Dwell in Possibility | The 2023 ACLU-WA Annual Celebration

Join us for an evening of inspiration and connection.

Presenting Edgar Villanueva, award-winning author of Decolonizing Wealth, in conversation with ACLU-WA Executive Director Michele Storms. 

Performers include Black Belt Eagle Scout, Washington State Poet Laureate Arianne True, Blu, and more. Our emcee is Hollis Wong-Wear. 



5pm Reception | Drinks and appetizers
6pm Program | Performances, conversation, and awards 

We will honor our 2023 award recipients, who have championed the civil liberties and civil rights of our communities:
Rosalinda Guillen, William O. Douglas Bill of Rights Award
Nancy Talner, Kathleen Taylor Civil Libertarian Award
Ruby Alvarez-Clark, Youth Activist Award

Live ASL interpretation provided for both the in-person and virtual event. Please email [email protected] to request any other accommodations. 


In-person tickets range from $10-50. Each in-person ticket includes admission, two drinks (includes beer, wine, a signature cocktail and non-alcoholic drinks), appetizers, and exclusive gifts featuring artwork created for this event. At the request of a key event participant, we ask attendees to avoid using strong fragrances.


A $10 virtual ticket allows you to view the event as a live broadcast on October 21 at 6pm. We encourage you to view the event as it happens because only select portions of the program be available following the live broadcast. The keynote conversation with Edgar Villanueva will not be available after the live broadcast.

Art by Rabia Friedman, a first-generation Afghan American designer, illustrator, and food enthusiast. She recently joined the ACLU-WA as a graphic designer. Rabia’s illustration for this event references the cosmos to examine our existence and instill hope for the expansive space and possibility beyond us. See her work on Instagram @rabiafried.

Presented from stolen land, as we acknowledge broken treaties, genocide, and much work to be done to improve the lives of Indigenous peoples. The work we are doing will never be enough  – and, we will keep doing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

I bought tickets, but I don't see a confirmation email.
Please check your spam folder. If you still don't see anything, email [email protected]. If your payment method has been charged, you are on our list of registered attendees.

What is your COVID protocol for in-person attendees? 
Masks are welcomed, and will be available. Please note the reception will include food and drink. If you are sick, not feeling well, or have tested positive for Covid-19, please stay home and contact [email protected] to have your ticket transferred to the virtual viewing.

Will there be a full dinner?
No, but there will be heavy appetizers. We recommend making plans to eat dinner before or after the event. Food is permitted in the reception area but not in the performance space (the Great Hall). Lidded drinks are permitted in the Great Hall.

What time should I arrive?
Doors open at 5pm, and the program begins at 6pm. Please arrive in time to find a seat for the 6pm program. 

What should I wear?
Whatever makes you feel good! If it is helpful to know, our staff will be dressed in everything from business casual attire to cocktail and formal wear. At the request of a key event participant, we ask attendees to avoid using strong fragrances.

Is there reserved seating?
Seating is first come, first served. If you require any accommodations, please let us know at [email protected]. 

Is Town Hall accessible for people with disabilities?
Town Hall has several accessibility accommodation options. Details are here. Note that this event is NOT produced by Town Hall. Please note: At the request of a key event participant, we ask attendees to avoid using strong fragrances.

Is there parking?
Details coming soon!

How will I receive my ticket?
All tickets are will-call. Your name and number of tickets purchased will be on a list at registration. You do not need to print your confirmation.