Social Equality

June's Book: What Is Free Speech? The History of a Dangerous Idea by Faramerz Dabhoiwala 'Eye-opening, thought-provoking and deeply enjoyable, What is Free Speech? is a work of great profundity and brilliance’ William Dalrymple A fresh and exciting approach to one of the most controversial subjects of our time ‘Free Speech!’ is a clarion call all over the world, yet what it means today is more contested than ever. Many cultures regard it as dangerous: in China, India, and across the Islamic world, unorthodox views about politics, sex, and religion are repressed and people are often punished for expressing them. Even in the western world, where it is held up as a core value, there is widespread discord and disagreement about what freedom of expression means. Amidst perennial imbalances of power, continually evolving cultural taboos, dramatic new technologies and a fast-changing global media landscape, where free speech comes from – and how we might think about it – are critical questions. Through the lens of history, What Is Free Speech? shows us that freedom of speech is not an absolute from which societies and regimes have drifted or dissented at different times, but something more complicated and interesting. Our modern conceptions of press and speech liberty, Dabhoiwala shows, were invented in Britain around 1700. The real history of freedom of expression is a story of countless fascinating men and women whose lives have shaped its principles and practices over the past 300 years – slaves and imperialists, poets and philosophers, plutocrats and revolutionaries. Ranging across Europe, North America and South Asia, and not neglecting other parts of the world, Dabhoiwala rejects celebratory platitudes about the past and present of free expression. Instead, his book explains how to think more deeply about free speech as a global as well as a local question ― by tracing how we got into our current predicaments, showing that history complicates our contemporary presumptions, and suggesting fresh possibilities for the future. The meeting starts at 7:30. Shortly after 7.30, we will break up into small groups. Those familiar with the CLH Book Group meeting know how this works: in each group we take turns introducing ourselves and giving our 1 minute thoughts on the book. It's important not to go over a minute and not to interrupt other people's minute so that everyone gets a chance to participate. After this first round, each group discusses for another 20 minutes or so. We then shuffle the groups so as to talk to as many different people as possible and in the new groups repeat our introductions and 1 minute thoughts. We'll do this a couple of times before coming all together at the end in one last big group. While we are very social and welcoming, the book group's primary focus is on discussing books. Feel free to turn up if you haven't managed to finish this month's book but note that the group works best when we have all read at least half of the book and are prepared to share our opinions. *** £3 per person to attend. If it's your first time, come and try us out for free! Pay at the event with cash or card. We encourage dialogue, debate and sharing of information on our site but ask people to keep their comments cordial. Any views expressed here are those of the individual posting them and may not reflect those of CLH.

**Join with campaigners like yourself to organise locally to end global poverty!** Each month, Results grassroots advocates – people from all walks of life around the city – meet in person to take action to benefit people around the world who are living with poverty and injustice, persuading politicians of all parties to make specific changes that will result in a fairer and more sustainable world. It may sound incredible, but it’s as simple as speaking up for what you believe in. We have a track record of making a difference, persuading successive UK Governments to fund important initiatives that help provide health and education worldwide, tackle malnutrition, and protect children against killer diseases. These meetings are open to everyone, no matter what your level of experience. At each meeting you will: 🤝 **Meet** like-minded people dedicated to ending global poverty 🗣️ **Discuss** the monthly campaign action, and learn more about how this will help tackle some of the biggest challenges we face today 🔍 **Discover** how else you can use your voice to influence the UK’s stance of poverty eradication 🌱 **Contribute** to group activities and future political actions – everyone is welcome and every opinion is valued ✨ **Leave** feeling energised and enriched at the prospect of helping to create real change! At Results, we believe that poverty and injustice don’t have to be tolerated. The world has the knowledge to change things; all that's needed is the will to do so. If you feel this way, then you’re not alone, but part of a community of like-minded people who believe that they can make a small but real difference to the systems that affect the lives of people around the world.

