Filtering by: discussion
World Rainbow Project: DC Pride Archives
Jun
4
12:00 PM12:00

World Rainbow Project: DC Pride Archives

Karen Holl will discuss the Rainbow History Project. The D.C. based organization works to collect, preserve, and promote local LGBTQ+ history. In conjunction with 2025 World Pride, the Rainbow History Project will present the exhibit, “Pickets, Protests, and Parades: The History of Gay Pride in Washington, D.C.”

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Veterans Book Group
May
20
7:00 PM19:00

Veterans Book Group

Active service members and veterans of all eras are invited to join this free, monthly small group reading and discussion dinner series centered around books which relate to military experiences or offer a veteran’s perspective. Veterans Book Group is coordinated statewide by Maryland Humanities and presented locally in partnership with Montpelier Arts Center. Discussions are led by Dr. Karen Arnold, former poet-in-residence at the Arts Center and discussion moderator for multiple literature groups in Baltimore. Dinner and reading materials are provided. Call 301-377-7800 for more information and to register.

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The 1856 Project: Underground Railroad Activity on the Washington Baltimore Turnpike
Apr
2
12:00 PM12:00

The 1856 Project: Underground Railroad Activity on the Washington Baltimore Turnpike

Historian Dr. Douglas R. McElrath of the University of Maryland will discuss The 1856 Project, a massive undertaking of the Universities Studying Slavery. Dr. McElrath will discuss the Underground Railroad activity that took place on the Washington Baltimore Turnpike.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Walk-ins welcome. Guests may bring a bag lunch.

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Panel Discussion: "Lift!" Music and Black Labor
Feb
1
1:00 PM13:00

Panel Discussion: "Lift!" Music and Black Labor

Throughout the centuries, Blacks have endured the struggles of work, labor, stage performances, employment, and labor legalities in their lives. From enslaved Africans who worked for free and used music to endure to the main stages of today’s major opera houses, we still see labor practices that are unfair, unjust, and discriminatory toward Black people. Based on the 2025 Association for the Study of African American Life and History’s (ASALH) annual theme, the Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts’ (CAAPA) experts explore Music and Black Labor, featuring moderator Patrick D. McCoy and panelists Michele Cober, Grayland Snead, and Keenan McCarter.

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"The Bell Affair: A Film" with historian Dr. Will Thomas
Jan
24
7:00 PM19:00

"The Bell Affair: A Film" with historian Dr. Will Thomas

Join us for a screening of “The Bell Affair” written by William G. Thomas, III and Kwakiutl Lynn Dreher. The film tells the story of Daniel and Mary Bell who sued for their freedom and then lead one of the largest escape attempts in American history. Following the screening, Dr. Thomas will be available to answer questions.

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The Guitar Renegades
Jan
22
6:00 PM18:00

The Guitar Renegades

  • John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Millennium Stage (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Guitar Renegades are a guitar quintet comprised of Cristian Perez (founder/leader), Connor Holdridge, Jan Knutson, Parker Spears, and Tommy Holladay. Although they’re all jazz guitarists at heart, they venture into repertoire as diverse as Bach, Simon & Garfunkel, and more.

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"Resilience and Resistance through Food" with Historian Marvin-Alonzo Greer
Nov
10
1:00 PM13:00

"Resilience and Resistance through Food" with Historian Marvin-Alonzo Greer

Join us for an in-person discussion about the power of food and resistance in the 1800s with this foodways program. Recommended for ages 12 & up (ages 17 & under must be accompanied by an adult). Please register at pgparksdirect.com. (Registration is recommended but not required.) Walk-ins are welcome.

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Breaking Bread: A Conversation on Gastro-Diplomacy with Alex Prud’homme
Oct
19
7:30 PM19:30

Breaking Bread: A Conversation on Gastro-Diplomacy with Alex Prud’homme

  • John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Terrace Theater (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Image credit: Michael Lionstar

In a special event by journalist and author Alex Prud’homme, explore the impact of food and its uses in cultural diplomacy across history and into the present. Moderated by Dr. Johanna Mendelson Forman.

