As the spring semester kicks off, the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) will host an event that promises to inspire, educate and empower. On Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025, from 3 to 7 p.m., the Student Center Ballroom will transform into a hub of mindfulness, reflection and celebration for the Pre-Inauguration Community Gathering & Teach-In, a community gathering that aims to foster resilience and set an optimistic tone for the year ahead. 

Mindfulness, Grounding and Good Vibes, 3 to 4 p.m.

The event begins with Mindfulness, Grounding and Good Vibes, a session designed to promote focus and well-being. Led by Michelle Chatman of the UDC Crime, Justice & Security Studies (CJSS) Program and founding director of the CJSS Mindful & Courageous Action (MICA) Lab, the session will provide participants with practical tools for reducing anxiety and fostering a sense of calm amidst the political uncertainties and personal challenges that many are facing. 

Chatman explained the intention behind scheduling a grounding session as the starting point for the event. “There is a lot of anxiety about what this new political climate means for higher education, especially here in Washington, D.C.,” she said. “We want to provide a space where people can come together, acknowledge their concerns, and support their emotional health and well-being.” 

She continued, “UDC is a public institution in a city that is under constant political scrutiny. It is also a diverse community that includes students who already experience challenges stemming from their socioeconomic background, immigration status, LGBTQ+ identity and so on. It is important that we hear their concerns as we begin the semester and create a space for healing and connection.” 

Teach-In: DC History and the Quest for Democracy, 4 to 5:20 p.m.

Following the mindfulness session, the event will move into a teach-in titled D.C. History and the Quest for Democracy. Moderated by Amanda Huron of UDC’s Political Science Program and DC History Lab, the panel will feature experts on the District’s political history and the ongoing fight for representation and self-governance. 

D.C. offers a valuable case study, said Huron, as its struggles are deeply intertwined with the broader history of race and democracy in the United States. “D.C.’s fight for democracy has always been a microcosm for the national struggle for racial justice,” she said. “The history of voting rights in D.C. mirrors the history of voting rights and democracy across the country.” 

The teach-in will feature panelists: 

• George Derek Musgrove, Associate Professor of History at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and co-author of Chocolate City: A History of Race and Democracy in the Nation’s Capital 

• Kelsye Adams, Executive Director of Long Live GoGo and Director at DC Vote 

• Ankit Jain, D.C. Shadow Senator 

“This panel offers a way for us to learn from history, understand where we are now and think about how we can act as we move forward,” said Huron. She emphasized that the session will not only offer expert speakers but also foster dialogue among attendees. “We know that our community is facing a lot of political uncertainty. After the panel, participants will break into small groups to discuss ways they can engage with these issues,” she said.  

Connecting, Celebrating and Taking Action, 5:30 to 7 p.m.

The closing session will center on Connecting, Celebrating and Taking Action, with music, food and conversation. Huron and Chatman hope participants will end the day on a positive note and provide them with a sense of agency as they prepare for the spring semester. 

“We want everyone to feel more informed and empowered to take action if that’s what they choose,” said Huron. “We want to give people the tools to get involved if and when they’re ready.” 

“We’re also hoping to help students, staff and faculty understand that even in times of uncertainty, we can still make a difference,” added Chatman. “Our power lies in organizing, mobilizing and coming together as a community.” 

Advocacy and Education for Representation

As director of DC Vote, panelist Kelsye Adams is a powerful advocate for D.C. statehood and full representation in Congress, which she says is critical for the future of the city. 

“Nearly 700,000 people live in Washington, D.C. yet have zero voting representation in Congress,” Adams said. “We’re working toward D.C. statehood because that is the only way we truly address the systemic disenfranchisement that District residents face.” 

During the event, Adams will speak about why statehood matters, and how attendees can get involved. She encourages everyone to come and learn more about how D.C.’s governance differs from every other jurisdiction in the country and how that impacts everyday life for residents. 

A Call for Civic Engagement and Empowerment

Adams emphasized that D.C. residents, particularly students, can play an important role in shaping the future of the city. “Civic engagement is key,” she said. “We want students to end the day with a better understanding of D.C. governance and the steps they can take to get involved.” 

Huron and Chatman echo her hope that the Pre-Inauguration Community Gathering & Teach-In will provide a space for learning, connection and empowerment. “This is a time for the UDC community to come together, reflect on our history and think about how we can make a difference,” said Chatman. “We’re hopeful that this will set the tone for a positive and proactive semester ahead.”