Former S.F. Mayor Willie Brown Talks Politics . . . and His Iconic Career
2026-02-03 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | The Commonwealth Club, 110 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA, 94105, United States
Don’t miss this conversation with Mayor Brown and KQED political reporter and editor Scott Shafer.

Join former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown as he returns to Commonwealth Club World Affairs to talk national, state and local politics. As CalMatters observed last year in an article marking his 90th birthday, Brown is “one of the most flamboyant and powerful politicians California has ever known,” who “still dominates every room he enters with his smarts and swagger.”
The first African American speaker of the California State Assembly, Brown served a record 14 years in that role. He then served two terms as San Francisco mayor.
Brown will address a range of political topics, including Trump versus California, the state of American democracy, and the future of the Democratic Party. He’ll also weigh in on San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie’s track record so far, the city’s economic recovery, and how City Hall is dealing with problems like homelessness, affordability, and crime. And as the California governor’s race heats up, we’ll get his take on that contest and Gavin Newsom’s political future.
Don’t miss this conversation with Mayor Brown and KQED political reporter and editor Scott Shafer.
SPEAKERS
Willie Brown, Former Mayor of San Francisco; Former Speaker of the California State Assembly
Scott Shafer, Senior Editor, KQED’s Politics and Government desk; Co-host, “Political Breakdown” podcast
11:30 a.m. doors open & check-in12–1 p.m. program(all times Pacific Time)
Main image by Ed Ritger; speakers profile photos courtesy the speakers.

New Weapons, Old Debates: A History of Weapons Prohibitions
2026-02-03 12:30 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | 121 Bay State Rd, 121 Bay State Road, Boston, MA, 02215, United States
Join us for New Weapons, Old Debates: A History of Weapons Prohibitions in International Law, 1868–Present!

In 1868, military experts representing seventeen states gathered at the Russian War Ministry in St. Petersburg to prohibit the use of explosive bullets under international law. This event marked the beginning of debates about the relationship between the weapons of industrial modernity and humanity in war. From 1868 to 1939, contestations over the legality of expanding bullets, airships and bombing, gas and bacteriological weapons, tanks, railway guns, and submarines extended beyond diplomatic practice and legal scholarship to journalists, novelists, surgeons, scientists, and everyday people. During this period, three intellectual traditions crystallized. Techno-utopians argued that ever more destructive weaponry would make war impossible. Techno-optimists suggested that the introduction of new armaments would make wars shorter or more humane. Techno-pessimists, finally, called for the prohibition of some new weapons by warning about their catastrophic effects, ranging from the infliction of unnecessary suffering to the end of Western ‘civilization’ and even of humanity itself. At a moment of debates about the legality of lethal autonomous weapons systems and nuclear weapons, this talk will situate present-day contestations in a history that is as old as industrial modernity itself.

After5Society - Paranoid Politics: How Fear Shaped American Democracy
2026-02-03 18:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Midtown, Address found in email confirmation, New York, NY, 10001, United States
Fear, Power, and the Forces that Shaped American Democracy

A Cultural Conversation That Shapes Everyday Life
Join an expert U.S. history educator for Paranoid Politics: How Fear Shaped American Democracy, an engaging talk that explores how fear, suspicion, and collective anxiety have shaped American society over time. Through historical stories and real-world examples, you’ll see how these forces continue to influence trust, identity, and civic life today.
This isn’t a political debate or a history class. It’s a lively, interactive discussion designed to make big ideas accessible — with a drink in hand. Curiosity encouraged.
Don’t miss this chance to learn, reflect, and meet fellow curious adults through your After5 Society!
About The Speaker:Sari Beth Rosenberg is a well-known U.S. history teacher in New York City, with a B.A. and M.A. from Columbia University. She is recognized for connecting historical events to contemporary life, co-creating innovative educational resources, contributing to curriculum development, and is frequently featured in major media for her inclusive and engaging approach to history education. Her work blends rigorous historical analysis with real-world relevance, helping students and audiences alike understand the enduring impact of history on society today.
Good to know before you come:

Exact bar location will be disclosed in your confirmation email
Arrive early to grab a drink and get settled
The speaker portion lasts 1 hour, with optional time to stay and socialize afterward
This is a participatory event
Seating is limited to keep the experience intimate

EdAllies 2026 Session Kick-Off
2026-02-04 09:00 - 11:00 (America/Chicago) | American Swedish Institute, 2600 Park Avenue, Minneapolis, MN, 55407, United States
Hear EdAllies’ policy priorities, learn the critical issues sure to dominate the legislative session, & network with advocacy partners.

Join EdAllies for our annual Session Kick-Off Breakfast! Learn more about the education debates expected to play out in 2026, and what we’re prioritizing to ensure students have access to a rigorous and engaging education.
With every legislator up for reelection, looming budget challenges at the state and local levels, and an ever-changing federal landscape impact both schools and students directly, there is a lot at stake in a charged political atmosphere. We hope you’ll join us to make sense of the threats and opportunities ahead, learn where you can join in the work, and build community.
New this year! We will make space for networking with not just our team, but with other community partners tackling big issues at the Capitol this year. Come during breakfast or stay after the presentation for networking time to mingle through partner tables and learn more about the issues you care about most.
EdAllies events are always free, with the option to contribute to make events like this possible.

The Race for Governor 2026: Xavier Becerra
2026-02-04 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | The Commonwealth Club, 110 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA, 94105, United States
Come meet the candidate, hear his vision for California, and ask your questions before you cast your vote for California’s next governor.

