Wednesday, July 31

West Wednesdays: Hear about the ongoing fight for police accountability in the Tyrone West case and all victims of police misconduct. This event happens every Wednesday. For more information, go to facebook.com/justicefortyronewest.

July Wellness Support for Victims of Police Violence: Wellness support for individuals and families harmed by police brutality. 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Virtual. For more information, go to thesoothecircle.org.

Baltimore City Is Not For Sale: Community learning & panel discussion: Join faith, labor, and community leaders from the Baltimore City Is Not For Sale campaign, along with City Councilmember Odette Ramos, for a panel discussion on right-wing efforts to dismantle Baltimore’s safety net. 7 p.m. at Red Emma’s, 3128 Greenmount Avenue. For more information, call 410-601-3072 or email info@redemmas.org.

Thursday, August 1

Build Your Skills, Build Your Future with HabiCorps! Virtual Info Session: The construction industry remains incredibly diverse, with jobs available in the commercial, industrial and residential sectors. Get the hands-on experience you need to jump-start your career by training with HabiCorps. 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Virtual. For more information, go to habitatchesapeake.org.

Friday, August 2

Baltimore Peace Movement Opening Rally: Baltimore Peace Movement ambassadors and squad invite you to their opening rally. Peace Promise Weekend is Aug. 2-4. 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the intersection of Edmondson and Edgewood. For more information, go to baltimorepeacemovement.com.

World Breastfeeding Week 2024: WIC Breastfeeding/Prenatal Bootcamp Class: An informative and empowering session on breastfeeding and prenatal care. Noon at the Baltimore City WIC Clinic, North Eden Street. For more information, go to healthybabiesbaltimore.com.

Saturday, August 3

Free Housing Symposium Breakfast: Get engaged and network with other housing professionals. 9:30 a.m. to noon at Delta Hotels Baltimore North, 5100 Falls Road. For more information, go to baltimorehealthystart.org.

Metal Detecting 101 with @salvagearc: Learn to discover treasures in your own community’s backyard. All equipment included, no prior experience necessary. 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Enoch Pratt Free Library, Patterson Park Branch, 158 North Linwood Avenue. For more information, go to prattlibrary.org or call 410-396‑5430.

Sunday, August 4

August G.R.O.W Beyond Creative Barriers: A free, independent productivity session in a group setting where you will learn from research-based best practices in a simple format and to gain control of mindless procrastination and the struggle to complete independent tasks. 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For more information, go to goodneighborshop.com.

Monday, August 5

Community Yoga @Refocused: 1st Sundays: Beginner yoga for all ages. Families are welcome. Free but donations are appreciated. Noon to 1 p.m. at 429 North Eutaw Street. For more information, go to refocusedspace.com.

Mental Mondays in West Baltimore: A fun and safe space where individuals can connect and learn about various wellness practices, from yoga, to art, to meditation and everything in between. Every first and third Monday. 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Bon Secours Resource Center, 31 South Payson Street. For more information, go to namibaltimore.org.

Lost History of Frederick (Bailey) Douglass & the Lloyd Family of Maryland: Learn about the lost history of Frederick (Bailey) Douglass and the influential Lloyd Family of Maryland’s Eastern Shore across generations and geography in this groundbreaking presentation. 8:30 p.m. to 9:10 p.m. Virtual. For more information, email contactus@losthistoryusa.com.

Tuesday, August 6

Leonard Pitts Jr.: “54 Miles”: An evening with Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist and novelist Leonard Pitts, Jr. 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Enoch Pratt Free Library, 400 Cathedral Street. For more information, go to prattlibrary.org or call 410-396‑5430.

Wednesday, August 7

East Baltimore NAMI Connection Support Group: A free, peer-led support group for adults 18+ living with a mental health condition or looking for mental health support. 6 p.m. at MorganCARES, 2101 East Biddle Street. For more information, call 410-435-2600. 

Thursday, August 8

Let’s Talk Powermapping: A Youth-Led Training and Conversation: Strong Schools Maryland is partnering with Youth as Resources to host a youth-led training on powermapping to better understand the power structures within Baltimore City and the education system. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at SEIU 1199, 611 North Eutaw Street. For more information, go to strongschoolsmaryland.org.

Saturday, August 10

Vermicomposting 101: Join Filbert Street Garden experts on how you can better your gardening, whilst being sustainable. Registration is required. 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Enoch Pratt Library, 400 Cathedral Street. For more information, go to prattlibrary.org or call 410-396‑5430.

