Every Thursday, we list some ways to get engaged in the city โ whether thatโs protesting, organizing with your neighbors, or testifying before your councilmembers. This isn't an exhaustive list; share your events and trainings with us using this form. 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.
ONGOING
Film DC As you've probably seen on your feed (and as Martin reported), D.C. residents are recording everything during this takeover. Migrant Solidarity Mutual Aid Network, Free DC, and Harriet's Wildest Dreams created a new hub where residents can submit information about sightings or interactions with police and ICE. Email photos, videos, and tips to report@filmthepolice.org. If you witness an ICE detention or raid, call the Migrant Solidarity Mutual Aid network at 202-335-1183.
Ward 1 Mutual Aid Winter Clothing and Toy Drive From Nov. 26 - Dec. 8, Ward 1 Mutual Aid is collecting new and gently used coats, blankets, scarves, gloves, shoes, pants, sweaters, and toys. They also need newbras and socks. You can drop your items off at The Festival Center on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or at Lyman's Tavern any day between noon and midnight. If you'd rather give money, you can find organizers' Venmo and Cashapp information here.
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 3
Ward 2 Mutual Aid Trivia Night ๐ Solly's U Street Tavern (1942 11th St. NW) โฐ 7 - 9 p.m. Calling all trivia-heads: head to Solly's for a night that'll benefit your neighbors! Ward 2 Mutual Aid is asking for a $10 donation, and all of the proceeds will go towards supporting residents' needs this winter. There will be prizes!
THURSDAY, DEC. 4
D.C. Council Public Safety Hearing ๐ John A. Wilson Building, Room 500 (1350 Pennsylvania Ave. NW) โฐ 9 a.m. The D.C. Council's Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety will discuss public safety in the city at what will likely be a day-long hearing. Lawmakers will be discussing a variety of proposed bills, including the recent Juvenile Curfew Amendment Act. Free DC is asking residents like you to show up to support their members who will be testifying. At 3 p.m., there will be a youth rally, focused on ensuring lawmakers listen to local young people's ideas and feedback.
FRIDAY, DEC. 5
No ICE in My Cup ๐ Kennedy Center (2700 F St. NW), near Benito Juarez Monument โฐ 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Trump is expected to join FIFA officials, players, and coaches at the Kennedy Center for the 2026 World Cup Draw. At the ceremony, it's expected that he'll receive FIFA's new Peace Prize. Free DC's soccer faction will be stationed outside with a hot cocoa station, letting those in power know that we don't want ICE and federal law enforcement at local World Cup games. (More from Martin on why it's unsurprising to see organizing like this among D.C. soccer fans!)
SATURDAY, DEC. 6
Anti-Racist Organizing: An Interactive Workshop ๐ All Souls Church, Unitarian (1500 Harvard St. NW) โฐ 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Free DC is teaming up with Anti-Racist DC for a training about how to incorporate anti-racist practices into local organizing. You'll need to have attended a campaign orientation to join. Those who are actively involved in their Ward Team or a working group are encouraged to attend!
East of the River Mutual Aid Winter Pop-up ๐ Fort Stanton Recreation Center (1812 Erie St. SE) โฐ 1 - 4 p.m. East of the River Mutual Aid and a bunch of local organizations will be hosting a winter donation drive, handing out diapers, hygiene kits, coats for adults and children, and more. Bring the kids for fun activities and light refreshments!
Handmade pottery fundraiser for Palestine ๐ 646 Independence Ave. SE โฐ 12 - 5 p.m. (continues Sunday) Snag a perfect gift for the friends in your life with beautiful taste! Jewish Voice for Peace D.C.-Metro will be selling one of their longtime member's wares. All proceeds will be split amongst the organization and four others supporting Palestinians: Gaza Mental Health Foundation, Middle East Children's Alliance, American Near East Refugee Aid, and Growing Palestine.
Nabiha Holiday Market ๐ Nabiha (1624 U St. NW) โฐ 12 - 5 p.m. (continues Sunday) Haven't yet shopped 'til you dropped? Nabiha is teaming up with Friends of Friends Collective and Gaza Champions for a two-day holiday market. Browse craft kits, jewelry, apparel, and more, all while supporting Palestinian mutual aid. It'll run at the same time and location both days this weekend!
MONDAY, DEC. 8
Juror Information Project: Overview Session ๐ MLK, Jr. Library โฐ 6 - 8 p.m. You might groan when you get a summons in the mail โ but jury duty is an important way to protect your neighbors. Harriet's Wildest Dreams and Free DC will explain what it means to serve on a jury and how we can use the role to bring more public accountability to the justice system. You'll learn from legal experts, activists, and your neighbors.
Looking for more ways to get involved? Below, you'll find a list of public meeting calendars for various city agencies, important contact information, and more.
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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