## Speed-Friending & Social Night In West Norwood Looking to meet new people and have a blast? Join our **Speed-Friending & Social Night** in the heart of **West Norwood**! It’s a chill, in-person event where you can make friends fast and enjoy great conversations. Whether you're new to the area or just want to expand your social circle, this night is all about fun vibes and good company. Don’t miss out on this awesome chance to connect and unwind! **Please Note This Is Not Speed Dating Event** Forget awkward networking or high-pressure dating events. Community Connect is a relaxed, hosted social evening designed specifically for neighbours to meet, chat, and find their "crew" for the summer. Whether you’re looking for a festival buddy, a gym partner, or just someone to grab a local pint with, this is the place to find them. **Price £10** **Non refundable unless cancelled** **PLEASE RSVP ONLY ONCE YOU HAVE MADE PAYMENT, IF YOU RSVP WITHOUT MAKING PAYMENT YOUR RSVP WILL CHANGE TO NOT GOING.** **PLEASE PAY VIA LINK TO GET A SOCIAL LIFE MEETUP HERE** [Speed-Friending & Social Night In West Norwood Includes a Glass Of Wine, Thu, Jun 18, 2026, 7:00 PM | Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/passionate-about-travelling-food-and-events/events/314736835/?slug=passionate-about-travelling-food-and-events&eventId=314736835) **What’s included** A Welcome Drink: beer, a glass of wine, or soft drink on us. Background music, so you can hear each other when communicating. Hosted Social: A 90-minute structured "speed-friending" session followed by open socialising **Coming alone?** Most people do! Our host will be at the door to greet you and introduce you to others as soon as you arrive. You’ll be making new friends by the end of the night. Tickets are limited to keep the evening intimate and meaningful. My number just in case is 07957320516 **Social Media & Photos** We love capturing the day! Group photos may be shared on **Meetup** and **Instagram**. If you’re camera-shy, just step aside during group shots Hope you can make it, would be great to meet you all.

SoulFuel - A Spiritual Open mic is a monthly gathering for poets, storytellers, and songwriters held at Essex Hall as part of the Heartspaces programme. It's an evening of sharing to feed your soul. Each month, we create a space for people to share their creativity, so each Soul Fuel is unique. Bring a poem, song or story to share or just come and enjoy what others have to offer. Featuring guest musicians and gentle spoken work, this event is not to be missed! Heartspaces at Essex Hall is a vibrant and welcoming Unitarian hub in central London, open to spiritual seekers, existing Unitarians and curious newcomers. The Heartspaces programme is a series of weekly spiritual gatherings led by Unitarian ministers and volunteers across London. From regular pagan ceremonies to the spirituality events every Thursday evening, Heartspaces encourages people to gather, share and discover together. Whether you are a seasoned Unitarian, a spiritual searcher or simply curious, find your space to grow.

**Socialise, mix & mingle, enjoy conversations, make connections! BOOK VIA ONE OF THE LINKS : [https://fatso.ma/fkqdk](https://fatso.ma/fkqdk) or [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/expand-your-social-circle-professionals-socialise-mix-mingle-tickets-1990744180433?aff=oddtdtcreator ](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/expand-your-social-circle-professionals-socialise-mix-mingle-tickets-1990744180433?aff=oddtdtcreator)*RSVP TOO PLEASE!*** **In this amazing venue, in Broadgate Circle, offering both indoor and outdoor space in the vibrant hidden gem - square, sets away from Liverpool Street station.** Mix and mingle with ladies and gentlemen alike, professionals perhaps in law, finance, IT, medical doctors, scientists or similar, with high expectations demanding professional and fast paced lifestyle in general, with sometimes limited time and opportunities to chill out, socialise and connect. **Seize the opportunity to enrich your social life with like minded people and why not, trust in perfect synchronicities of the right people at the right time and place getting together.** Make new acquaintances, catch up potentially with who you might have met in a previous event, interact with all attendees, engage in fascinating stories. **Make a friend, maybe find someone special that can make your heart sing or simply go out & about, indulge in handcrafted cocktails and mocktails in this amazing venue.** Approach with the best smile on your face, make a first best impression, see it reflected back to you! **See what can potentially happen** **next!** **HOW TO FIND :** **Please ASK FOR ELENI's BOOKING AT THE VENUE HOST!** **Kindly arrive at about 18:30 if you can so you can be in the flow of the introductions!** **ELENI is hosting this evening making sure all guests are welcomed to our table / area, introduced to each other and included throughout the evening.** *Mr Fogg's, City Tavern is part of an amazing collection of venues, inspired by Mr Fogg's travels of Jules Vernes novel, 80 days around the world!* ***Situated in the heart of Broadgate Circle, this eccentric Victorian-style tavern is a haven where Mr Fogg’s accountants, lawyers and bankers would convene after a long day in the office. Inspired by the globe-trotting spirit of Mr Fogg, The City Tavern showcases a collection of old Victorian portraits and artefacts from every corner of the world, personally contributed by his fellow members of the Reform Club – a living testament to shared journeys and camaraderie.*** Be part of a group of friendly and inclusive people that would like to invest in a beautiful evening in a prime venue, socialising and making new friends. Dress Code: Smart Casual Refunds only in case of the event being cancelled