Learn How to Become a Habitat Homebuyer | Virtual Information Sessions: During the session, Habitat for Humanity’s Homebuyer Services team will be highlighting our properties throughout Baltimore City, including Orchard Ridge, Milton-Montford, Sandtown, and Pen Lucy. Virtual. 10 a.m. to Noon. For more information, go to habitatchesapeake.org.

Monday, August 12

Baltimore City Health Department Virtual Naloxone Training: Virtual naloxone training from the Baltimore City Health Department Overdose Prevention Team. 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Virtual. For more information, go to health.baltimorecity.gov/oit.

Tuesday, August 13

Black August: Uplifting the History of Resistance Behind the Walls: Join Baltimore Racial Justice Action to uplift, reflect, and honor the stories of Black political prisoners and resistance from those behind the walls. 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Enoch Pratt Free Library, Central Branch, 400 Cathedral Street. For more information, go to bmoreantiracist.org.

Wednesday, August 14

Exploring the Soil Food Web: This field day is a combination discussion and hands-on workshop, focused on the microbiome of healthy soil and the ways that healthy soil supports healthy plants and people. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 2159 West Rogers Avenue. For more information, go to farmalliancebaltimore.org.

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Wednesday, Sept. 21

Local Community Advisory Board Outreach Meeting: This event is part of a series of meetings held to inform residents about a charter amendment that would return local control of the Baltimore City Police Department to Baltimore City. Virtual. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, go to: mayor.baltimorecity.gov/bc/boards/local-control-advisory-board or call 410-396-3100.

West Wednesdays: Hear about the ongoing fight for police accountability in the Tyrone West case and for all victims of police misconduct. 7 p.m. This event happens every Wednesday. For more information, go to: www.facebook.com/justicefortyronewest/.

Thursday, Sept. 22

Back to School Passport to Learning Tour: A free family learning event featuring books, giveaways, performances, and more. 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the B&O Railroad Museum, 901 West Pratt Street. For more information, go to: www.baltimorecityschools.org/calendar or call: 443-984-2000.

Friday, Sept. 23

Diaper Drive and Launch of the Napkin Network Baltimore Chapter: Donate diapers to celebrate the launch of the Napkin Network, an organization dedicated to donating baby items to moms in need. 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Karma, 1500 Riderwood Drive, Timonium, MD 21093. For more information, go to: www.thenapkinnetwork.com.

Saturday, Sept. 24

Criminal Record Expungement, Re-Entry, and Resource Fair: Clear your eligible criminal record and get a fresh start. There will be free information available on housing, employment, addiction, mental health, re-entry resources, as well as COVID-19 testing and vaccines. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Our Daily Bread Employment Center, 725 Fallsway. For more information, call 410-971-4492.

Southwest Baltimore Community Resource Fair: Nonprofit organization Rebuilding Together Baltimore hosts community-based organizations and city agencies in the Poppleton neighborhood. Food, fun, and children’s activities will be available. Noon at Excel Academy at Francis M. Wood High School, 1001 West Saratoga Street. For more information, go to: www.rtbaltimore.org or call 410-889-2710.

Children of Heavenly Parents and Parents of Heavenly Children Say their Names Poetry Event: Read a poem, sing a song, dance, or read a letter in memory of lost loved ones. 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Druid Hill Park, 900 Druid Park Lake Drive. For more information, call 443-986-5548.

Monday, Sept. 26

Food Rescue x Open Heart Sanctuary: Free, nutritious food to the community. Bring a bag, take what you want. 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Open Heart Sanctuary, 4315 Garrison Boulevard. For more information, go to: foodrescuebaltimore.org/#locations. 

Tuesday, Sept. 27

Meet and Greet with Baltimore City School Board Candidates: An opportunity to find out more about the candidates, and meet with educators and equity advocates. 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Busboys and Poets, 3224 Saint Paul Street. For more information, go to: www.beequity.org or call ​​(410) 497-7114.

Wednesday, Sept. 28

Toward a National Blueprint for Equity and Excellence in K-12 Education: A one-day symposium designed to build a coalition of organizations and individuals who are committed to the work of eliminating disparities in educational outcomes. 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Morgan State University, Earl G. Graves School of Business and Management, 4200 Hillen Road. For more information, go to events.morgan.edu/event/toward_a_national_blueprint_for_equity_and_excellence_in_k-12_education or call: 443-885-3385.

