Progressive Politics

 Gemeinsam kochen & genießen Hast du Lust, neue pflanzliche Rezepte kennenzulernen und in entspannter Atmosphäre gemeinsam zu kochen? Am 21. April 2026 um 18:30 Uhr laden wir dich ins Offene Wohnzimmer ein, um zusammen drei leckere Gerichte zuzubereiten: – Kichererbsen-Kokus-Curry – Linsensalat mit Zitronen-Tahini-Dressing – Pfannengemüse mit Kräuterdip Egal ob vegan, neugierig oder einfach hungrig – komm vorbei, lerne neue Menschen kennen und entdecke, wie einfach und lecker pflanzliche Küche sein kann.  Ein großes Dankeschön an das Offene Wohnzimmer für die Möglichkeit, diesen Abend bei euch zu gestalten! 

Join us for a daily chess meetup in the heart of Berlin at Schönhauser Allee 174. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, feel free to drop by anytime between 7 PM and midnight, every single day of the week. No registration is required – just show up and enjoy a game in a fun, inclusive, and casual environment. Newcomers can take advantage of a friendly crash course to get started, while experienced players share strategies, discuss best practices, and even explore quirky variants like Duck Chess or Bughouse. Boards, sets, and clocks are provided, with time controls up to 10 minutes per player for a rapid, engaging experience. It’s the perfect way to unplug, detox from screens, and connect with a diverse, kind-hearted community of chess lovers. The gathering welcomes all levels and backgrounds, creating a vibrant, family-friendly space where everyone can enjoy the game and forge real connections.

This is an [in-person communication lab](https://www.presentation-school.com/berlin-presentation-lab) that helps professionals speak clearly and confidently under pressure using proven methods. Most people don’t struggle because they don’t practice enough. They struggle because they practice without the right principles. This session focuses on deliberate, guided practice informed by performance psychology, neuroscience, and modern communication training. **What You Will Do** * Learn one science-based communication principle that improves real-world performance. * Train that principle in structured speaking exercises designed for skill development. * Receive clear, professional feedback you can apply immediately. Practice and feedback are guided by experienced communication professionals who work with executives and senior professionals. This is not peer-to-peer feedback or open discussion. **Who Should Attend?** * Non-native English speakers * Professionals who present, lead meetings, or speak up at work * Anyone who overthinks, freezes, or loses clarity under pressure * People who want structured improvement, not just repetition No prior experience is required. **What This is NOT** * A lecture. * A motivational talk. * A public performance. * Unstructured open practice. * Peer-led feedback or opinion-based critique. **Before The Session** Before the session, participants complete a short preparation form to clarify their goals and common communication challenges. This helps ensure the practice and feedback during the lab are as relevant and effective as possible. **Optional:** Participants may submit a short video (1–2 minutes) or written questions. This is optional and used to personalise focus areas and examples during the session. No individual coaching is provided. **After the Session** Participants receive a short follow-up pack with key takeaways, practical drills, a reflection question, and guidance on next steps. **Practical Information** Language: English Duration: 2 hours Format: In-person, structured group lab Address: Chausseestraße 86, 10115 Berlin Healthy snacks and water provided. Price: €25 per session If you are looking for a professional, practical way to improve how you communicate and want to train using principles that actually lead to results, this lab is a good place to start.

