to build meaningful relationships and have curious conversations. **Our mission in BreadBreakers is to be a place of compassion and belonging in a time of division and isolation; to rebuild the town square, one table at a time.** Usually we do this by breaking bread and having facilitated conversations over dinner, but sometimes it's good to just meet over coffee and spend some unstructured time talking about the deep stuff. At each Soul Coffee, we'll keep it simple and talk about three questions: - How's your soul doing? - How have you experienced wonder lately? - What do you need right now? No matter your religion, or if you even are religious; no matter where you are spiritually; no matter if you even think souls exist - come to be seen and known, to just be humans together in a crazy world, to talk about those things of the spirit that are so central to the human experience but rarely get discussed. **Join us, invite a friend, and be a part of the movement to mend our fractured society and normalize a better way of being in community with one another.** BreadBreakers, an initiative by[ Restoration United Methodist Churc](https://restorationreston.org/breadbreakers)h in Reston, VA, is a religiously inclusive community, a collaboration between the church and those of all different beliefs. All faiths and all stripes are welcomed. Our leadership, volunteer team, and community include people who attend Restoration and people who don't.

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.**