Baltimore City Council: Public Safety and Government Operations Committee Meeting: Quarterly meeting to review crime statistics for the Baltimore Police Department, and to monitor the progress of the Biennial Violence Prevention Plan. 1 p.m. at Baltimore City Hall, 100 Holliday Street. For more information, go to: www.baltimorecitycouncil.com or call 410-396-4804.

Employment and Resource Fair: Connect with recruiters from some of the largest employers in the Baltimore region. 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Racheal Wilson Memorial Park, 145 South Calverton Road. 

Communities United Membership Meeting: Meeting of grassroots groups committed to radical change. 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 1900 Saint Paul Street. For more information, go to: marylandcu.org or call 410-212-2225.

Civic Engagement Training: Learn how to identify and solve problems in the community from Out For Justice, Inc. and Citizens Policing Project. In person and virtual. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 1400 Federal Street. For more information, go to: out4justice.org or call 443-563-2123.

Thursday, Sept. 29

Symposium on Protecting Family Integrity: Author Dorothy Roberts and Founder and Executive Director of the National Council for Incarcerated and Formerly Incarcerated Women and Girls Andrea James will deliver the keynote address at this event that focuses on some of the causes and consequences of family separation in our country. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the University of Baltimore John and Frances Angelos Law Center, 1401 North Charles Street. For more information, go to: law.ubalt.edu/centers/cfcc/ or call: 410-837-4468.

Greater Baybrook Alliance’s Annual Celebration and Tree and Mulch Giveaway: The Baltimore City Department of Public Works will provide free trees and mulch. Also, refreshments and activities. 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Duane Avenue Park, Duane Avenue and 6th Street. For more information, go to: greaterbaybrookalliance.org or call 410-929-2270.

Preservation for the People: The Fight for Development Without Displacement: University of Maryland, Baltimore County professor Nicole King, delivers a lecture about the fight to save Baltimore’s Poppleton neighborhood from redevelopment. 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at MICA Brown Center/Falvey Hall, 1300 Mount Royal Avenue. For more information, go to: www.doorsopenbaltimore.org.

Friday, Sept. 30

Stoop Night: Informal Q&A sessions with members of the Penn Station development team. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Baltimore Penn Station, 1500 North Charles Street, Baltimore. For more information, go to: baltimorepennstation.com/press-releases/community-stoop-nights-announced-for-baltimore-penn-station.

Saturday, Oct. 1

Doors Open Baltimore: Dozens of sites throughout the city of Baltimore will open their doors, free of charge, to visitors eager to explore their stories. Oct. 1 and Oct. 2, various locations. For more information, go to: doorsopenbaltimore.org.

2022 Baltimore Walk to End Hydrocephalus: Help raise funds on behalf of the Hydrocephalus Association. 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 1000 Hilltop Circle. For more information, go to: hydroassoc.org/baltimorewalk or call 888-598-3789. 

Sunday, Oct. 2

Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive: An opportunity to drop off non-perishable food items. Oct. 2 to Oct. 30. Leon’s Backroom, 227 West Chase Street. For more information, go to: bdeebaltimorelove.org or call 410-622-9519.

Monday, Oct. 3

Young Weaver Meet Up: An opportunity for young people who are working to change the world to meet with other changemakers for resources, connections, and more. Virtual, 5 p.m. For more information, go to: WeAreWeavers.org.

Baltimore City Council Meeting: Convening of members of the Baltimore City Council. 5 p.m. at Baltimore City Hall, 100 Holliday Street. For more information, go to: www.baltimorecitycouncil.com or call: 410-396-4804.

Tuesday, Oct. 4

Calvary Lutheran Church Food Pantry: Calvary Lutheran Church Food Pantry serves those in need on the first Tuesday of each month, while supplies last. 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Calvary Lutheran Church of Hamilton, 2625 East Northern Parkway. For more information, go to www.calvarylutherancs.org or call: 410-426-4301.

Wednesday, Oct. 5

Wednesday Workdays @ BLISS Meadows: Help clean and maintain BLISS Meadows. 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at BLISS Meadows, 5105 Plainfield Avenue. For more information, go to: backyardbasecamp.org/bliss-meadows.