**\*Cuddle Puddle** with **Max Wenzlaff** for **GBTQ men\*** **[Book a Ticket](https://wearevillage.org/shop/cuddle-puddle/w17-2026)** **Member: 15 €** **Regular: 25 €** Cuddle Puddle provides a safe and welcoming space for GBTQ men\* to experience non-sexual touch, promote emotional well-being, and establish healthy boundaries, contributing positively to the community’s overall mental health and sense of belonging. You decide what feels right for you – whether you prefer more distance or closeness. In our guided Cuddle Puddles, the focus is on self-awareness and mutual respect, so that everyone’s well-being and needs are maintained. **General Information** Wear comfortable clothes. **Language:** we’ll speak English and/or German, depending on the needs of the group. Cost: This event is one of the free events per month for Members. Become a member: As a Member, you not only support our project, but you also get access to free events per month. More info here. More information [here](https://wearevillage.org/en/become-a-member-old/). Eine Cuddle Puddle bietet einen sicheren und einladenden Raum für GBTQ Männer\*, um nicht-sexuelle Berührungen zu erleben, emotionales Wohlbefinden zu fördern und klare Grenzen zu setzen. Dies trägt positiv zur allgemeinen psychischen Gesundheit und zum Zugehörigkeitsgefühl zu einer Gemeinschaft bei. Du entscheidest, was sich für dich richtig anfühlt – ob du mehr Abstand oder Nähe bevorzugst. In unseren angeleiteten Cuddle Puddles stehen Selbsterfahrung und gegenseitiger Respekt im Mittelpunkt, so dass das Wohlbefinden und die Bedürfnisse aller gewahrt bleiben. **Hinweise** Trage bequeme Kleidung. **Sprache:** Je nach Bedürfnissen der Gruppe werden wir Deutsch und/oder Englisch sprechen. **Kosten**: Diese Veranstaltung zählt zu den kostenfreien Veranstaltungen pro Monat für Mitglieder. **Member werden**: Als Mitglied unterstützt du nicht nur unser Projekt, sondern du erhältst gleichzeitig monatlich Zugang zu den kostenfreien Veranstaltungen. Mehr Infos [hier](https://wearevillage.org/mitgliedschaft).

***🔗 Link to registration: [https://luma.com/s8mfiusl](https://luma.com/s8mfiusl)*** We’re excited to invite you to a special edition of our next meetup - for the first time ever, Product Management Society Berlin is teaming up with Miro 🤝 This session will explore a timely topic: the future of the design process in an era of rapidly increasing production speed. While some chief designers at major companies have declared the design process “dead” or no longer fit for today’s pace, others strongly disagree. What changes when prototypes can be created in minutes? What are the limits? What remains essential? In the first part, we’ll open the floor to different perspectives from across the room. In the second part, we’ll work together to explore and shape ideas for a more resilient design process. Whether you're a PM, designer, or simply curious, you’re very welcome to join the discussion and contribute your ideas. 👉 Spots are limited - register on Luma using the link above ^ Looking forward to seeing you there!

Cuban salsa classes every Tuesday. Join us, improve your skills, save lives and make friends! **Classes:** 19:00 - Improvers 2 (New routine starting every month) **Price: (Card payment only)** 1 class - 7€ 10 class pass - 49€ or 42€ reduced* (To use within 11 weeks. Valid for all our classes. It can only be used by one person per class. No refund possible) * Reduced price for students, Schüler, Azubis, H4-Empfänger, and pensioners/retired folks. A valid proof is needed. **Why should you learn Salsa, and why with us?** - It's great fun! - You get to know loads of new people. - No fix starting date - you can start any week. - No dress code - come in whatever you feel comfortable in. Note:No outside shoes in the room: socks or a pair of clean shoes will be required - No partner needed - we change regularly during the classes (bring all your friends though!) - You can help us make a difference! **What is Salsa4Water?** Simple! We teach Salsa and donate all our profits to the NGO Welthungerhilfe, which uses these funds for their local projects in Malawi. Welthungerhilfe fights for equal access to safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene in nearly 40 countries world wide. This gives you the chance to save lives while dancing!