Former California attorney general and U.S. health secretary Xavier Becerra says this is a “break-glass moment” for state residents who are struggling economically. That’s why, he says, he’s making economic opportunity the centerpiece of his campaign to succeed Gavin Newsom in the governor’s office.
Raised in Sacramento by immigrant parents—his father worked in construction, his mother was a clerical worker—Becerra was the first in his family to earn a college degree. He attended Stanford for both undergraduate and law school, thanks in part to opportunities he says were once more widely available in California.
If elected, Becerra says he would be the “health-care governor,” an issue he has emphasized throughout his career, from his 24 years in Congress to his time in the Biden administration. He also points to his track record as attorney general standing up to the Trump administration on issues such as immigration and the environment.
Becerra joins Commonwealth Club World Affairs as part of our “Race for Governor 2026” series of candidate forums. Come meet the candidate, hear his vision for California, and ask your questions before you cast your vote for California’s next governor.
Notes
Attendees subject to search. No large bags or backpacks.
SPEAKERS
Xavier Becerra, Candidate for California Governor
Moderator: Melissa Caen, Attorney; Legal and Political Analyst
Photo courtesy the speaker.
Commonwealth Club World Affairs is a public forum. Any views expressed in our programs are those of the speakers and not of Commonwealth Club World Affairs.
All ticket sales are final and nonrefundable.
11:30 a.m. doors open & check-in12–1 p.m. program(all times Pacific Time)

Book Lecture: The Israeli
2026-02-04 17:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | The Institute of World Politics, Commodore Barry Room, 1521 16th Street Northwest, Washington, DC, 20036, United States
Author Phil Kurata joins Dr. Ritchie to discuss The Israeli, a novel reimagining spy Eli Cohen in the post-WWII Middle East.

About the Lecture:
The Israeli, a novel by veteran journalist Phil Kurata, is set in the years 1947 to 1965, after the end of World War II, when in the Middle East, newly independent countries were shaking off the colonial powers of Britain and France. It reimagines the life of famed spy Eli Cohen. Beginning in Alexandria, Egypt, it transitions to a nascent Israel and then to Syria, where Cohen spies for the Israelis. Steeped in the food and the culture of the Middle East at that formative period, it takes a hard-eyed view of racism and prejudice on both the Israeli and Arab sides. It takes the reader on a deep dive into the intractable and often vicious conflicts that split the region today.

About the Speaker:
Phillip Kurata is a novelist and former journalist who grew up in Lawrence, Kansas, and earned a bachelor’s degree in French literature and a master’s degree in Asian Studies from the University of Kansas. He studied at the University of Tunis in the mid-1960s, and—as a fluent French speaker—he returned to Tunisia as a Peace Corps Volunteer and a public health educator. He got into journalism while studying Chinese in Taiwan, writing for the Far Eastern Economic Review. He later worked for United Press International, Agence France Presse and Voice of America in Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Beijing, France, and Washington, DC.
Phil served for many years as a writer with the U.S. Department of State, based in Washington, DC.
His first novel, The Reluctant Agent, was published by Washington Writers’ Publishing House as the Fiction Prize winner. His most recent novel, The Israeli, published in 2024, is a fictionalized story of the legendary Israeli spy, Eli Cohen, and examines the destructive power of ethnic hatred.

Dr. Elspeth Cameron Ritchie is a forensic psychiatrist with special expertise in military and veterans’ issues. She has been Chief of Psychiatry at Medstar Washington Hospital Center since 2018. She retired from the Army in 2010, after holding numerous leadership positions within Army Medicine, including Psychiatry Consultant. She trained at Harvard, George Washington, Walter Reed, and the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, and has completed fellowships in both forensic and preventive and disaster psychiatry. She is a Professor of Psychiatry at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Georgetown University, and George Washington University School of Medicine. An internationally recognized expert, she brings a unique public health approach to the management of disasters and combating mental health issues. Her assignments and other missions have taken her to Korea, Somalia, Iraq, and Cuba. She has over 250 publications, mainly in the areas of forensic, disaster, suicide, ethics, military combat psychiatry, and women’s health issues. Recent volumes include: “Forensic and Ethical Issues in Military Behavioral Health”, “Women at War”, “Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Related Diseases in Combat Veterans”, “Intimacy After Injury: Restoring Sexual Health on Return from Combat”; “Psychiatrists in Combat, Clinicians Experience in the War Zone”, “Gay Mental Healthcare Providers and Patients in the Military: Personal Experiences and Clinical Care” and “Clinical Management of the Homeless Patient: Social, Medical and Psychiatric Issues.”

Press Freedom in Mexico: A Conversation with Sergio Sarmiento
2026-02-05 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy, 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77005, United States
Join us for a conversation with Sergio Sarmiento as he discusses the importance of press freedom for democracy in Mexico.

Press freedom is a cornerstone of democratic governance, yet in Mexico, it has come under sustained pressure as journalists face intimidation, violence, and political constraints. These challenges raise broader questions about accountability, democratic institutions, and the public’s access to reliable information.
The Claudio X. González Center for the United States and Mexico at Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy presents “Press Freedom in Mexico: A Conversation With Sergio Sarmiento.” At this event, renowned journalist, columnist, and political commentator Sergio Sarmiento will examine the role of a free press in sustaining democracy in Mexico, the risks confronting journalists, and the implications for democratic life and governance.
This event is free and open to the public.
Follow @BakerInstitute on X to join the conversation online with #BakerLive.

Reexamining the “Nation of Immigrants”: The Politics of ICE Enforcement
2026-02-05 17:00 - 19:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | UCLA Meyer and Renee Luskin Conference Center, 425 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Join us for a keynote and panel exploring new data on immigration enforcement, stronger state protections, and fair, sustainable policy.