**Hit, laugh, reset your week.** Join us for a relaxed tennis session followed by a short, low-key park social. * 📍 Location: Park Hill Recreation Ground, Croydon (1-2 courts booked – details shared after approval) * 🕒 Schedule: 10:00am – 12:00pm → Tennis (doubles rotation) * 🎾 Tennis All levels welcome (yes, beginners too). We rotate regularly so everyone plays Focus is fun > competition If you can’t make it, please update early 👉 No-shows without notice may lose priority for future events 🎒 **What to bring** * Tennis racket (we may have 1–2 spares) * Water bottle * Comfortable clothes/trainers * Optional: small blanket or towel for the park Come for the tennis, stay for the people. 🎾 *Pictures and Videos may be taken for marketing purposes.* *All attendees consent to the use of their pictures by The* Second Serve Social 🎾

**Fitzrovia – “the best place to live in London”** This social walk, led by volunteer Robert Hall, is presented by Central London Humanists for everybody who is seeking a more assured path in life. Humanists believe we have just one life to be lived rationally and well, with compassion for others. This event is a guided walk of +/- 2 hours pointing out places of interest. We will be walking 3.5 Km / 2.15 miles. Find out why The Sunday Times named Fitzrovia the best place to live in London. Certainly many famous people have lived there given the plethora of Blue Plaques. There will be a few offbeat fascinating facts about possibly the grandest building we pass – The British Museum; but there is competition for the grandest building in Russell Square. There will also be “a great architectural feature” – but not all agree. We’ll meet several “trailblazing women who empowered women in male-dominated trades”. You’ll also find out why, despite being an atheist, your walk leader attends a church most Sundays. **Date:** Saturday 20th June 2026 **Time:** 2 pm with a prompt departure at 2.15 pm **Place:** Meet adjacent to exit from Tottenham Court Road underground station on south side of New Oxford Street. Exit 3 from the station. It is strongly suggested you find us using: [https://what3words.com/movie.stem.bunk](https://what3words.com/movie.stem.bunk) or the What3Words app. The nearest toilets are at various cafes or pubs in the surrounding area. **Finishes:** About 4.15 pm at The Jack Horner, 234-236 Tottenham Court Road W1T 7QN. The pub is convenient for Goodge Street or Tottenham Court Road underground stations. The walk is led by Robert – 07981963681. He can be contacted for further information but please note he won’t be able to respond to messages or calls after the walk has started. **The formal bit:** These walks are not suitable for dogs, sorry. CLH events are 18+ unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. If you have signed up but find you can't attend, please change your RSVP on Meetup (it’s very easy to do) as soon as possible so that a more accurate number of attenders can be estimated. You are responsible for your own actions and safety; there is no liability on the walk leader or CLH for anything that may happen on the walk. You must be able to keep up with the walk leader at 4 Km/h (2.5 mph) for 5 Km (3 miles). It is participants' responsibility to safely cross roads. Where appropriate, pedestrian controlled lights will be used and obeyed unless it is obvious that the whole group can cross safely. When the group stops at a point of interest, please be mindful not to block pavements so members of the public can pass by safely. Don’t forget this is the UK and it may rain at any time! The walk will go ahead whatever the weather unless conditions are dangerous so please bring clothing for all seasons. **A donation of £3 to Central London Humanists would be appreciated.** The majority of Central London Humanists events are free, but we welcome a £3 contribution per head. This helps towards the running and organising of events, as well as various admin expenses. If you can't attend and would still like to contribute, or would prefer to pay online, please **[click here](https://square.link/u/M2B7tJT4)**[.](https://square.link/u/M2B7tJT4) Anyone who is interested in Humanism and Central London Humanists may wish to consider becoming a member: * If you wish to register as a full member of CLH (no membership fee) please register on our website: [https://centrallondonhumanists.org.uk/signup](https://centrallondonhumanists.org.uk/signup) * If you wish to join Humanists UK and support its work to promote humanism in British life, please go to: [Humanists UK – Think for yourself, act for everyone](https://humanists.uk/) We encourage dialogue, debate, and sharing of information, but ask people to keep their comments cordial. Any individual's views expressed (most definitely including the walk leader!) do not necessarily reflect the views of the group at large.

