The People’s Forum is grounded in the principle: “Where the People’s Knowledge and Lived Experiences Are the Authority.” We hope that you will join us in this meaningful dialogue between candidates and community members centered on the vision: “Seeking to form a government of us. For us. By us.”

The forum will focus on community priorities including health, housing, and employment. Questions for candidates will be submitted by community members in advance and developed by The People’s Forum Advisory Committee, which includes representatives from advocacy, business, education, health, youth, elders(65+), entrepreneurs, recreation, safety, employment, housing, and transportation sectors. 

Candidates will receive questions approximately 72 hours prior to the forum.

During the forum, candidates may request a 10-minute debate period to respond to or challenge another candidate’s policy position. Moderators will guide the discussion and may adapt questions as needed to facilitate productive dialogue. Any candidate may decline a debate invitation, and the forum will proceed with the next question selected by the moderators.

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, April 22, 2026 (Earth Day)

Opening: 6:30 PM

Debate & Discussion Schedule

6:45 PM - U.S. House Candidates

7:30 PM - Mayoral Candidates

8:30 PM - At-Large Council Member Candidates

Invited Moderators

Markus Batchelor - Candidate, U.S. Senate (Shadow), Washington, D.C.

Bernita Carmichael - Candidate, Council member, Ward 5, Washington, D.C.

Location (Livestream Venue):

Restoration Station

4063 Minnesota Ave, NE

Washington, D.C. 20019

(limited Parking available on site, additional parking across the street behind the Department of Employment Services Minnesota Ave Metro Station Parking Deck)