Reexamining the “Nation of Immigrants”: The Politics of ICE Enforcement
With the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) arrests and detentions surging, California’s legislative leadership offers critical lessons on safeguarding rights and rebuilding trust. Join us on February 5, 2026 for a keynote presentation followed by a panel of policymakers, researchers, and advocates who will discuss what the latest data reveal about enforcement patterns, how to strengthen state protections, and what’s next for fair and sustainable approaches to immigration.
Reception 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Lecture and Panel 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Registration is free and required for all guests. We intentionally oversell tickets to ensure a full venue. Entry and seating are first come, first served and not guaranteed, even with a ticket. We recommend arriving early and join the pre-reception to maximize your chance of entry.

Attorney General Rob Bonta will be the keynote speaker.
Panelists include:
Cielo Castro, Chief Impact Officer, California Community Foundation (moderator)
Ahilan Arulanantham, Professor from Practice, UCLA Law; Faculty Co-Director, Center for Immigration Law & Policy
Paul Ong, Director, UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge
Angelica Salas, Executive Director, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA); Luskin Senior Fellow

About the Keynote Speaker

In the State Assembly, Attorney General Bonta enacted nation-leading reforms to inject more justice and fairness into government and institutions. As the People’s Attorney, he sees seeking accountability from those who abuse their power and harm others as one of the most important functions of the job. In elected office, he has taken on powerful interests and advanced systemic change — pursuing corporate accountability, standing up for workers, punishing big polluters, and fighting racial injustice. He has been a national leader in the fight to transform the criminal justice system, banning private prisons and detention facilities in California, as well as pushing to eliminate cash bail in the state. He has led statewide fights for racial, economic, and environmental justice and worked to further the rights of immigrant families, renters, and working Californians.

Co-hosts and Reasearch

This event is part of the Luskin Lecture Series and co-hosted by the UCLA Center for Neighborhood Knowledge, the UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute, and the UCLA Asian American Studies Center.
View all of our upcoming events at luskin.ucla.edu/events

Learn more about the research from the Center for Neighborhood Knowledge and the Latino Policy & Politics Institute.

TONGVA ACKNOWLEDGEMENTThe Luskin School of Public Affairs at UCLA acknowledges the Gabrielino/Tongva peoples as the traditional land caretakers of Tovaangar (the Los Angeles basin and So. Channel Islands). As a land grant institution, we pay our respects to the Honuukvetam (Ancestors), ‘Ahiihirom (Elders) and ‘Eyoohiinkem (our relatives/relations) past, present and emerging.
PHOTO RELEASEBy attending this event, you will be entering an area where photography, audio and video recording may occur. With your presence, you authorize UCLA Luskin and its licensees to photograph you, make sound and/or video recordings of you, and use the recordings for marketing, publicity and promotion of this event and UCLA Luskin generally. Please click on the link for the full UCLA Luskin Notice of Filming Release.
Attendance by a public official will constitute acceptance of a reportable gift.

The Genocide Accusation Against Israel: A Scholarly Exchange
2026-02-05 17:15 - 18:45 (America/New_York) | Perry World House, 3803 Locust Walk, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, United States
In this discussion, two leading experts on the study of genocide will consider the accusations of genocide against Israel.

Omer Bartov will explain when and why he concluded that Israel was perpetrating genocide in Gaza, examine the deeper causes of events in Gaza and the West Bank, ponder the question of Israel’s appearance of impunity, and consider the possible long-term effects of events since October 7.
Norman J.W. Goda will discuss genocide accusations against Israel from historical, political, and legal perspectives. He will argue that the accusations as they relate to the war in Gaza should be examined from a more empirical perspective than has often been the case.
The Concept of Genocide
A series exploring an idea used to convey the magnitude of the Holocaust that has now become newly charged and profoundly contentious.
Although its legal definition differs somewhat from its role in popular discourse, the word “genocide” as used today is understood as the “crime of all crimes,” the gravest assault against human life and identity. For many years, the word was closely associated with the Holocaust, the Nazi campaign to exterminate the Jews. Many now accuse the state of Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians.
Despite its pervasiveness in public discourse, the concept of genocide is relatively new. It did not enter international law until 1948. Moreover, scholars are divided regarding its legal definition and applications. This lecture series examines genocide as both a legal concept and a historical phenomenon. Over five lectures, leading scholars will investigate: What is the concept of genocide? How did the Holocaust and state power define its postwar emergence? And how have recent debates amid Israel’s war in Gaza redefined scholars’ understanding of the limits and advantages of the genocide concept? Please join us for an important and pressing discussion.
Speakers
Omer Bartov is an Israeli-American scholar and Dean’s Professor of Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Brown University. He has written widely on war crimes, interethnic relations, and genocide. Recent books, published in multiple languages, include Anatomy of a Genocide: The Life and Death of a Town Called Buczacz (2018), which won the National Jewish Book Award, and Genocide, the Holocaust and Israel-Palestine: First-Person History in Times of Crisis (2023), named Choice 2024 Outstanding Academic Title. Bartov’s essays and commentaries have been widely featured in national and international magazines and media outlets. His new book, Israel: What Went Wrong? will be published in April 2026 by FSG in the U.S. and Penguin/Random Books in the U.K.

Norman J. W. Goda is the Norman and Irma Braman Professor of Holocaust Studies at the University of Florida. He specializes in the Holocaust, Holocaust memory, and Holocaust justice. His books include Tales from Spandau: Nazi Criminals and the Cold War (2007); The Holocaust: Europe, the World, and the Jews (2022); Rethinking Holocaust Justice: Essays Across Disciplines (2018) and Outside Looking In: The World Universalizes the Holocaust(2026).

This event is cosponsored by Perry World House. The Katz Center gratefully acknowledges the support of the Goldhirsh-Yellin Foundation.

Livestream - Press Freedom in Mexico: A Conversation with Sergio Sarmiento
2026-02-05 17:30 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | PA
Join us virtually for a conversation with Sergio Sarmiento as he discusses the importance of press freedom for democracy in Mexico.