Black Butterfly Urban Farm Academy Field Day: Growing Herbs and Natural Dye Plants:: Attendees will tour the Dye Garden and studio while learning about the production process, including harvesting, processing, and creating value-added products from these specialty crops. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Blue Light Junction, 209 McAllister Street, Suite A. Registration required. For more information, go to: farmalliancebaltimore.org/theacademy. 

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Hearing for Police Commissioner. Executive appointments hearing for Police Commissioner De Souza. Feb. 21, 5 p.m., Baltimore City Hall, 100 N. Holliday St., (410) 396-4804, baltimorecitycouncil.com.

West Wednesday. Tawanda Jones, the sister of Tyrone West, a man killed in police custody in July 2013, has been gathering every Wednesday with other activists in the city to call attention to West’s death and police brutality in Baltimore. Feb. 21 and 28, usually held at the intersection of 33rd Street and Greenmount Avenue, check facebook.com/justicefortyronewest for details.

Investing in Parents Townhall. Panel discussion with local, state, and federal officials. Food, transportation, and childcare provided. Feb. 22, 6-8 p.m., Baltimore City Community College Fine Arts Theater, 2901 Liberty Heights Ave., (443) 255-9413, eventbrite.com.

Waverly Main Street Kickoff Celebration. Find out what’s in store for Greenmount Avenue and how to get involved. Free food and beer samples. Feb. 22, 6-8 p.m., Peabody Heights Brewery, 401 E. 30th St., waverlymainstreet.org.

Free Black History Month Concert. Baritone Daniel C.X. Rich will perform a concert of African American composers, spiritual arrangements, and songs. Artist reception will follow. Feb. 23,  7-9 p.m., Faith Presbyterian Church, 5400 Loch Raven Blvd., faithpcbalt.org.

Art Law Clinic. Pay $5 for a 30 minute session with a lawyer to assist with legal issues for creative professionals. Feb. 24., 1-4 p.m., Maryland Art Place, 218 W. Saratoga St., email teri.henderson@ubalt.edu to learn more or to schedule an appointment.

Greater Baltimore Democratic Gubernatorial Forum. Hear from candidates Rushern Baker, Ben Jealous, Kevin Kamenetz, Rich Madaleno, Alec Ross, Jim Shea and Krishanti Vignarajah. Phylicia Porter moderates and Dr. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings offers concluding speech. Feb. 24, 2-5 p.m., War Memorial, 101 N. Gay St., secure.actblue.com/donate/ufm4, free ($10-$30 donations accepted).

Second Anniversary CommUNITY Celebration. Join Fresh at the Avenue in celebrating two years of providing Sandtown-Winchester with fresh, affordable vegetables and fruits. Feb. 25, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 1700 Pennsylvania Ave., eventbrite.com/e/2nd-anniversary-community-celebration-tickets-43260960698?aff=es2.

Plug into Planning @ The Door. Meet with Baltimore City Department of Planning staff and learn about current projects and upcoming opportunities to shape the course of Baltimore’s development. Feb. 27, 7-8:30 p.m., The Door (Baltimore Urban Leadership Foundation), 219 N. Chester St., planning.baltimorecity.gov.

The post Activist, Community, and Government Events: Feb. 21-28 appeared first on Baltimore Beat.

West Wednesday. Tawanda Jones, the sister of Tyrone West, a man killed in police custody in July 2013, has been gathering every Wednesday with other activists in the city to call attention to West’s death and police brutality in Baltimore. Feb. 14 and 21, usually held at the intersection of 33rd Street and Greenmount Avenue, check facebook.com/justicefortyronewest for details.

#BaltimoreVotes Information Session. Register to vote with the Baltimore City Board of Elections, learn about resources being used around the country, and more. Happy hour to follow. Feb. 15, 5:30-7 p.m., The Motor House, 120 W. North Ave., citizenartist.vote.

Public Health: From East Baltimore to the World and Back. Lecture from Karen Kruse Thomas, historian of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Feb. 15, 7:30-9 p.m., Village Learning Place, Inc., 2521 St. Paul St., (410) 235-2210, villagelearningplace.org/programs/baltimore-history-evenings.

Civilian Review Board. Monthly meeting of the independent agency tasked with investigating complaints against police. Feb. 15, 6 p.m., Office of Civil Rights and Wage Enforcement, 7 E. Redwood St., (410) 396-3151, civilrights.baltimorecity.gov/civilian-review-board.