**Come join us for some fun in the park** This is a weekly social park gathering with optional sports and board / social games. 2pm Rounders 3:30pm Social/Board games in the park- please sign up separately [HERE](https://www.meetup.com/games-friends/)[.](https://meetu.ps/e/PfHPb/z45zT/i) **How to play rounders** Not played rounders before? It's a traditional English sport for everyone, even the unsporty. Here's a video of us playing: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6Bya3T5W3k](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6Bya3T5W3k) Rounders is a bat and ball game similar to baseball played by two teams. Your team will be either fielding or batting before swapping after the innings. When batting, the aim is to hit the ball, then try and run around the four posts. Your team gets a rounder if you make it round the four posts without stopping or getting out. You are out if when you hit the ball someone catches the ball before it reaches the ground or someone stumps a post before you get there. The rules will be explained at the beginning of each meetup with a practice round at the beginning. We play a slightly modified version of the official rules where if you are out, it's not game over for you. Your team will lose a life instead. This will give everyone multiple opportunities to bat. **It's very simple to pick up and the ball we use is very soft. We are very beginner friendly and the focus is on having fun rather than being competitive**. We attract attendees of all ages and sporting level. You are welcome to come and watch only too. We usually have a few people who do so while having a picnic and enjoying the park. **Come and meet us** Meet at 2pm in Regents Park. Here is the map of where we will be playing in the park (Cumberland Green): [https://www.notion.so/hyau/Rounders-at-Regents-Park-8bc419b72dde4aacaec3870d291636be](https://www.notion.so/hyau/Rounders-at-Regents-Park-8bc419b72dde4aacaec3870d291636be) You can also find us around here: [https://what3words.com/swim.jolly.youth](https://what3words.com/swim.jolly.youth) (just look out for our white rounders bases (long, white sticks) and you can usually spot us. Please feel free to bring food and drinks. The main rounders game will finish at 3:30pm and this is followed by social/board games or beginner friendly mixed gender football. **Social/Board Games** Please check out our [separate meetup event](https://www.meetup.com/games-friends/) for details and sign up there! **Football** For mixed gender football we aim to have roughly equal numbers of men and women and 3 ability levels (Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced). There may be limited spaces for men for football as we are always oversubscribed. **Free or play for charity** Our Sunday social and rounders events are free for everyone. The organisers volunteer their time and fund for the equipment, public liability insurance, marketing and meetup costs to make this happen. We would like our events to raise awareness and money for worthwhile charities. If you appreciate our events, please consider making a donation on our fundraising page to our supported charity, War Child. To donate and for more info, please visit: [https://www.justgiving.com/page/social-sports-mix-warchild](https://www.justgiving.com/page/social-sports-mix-warchild) We will also promote fundraising pages suggested or owned by our attendees. Get in touch if you are attending and also charity fundraising.

Across the country, people from diverse backgrounds are working together to strengthen their neighborhoods, empower youth, support families, and create environments where everyone can contribute. In this session, we will explore Section II of *A Common Endeavor: Realizing the Promise of America*, which highlights examples of grassroots efforts that are fostering unity, service, and community transformation. Together, we will discuss: • What characteristics make communities resilient and inclusive? • How can ordinary people become agents of positive change? • What can we learn from successful community-building efforts? • How do service, friendship, and collaboration contribute to social progress? Whether you are involved in community service, civic engagement, education, faith-based activities, or simply care about the well-being of your community, your insights are welcome. **Suggested Reading:** [Section II](https://www.acommonendeavor.org/) https://www.acommonendeavor.org/

🎱 Thursday Night Pool & Social @ 7 Billiards 🎱 Looking for something different than the usual happy hour? Join us for a casual night of pool, drinks, and meeting new people at 7 Billiards in Gaithersburg! Whether you're a pool shark or have never picked up a cue before, everyone is welcome. We'll rotate through games, mingle between tables, and keep things relaxed and beginner-friendly. Feel free to play, watch, grab a drink, or just come hang out and meet fellow Montgomery County young professionals. 📅 Thursday, June 18, 2026 🕖 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM 📍 7 Billiards – Gaithersburg, MD No experience necessary. Come solo or bring a friend! As always, this event is intended for people in their 20s and 30s looking to make new friends, expand their social circle, and enjoy a fun night out. Looking forward to seeing everyone there!

