Looking to get out into the community this weekend?

From gifts of the Ottoman Empire to a park cleanup, there's plenty to do when it comes to community and cultural events coming up in Washington. Read on for a rundown.

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Abdul Hamid II Exhibition Lecture

First, Joan Weeks, a specialist in the Near East Section at the Library of Congress, will lecture about a collection of books given to the Library in 1884 by the Ottoman Sultan Abdul-Hamid II. In addition to the talk, many of the books will be on display for visitors to peruse. 

When: Friday, April 19, 6-8 p.m.
Where: Yunus Emre Institute, 1 Thomas Circle NW., Suite 1020
Admission: Free
Click here for more details, and to RSVP

Earth Day DC Community Clean Up

Next, City Commissioner Salim Adofo has organized this volunteer cleanup of Anacostia's Oxon Run Park. Wear some old clothes that you don't mind losing to tears and grime. Refreshments will be available, and children's help is welcomed.

When: Saturday, April 20, 12-3 p.m.
Where: Oxon Run Park, 3713 Wheeler Road SE
Admission: Free
Click here for more details, and to get your tickets

Slavery, The Underground Railroad & Emancipation in Washington, DC Walk

On April 16, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed the D.C. Compensated Emancipation Act, which freed about 3,100 slaves in the District nine months ahead of the more famous and broader Emancipation Proclamation. In honor of this year's D.C. Emancipation Day, join the non-profit Washington D.C. History & Culture on a free two-hour walk to explore the functioning of the Underground Railroad in the DMV. 

When: Saturday, April 20, 5-7 p.m.
Where: African Art Museum, 950 Independence Ave. SW
Admission: Free
Click here for more details, and to RSVP

Bros, Prose, N' Homos IV: Dream Variations

Finally, artists and writers from D.C.'s LGBTQ Community of Color celebrate National Poetry Month with spoken word, dance and song in The Underground meeting space at The Meeting Place Bar and Restaurant. There'll be a cash bar and the restaurant will be open.

When: Saturday, April 20, 5-9 p.m.
Where: The Underground, 1707 L St. NW, The Meeting Place
Admission: Free
Click here for more details, and to register

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