Survive Hunger – Second Annual Black History Month Tribute to Bea Gaddy. Tribute to the late Bea Gaddy, an advocate for the homeless and founder of Patterson Park Emergency Food Center, with free meals for 1,000 people experiencing homelessness. Feb. 17, noon-5:30 p.m., Baltimore War Memorial, 101 N. Gay St., facebook.com/BDeeBaltimoreLove.

Meeting of the Baltimore City Council’s Public Safety Committee. On the agenda: ordinance “prohibiting the purchase of prostitution in Baltimore City.” Feb. 20, 9 a.m., Baltimore City Hall, 100 N. Holliday St., baltimore.legistar.com.

Small Business & Tax Preparedness Workshop. Greenworld Bookkeeping presents a seminar designed to help the creative entrepreneur get a handle on their taxes—learn about cash flow, tax deductions, keeping good records, and much more. Feb. 20, 6:30 p.m., City Arts 2, 1700 Greenmount Ave., (410) 528-9239, facebook.com/events/150955558942797, free.

Safer Consumption Spaces with Nurses For Justice. Nurses for Justice and Baltimore Harm Reduction Coalition host a panel on safer consumption spaces and how this harm reduction approach to drug use could save lives in our community. Feb. 21, 7:30 p.m., Red Emma’s, 30 W. North Ave., (443) 602-7585, redemmas.org, free.

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State of the State Address. Governor Larry Hogan delivers his State of the State address. Jan. 31, 1 p.m., State House, 100 State Circle, Annapolis, baltimorecitycouncil.com/content/state-state-address.

West Wednesday. Tawanda Jones, the sister of Tyrone West, a man killed in police custody in July 2013, has been gathering every Wednesday with other activists in the city to call attention to West’s death and police brutality in Baltimore. Jan. 31 and Feb. 7, usually held at the intersection of 33rd Street and Greenmount Avenue, check facebook.com/justicefortyronewest for details.

Baltimore City Office of Civil Rights Wage Commission Meeting. The commission is responsible for the administration and proper operation of the minimum, living, and prevailing wage laws. Feb. 1, 3:30 p.m., Office of Civil Rights, 7 E. Redwood St., civilrights.baltimorecity.gov/wage-commission.

Baltimore Ceasefire. Events to promote unity and peace throughout Baltimore City. Feb. 2-4. Visit baltimoreceasefire.com for more information.

Winter Swap at the Community Center. Share some clothes and take some clothes, for free. Feb. 3, 1-4 p.m., The 29th Street Community Center, 300 E. 29th St., facebook.com/events/218947808648562.

Baltimore’s Black Lives Matter Week of Action in Schools. Baltimore joins the efforts of more than 20 cities to bring a Black Lives Matter Week of Action into local schools. Feb. 5-10, bmorecaucus.org/black-lives-matter-week-of-action-2.

Baltimore Water Affordability Volunteer Meeting. Learn more about the water crisis and how to work together to ensure that everyone has access to safe, affordable water. Feb. 6, 6:30-8 p.m., Food and Water Watch Maryland, 3121 St. Paul St., Suite 28, (410) 394-7652, foodandwaterwatch.org/state/Maryland.

North Avenue Rising Open House. Part of a series of meetings focused on obtaining specific community feedback regarding design elements for the North Avenue Rising project. Feb. 6, 4-7 p.m., Enoch Pratt Library-Penn North, 1531 W. North Ave., northavenuerising.com.

Baltimore Day in Annapolis. Mayor Catherine Pugh and other city leaders discuss funding and local legislative efforts for the 2018 session. Transportation available from various Baltimore locations. Feb. 7, 6-8 p.m., House Office Building, 6 Bladen St., Annapolis, (410) 396-4735, mayor.baltimorecity.gov/events/baltimore-day-annapolis.

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Granite Pipeline Open House. Learn about the second phase of the granite pipeline project. Jan. 24, 6-8 p.m., Baltimore Department of Recreation and Parks, 3001 East Dr., bcrp.baltimorecity.gov/granitepipeline.

West Wednesday. Tawanda Jones, the sister of Tyrone West, a man killed in police custody in July 2013, has been gathering every Wednesday with other activists in the city to call attention to West’s death and police brutality in Baltimore. Jan. 24 and 31, usually held at the intersection of 33rd Street and Greenmount Avenue, check facebook.com/justicefortyronewest for details.

Bystander Intervention Training. Learn how to step up and be supportive when fellow community members are facing harassment and hate speech. Jan. 25, 7-9 p.m., 2640 Space, 2640 St. Paul St., act1.myngp.com/Forms/8010214887231848448.