**Cuddling as Collective Care – all genders** for **LGBTQIA+** **[Book a Ticket](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/regenerative-touch/w11-2026)** **Member: 15 €** **Regular: 30 €** This Cuddle Puddle offers a safe, consent-based space for people of all genders within the LGBTQIA+ community to experience non-sexual touch, communal connection and rest. Guided exercises support emotional wellbeing, boundaries, and self-awareness. **Cuddle Puddles** are structured, guided spaces where people can experience the benefits of non-sexual touch — such as reduced stress, nervous system regulation, and a deeper sense of belonging. Touch, when consensual and caring, can support emotional resilience and mental health. This **Cuddle Puddle** is open to all genders within the LGBTQIA+ community, creating a space where diverse identities can meet beyond gendered expectations. A non-gender-restricted setting allows for broader empathy, mutual understanding, and connection, while honoring individual boundaries, choice, and safety at all times. **General Information** • This format is for all queer people (LGBTQIA+) interested in experiencing touch in a safe(r) setting. • This is a clothes-on format. • Bring a sheet and towel to cover cushions, mats, or massage tables. • This event will be in English • This event is also available at a reduced member price – but not part of the three-free-monthly-events benefit. • Concession tickets upon written request to **[events@wearevillage.org](mailto:events@wearevillage.org)** **Kuscheln als kollektive Fürsorge – Alle Geschlechter** für **LGBTQIA+** **[Anmeldung](https://wearevillage.org/shop/regenerative-touch/w11-2026)** **Mitglied: 15 €** **Regulärer Preis: 30 €** Dieser Cuddle Puddle bietet einen sicheren, einvernehmlichen Raum für Menschen aller Geschlechter aus der LGBTQIA+ Community, um nicht-sexuelle Nähe, gemeinschaftliche Verbindung und Entspannung zu erleben. Die angeleitete Erfahrung stärkt emotionales Wohlbefinden, Körperwahrnehmung und klare Grenzen. **Cuddle Puddles** sind angeleitete Räume für bewusste, nicht-sexuelle Berührung, die Stress reduzieren, das Nervensystem regulieren und das Gefühl von Zugehörigkeit stärken können. Konsensuelle Nähe unterstützt emotionale Stabilität und psychische Gesundheit. Diese Cuddle Puddle ist für alle Geschlechter innerhalb der LGBTQIA+ Community geöffnet. Ein nicht-geschlechtergetrennter Raum ermöglicht vielfältige Begegnungen jenseits von Rollenbildern und Erwartungen. So entsteht ein Feld für mehr Empathie, gegenseitiges Verständnis und authentische Verbindung, immer auf Basis von Wahlfreiheit, klaren Grenzen und gegenseitigem Respekt **Was ist Regenerative Berührung?** Regenerative Touch ist ein monatlicher Workshop für Queer People, bei dem wir uns gegenseitig helfen, langsamer zu werden, in unseren Körper zu kommen und in einer unterstützenden und nährenden Umgebung die wohltuende Wirkung von regenerativer Berührung erkunden. Berührung, die im täglichen Leben oft übersehen wird, ist ein grundlegendes menschliches Bedürfnis. In diesen Workshops schaffen wir einen Raum, der ausschließlich ihrer regenerativen und heilenden Kraft gewidmet ist, frei von romantischen oder sexuellen Konnotationen. Berührung kommuniziert direkt und erreicht Orte, die Worte nicht erreichen können. Hast du jemals die beruhigende Wirkung einer warmen Umarmung oder einer tröstenden Hand auf deiner Schulter erlebt? Selbst ein kurzes 15-minütiges Handhalten kann zu einer signifikanten Senkung der Herzfrequenz und des Blutdrucks führen und eine starke Entspannungsreaktion signalisieren. Eine einfache 20-sekündige Umarmung kann zu höheren Oxytocinspiegeln führen, dem Hormon, das mit Bindung und Vertrauen verbunden ist. Jeden Monat wird unser trauma-sensitiver Moderator den Abend um Themen wie Präsenz, Regulierung des Nervensystems und emotionale Sicherheit gestalten und sich auf praktisches Erleben anstatt auf zu viele Worte oder Techniken konzentrieren. Es sind keine Vorkenntnisse in Körperarbeit erforderlich – bring einfach deine Neugier mit. **Vorteile** – Erfahre eine Verringerung von Angstzuständen und Depressionen sowie eine erhöhte emotionale Widerstandsfähigkeit durch beruhigende, achtsame Berührung. – Kultiviere wertschätzende Anwesenheit und tiefere Verbindungen zu dir selbst und anderen. – Unterstütze die Heilung von Traumata und setze in einer sicheren, nährenden Umgebung Emotionen frei. – Verbessere deine Stimmung und deine Immunfunktion, indem du Stress reduzierst und Endorphine freisetzt. – Fördere ein Gefühl von Gemeinschaft und Zugehörigkeit durch gemeinsame, nonverbale Erfahrungen. – Ermutige tieferes Mitgefühl und Akzeptanz durch sanften, unterstützenden Kontakt.

