Every Thursday, we list some ways to get engaged in the city — whether that’s 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.
THURSDAY, NOV. 20
DMV Federal Worker Solidarity Fund Fundraiser 📍 Dew Drop Inn ⏰ 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. During the 43-day federal shutdown, the Washington Metro Labor Council's Community Services Agency tapped out its Worker Solidarity Fund for local federal employees. Local groups like Free DC, the Federal Unionists Network, and 50501 DC have organized this fundraiser to start rebuilding, and also provide a space for workers to connect. A portion of each drink you purchase will be donated to the fund, and guests can also bid on services and trainings offered by fellow workers in a silent auction.
Guided tour of the DC History Center's "Class Action" exhibit 📍 DC History Center ⏰ 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. The DC History Center is offering a guided tour of its new exhibit, "Class Action: Education and Opportunity in the Nation's Capital," which explores how local Black students and families have fought for equitable schools and educational self-determination. Organized specifically for members of Free DC, the tour will end with small group discussions and reflections.
Courtwatch DC training 📍Virtual ⏰ 7 - 9 p.m. Organized by Harriet's Wildest Dreams with support from the DC Justice Lab and D.C.'s Incarcerated Workers Organizing Committee, this training will teach you how to spot miscarriages of justice during local court proceedings. Register here.
DC Abortion Access Teach-in 📍MLK Jr. Memorial Library Room 401-F ⏰ 7 - 9:30 p.m. The Metro D.C. chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America will be holding an information and resource session on abortion access in the region. Hosted by MDCDSA's Bodily Autonomy Working Group, the one-hour session will cover clinics in the city, how to access abortion funds, support organizations, and more. You can prime yourself using their resource guide, or read our explainer on accessing abortion in D.C. After the teach-in, head to Rocket Bar with the group. Masks required at the library!
SATURDAY, NOV. 22
Free DC Campaign Orientation 📍Virtual ⏰ 2 - 3:30 p.m. Been looking for an opportunity to get involved with Free DC? This virtual orientation is the first step. Fellow organizers will walk you through the stakes behind the movement, and how the group is organizing to meet the moment. Once you've attended an orientation, you can start meeting up with your ward team or other working groups. RSVP here.
Punk Rock Flea Market 📍St. Stephen and the Incarnation Episcopal Church (1525 Newton Street NW) ⏰ 12 - 5 p.m. The time has come for one of the D.C. fall's best recurring events: the Punk Rock Flea Market! Browse available wares, including zines and books, or get involved in grassroots community organizing at tables hosted by local groups like Food Not Bombs. Attendees are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item for donation to We Are Family DC. No RSVP needed — but be prepared for crowds!
Sanctuary Teach-in: Defending Black and Brown Washingtonians From Feds & MPD 📍Sankofa Books ⏰ 2 - 4 p.m. This teach-in led by the DC Alliance Against Racist & Political Repression and Movimiento Migrante DC will share how both local and federal anti-immigration policies are impacting D.C. communities, and what residents can do to fight back.
MONDAY, NOV. 24
The Last Battlefront screening and mutual aid drive 📍Palisades Library ⏰ 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. One-hour documentary The Last Battlefront: Quest for the Vote in Washington, D.C. examines four major turning points in D.C.'s history of self-governance. The screening, organized by Free DC, will also be a Ward 3 Mutual Aid donation drive; attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item or a personal care item, like soap, toothpaste, or diapers. RSVP here.
TUESDAY, NOV. 25
Whole Foods DC Picket 📍P Street Whole Foods (1440 P Street NW) ⏰ 4:30 - 6 p.m. On one of the biggest grocery shopping days of the year, Free DC and the economic action campaign We Ain't Buying It are reminding residents to avoid big companies like Amazon, Whole Foods, and Target, and instead patronize small businesses. Join Free DC members at D.C.'s flagship Whole Foods to show your solidarity. BYO sign, and RSVP here.
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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