Free Tax Prep Event. Council President Young will speak at a press conference to kick off the Baltimore CASH Campaign’s free tax preparation season. Jan. 26, 10 a.m., baltimorecitycouncil.com/content/free-tax-prep-event.

Boys to Men Empowerment Seminar. Information to encourage and inform local boys. Jan. 27, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Mergenthaler Vocational Technical High School, 3500 Hillen Road, eventbrite.com/e/boys-to-men-empowerment-seminar-tickets-42021650889?aff=es2.

Packing Social: Volunteer Event. Help donate feminine hygiene products and bras to women in need. Jan. 27, 12:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. New Miracle CCC, 4802 Liberty Heights Ave., eventbrite.com/e/packing-social-volunteer-event-tickets-40895628927?aff=es2.

Second District Night. Catch up with City Council Representative Brandon Scott. RSVP to lynn.baker@baltimorecity.gov or (410) 396-4808. Jan. 27, 5-7 p.m., War Memorial Building, 101 N. Gay St., baltimorecitycouncil.com.

Zoo Volunteer Open House. Learn how to volunteer at the zoo. Jan. 28, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, 1 Safari Place, (410) 396-7102, marylandzoo.org.

FF $15 Baltimore Community Meeting. Meeting organized for people interested in raising the minimum wage in Maryland. Jan. 30, 6-8 p.m., 5011 Arbutus Ave., ff15maryland.org.

The post Activist, Community, and Government Events: Jan. 24-31 appeared first on Baltimore Beat.

The State of Black Women in Baltimore

Jan. 6

Two recent reports from NPR uncovered some scary but not unsurprising news about black women and our maternal health: that we and our babies die more often during and immediately after childbirth than our white counterparts, and that the stress of racism is the cause. We are, as Malcolm X once said (and Beyoncé famously repeated) the most unprotected, most neglected of this country’s citizens. Brittany T. Oliver, local activist and founder of Not Without Black Women, says the ways in which black women are marginalized can be seen clearly in Baltimore’s problems and policies. The group’s goal, therefore, is to change all that. There will be speeches, spoken word, a panel (including Dr. Helena Hicks, among others), and opportunity for dialogue. Come ready to learn, and then work toward some radical change. 3:30-5:30 p.m., Mobtown Ballroom, 861 Washington Blvd., facebook.com/events/182594778963177, free. (Lisa Snowden-McCray)

BWU Day of Action

Jan. 8

Start the new year off by doing your part to make this world better for women in Baltimore: Head to this event, organized by Baltimore Women United. Attendees will learn more about the next Maryland Legislative Session and what they can do to advance proposed bills related to issues like “Ban the Box,” protection for the families of rape survivors, and gender discrimination in car insurance. Children are welcome. 6 p.m., Enoch Pratt Free Library Waverly Branch, 400 E. 33rd St., baltimorewomenunited.org, free (registration required). (Lisa Snowden-McCray)

West Wednesdays. Tawanda Jones, the sister of Tyrone West, a man killed in police custody in July 2013, has been gathering every Wednesday with other activists in the city to call attention to West’s death and police brutality in Baltimore. Jan. 3 and 10. Usually held at the intersection of 33rd and Greenmount Avenue, check facebook.com/justicefortyronewest for details.

Wage Commission. Monthly meeting of commission charged with administration and proper operation of the minimum, living, and prevailing wage laws. Jan. 4, 3:30 p.m., Office of Civil Rights, 7 E. Redwood St., 9th floor, civilrights.baltimorecity.gov/wage-commission.

Vision Board Career Workshop. Build your vision board for career success in 2018. Presented by Natasha OrtizFortier of Creative Career Chic. Registration required. Jan. 6, 10 a.m.-noon, Waverly Branch, Adult Quiet Room, 400 E. 33rd St., (410) 396-6053, calendar.prattlibrary.org.

League of Women Voters Annual Legislative Breakfast 2018. Meet state senators and delegates and hear their responses to League priorities and their plans for the 2018 General Assembly. Jan. 6, 9 a.m.-noon., The Church of St. Michael & All Angels, 2013 St. Paul St., (410) 377-7738, facebook.com/events/1986861658268472.