**You like sketching but feel your drawings lack depth?** **A solid grasp of the basics will definitely help.** Learn or refine pencil hatching and shading techniques and embrace the potential of a medium as powerful and versatile as the pencil! Take your pencil skills further with exercises to build tone, texture and volume. We will start from the basics with a broad overview, covering pencil softness, pressure control, angle, tip shape, paper tone and highlights, gradually progressing to more advanced hatching techniques. This format offers a flexible and supportive approach, adapting to each participant’s level, from helping beginners get started to guiding intermediate artists through their individual challenges. I am Alessia Sinopoli, an Italian professional artist based in Berlin, and I will be your instructor throughout this journey. **What we will do step by step:** **We will combine theory and practice with hands-on exercises.** Introduction to materials and getting familiar with the tools we will use, exploring the differences between pencils of various hardness and using graphite grades such as 2H, 2B and 6B to achieve a rich tonal range from light to dark. Hand posture and proper pencil grip for shading, with control of pencil angle. Pressure control training to learn how to vary pressure and achieve smooth tonal transitions. Contouring to define the forms with attention to angle and direction. Layering and blending by building up graphite in light layers, practicing hatching without blending tools to gain full control over tonal transitions, and then experimenting with blending to observe the differences. Enhancing highlights by using white pens or precision erasers to reinforce the brightest areas of the drawing. Sketching practice by drawing simple objects such as cherries, spheres or apples, focusing on progressive construction and conscious use of hatching to define form, depth and contrast. Discussion of common mistakes, identifying frequent pitfalls and learning how to avoid them. Personalized guidance and open Q&A throughout the workshop. **Break and refreshments:** While drawing, we will enjoy some tea. Between the first and second parts of the workshop, we will take a break, a perfect moment to connect, share a cup of coffee and enjoy a sweet treat together (vegan option available). **What is included?** **Leave home as light as a butterfly, everything is provided!** All materials are available for use during the workshop: graphite pencils of various degrees of hardness, high-quality drawing paper, precision eraser and erasers, pencil sharpeners and drawing references. Refreshments are included: tea, coffee and a sweet treat. **Who is this workshop for?** This workshop is for those who want to spend a cozy and relaxing Saturday in a creative environment while learning. We will engage intensively in shading and learn essential techniques that provide a solid foundation for drawing with pencils. *A solid foundation gives your creativity room to flourish, helping your drawings become uniquely yours.* **Location:** The workshop takes place at Artcave Berlin, an inspiring art studio with a strong focus on community projects, offering kind and welcoming hospitality.

Join us for a relaxed afternoon of delicious vegan food, warm conversations, and community connection. Bring a dish, meet new people, and help keep the group thriving. **🗓 When & where** Sunday, 26 April 2026 • 11:00–16:00 📍 ProVeg Berlin, Genthiner Str. 48, 10785 Berlin **🥗What to bring** Please bring only a **fully plant-based** dish (homemade or store-bought) to share with the group. ➤ Label your dish clearly with the name and any common allergens (e.g. gluten, nuts, soy). Plates, cutlery, and cups will be provided—but feel free to bring your own if you prefer! **💶 €3 event fee (non-refundable)** This small fee helps cover the venue rent, Meetup app, and small event costs. Any extra funds will be donated to animal rights NGOs. To confirm your RSVP: * Send €3 via PayPal (details in the comments) within 48 hours of RSVPing * Add a note: "Your Name + potluck" * No PayPal? Message me for IBAN details * **If payment isn’t received within 48 hours, your RSVP will be cancelled** We want everyone to feel safe and comfortable. Please respect boundaries; harassment or disrespectful behaviour isn’t welcome and will mean removal from future events.

**Das vierte Treffen** Wir lieben Romane! Wir diskutieren alle vier bis sechs Wochen im Prenzlauer Berg-Café en passant über ein Buch, das wir gelesen haben. Unseren Lesestoff wählen wir demokratisch aus. Bestseller, Geheimtipp oder Lieblingsbuch – wir entscheiden bei unseren Treffen gemeinsam, welchen Titel wir für den nächsten Monat auf die Agenda nehmen. Die Teilnahme ist auf 12 Personen begrenzt, weil sich in einem größeren Kreis leider nicht gut diskutieren lässt. Und hier das Buch für's nächste Treffen. **Dorothee Elmiger, Die HOLLÄNDERINNEN** Dorothee Elmigers nimmt den realen Fall zweier Holländerinnen, die 2014 beim Wandern in Panama verschwanden und von denen später nur Skelette gefunden wurden zum Ausgangspunkt ihres schmalen Buches von nur 160 Seiten. Der Fall der verschwundenen Frauen führt eine Gruppe von Menschen, angeführt von einem Theatermacher, in den Dschungel und die Geschichte wuchert aus in ein Chaos von Gedanken, Erfahrungen und Reflexionen, die wild und verwirrend sind wie der Urwald selbst. Es ist kein leichtes Buch, eher ein intellektuelles Spiel mit Verweisen auf Literatur des Grauens und die Probleme des Erzählens. Es wurde mit Literaturpreisen überhäuft, bietet jede Menge Stoff für Deutungen, mag gefallen oder abgelehnt werden - ist also das Richtige für eine angeregte Diskussion.

