Each week, we list some ways to get engaged in the city β whether thatβs protesting, organizing with your neighbors, or testifying before your councilmembers. This isn't an exhaustive list; share your events and trainings with us at 51st.news/submit-events.
For more ways to get connected, check out our resources roundup; and for more to do around the city, don't miss our Weekend Events post.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25
Chocolate City Free DC orientation β° 7 - 8:30 p.m. π Marion Barry Ave Market and Cafe Free DC is hosting this orientation for Black community members looking to get involved in their movement. You can RSVP here.
THURSDAY, MARCH 26
Courtwatch DC training β° 7 - 9 p.m. π Virtual Join Harriet's Wildest Dreams, DC Justice Lab, and D.C. Incarcerated Workers Organizing Committee to learn about observing and documenting court proceedings and holding our justice system accountable.
Slow taxes 101 β° 7 p.m. π Virtual It's tax season again, and despite all of the drama stemming from that Republican tax-cut bill, D.C. residents are expected to file on the usual schedule this year. This webinar from Free DC with the National War Tax Resistance Coordinating Committee will teach you strategies to make our payments more intentional and less automatic. RSVP here.
Baila for a Free DC β° Class 7 - 8 p.m., social 8 - 11 p.m. π Wunder Garten Enjoy a free salsa lesson while supporting people detained by ICE. Teachers Laura and Tony will show attendees the moves alongside music from DJ Diezel. Afterwards, write a letter to detainees with United We Dream. RSVP here.
SATURDAY, MARCH 28
Chocolate City contigent of No Kings Rally β° 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. brunch, 1:30 p.m. Rally and March π 600 Howard Road SE The No Kings rallies that began last year in response to Trump's second term are coming back this Saturday. Free DC and Harriet's Wildest Dreams are leading a D.C. faction that will be fight against the president β and his right-hand man Stephen Miller β as they continue to threaten D.C. communities with ICE activity and federal patrols.
RFK master plan open house β° 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. π St. Coletta of Greater Washington D.C.'s Office of Planning is building its master plan for the new RFK campus, which will shape the buildings, parks, and public spaces on the lot, as well as the promised housing and community amenities. If you feel like your voice hasn't been heard ... now's your chance to weigh in. You can RSVP here.
D.C. Natives gardening workshop β° 12 - 2 p.m. π 120 57th St. SE Spring has sprung! Join DC Natives for a pollinator garden workshop; you'll learn mulching methods, soil preparation, and how to sow a new pollinator garden from a seed. Gardening supplies will be provided, but bring your own gloves, shovel, and rake if you have them. Also, wear closed toed shoes! You can RSVP here.
SUNDAY, MARCH 29
D.C. Community Wealth Builders β° 2 - 3:30 p.m. π Edgewood Community Farmhouse Are you cooperative curious? D.C. Community Wealth Builders is a coalition of coops, small businesses, nonprofits, and neighbors committed to building shared wealth and developing a cooperative, community driven economic model in the city. You'll learn the ins and outs of the coalition, how it works, and what they're currently working on. Food will be provided. You can RSVP here.
Free DC in-person campaign orientation β° 1:30 p.m. - 3 p.m. π Friends Meeting of Washington (2111 Decatur Place NW) This orientation will teach newcomers the basics of the Free DC movement, discuss the work they're currently involved in, and tell folks how they can take action. RSVP here.
Rethread DC clothing swap β° 1 - 3 p.m. π Southwest Library If you're in the midst of a big spring closet cleaning, join the D.C. Department of Energy & Environment for a clothing swap. As a part of their Rethread DC initiative, all unclaimed items will be used in upcycling and mending workshops. You can bring new or used clothing, shoes and accessories to swap β all ages, sizes, and genders are encouraged.
Colleen is a 51st co-founder and a former DCist reporter. Her work has appeared in NPR, Street Sense Media, and The Washington Post. She currently lives in New York, where she's pursuing an MFA.
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