Baltimore Community Accountability Project Workshop 5. Fifth workshop in a series dedicated to establishing community accountability. Jan. 7, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., The Baltimore Free School, 30 W. North Ave., facebook.com/events/1694725453900305.

Baltimore: Legislative Preview on Preservation and Conservation. Learn about local, state, and federal advocacy efforts to help save places that matter and how you can be a force for preservation and conservation. Jan. 8, 6-7 p.m., Enoch Pratt Free Library, Hampden Branch, 3641 Falls Road, preservationmaryland.org.

Baltimore’s Water Crisis: A Lose-Lose. Del. Mary Washington, Rev. Dr. Alvin J. Gwynn Sr., and leading utility affordability expert Roger Colton discuss the failures of Baltimore’s current water billing system. Jan. 8, 6:30 p.m., Studio 4 Baltimore, 235 Holliday St., (443) 454-7669, facebook.com/events/381345808973880.

GSW Speaker Series: Bridging Art and Activism. Bilphena Yahwon, a local writer and social justice advocate, speaks on the connections between art and activism. Jan. 8, 7 p.m., The 29th Street Community Center, 300 E. 29th St., (443) 213-0394, strongcitybaltimore.org/event.

Meeting of the Board of School Commissioners. Regularly scheduled meetings for the public to offer comments according to specified guidelines. Second and fourth Tuesdays. Jan. 9, 5 p.m., 200 E. North Ave., (443) 984-2000, baltimorecityschools.org/school_board/meetings.

Board of Estimates Meeting. City Council President Young will chair the weekly meeting of the Board of Estimates. Jan. 10, 9 a.m., Baltimore City Hall, Hyman A. Pressman Board Room, 100 N. Holliday St., (410) 396-4804, baltimorecitycouncil.com/content/board-estimates-meeting-38

The post Activist, Community, and Government Events: Jan. 3-10 appeared first on Baltimore Beat.

Board of Estimates Meeting. City Council President Jack Young will chair the weekly meeting of the Board of Estimates. Dec. 20, 9 a.m., Baltimore City Hall, Hyman A. Pressman Board Room, 100 N. Holliday St., (410) 396-4804, baltimorecitycouncil.com/content/board-estimates-meeting-37.

Food System Lab Open House. Drop-in in sessions for individuals who would like to learn more about the Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future Aquaponics Project. Dec. 20, 10 a.m.-noon, Cylburn Arboretum, 4915 Greenspring Ave., cylburn.org.

West Wednesdays. Tawanda Jones, the sister of Tyrone West, a man killed in police custody in July 2013, has been gathering every Wednesday with other activists in the city to call attention to West’s death and police brutality in Baltimore. Dec. 20 and 27. Usually held at the intersection of 33rd and Greenmount Avenue, check facebook.com/justicefortyronewest for details.

Civilian Review Board Meeting. Meeting of the Civilian Review Board of Baltimore City, an independent agency through which members of the public can issue complaints against officers of various law enforcement units. Dec. 21, 6 p.m., City Office of Civil Rights, 7 E. Redwood St., 9th floor, (410) 396-8857, civilrights.baltimorecity.gov/civilian-review-board.

Homeless Persons’ Memorial Day Service 2017. A day of remembrance for people experiencing homelessness who died this year. Dec. 21, 5-6:30 p.m., McKeldin Square, 101 E. Pratt St., facebook.com/events/133072514029113.

Black Girls Mentoring. Part of the group Not Without Black Women’s efforts to mentor Black girls and teens. Dec. 23, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Crispus Attucks Recreation Center, 1624 Eutaw Place, facebook.com/events/1454906564627344.

Jingle Jam. Hollins Creative Placemaking brings a holiday party to Southwest Baltimore, where children ages 5-12 can roam the various businesses around Hollins Market to pick up treats and gifts. Youth will also receive free pictures with Santa and participate in crafts and games. Dec. 23, 11 a.m., 1200 W. Baltimore St., (443) 939-2043, hollinsart.com, free.

Community Mitzvah Day. Participate in various volunteer projects. Dec. 24-25, check website for specific times and locations: jvcbaltimore.org/volunteer-offerings/annual-events/mitzvah-day.

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BPD Monitoring Team Community Engagement Forum. The second of four planned events for citizens to contribute to the team’s community engagement plan. Nov. 29, 5-9 p.m., Dunbar High School, 1400 Orleans St. (410) 528-4670, bpdmonitor.com, free.