Press freedom is a cornerstone of democratic governance, yet in Mexico, it has come under sustained pressure as journalists face intimidation, violence, and political constraints. These challenges raise broader questions about accountability, democratic institutions, and the public’s access to reliable information.
The Claudio X. González Center for the United States and Mexico at Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy presents “Press Freedom in Mexico: A Conversation With Sergio Sarmiento.” At this event, renowned journalist, columnist, and political commentator Sergio Sarmiento will examine the role of a free press in sustaining democracy in Mexico, the risks confronting journalists, and the implications for democratic life and governance.
This event is free and open to the public.
Follow @BakerInstitute on X to join the conversation online with #BakerLive.

Executive Orders and Their Impact on Government Workers
2026-02-06 08:00 - 13:30 (America/New_York) | The George Washington University Law School, Jacob Burns Moot Court Room, 2000 H Street Northwest, Washington, DC, 20052, United States
The Federal Circuit Bar Journal is hosting a symposium on February 6, 2026 titled, Executive Orders and Their Impact on Government Workers.

There will be three panels: Government Personnel, Veterans Law, and Trade/Tariff. Please look at FCBJ’s LinkedIn Page for full panelists. This is an in-person event.
For any questions or concerns about the event please contact Madelyn Rush at fcbj.eic@law.gwu.edu

Monthly (Inter)National Politics Club @ Manny's
2026-02-07 10:30 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Manny’s, 3092 16th Street, San Francisco, CA, 94103, United States
The (Inter)National Politics Club discusses current political news, policy and more! The December topic will be U.S. Foreign Relations.

Mini Camp Congress for Girls Los Angeles 2026
2026-02-08 08:00 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | 9620 Airport Blvd, 9620 Airport Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90045, United States
Mini Camp Congress for Girls Los Angeles 2026 is an introduction to the United States political system for girls ages 6 and 7.

Mini Camp Congress for Girls Los Angeles 2026 is an introduction to the United States political system for girls ages 6 and 7. Camp begins with a lesson on the structure of the U.S. political system, the process of running for office and voting in the United States. Each girl will create a platform of issues she cares about most, create her own campaign poster and record a campaign ad. Camp will culminate with the girls convening a Congress and passing their own bill. All girls will serve as members of Congress. Girl Scouts qualify to earn Girl Scout badge; badge is not provided.
For additional information contact us at +1 866-277-2123 extension 1, via email at info@girlsinpolitics.com or visit our website at www.girlsinpolitics.com. Ticketing options for girls, ages 6-7. Please no solicitation emails or calls. We do not book speakers, book vendors or recruit volunteers for events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this event a drop-off? All camps are drop-off unless parent participation is indicated. Parents may wait at the venue for the duration of the camp in any of the lounge or seating area throughout the hotel. The meeting room space capacity can only accommodate students and staff.
Is the registration fee refundable? The registration fee is non-refundable unless the organizer cancels the session. If a participant is unable to attend a session a credit will be placed on file that may be used at any time for a future program. The credit does not expire.
Is this a partisan program or supported by a political party? No, the Girls in Politics Initiative is an independent organization that is self-funded through the fees generated from hosting sessions. The curriculum is civic education.
Is financial assistance available? Due to rising costs associated with hosting events, there is no financial assistance available for this event and there is no promo code for this event.
Who are the instructors? Our Lead Instructors are women that currently or have previously worked in government or electoral politics. Our support staffers are current or former licensed teachers. All instructors and support staff undergo background screening. All instructors and support staff are also in compliance with any local ordinances or state/provincial regulations applicable to those working with children.

Camp Congress for Girls Los Angeles 2026
2026-02-08 08:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | 9620 Airport Blvd, 9620 Airport Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90045, United States
It’s all fun & civics at Camp Congress for Girls Los Angeles 2026. Girls study government, run for office & pass a bill.

Camp Congress for Girls Los Angeles 2026 is a leadership program that introduces girls to United States politics. Camp begins with a lesson on the structure of our political system. Each girl will choose to run for a seat in the US House of Representatives, the US Senate or for the presidency. She will create her own campaign with a platform, campaign finance plan, and film a political ad. All campers will register to vote and then vote in an election. Once elected to Congress and sworn in, the newly installed members of Congress will learn how to introduce a bill, debate the merits of the bill, lobby fellow legislators, collaborate with the Executive branch and finally vote on the proposed bill. Camp will culminate with a ceremonial signing of the bill by our Ms. President. All participants will receive Certificate of Completion. Participating Girl Scouts will earn a badge for completion of this session.
For additional information contact us at +1 866-277-2123 extension 1, via email at info@girlsinpolitics.com or visit our website at www.girlsinpolitics.com. Ticketing options for students ages 8-11 and 12-17. Please no solicitation emails or calls. We do not book speakers, book vendors or recruit volunteers for events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this event a drop-off? All camps are drop-off unless parent participation is indicated. Parents may wait at the venue for the duration of the camp in any of the lounge or seating area throughout the hotel. The meeting room space capacity can only accommodate students and staff.
Is the registration fee refundable? The registration fee is non-refundable unless the organizer cancels the session. If a participant is unable to attend a session a credit will be placed on file that may be used at any time for a future program. The credit does not expire.
Is this a partisan program or supported by a political party? No, the Girls in Politics Initiative is an independent organization that is self-funded through the fees generated from hosting sessions. The curriculum is civic education.
Is financial assistance available? Due to rising costs associated with hosting events, there is no financial assistance available for this event and there is no promo code for this event.
Who are the instructors? Our Lead Instructors are women that currently or have previously worked in government or electoral politics. Our support staff are current or former licensed teachers. All instructors and support staff undergo background screening. All instructors and support staff are also in compliance with any local ordinances or state/provincial regulations applicable to those working with children.