**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.

The World Cup energy is HERE, and we’re getting together to cheer, celebrate, debate every referee decision, and become soccer experts for 90 minutes. Join Bethesda Social Club at Sports and Social for an exciting World Cup Watch Party as USA takes on TURKIYE in a Group Stage showdown! You do NOT need to be a die-hard soccer fan to enjoy this event. If you like great people, good food, cold drinks, and the electric atmosphere that only the World Cup can create, this is the place to be. We’ll be enjoying: 🍺 Drinks and game-day specials 🍔 Great food and snacks ⚽ The World Cup match on big screens 🎉 Fun, welcoming social vibes 🙌 A great night out with fellow Bethesda Social Club members Here’s the specials: $4 Domestic Drafts $5 House Wines $6 Call Cocktails: Smirnoff & Smirnoff Flavors, Dulce Vida, Tanqueray, Kentucky Gentleman, Malibu & MORE $7 Crush Cocktails 50% off the following appetizers: Signature Fries Giant Pretzel Loaded Nachos Boneless Wings Come for the soccer. Come for the social atmosphere. Come because World Cup matches are always more fun with a crowd. Wear your favorite team’s colors if you want, bring your friends, and join us for a relaxed, energetic, and memorable World Cup night at Sports and Social. Parking Info: Free for the 1st 2 hours $3 for 4 Hours $4 for 5 Hours The venue is close to the North Bethesda Metro station. Take the Red Line, exit at the North Bethesda Metro stop and walk 6 minutes. See you there! ⚽

America was founded on ideals such as freedom, equality, and justice—but what does it take to fully realize those ideals today? In this first discussion, we will explore Section I of *A Common Endeavor: Realizing the Promise of America*. Together, we will reflect on the nation's highest aspirations, the challenges posed by division and polarization, and the role that moral and spiritual principles can play in shaping a more just and united society. The discussion will consider questions such as: • What is the "promise of America"? • Why do so many people feel discouraged about the current state of society? • What role do values such as trustworthiness, integrity, courage, generosity, and love play in social progress? • How can we move beyond division while honoring our diverse experiences and perspectives? This gathering is intended to be a space for thoughtful reflection, respectful dialogue, and mutual learning. All viewpoints are welcome. **Suggested Reading:** [Section I](https://www.acommonendeavor.org/) https://www.acommonendeavor.org/

The World Cup energy is HERE, and we’re getting together to cheer, celebrate, debate every referee decision, and become soccer experts for 90 minutes. Join Social Sips and Bites at Sports and Social for an exciting World Cup Watch Party as USA takes on TURKIYE in a Group Stage showdown! You do NOT need to be a die-hard soccer fan to enjoy this event. If you like great people, good food, cold drinks, and the electric atmosphere that only the World Cup can create, this is the place to be. We’ll be enjoying: 🍺 Drinks and game-day specials 🍔 Great food and snacks ⚽ The World Cup match on big screens 🎉 Fun, welcoming social vibes 🙌 A great night out with fellow Bethesda Social Club members Here’s the specials: $4 Domestic Drafts $5 House Wines $6 Call Cocktails: Smirnoff & Smirnoff Flavors, Dulce Vida, Tanqueray, Kentucky Gentleman, Malibu & MORE $7 Crush Cocktails 50% off the following appetizers: Signature Fries Giant Pretzel Loaded Nachos Boneless Wings Come for the soccer. Come for the social atmosphere. Come because World Cup matches are always more fun with a crowd. Throw on your favorite jersey (or team colors), grab your friends, and join us for a relaxed, high-energy, and memorable night out. Parking Info: Free for the 1st 2 hours $3 for 4 Hours $4 for 5 Hours The venue is close to the North Bethesda Metro station. Take the Red Line, exit at the North Bethesda Metro stop and walk 6 minutes. See you there! ⚽

### Hopeful Cafe Conversations @Panera Kentlands **You are cordially invited to join in the conversation to catch the positive vibe... a cup of coffee, or another of your favorite refreshment.** **At NEW HOPE CAFE CONVERSATIONS on 3rd Saturdays, Monthly** **Address: Panera, 285 Kentlands Blvd., Gaithersburg, MD 20878** **Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83326239362** ===== **New Hope Workshop**: What is Negativity Bias? How do we get ahead of it to reach more positive outcomes in work, life, and relationships? Discover the difference between goals and outcomes. 1\. How do we reaffirm ones role\, despite negativity bias from others? 2\. The New Hope Community Affirmative Statements of Foundational Principles 3\. Your Perspectives in Conversation **"Star Points Meal Deal"** If you have New Hope "Star Points 💫" you can get a discount on a meal. Also you can earn Star Points, if this is your first time attending Cafe Conversations, in-person. Ask Gene, newhope321community@yahoo.com, 240-848-0808.