West Wednesdays. Tawanda Jones, the sister of Tyrone West, a man killed in police custody in July 2013 has been gathering every Wednesday with other activists in the city to call attention to West’s death and police brutality in Baltimore. Nov. 29, 6:30 and Dec. 6 the intersection of 33^rd and Greenmount.

Unite For Our Schools. Event held by the Baltimore Education Coalition to address issues of testing, school funding, and more. Nov. 29, 6-8 p.m., Barclay Elementary School, 2900 Barclay St., strongcitybaltimore.org/event/unite-for-our-schools.

Board of School Commissioners Legislative Forum. Community members share concerns with members of Baltimore’s Board of School Commissioners. Nov. 30, 6-9 p.m., Baltimore City Public Schools District Office, 200 E. North Ave., (443) 984-2000, facebook.com/events/1933134050034687.

Celebrating our Lives: A World AIDS Day Showcase. Members of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, The Black Treatment Advocates Network, Center for Black Equity Baltimore, The Community Cares Project, and AIRS celebrate World AIDS Day. Food, giveaways, entertainment, and community. Nov. 30, 6-9 p.m., The Real News Network, 231 Holliday St., eventbrite.com/e/celebrating-our-lives-a-world-aids-day-showcase-tickets-40036390923?aff=es2.

Community Town Hall in Harlem Park. Meeting called by the Office of Civil Rights and Wage Enforcement, to address recent police activity in Harlem Park. Meet the new Civilian Review Board. Nov. 30, 6 p.m., Metropolitan United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 1121 W. Lanvale St., civilrights.baltimorecity.gov.

Family League Community Listening Session #4. Mayor Catherine Pugh and Family League of Baltimore host a community conversation about local investment priorities for children and families. Free food and on-site licensed child care for children ages 2 and up. Nov. 30, 6-8 p.m., Furman L. Templeton Elementary School, 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., familyleague.org.

Office of Sustainability – Sustainability Update. City’s Sustainability Coordinator Anne Draddy talks about her work overseeing the update of the city’s 2009 Sustainability Plan. Nov. 30, noon-1 p.m., Impact Hub Baltimore, 10 E. North Ave., facebook.com/events/1953586734894377

Team Make Baltimore Smile Holiday Toy Drive. Community toy drive. Nov. 30, 6-10 p.m., SNS Lounge, 6900 Belair Road, facebook.com/events/140939476556387.

Free Keith Davis Jr. Solidarity Rally. Show support for Keith Davis Jr. Nov. 30, 5:30-7:30 p.m., 1401 Severn St. Event is followed by Pack the Courtroom event on Dec. 1, 8:30 a.m., Courthouse East, Room 228. Search #FreeKeithDavisJr hashtag on Twitter or Facebook for more information.

Women Embracing Abilities Now “Bags of Hope” Event. Members of the group Women Embracing Abilities Now make holiday gift bags for young women with disabilities. They are looking for donations of lotion, soap, nail care accessories, and more. Dec. 2, 3-9 p.m., The League for People with Disabilities, 1111 E. Cold Spring Lane, (410) 323-0500, wean1.org.

Decolonizing Hurricane Relief. Support recovery efforts post-Hurricanes Irma and Maria while learning about the conditions of colonialism in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Dec. 3, 5 p.m., Oak Hill Center for Education and Culture, 2239 Kirk Ave. facebook.com/events/291387024715248?acontext=%7B”ref”%3,A”3″%2C”action_history”%3A”null”%7D&aref=3.

State of the District Address. Councilman Isaac Yitzy Schleifer marks one year in office and delivers a state of the district address. Dec. 5, 7-8:30 p.m., Pimlico Race Course, 5201 Park Heights Ave., 410-396-4819, facebook.com/events/133725470617420.

Teach-In: Stop the Deadly Exchange. Discuss how to end police exchange programs, and how the policies that surround these programs affect Baltimore. Facilitated by Baltimore Palestine Solidarity and Jewish Voice for Peace Baltimore. Dec. 5, 7-9 p.m., 2601 N Howard St., facebook.com/events/950098681803832.

Resiliency in the Face of Trauma. Talk about the effects of childhood trauma with a panel of community members, service organizers, neighborhood representatives, and more. Dec. 6. 3:30-6:30 p.m., DRU Mondawmin Healthy Families, Inc., 2100 Eutaw Place, eventbrite.com/e/resiliency-in-the-face-of-trauma-tickets-40042129086?aff=es2.

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