Freeing DC: Your weekly Civics Roundup

Plus, a tenant summit and a reminder to keep recording.

A crowd protesting Trump's takeover walking down 16th Street.
(Geoff Livingston/Flickr)

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. 

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, SEPT. 11

Harriet's Wildest Dreams General Info Session
Wondering who's behind resistance in D.C. and how you can involved? Look no further. This Black-led, abolitionist organization is holding a virtual meeting to explain the work they do and how to join them. It'll run from 7-8:30 p.m. over Zoom.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 13

Tenant Summit
Join the Office of the Tenant Advocate for an all-day renters rights expo. You'll hear from the D.C. government's chief tenant advocate, brush up on your legal protections as a renter, have a chance to ask attorneys questions (no heat in your apartment? Worried about an eviction?), and meet with tenants associations from across the city. It'll take place at 899 North Capitol St NE, from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. You can reserve your spot here, or sign up to volunteer here.

Latin Afrobeats Hip Hop Fundraiser for DC Resistance
As one resident (and my friend) said, why go to Boiler Room when you can boogie here! Hosted by local Dave Chandrasekaran, this night of global music, art, and food is a fundraiser for Migrant Solidarity Mutual Aid. The party will take place in Northwest D.C., between Petworth and Takoma. For safety reasons, the exact location is shared after purchasing a ticket. You can reach out to the host if you want it ahead of time. Doors open at 8 p.m.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 14

Free DC campaign orientation with All Souls
Free DC movements leaders and members of All Souls Church are getting folks together for an introduction to the Free DC campaign. Attend this if you want to get more involved with Free DC in your local ward. It'll run from 1:30-3:00 p.m. Register here.

MONDAY, SEPT. 15

Queers Say Free DC
Free DC and the Claudia Jones School are joining forces for a town hall aimed at bringing together D.C.'s queer community. They'll cover the issues facing queer residents amidst Trump's federalization before holding an orientation for Free DC. It'll take place at the queer bar Trade from 6 - 9 p.m.

TUESDAY, SEPT. 16

Letter writing with the National Reentry Network for Returning Citizens
D.C. community members are meeting up to write letters to residents incarcerated at the DC Jail. The event will take place at 733 11th Street NE. It'll run from 5 - 7 p.m. You can 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.

Council of the District of Columbia
📅 All DC Council Meetings
🛠️ Sign up to testify
Advisory Neighborhood Commissions
📅 All ANC Events
🛠️ Look up your ANC
DC State Board of Education
📅 All DCBOE Events
🛠️ Sign up to testify
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
📅 All WMATA Board Meetings
🛠️ Public Comment Procedures
Metropolitan Police Department Authority
📅 Discussions by district
🛠️ Look up your police service area
DC Interagency Council on Homelessness Authority
📅 All ICH Meetings
🛠️ Working groups: email ich.dmhhs@dc.gov
DC Housing Authority
📅 2025 DCHA Board Meetings
🛠️ Sign up to speak + 🛠️Watch
All of the mayor’s Open Meetings
📅 Commissions and boards and committees, oh my!
 
City Service Hotlines
Police, Fire, EMS: 911
Non-Emergency: 311
Mental Health: 888-793-4357
Shelter Access: 202-399-7093