California Higher Education Policy Institute for Legislative Staff
2026-02-09 11:30 - 13:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Foundation for California Community Colleges, 1102 Q Street, #Suite 4800, Sacramento, CA, 95811, United States
Share policy insights on higher education ROI, student affordability barriers, and federal and state budget issues with experts and peers.

2026 California Higher Education Policy Institute for Legislative Staff
Join California Competes: Higher Education for a Strong Economy for a special institute hosted just for legislative staff on Monday, February 9 from 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. in Downtown Sacramento. We’ll lead discussions on critical issues shaping California’s higher education landscape, share practical knowledge to address today’s challenges, including a budget overview by Keely Bosler, and leave time for you to connect with us and with each other. Special thanks to our Game Changer sponsors, College Futures Foundation, the Evelyn and Walter Haas, Jr. Fund, and Michelson 20MM Foundation and our Champion sponsor CollegeAPP.
We’ll serve lunch, provided by Camden Spit & Larder, and have custom swag for you. The event has limited capacity, so make sure to RSVP now to save your seat and invite your legislative peers!
If you have questions, email event planner Tamara Torlakson at tt@tamaratorlakson.com.

Pop-Propaganda: How the Kremlin Markets Its War Like Disney & Coca-Cola
2026-02-09 17:00 - 18:30 (America/New_York) | S354, CGIS South Building, 1730 Cambridge Street, 1730 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA, 02138, United States
Join us for a lecture that will explore how the Kremlin’s information apparatus no longer relies solely on agitprop and censorship.

How does the Kremlin sell Putin, the war in Ukraine, and the erosion of freedoms in the age of the attention economy? Modern Russian propaganda is much more than angry talk-show hosts waving missiles on TV or troll farms flooding social media. It’s influencers, streaming platforms, and marketing campaigns that advertise the Kremlin’s agenda the same way Nike advertises its sneakers. This lecture will explore how the Kremlin’s information apparatus no longer relies solely on agitprop and censorship, instead functioning like a slick media conglomerate that seamlessly blends state messaging and pop culture.

Dr. Bob Wachter: How AI Is Transforming Health Care
2026-02-09 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | The Commonwealth Club, 110 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA, 94105, United States
Will a collaboration of humans & technology be successful in the long term? Will it become the savior of health care or just another pain?

Artificial intelligence can now match and sometimes surpass physicians in areas such as diagnosis to empathy. What does that mean for doctors, patients, and the future of our health care? Join us for a look at AI in medicine from the physician who has more than a dozen times ranked as one of the 50 most influential physician-executives in the United States by Modern Healthcare magazine, Robert Wachter, M.D.
Wachter will sift out the facts from the hype and make a compelling argument for AI’s power to transform health care. He says that the system is currently buckling under the weight of bureaucratic pressures, soaring costs, and clinician burnout; in that environment, AI doesn’t have to be perfect, just better.
Wachter conducted extensive research and more than 100 interviews with leaders in medicine, technology, policy and business; he presented the results in his new book A Giant Leap: How AI is Transforming Healthcare and What That Means for Our Future. In it, he also considers challenges such as AI hallucinations, biases and misinformation. Yet AI is already in hospitals and clinics drafting notes, answering patient questions, recommending treatments, interpreting images, and guiding surgeries.
Will this collaboration of humans and technology be successful in the long term? Will it become the savior of health care or just another source of harm and frustration?
SPEAKERS
Dr. Robert Wachter, Professor and Chair of the Department of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and Author of “A Giant Leap: How AI Is Transforming Healthcare and What That Means for Our Future”
In Conversation with DJ Patil, Former U.S. Chief Data Scientist, General Partner, GreatPoint Ventures, Member, Commonwealth Club World Affairs of California Board of Governors
5:30 p.m. doors open & check-in6–7 p.m. program7 p.m. book signing(all times Pacific Time)
Wachter photo by Susan Merrell; photo courtesy the speaker.

Meet the Candidates
2026-02-10 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | 600 Bellwood Ave, 600 Bellwood Avenue, Bellwood, IL, 60104, United States
Meet and hear from the up coming election candidates

Securing Peace in Europe After the Cold War: NATO and Russia
2026-02-10 12:30 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | PA
Join us for a talk about NATO-Russia relations through the Soviet Era until the present day.

After the Cold War, the United States and its NATO allies faced crucial questions. Could Russia and other former Soviet republics be integrated into the liberal international order? What roles should former Soviet republics and satellite states in Eastern and Central Europe play in the Euro-Atlantic security system? These questions have taken on renewed significance since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, as Vladimir Putin has portrayed Russia as the victim of Western expansionism.

Kenneth Wilcox: The China Business Conundrum
2026-02-10 17:30 - 18:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | The Commonwealth Club, 110 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA, 94105, United States
A cautionary tale & guidance for all Western bankers, C-suite executives, consultants & entrepreneurs seeking to do business within China.

The China Business Conundrum: Ensure That “Win-Win” Doesn’t Mean Western Companies Lose Twice describes former Silicon Valley Bank CEO Ken Wilcox’s firsthand challenges he encountered in four years “on the ground” trying to establish a joint venture between SVB and the Chinese government to fund local innovation design―and what he says were Chinese Communist Party efforts to systematically sabotage the project and steal SVB’s business model. His book provides actionable advice drawn from meticulous notes Wilcox took from interviews with people from all walks of Chinese life, including party and non-party members, the business elite, and domestic workers.
Describing a China he found fascinating and maddeningly complex,Wilcox explores topics including:

Difficulties in transplanting SVB’s model to China, from misunderstandings about titles and responsibilities to pitched battles over toilet design
Ethics and practices widely adopted by Chinese businesses today and why China must be met with realistic expectations
Wilcox’s own honest missteps and the painfully learned lessons that came afterwards