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Richard Dawkins: The Final Bow: His Last Tour on the Road
Sep
14
7:00 PM19:00

Richard Dawkins: The Final Bow: His Last Tour on the Road

When did life begin? What are we doing here? Tackle life’s biggest questions with Richard Dawkins, the world-renowned evolutionary biologist and best-selling author. Celebrated for his unapologetic advocacy of science and reason — and his relentless pursuit of the truth — he’s written groundbreaking books including Unweaving The Rainbow, The Selfish Gene and The God Delusion. He’ll be joined by special guests for a conversation filled with his trademark wit, wisdom and insight. You’ll also hear about his latest work, The Genetic Book of the Dead, an exploration of DNA and what it reveals about evolution.

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WMAL Free Speech Forum
Jun
2
7:00 PM19:00

WMAL Free Speech Forum

Join Mark Levin, Chris Plante, Larry O’Connor, Vince Coglianese, Patrice Onwuka and Julie Gunlock as they share the stage discussing all of the highs and lows in politics today, plus taking your questions… and holding nothing back!

Enjoy a night of laughs, behind the scenes stories, and unfiltered conversations with like-minded WMAL listeners.

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Film Screening: "On the Basis of Sex" (2018)
Mar
21
7:00 PM19:00

Film Screening: "On the Basis of Sex" (2018)

Our Women's History Month screening tells the story of a women's rights pioneer. Young wife, mother, and lawyer Ruth Bader Ginsburg battles the U.S. Supreme Court for gender equality and women's rights. She works with the American Civil Liberties Union to argue cases on behalf of both men and women, demonstrating that discrimination "on the basis of sex" is unconstitutional. Her trailblazing work paved the way for her to become a beloved Supreme Court Justice. Post screening discussion.

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The Cancelled Podcast Tour with Tana Mongeau and Brooke Schofield
Mar
9
7:00 PM19:00

The Cancelled Podcast Tour with Tana Mongeau and Brooke Schofield

Shows: 7pm & 10pm

EXTRA! EXTRA! CANCELLED is hitting the stage LIVE! Get up close and personal for a discussion with your favorite co-host besties Tana Mongeau and Brooke Schofield in these unfiltered, uncut, interactive live shows! After years of growing up under the constant scrutiny of public opinion, social media juggernaut, Tana Mongeau, takes back the mic. Acting as a natural evolution of her acclaimed “storytime” videos, this show offers an intimate look at Mongeau, her meteoric rise to superstardom, and the unavoidable moments of vulnerability that make this cyber-personality all the more human. Brooke Schofield being the brains and voice of reason between the dynamic duo is exactly what the show needed. Brooke, who was born and raised in Arizona, started her academic journey with nursing but discovered her true passions were in LA. After Brooke’s move, she grew a following quickly over social media thanks to her unique and satirical commentary on everyday life. CANCELLED LIVE will not only continue to spill all the tea that you see on their podcast each week, but it will be with no cuts, no bleeping out names... they’ll probably cancel themselves a time or two by saying all the things that they can’t say online. Grab your tickets now so you can be in the room to hear all the things they can only say LIVE!

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RuPaul: House of Hidden Meanings
Mar
8
8:00 PM20:00

RuPaul: House of Hidden Meanings

If we're all born naked and the rest is drag, this is RuPaul stripped bare. Pop culture icon and international drag superstar RuPaul invites you to a spiritual awakening to celebrate the release of the highly-anticipated memoir, HOUSE OF HIDDEN MEANINGS. Allow your mind, body, and soul to be enveloped in RuPaul's lyrically poignant stories on life, love, and finding your voice. During this special event, RuPaul offers fans a manual for living a personal philosophy that testifies to the value of chosen family, the importance of harnessing what makes you different, and the transformational power of facing yourself fearlessly. Don't miss the opportunity to hear RuPaul's extraordinary story as told by RuPaul.

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Designing Wellbeing for All: Centering Equity and Community in Green City Projects
Mar
2
6:00 PM18:00

Designing Wellbeing for All: Centering Equity and Community in Green City Projects

  • John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Justice Forum (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

This panel explores the role of nature in urban life and the intersection of architecture and community engagement. Panelists will discuss the impact of green infrastructure design on the wellbeing and health of communities and share insights learned from people-centric approaches, highlighting the crucial role that the arts have played in shaping their work. Panelists include Craig Dykers, Brenda RichardsonBenita Hussain, and Irfana Jetha Noorani.