Die Treffen finden hybrid statt, also online und vor Ort. Den Link für meinen digitalen Raum schicke ich am **Tag des Treffens** per Meetup-Mail an alle Teilnehmerinnen - schaut also bitte in euer Postfach bei Meetup! :-) Wir werden lesen, diskutieren, Erfahrungen austauschen, voneinander lernen und uns mit Themen kritisch auseinander setzen. Mitbringen braucht ihr nur das jeweilige Buch. Euch erwartet ein hoffentlich geselliger, inspirierender und unterhaltsamer Abend. Zum 23.04. lesen wir "Aigainst White Feminism" von Rafia Zakarias. Ich freue mich auf euch!

Herzlich Willkommen zum WordPress Meetup Berlin! Auch im Jahr 2026 treffen wir uns weiterhin am letzten Mittwoch des Monats. Wir versuchen, abwechselnd Themen für Anwender\*innen und Developers behandeln. **Programm** 19:00 \| Einlass 19:15 \| Thema: WordPress und die \.htaccess\-Datei Vielleicht ist es einem schon mal aufgefallen dass im WordPress-Verzeichnis eine .htaccess-Datei liegt. Wir zeigen wie WordPress und manche Plugins diese Datei nutzen und welche Möglichkeiten es gibt um zum Beispiel die Performance, Sicherheit und SEO zu verbessern. 20:15 \| "Flohmarkt" Jede\*r kann kurz ein Gesuch oder Angebot in wenigen Sätzen pitchen. Bitte achtet darauf, dass es nicht zu kommerziell wird. 20:30 \| Happiness Bar\, freies Networking & Gespräche\. Bei Fragen oder Problemen mit WordPress könnt ihr uns gerne ansprechen und wir helfen euch mit eurem Problem. Das nennen wir "Happiness Bar". **Teilnahme** Die Teilnahme ist kostenlos. Essen und Getränke können wir leider nicht bereitstellen. Es gibt einen Snack/Getränke-Automaten und einen Kaffee-Automaten in der Bibliothek. Ihr könnt euch auch gerne etwas mitbringen und im Meeting-Raum essen. In der Umgebung gibt es einige Bäckereien, Spätis und Imbisse. Wichtig ist nur, dass wir den Raum wieder sauber hinterlassen. Falls ihr euch angemeldet habt und es doch nicht schaffen solltet, meldet euch bitte ab, damit wir einen Überblick über die Teilnehmerzahl behalten. **Barrierefreiheit** Die Location ist barrierefrei für Rollstühle. Falls ihr Unterstützung bei der Teilnahme oder Anforderungen an die Barrierefreiheit habt, schreibt uns gerne eine Nachricht. **Code of Conduct** Als WordPress Meetup verpflichten wir uns den Code of Conduct (sprich: unsere "Verhaltensregeln") einzuhalten:[ https://wpmeetup-berlin.de/regeln/](https://wpmeetup-berlin.de/regeln/) **Weitere Details und Infos** WPMeetup-Berlin Website: [https://wpmeetup-berlin.de/](https://wpmeetup-berlin.de/) Facebook-Gruppe "WordPress Berlin Brandenburg": [https://www.facebook.com/groups/331013360390412/](https://www.facebook.com/groups/331013360390412/) Twitter Account @wp_berlin: [https://twitter.com/wp_berlin](https://twitter.com/wp_berlin) #WPBerlin **Location & Raumsponsor** Ein großer Dank geht an die Bezirksbibliothek Pablo Neruda, dass sie uns den Raum zur Verfügung stellen. [https://www.berlin.de/stadtbibliothek-friedrichshain-kreuzberg/bibliotheken/bezirkszentralbibliothek-pablo-neruda/](https://www.berlin.de/stadtbibliothek-friedrichshain-kreuzberg/bibliotheken/bezirkszentralbibliothek-pablo-neruda/) **English speaking Attendees** \*Notice for our English speaking attendees: We are a German group and therefore most of our meetups and talks are held in German. However, many of our attendees are able to understand English well enough to respond to your questions. Which means: if you understand but don't necessarily speak German, that should be perfectly fine.