Join us to hear Wilcox share his cautionary tale and offer guidance for all Western bankers, C-suite executives, consultants, and entrepreneurs seeking to do business within China.
A 30-year veteran of Silicon Valley Bank, Kenneth Wilcox was the bank’s CEO from 2001 to 2011 and vice chairman of SVB’s joint venture in Shanghai (SSVB) until 2019. He is a former member of the board of directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco.
SPEAKERS
Kenneth Wilcox, Former CEO, Silicon Valley Bank; Former Vice Chairman , SVB’s join venture in Shanghai; Former Member, Board of Directors, Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco; Author, The China Business Conundrum: Ensure That “Win-Win” Doesn’t Mean Western Companies Lose Twice
Kalidip Choudhury, Ph.D., Chair, Asia-Pacific Affairs Member-led Forum, Commonwealth Club World Affairs of California—Moderator
5 p.m. doors open & check-in5:30–6:30 p.m. program6:30 p.m. book signing(all times Pacific Time)
Photo courtesy the speaker.

The Economy 2026: Bubble or Boom?
2026-02-11 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | The Commonwealth Club, 110 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA, 94105, United States
In our annual economic forecast, our experts go beyond the hype and doomsaying to break down what it all means for your bottom line.

The Walter E. Hoadley Annual Economic Forecast, presented by Bank of America.
Are we in an AI-driven financial bubble? New York Times financial journalist Andrew Ross Sorkin, author of a new book on the 1929 stock market crash, thinks so. “I just can’t tell you when, and I can’t tell you how deep,” he has said. “But I can assure you, unfortunately, I wish I wasn’t saying this, we will have a crash.”
But other experts, notably Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, doesn’t think the AI boom is another dot-com bubble. “These companies … actually have business models and profits… So it’s really a different thing,” Powell said in October.
So what’s the average consumer and investor to do? In Commonwealth Club World Affairs’ annual economic forecast, our experts will go beyond the hype and doomsaying to break down what it all means for your bottom line.
Will the stock market continue to rally, or will there be a correction? How will tariff chaos and the immigration crackdown impact the economy? What can we expect with future interest rate cuts, and with President Trump’s efforts to influence the Fed?
We’ll take up those questions and much more with our expert panel.
NOTES
This event is underwritten by Bank of America.
10:30 a.m. doors open & check-in11–12 p.m. program(all times Pacific Time)
Attendees subject to search. No large bags or backpacks.
All ticket sales are final and nonrefundable.

Politics and Business Networking|Elevating Your Potential- Long Island City
2026-02-11 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | The Beast Next Door, 42-51 27th Street, Queens, NY, 11101, United States
Strive welcomes you to ‘Politics and Business Networking’, an event for tenured and newcomers at The Beast Next Door! Event is 21+.

Strive welcomes you to ‘Politics and Business Networking’, Long Island City’s hottest networking event! We are set in the perfect central location for all to join.

Are you interested in politics and business? Want to elevate your career? Meet Consultants, Analysts of all types, Entrepreneurs, Lawyers, Political Science Professionals and more who are active in the space or are eager to get started.

**This will be a multi-vertical event**
There will be professionals with backgrounds in the arts, finance, tech, real estate, healthcare, and more. Come with an open mind, and leave with connections that wouldn’t be possible otherwise!

Pack some business cards and come with an open mind!

Meet your future business partners, employers, coworkers, investors, and friends. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to expand your network and create a brighter future.

We will have a space for our event to check-in.

The event will go from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM(feel free to come at any point in this timeframe).

Name tags will be provided.

Business casual dress code. Job fair attire.

Remember – it’s not about who you know today, it’s who you’ll meet tomorrow!

We look forward to meeting you at the event!

Sincerely,
Strive Networking Team

Refund requests are permitted up to 24 hours after purchase, so long as we are not within 48 hours before the event start time. Refunds will be made in full and repaid to your method of payment. Note that we are unable to reimburse for eventbrite fees.

Disclaimer: By attending Strive Networking events you agree to photos/videos taken during the event being used to promote future events.

GDIT Emerge: Modern Government 2026
2026-02-12 08:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Waldorf Astoria Washington DC, 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC, 20004, United States
Join agency leaders and industry experts at GDIT Emerge: Modern Government!

Emerge: Modern Government
Federal agencies are under increasing pressure to modernize systems, streamline processes, and deliver services that meet the expectations of today’s citizens. Advanced technologies including agentic AI, AI software development and automation are creating opportunities for leaders to harness innovation in holistic ways that make government more efficient, effective, and responsive.
Join government and industry leaders to explore how smarter technology solutions create connected systems and tools for mission delivery. Through keynote discussions and interactive panels, attendees will examine strategies for modernizing legacy infrastructure, bringing commercial best practices to government, improving the user and customer experience, and driving faster, sustainable technology integration across government.

How Intelligence Supports National Security Policy
2026-02-12 11:00 - 12:15 (America/New_York) | 121 Bay State Rd, 121 Bay State Road, Boston, MA, 02215, United States
Join us for a discussion of intelligence and national security policy.

Please join United States Army Lieutenant General Joseph Patrick McGee for a talk on security policy and intelligence.

The Race for Governor 2026: Antonio Villaraigosa
2026-02-12 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | The Commonwealth Club, 110 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA, 94105, United States
Come meet the candidate, hear his vision for California, and ask your questions before you cast your vote for California’s next governor.