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America’s Voices Against Apartheid
Nov
4
to Nov 5

America’s Voices Against Apartheid

  • John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Hall of Nations (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Exhibition: September 14 - November 5, 2023

Through media and images, America’s Voices Against Apartheid profiles celebrities, citizens, and organizations who challenged South Africa’s apartheid regime despite resistance from their own government. Among the profiled are 2020 Kennedy Center Honoree Debbie Allen, singer Harry Belafonte, tennis player Arthur Ashe, and musician Steven Van Zandt.

Panel Discussion
September 17, 6 p.m., Justice Forum

Film Screening
October 15, 3 p.m., Justice Forum

Panel Discussion
October 27, 6 p.m., Justice Forum

Ndlovu Youth Choir
November 15, 6 p.m., Millennium Stage

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Culture Talks: From 1520 Sedgwick Avenue to the World—A Fireside Chat with DJ Kool Herc and Cindy Campbell
Sep
29
7:30 PM19:30

Culture Talks: From 1520 Sedgwick Avenue to the World—A Fireside Chat with DJ Kool Herc and Cindy Campbell

  • John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Terrace Theater (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The father of hip hop, DJ Kool Herc, and the First Lady of hip hop, Cindy Campbell, join us to discuss the evolution of hip hop from its origins at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue to becoming a cultural movement that has inspired generations and transformed the world. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to hear their reflections on hip hop over the last 50 years in addition to their hopes for hip hop’s next 50.

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“Maryland Freedom Seekers on the Underground Railroad” with author Jenny Masur
Sep
6
12:00 PM12:00

“Maryland Freedom Seekers on the Underground Railroad” with author Jenny Masur

Please join us for a discussion with author Jenny Masur as she talks about her book and research for “Maryland Freedom Seekers on the Underground Railroad”.

This FREE, in-person event will be held at Marietta House Museum. For more information, contact 301-464-5291 or MariettaHouse@pgparks.com.

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Community Festival: Celebrate Juneteenth
Jun
18
11:00 AM11:00

Community Festival: Celebrate Juneteenth

Photo: celebratejuneteenthdc.com

Celebrate Juneteenth highlights Black-owned businesses, and celebrates Black culture and Black freedom! Visitors will enjoy performances shopping at a Black-owned marketplace, programs, music and more! FREE to the public.

Highlights include:

Exploration and Discussion of the Djembe Drum and Choreography on the Set of Black Panther by Jabari Exum, Percussionist - Vocalist - Mover - Actor

Maternal and Postpartum Care in the Black Community by Samantha Griffin of DC Metro Maternity

To see more Festival highlights visit the website.

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The Real Juneteenth with Reynauld Smith from Sandy Spring Slave Museum
Jun
13
7:30 PM19:30

The Real Juneteenth with Reynauld Smith from Sandy Spring Slave Museum

Join us as we welcome Reynauld Smith for a special talk about what Juneteenth has meant to him, his family, and his ancestors some of whom were enslaved in Texas when word of the Emancipation Proclamation came. Juneteenth is now a federal holiday, but long before its official status, it has been celebrated by generations of African Americans whose personal stories and memories have been passed down from one generation to the next. We are honored to have him speak here in Greenbelt and are so pleased to co-sponsor this event with the Greenbelt Black History and Culture Committee and the Greenbelt Recreation Department.

For more information and to reserve a spot, click here.

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Juneteenth Festival
Jun
10
5:00 PM17:00

Juneteenth Festival

Celebrate Juneteenth at Hyattsville Branch Library with a range of engaging activities! Take a self-guided tour of the Prince George's Room, participate in a genealogy discussion, play Juneteenth Bingo, and create a family photo frame or contribute to a community poster. Our celebration honors the values of freedom, family, and African American history. Registration is encouraged but not required!

Click here to view scheduled events

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"The U.S. and The Holocaust" Screening and Discussion
May
17
6:00 PM18:00

"The U.S. and The Holocaust" Screening and Discussion

  • PGCMLS - Greenbelt Branch Library (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month with the PGCMLS and WETA! Join us for a screening and discussion of the Ken Burns documentary "The U.S. and The Holocaust." A panel of experts from the community will help us better understand America’s role in the Holocaust and how that history is still reflected today. We will also honor the Jewish culture that enriches our communities and country.

