Come join The Ark of Compassion (AOC) and Veg Society of DC (VSDC) for a Plant-Based Lunch & Learn on Saturday, December 13th!

Talk Title: Rethinking Fish - Science, Sentience & Health
Speaker: Mary Finelli, President and Founder of Fish Feel

• Location: Falafel Sam @ 2425 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
• Date & Time: Saturday, December 13th, 2:00–4:00 PM
• Cost/Food: Order at the counter (no set ticket price)

Exploring the Hidden Lives of Fish and Why It Matters

Join The Ark of Compassion (AOC) and the Veg Society of DC (VSDC) for a special Plant-Based Lunch & Learn featuring Mary Finelli, President and Founder of Fish Feel, the first organization devoted to promoting compassion and respect for fishes as sentient beings.

We now know that fishes are intelligent, social, and emotionally complex, yet they remain the most exploited vertebrate animals on the planet. Mary will explore what science reveals about fish sentience, the little-known realities of commercial fishing and aquaculture, why eating fish isn’t the health solution many believe it to be, and how we can all take practical steps to help protect these remarkable beings.

Whether you're curious about animal behavior, environmental issues, health, or simply want to learn something new, this is a welcoming, pressure-free space to explore new insights over a casual plant-based meal.

What You’ll Experience

A science-based look at fish sentience and the surprising abilities researchers are uncovering.
An accessible conversation about health, industry practices, and compassionate choices, presented without pressure or judgment.
A casual plant-forward meal at Falafel Sam, with options like falafel, hummus, pita sandwiches, salads, and more.

Questions? Contact Aashish Bhimani at 703-231-0291 (text preferred).

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The Ark of Compassion (AOC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting animal welfare through education, outreach, and partnerships that inspire beneficial change for all life. Founded on the belief that compassion should extend to every living being,

The Ark of Compassion bridges faith-based and secular communities to explore how our choices, traditions, and systems impact animals, people, and the planet. It creates inclusive spaces for conversation and action, helping launch events and ideas that bring people together. By turning meaningful moments into sustainable movements, AOC amplifies compassion into lasting change.

Its mission is inspired by faith, shaped by empathy and reason, and powered by a vision of a future in which animals, people, and the planet flourish together.

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The Veg Society of the District of Columbia (VSDC) is the nation’s oldest continuously operating 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization promoting an all-plant diet and vegan lifestyle through education, community-building, and social activities throughout the DC metro area.

VSDC believes in treating all people, animals, and the planet with respect and kindness. We are committed to creating a more compassionate and caring world.

We do this by creating a community of like-minded people who are on the path to an all-plant diet and vegan lifestyle. Whoever you are, and wherever you are on this path, we offer resources and fellowship to support you. We make your journey easier, more enjoyable and meaningful.

Plant-Based Lunch & Learn: Rethinking Fish - Science, Sentience & Health

Hosted by The Ark of Compassion and Veg Society of DC