Former Los Angeles Mayor and California Assembly speaker Antonio Villaraigosa says he’s running for California governor because the state needs an experienced “problem-solver” who can work across the aisle.
Born and raised in L.A., Villaraigosa was expelled from one high school and dropped out of another before getting back on track with the help of an English teacher, eventually graduating from UCLA. A longtime union organizer, he also served as president of the Southern California chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union.
Villaraigosa, who previously ran for governor in 2018, says he would focus on public safety, housing and homelessness, and affordability if elected. He points to accomplishments such as a decrease in violent crime and increase in graduation rates during his tenure as Los Angeles mayor. In Sacramento, he says, he “worked with both parties to balance the state budget, with record investments in education and public safety, while holding the line on taxes.”
Villaraigosa joins Commonwealth Club World Affairs as part of our “Race for Governor 2026” series of candidate forums. Come meet the candidate, hear his vision for California, and ask your questions before you cast your vote for California’s next governor.
Notes
Attendees subject to search. No large bags or backpacks.
SPEAKERS
Antonio Villaraigosa, Candidate for California Governor
Moderator: Scott Shafer, Senior, Editor, KQED’s Politics and Government desk; Co-host, “Political Breakdown” podcast
11:30 a.m. doors open & check-in12–1 p.m. program(all times Pacific Time)
Photo courtesy the speaker.
Commonwealth Club World Affairs is a public forum. Any views expressed in our programs are those of the speakers and not of Commonwealth Club World Affairs.
All ticket sales are final and nonrefundable.

Skills for a Workforce of Humans, Agents and Robots
2026-02-12 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | The Commonwealth Club, 110 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA, 94105, United States
Hear experts discuss the research findings and share practical guidance for navigating the transition to human-AI collaboration at work.

AI-powered agents and robots are already technically capable of performing an increasing share of human work. So how can workers, managers and organizations adapt to the dramatic shift?
A new McKinsey Global Institute report offers a roadmap. While AI is transforming the workplace at unprecedented speed, people will remain essential for many tasks that are still beyond AI’s capabilities—and to supervise, manage and collaborate with the technology. In fact, the demand for workers with AI fluency has grown dramatically over the past two years. Work in the future will be a partnership between people, agents and robots.
Which skills are likely to be most—and least—impacted by automation? How can public institutions help by aligning education and training with emerging skill needs—from AI fluency to skilled trades—and widening access to opportunity? And what strategies can organizations adopt to help their workforce adapt? Join us for a conversation with report authors Alexis Krivkovich and Anu Madgavkar of McKinsey Global Institute, along with Kevin Delaney, editor-in-chief of The San Francisco Standard. They will discuss the research findings and share practical guidance for navigating the transition to human-AI collaboration at work.
SPEAKERS
Alexis Krivkovich, Senior Partner, McKinsey & Company; Global Co-head and North American Leader, McKinsey’s People & Organizational Performance Practice
Anu Magkavkar, Partner, McKinsey Global Institute
Kevin Delaney, Editor-in-Chief, The San Francisco Standard; Cofounder and Editor-in-Chief, Charter
5:30 p.m. doors open & check-in6–7 p.m. program(all times Pacific Time)
Photos courtesy the speakers.

Paul Eastwick: The New Science of Love and Connection
2026-02-13 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | The Commonwealth Club, 110 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA, 94105, United States
Prepare scientifically for Valentine’s Day, and put the new science into practice afterward at our dance party on the rooftop terrace.

Join us at Commonwealth Club World Affairs on February 13 to prepare scientifically for Valentine’s Day.
Paul Eastwick has taken a groundbreaking look at the science of attraction and compatibility, challenging our most fundamental assumptions about how human mating has evolved. Eastwick takes exception to evolutionary psychology’s claim, cloaked in incontrovertible Darwinian terms, that our minds have been shaped by primal drives that pit the genders against each other—from the myth that men are wired to be promiscuous to the notion that wealth, status and beauty are the ultimate aphrodisiacs.
Drawing on pathbreaking research—including original experiments from his own UC Davis lab—Eastwick reveals that these stories bear little resemblance to how pair-bonding really works. While beauty and charisma factor into first impressions, their influence fades fast. Lasting attraction is built through gradual, often mundane moments that forge strong attachment bonds.
Eastwick’s liberating new paradigm for finding meaningful, exciting relationships includes: that personality, lifestyle, values and humor are poor predictors of compatibility; that a person’s tendency to “date around” has little bearing on their long-term relationship potential; and that the most secure relationships offer a “safe haven” and “secure base” for each partner.
By excavating the hidden history of human mating, Eastwick paints a radical new picture of the roots of enduring chemistry. Distilling evolutionary biology, anthropology and psychology into accessible insights, Eastwick explains a more evolved approach to dating which makes it far more effective.
All ticket sales are final and nonrefundable.
SPEAKER
Paul Eastwick, Professor of Psychology, UC Davis; Head, Social-Personality Psychology Program; Director, Attraction and Relationships Research Laboratory; Author, Bonded by Evolution: The New Science of Love and Connection
In Conversation with Kathryn Paige Harden, Ph.D., Professor of Clinical Psychology, University of Texas
5:30 p.m. doors open & check-in6–7 p.m. program7 p.m. book signing (all times Pacific Time)
Eastwick photo by Alison Ledgerwood; courtesy the speaker.

Camp Congress for Girls DC 2026
2026-02-14 08:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | 550 School St SW, 550 School Street Southwest, Washington, DC, 20024, United States
It’s all fun & civics at Camp Congress for Girls DC 2026. Young leaders study government, run for office & pass a bill.

