VSDC Attends "Democracy in the District: Foie Gras and i86's Path to Law"

VSDC cordially invites you to attend a panel discussion about Initiative 86, "Prohibiting the Force-Feeding of Birds Act," which will be on the ballot in D.C. on November 3.

VSDC has endorsed i86.

Co-sponsored by GW's Animal Law Program and Student Animal Legal Defense Fund, and the Animal Law Committee of the DC Bar’s EENR Community

On November 3, 2026, DC voters will decide Initiative 86: Prohibiting Force-Feeding of Birds Act of 2026, which, if approved, would prohibit the sale of foie gras in D.C. that is produced by force-feeding ducks and geese.

Join us for a panel discussion exploring the initiative and the legal landscape surrounding it. Panelists will discuss:

• The goals and effects of Initiative 86: What the measure would prohibit, the animal welfare concerns behind it, and arguments for and against it. • The mechanics of ballot initiatives in DC: From petitioning and signature verification to certification and the vote itself. • Home Rule and federal oversight: How DC's unique governmental structure under the Home Rule Act shapes local lawmaking, and how District laws interact with federal law and congressional review.

Panelists: Oye Owolewa - United States Representative for the District of Columbia Adam Eidinger - Social Action Director, Dr. Bronner's Slobodan Milic - Partnerships Lead for Initiative 86

Light refreshments will be served. We hope to see you there!

You should RSVP on MeetUp if you plan to attend; HOWEVER, in order to ensure proper headcount for food that will be served, please RSVP using this Eventbrite link as well: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/democracy-in-the-district-foie-gras-and-initiative-86s-path-to-law-tickets-2002237680802.

The panel will be moderated by VSDC member Anjali Baliga.

The event will be held at the George Washington University Law School (Foggy Bottom metro stop) in the Faculty Conference Center on the 5th Floor.