**Embodied Consent** mit **Kuem** für **LGBTIQA+** Kostenlos mit **[Anmeldung](https://wearevillage.org/shop/embodied-consent/w17-2026-2/)** **Lernen über Grenzen und Kommunikation** Wenn Sie noch nicht an einem Workshop zum Thema Consent im Village teilgenommen haben, ist es jetzt an der Zeit! Dieser Workshop ist sehr zu empfehlen für alle, die unser Projekt regelmäßig besuchen oder an einem unserer Workshops teilnehmen möchten. Diese Erfahrung wird Ihnen nicht nur helfen, sich in der we.are.village-Community zurechtzufinden, sondern sie wird Sie auch dazu befähigen, diese Werte in Ihr Leben zu übertragen. Sich seiner Grenzen bewusst zu sein und sein Einverständnis oder Nicht-Einverständnis auszudrücken, sind wichtige Fähigkeiten im Leben, aber wir haben nicht oft die Gelegenheit, die Fähigkeit des Einverständnisses auf die gleiche Weise zu üben wie andere Fähigkeiten, wie Singen, Sport treiben oder eine Sprache lernen. Bei Consent geht es um viel mehr als ein einfaches Ja oder Nein. Wenn wir die Zustimmung dekonstruieren, entdecken wir, wie wir unsere wahren Wünsche kommunizieren können, und hören auf, Dinge zu wählen, die wir nicht wollen. Durch Diskussionen, Bewegung und Partnerspiele werden wir Werkzeuge entwickeln, um körperliche Wünsche auszudrücken und zu verhandeln und durch praktische Übungen Grenzen zu setzen. Dieser Workshop ist für Menschen aller Körpergrößen, Geschlechter und Hintergründe offen und einladend. Es handelt sich um einen nicht-sexuellen Workshop bei dem, ohne Druck, Kommunikation und Berührung geübt werden können. Es geht genauso darum, wirklich Ja zu sagen und es auch so zu meinen, wie es darum geht, Nein zu sagen! Wenn Sie noch nicht an einem Workshop zum Thema Consent im Village teilgenommen haben, ist es jetzt an der Zeit! Diese Erfahrung wird Ihnen nicht nur helfen, sich in der we are village Community zurechtzufinden, sondern sie wird Sie auch dazu befähigen, diese Werte in Ihr Leben zu übertragen. Gemeinsam wollen wir eine auf Consent ausgerichtete Gemeinschaft mit gemeinsamen Werten aufbauen und dabei die Verantwortung des Einzelnen für die Einhaltung dieser Grundsätze betonen. Unser oberstes Ziel ist es, gesunde Beziehungen zu fördern und eine integrative Community für eine bessere, vernetzte Zukunft zu schaffen. 🔵 **Embodied Consent** with **Kuem** for **LGBTIQA+** Free **[Registration Required](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/embodied-consent/w17-2026-2/)** **Learning about boundaries and communication**. If you have not yet attended a workshop on Consent in the Village, now is the time! This workshop is highly recommended for anyone wishing to visit our project on a regular basis, or to attend one of our workshops. This experience will not only help you navigate within the we.are.village community, but it will also equip you to carry these values into your life. Being aware of your boundaries and expressing your consent or non-consent are essential skills in life, but we don’t often get a chance to actually practice consent skills in the same way we practice other skills, like singing, playing sports or learning a language. Consent is about much more than a simple yes or no. When we deconstruct consent, we discover how to communicate our true desires and stop choosing the things we actually don’t want. Through discussion, movement and partner games, we will build tools to express and negotiate physical desires and set boundaries through the use of practical exercises. This workshop is inclusive and welcoming to individuals of all body sizes, genders, and background. This is a non-sexual workshop, and great, low pressure situation in which to practice communication and touching. It’s as much about how to truly say yes and mean it as it is about saying no! If you have not yet attended a workshop on Consent in the Village, now is the time! This experience will not only help you navigate within the we are village community, but it will also equip you to carry these values into your life. Together, we aim to nurture a consent-centered community with shared values, emphasizing individual responsibility in upholding these principles. Our ultimate goal is to foster healthy relationships and create an inclusive community for a better, more connected future.