Camp Congress for Girls DC 2026 is a leadership program that introduces girls to United States politics. Camp begins with a lesson on the structure of our political system. Each girl will choose to run for a seat in the US House of Representatives, the US Senate or for the presidency. She will create her own campaign with a platform, campaign finance plan, and film a political ad. All campers will register to vote and then vote in an election. Once elected to Congress and sworn in, the newly installed members of Congress will learn how to introduce a bill, debate the merits of the bill, lobby fellow legislators, collaborate with the Executive branch and finally vote on the proposed bill. Camp will culminate with a ceremonial signing of the bill by our Ms. President. Girl Scouts qualify to earn a Girl Scout badge; badges not provided.
For additional information contact us at +1 866-277-2123 extension 1, via email at info@girlsinpolitics.com or visit our website at www.girlsinpolitics.com. Ticketing options for girls ages 8-11 and 12-17. Please no solicitation emails or calls. We do not book speakers, book vendors or recruit volunteers for events.
Looking for more events? View our 2026-27 schedule at https://girlsinpoliticsinitiative.eventbrite.com/
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this event a drop-off? All camps are drop-off unless parent participation is indicated. Parents may wait at the venue for the duration of the camp in any of the lounge or seating area throughout the hotel. The meeting room space capacity can only accommodate students and staff.
Is the registration fee refundable? The registration fee is non-refundable unless the organizer cancels the session. If a participant is unable to attend a session a credit will be placed on file that may be used at any time for a future program. The credit does not expire.
Is this a partisan program or supported by a political party? No, the Girls in Politics Initiative is an independent organization that is self-funded through the fees generated from hosting sessions. The curriculum is civic education.
Is financial assistance available? Due to rising costs associated with hosting events, there is no financial assistance available for this event and there is no promo code for this event.
Who are the instructors? Our Lead Instructors are women that currently or have previously worked in government or electoral politics. Our support staffers are current or former licensed teachers. All instructors and support staff undergo background screening. All instructors and support staff are also in compliance with any local ordinances or state/provincial regulations applicable to those working with children.

Camp United Nations for Girls DC 2026
2026-02-14 13:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | 550 School St SW, 550 School Street Southwest, Washington, DC, 20024, United States
At Camp United Nations for Girls students will learn about the work of the United Nations, diplomacy and hone problem-solving skills.

Camp United Nations for Girls DC 2026 introduces girls to the work of the United Nations and international policy. Camp United Nations begins with a lesson on the history of the United Nations and the organization’s purpose. This is followed by a study of the structure, leadership, and the rules of procedure of the United Nations. Each student will be given an assignment to serve as a delegate for a UN Member State. When the General Assembly convenes delegates will propose a resolution. The resolution will be subject to negotiation and amendment by the UN Delegates before a vote on a final version of the resolution. Girl Scouts and Girl Guides qualify to earn a Global Action Award or World Thinking badge for participating in Camp United Nations for Girls; awards and badges not provided.
For additional information contact us at +1 866-277-2123 extension 1, via email at info@girlsinpolitics.com or visit our website at www.girlsinpolitics.com. Ticketing options for girls ages 9-11 and 12-17. Please no solicitation emails or calls. We do not book speakers, book vendors or recruit volunteers for events.
Looking for more events? View our 2026-27 schedule at https://girlsinpoliticsinitiative.eventbrite.com/
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this event a drop-off? All camps are drop-off unless parent participation is indicated. Parents may wait at the venue for the duration of the camp in any of the lounge or seating area throughout the hotel. The meeting room space capacity can only accommodate students and staff.
Is the registration fee refundable? The registration fee is non-refundable unless the organizer cancels the session. If a participant is unable to attend a session a credit will be placed on file that may be used at any time for a future program. The credit does not expire.
Is this a partisan program or supported by a political party? No, the Girls in Politics Initiative is an independent organization that is self-funded through the fees generated from hosting sessions. The curriculum is civic education.
Is financial assistance available? Due to rising costs associated with hosting events, there is no financial assistance available for this event and there is no promo code for this event.
Who are the instructors? Our Lead Instructors are women that currently or have previously worked in government or electoral politics. Our support staffers are current or former licensed teachers. All instructors and support staff undergo background screening. All instructors and support staff are also in compliance with any local ordinances or state/provincial regulations applicable to those working with children.

Camp Congress for Youth New York 2026
2026-02-15 13:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | 1717 Broadway, 1717 Broadway, New York, NY, 10019, United States
It’s all civics & fun. Girls and boys study government, run for office, vote and convene a mock session of Congress to pass a bill.

Camp Congress for Youth NYC 2026 is a leadership program that introduces girls and boy to the United States political system. Camp begins with a lesson on the structure of our political system. Each student will choose to run for a seat in the US House of Representatives, the US Senate or for the presidency. Students will create a campaign with a platform, campaign finance plan, and film a political ad. All campers will register to vote and then vote in an election. Once elected to Congress and sworn in, the newly installed members of Congress will learn how to introduce a bill, debate the merits of the bill, lobby fellow legislators, collaborate with the Executive branch and finally vote on the proposed bill. Camp will culminate with a ceremonial signing of the bill by our President. All participants will receive Certificate of Completion.
For additional information contact us at +1 866-277-2123 extension 1, via email at info@girlsinpolitics.com or visit our website at www.girlsinpolitics.com. Ticketing options for girls ages 8-11 and 12-17. Please no solicitation emails or calls. We do not book speakers, book vendors or recruit volunteers for events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this event a drop-off? All camps are drop-off unless parent participation is indicated. Parents may wait at the venue for the duration of the camp in any of the lounge or seating area throughout the hotel. The meeting room space capacity can only accommodate students and staff.
Is the registration fee refundable? The registration fee is non-refundable unless the organizer cancels the session. If a participant is unable to attend a session a credit will be placed on file that may be used at any time for a future program. The credit does not expire.
Is this a partisan program or supported by a political party? No, the Girls in Politics Initiative is an independent organization that is self-funded through the fees generated from hosting sessions. The curriculum is civic education.
Is financial assistance available? Due to rising costs associated with hosting events, there is no financial assistance available for this event and there is no promo code for this event.
Who are the instructors? Our Lead Instructors are women that currently or have previously worked in government or electoral politics. Our support staffers are current or former licensed teachers. All instructors and support staff undergo background screening. All instructors and support staff are also in compliance with any local ordinances or state/provincial regulations applicable to those working with children.