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Midrash and Marc Chagall: What Color is the Bible?
Apr
16
10:30 AM10:30

Midrash and Marc Chagall: What Color is the Bible?

Midrash and Marc Chagall: What Color is the Bible? –led by Rabbi Emeritus Gary Fink Was the Red Sea really red when Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt? What do Marc Chagall’s paintings of Passover themes reveal about him? How does Chagall’s art portray the interconnection of Passover motifs in both Jewish and Christian traditions? How would you depict the creation of man and woman, and what does that say about you? What color was Jacob’s dream and did he dream in color? Between 1956 to 1966, Marc Chagall painted a series of large canvases depicting popular Biblical narratives. Join Rabbi Emeritus Gary Fink for a creative, interactive look at these paintings in light of Biblical narratives, rabbinic midrash, and your imagination. The first session will deal with Passover-themed art and the second will focus on other Biblical narratives. The class will be held on Sunday April 9 (Hol Hamoed Passover & Easter Sunday) and Sunday April 16, from 10:30-11:30am at Oseh Shalom. Expertise in Torah text or art history is not necessary.

This is a Life Long Learning Event

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Midrash and Marc Chagall: What Color is the Bible?
Apr
9
10:30 AM10:30

Midrash and Marc Chagall: What Color is the Bible?

Midrash and Marc Chagall: What Color is the Bible? –led by Rabbi Emeritus Gary Fink Was the Red Sea really red when Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt? What do Marc Chagall’s paintings of Passover themes reveal about him? How does Chagall’s art portray the interconnection of Passover motifs in both Jewish and Christian traditions? How would you depict the creation of man and woman, and what does that say about you? What color was Jacob’s dream and did he dream in color? Between 1956 to 1966, Marc Chagall painted a series of large canvases depicting popular Biblical narratives. Join Rabbi Emeritus Gary Fink for a creative, interactive look at these paintings in light of Biblical narratives, rabbinic midrash, and your imagination. The first session will deal with Passover-themed art and the second will focus on other Biblical narratives. The class will be held on Sunday April 9 (Hol Hamoed Passover & Easter Sunday) and Sunday April 16, from 10:30-11:30am at Oseh Shalom. Expertise in Torah text or art history is not necessary.

This is a Life Long Learning Event

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Historically Speaking: Next Generation of Black Leaders in Genetic Science
Feb
23
7:00 PM19:00

Historically Speaking: Next Generation of Black Leaders in Genetic Science

  • Heritage Hall, National Museum of African American History and Culture (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Promotional Image Credit: Marco VDM/ iStock, Getty Images

NMAAHC presents the third in a series of four discussions organized in collaboration with the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI). During this program panelists will explore the work of African American millennial scientists conducting groundbreaking research. Chris Williams, STEM Education Specialist at NMAAHC, will lead a conversation with scholars Tina Lasisi, Carter Clinton, and Jameson Floyd.

Free. Registration required.

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Grown-Up Storytime: Celebrate Black LGBTQ+ Authors!
Feb
22
6:30 PM18:30

Grown-Up Storytime: Celebrate Black LGBTQ+ Authors!

  • PGCMLS - New Carrollton Branch - Large meeting room 2 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Audre Lorde

Storytime doesn't end when you're no longer a kid! Come enjoy an adult version of storytime and discuss short excerpts from Black LGBTQ+ authors including Audre Lorde, Roxane Gay, and Danez Smith. You can also bring your own favorite author that you have interest in to discuss!

AGE GROUP: | Teen (13-18 yrs) | Adults |

REGISTER HERE

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Pins and Needles: Elizabeth Keckley
Feb
22
5:00 PM17:00

Pins and Needles: Elizabeth Keckley

  • PGCMLS - Accokeek Branch - Large Meeting Room (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Elizabeth Hobbs Keckley

Spend an evening learning about the life of the famous seamstress, Elizabeth Keckley, who is not only known for her four years at the White House, but of establishing her very own successful business. Basic sewing techniques of the 19th century will be discussed followed by a hands-on experience.

Age Group: Teens (13-18)

REGISTER HERE

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