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Doom and Dinosaurs,”** a look at how mass extinctions shaped the dinosaurs and what research on these events tells us about Earth life’s long-term prospects, with Ian Wilenzik, paleontologist and visiting assistant professor of biology at George Washington University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-dino-doom](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-dino-doom) .] Pity the poor dinosaurs. They lacked both scientific research to help deal with potential environmental catastrophes and places where they could have a beer and discuss it. You, on the other hand, have the opportunity to come to Profs and Pints to hear a fascinating talk on the impact of mass extinctions on dinosaur evolution and what research on dinosaurs tells us about biodiversity and Earth’s current biodiversity crisis. Dr. Ian Wilenzik, who has studied and taught courses on dinosaur evolution, population spread, and extinction, will leave you with a greater appreciation of the resilience of life on earth and how we’re both the product and source of biologically catastrophic events. Many of us are familiar with how a big meteor impact about 66 million years ago wiped out the Earth’s dinosaur population, leaving us only with their feathered descendants, birds. Less well known is how the Earth actually has undergone five periods of mass extinction that wiped out nearly all life, and how dinosaurs arose from one and endured another—both caused by volcanic activity—before meeting their match in the third. To ground his discussion, Dr. Wilenzik will talk about how we study mass extinctions by looking for geologic evidence of volcanic activity, meteoric blasts, and other catastrophic activity and of gaps in the fossil record after them. He’ll also discuss what makes a dinosaur a dinosaur, describing their distinct anatomical features. He’ll talk about how they and other forms of life evolved over long periods of time and were affected by extinction events. We’ll look at how the meteor-caused mass extinction that wiped out dinosaurs at the end of the Cretaceous paved the way for the rise of mammals and the emergence of primates, and, eventually, us. Looking ahead to future mass extinctions and what might survive them, we’ll talk about how that plant you forget to water might have the last laugh, as well as why crocodiles might be around a while. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: A *Triceratops* mounted skeleton at the Los Angeles Museum of Natural History (Photo by Allie Caulfield / Wikimedia Commons).

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Twister Talk,”** on tornadoes and advances in our understanding of them, with Jeffrey Halverson, professor of geography and environmental systems at the University of Maryland Baltimore County and author of *An Introduction to Severe Storms and Hazardous Weather.* [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-twister-talk](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-twister-talk) .] Springtime brings tornado outbreaks and devastation across the United States. The good news for those of us who anxiously eye the skies: Tornado science is rapidly evolving and improving, as are the means by which we detect funnel clouds and warn of their approach. Get up to speed with what’s known about tornadoes with the help of Dr. Jeffery Halverson, a severe storm expert with the *Washington Post* Capital Weather Gang who previously has given excellent Profs and Pints talks on hurricanes and snowstorms. He’ll describe how, with the help of research conducted by tornado hunters, meteorologists are using ever more sophisticated computer simulations and datasets to try to “crack the code” when it comes to how and where tornadoes form. We’ll look at how science teams wielding Portable Doppler Radars on small trucks are learning that tornado wind speeds are much stronger than once presumed. We’ll consider how decades of data are changing how we think about “Tornado Alley,” and we’ll review what’s known about the relationship between tornadoes and climate change. Professor Halverson will conclude by discussing the technological strides being made in terms of tornado warning and detection, and how tornado scientists are teaming up with social scientists to gain a better understanding of what leaves us vulnerable to natural hazards. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: An F5 tornado over Elie, Manitoba in June 2007 (Photo by Justin Hobson / Wikimedia Commons).

Join us for a volunteer day helping the animals at Rosie's Farm Sanctuary in Potomac, MD. Before attending this event, you must sign a liability waiver. Please use this link [https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/b5nky2tonaovjqgjn6ap5p/web/](https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/b5nky2tonaovjqgjn6ap5p/web/) The chores you will be doing are physical. You will be working on big projects that require many volunteers like removing old bedding, sanitizing stals and replacing with new bedding, along with the daily clean up chores. Wear boots and clothing you don’t mind getting dirty. Feel free to bring a filled water bottle. On sunny days a brimmed hat and sunglasses may be helpful. Sunscreen is also suggested. Please do not bring any food or yummy-smelling items on your body or in your bag as our animals love to eat and are on special diets. Out of respect for the animals, we do not allow any food with animal products to be consumed at Rosie’s Farm Sanctuary. Please ensure that all edible items are plant-based (no dairy, no cheese, no cow’s milk ice cream, no meat, no fish, no eggs). Thank you for your cooperation and respect for this. It is very important to us. There is a gift shop where you can browse and warm up during the event. Please post your pictures and tag Rosie’s Farm Sanctuary and VSDC! Stick around at the end for a group photo behind the barn. If there is interest, we may go out to eat in one of our local vegan restaurants afterward. We are limited to 30 volunteers, so please change your RSVP if you cannot attend. Rosie's Farm Sanctuary is always in need of volunteers. If you want to volunteer with them outside of VSDC's volunteer days, make sure to visit [Rosies Farm Sanctuary ](https://rosiesfarmsanctuary.org/volunteer/) to sign up. By coming to this event, we expect you to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **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.**

**Polska Dyskoteka: May Madness is coming to Vienna! 🇵🇱💃** **(Scroll down for English version ⬇️)** **BILETY:** **https://tinyurl.com/PolskaDyskoteka** **Maj to najbardziej radosny miesiąc w Polsce, a my przenosimy tę niesamowitą energię Majówki prosto do Northern Virginia!** **Od świętowania Konstytucji 3 Maja po wyjątkowy klimat Dnia Zwycięstwa, który przypada właśnie 8 maja – nie ma lepszej daty, aby zjednoczyć Polonię i wspólnie ruszyć na parkiet.** **Dołącz do PLAC SOCIAL CLUB, aby wspólnie uczcić nasze dziedzictwo i wolność do radosnej zabawy! 🥂✨** **Szczegóły wydarzenia:** ***** **📅 Kiedy: Piątek, 8 maja 2026 (Dzień Zwycięstwa!)** ***** **⏰ Godzina: 18:30 – 22:30** ***** **📍 Gdzie: The O Lounge, 2070 Chain Bridge Rd, Vienna, VA** ***** **🎧 Zagra dla Was: DJ KAAT** **Niezależnie od tego, czy świętujesz przedłużony weekend majowy, czy historyczną wagę tego dnia, May Madness to miejsce, w którym musisz być. Spodziewaj się najlepszych polskich hitów, ogromnej dawki energii i morza biało-czerwonych barw!** **Zapiszcie tę datę i do zobaczenia na parkiecie! 🔴⚪️** **IN ENGLISH:** **May is the most festive month of the year in Poland, and we are bringing that Majówka energy straight to Northern Virginia!** **TICKETS:** **https://tinyurl.com/PolskaDyskoteka** **From celebrating the Constitution on May 3rd to the spirit of Victory Day (Dzień Zwycięstwa) on May 8th, there is no better day to gather the community and dance. Join PLAC SOCIAL CLUB as we honor our heritage and celebrate the freedom to party! 🥂✨** **Event Details:** ***** **📅 When: Friday, May 8, 2026 (Victory Day!)** ***** **⏰ Time: 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM** ***** **📍 Where: The O Lounge, 2070 Chain Bridge Rd, Vienna, VA** ***** **🎧 Featuring: DJ KAAT** **Whether you're celebrating the "Long May Weekend" or the historical significance of the day, May Madness is the place to be. Expect the best Polish hits, high energy, and a sea of white and red!** **COME JOIN US! 🔴⚪️**

**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. 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 a special shopping event at Kendra Scott on Saturday, April 25, from 1–4 PM! As part of the Kendra Scott Gives Back program, 20% of all in-store and online purchases* during the event will benefit the Humane Society of Loudoun County. Be sure to use the code: GIVEBACK-LPPDB if shopping online or mention it during the checkout process in-store. Treat yourself or find the perfect gift while supporting local animals in need—we hope to see you there!

Inspired by the song "Good Job" by Alicia Keys, this gathering invites us to pause and reflect on the quiet strength, resilience, and everyday efforts that often go unseen. How often do we acknowledge the people who keep things moving—at work, at home, in our communities? And how often do we recognize that same perseverance in ourselves? In this conversation, we’ll explore: * The power of simple recognition and encouragement * How affirmation can strengthen resilience and connection * Ways to create environments where people feel seen and valued * The impact of gratitude on culture, leadership, and well-being Through reflection and shared dialogue, we’ll consider how a simple phrase—*“good job”*—can carry deeper meaning when it’s grounded in sincerity and awareness. Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the underlying truths that unite us all – on seeing, valuing, and uplighting one another. Join us for an open and respectful conversation where participants can share perspectives, experiences, and insights. Whether you come to speak or simply to listen, all thoughtful voices are welcome.