MWELA 2026 Annual Reception & Fundraiser

Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2026

Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT

Location: Fogo de Chão
1101 Pennsylvania Ave.
Washington, DC, 20004
202-347-4668

About the Event

Join us for the Metropolitan Washington Employment Lawyers Association (MWELA) 2026 Annual Reception & Fundraiser! Celebrate and support our ongoing mission to advance and uphold employee rights. This premier gathering brings together fellow advocates to celebrate our collective achievements, network, and contribute to a vital cause within the legal community.

Why Your Support Matters

Your attendance and contributions directly fuel MWELA’s impactful work, including:

• Lobbying & Advocacy: Crucial efforts to improve employment and civil rights laws across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.

• Educational Programs: Leading-edge professional development and learning opportunities for legal professionals.

• Networking Events: Fostering community, collegiality, and professional growth among practitioners.

• Scholarships: Financial assistance for members to support membership dues and attendance at the MWELA Annual Conference or national NELA convention.

Celebrating Our Collective Impact

MWELA remains a powerful force for workplace justice. Our members have been instrumental in:

• Enhancing employment and civil rights legislative landscapes in the DMV area.

• Planning substantive programs alongside distinguished judges and legal practitioners from various jurisdictions.

• Expanding professional networks and community through regular social events.

• Earning prestigious recognition, such as the DC Bar's Voluntary Bar Association of the Year Award.

Sponsorship Opportunities

MWELA is incredibly grateful to the firms and corporate sponsors whose generosity makes this event possible. Dedicated sponsorship tiers (Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze) are available to showcase your organization’s commitment to civil rights and employee advocacy. 

Register as a Sponsor.

Registration & Rates

• MWELA Members (Regular, President’s Club, Sustaining & Non-Attorney Legal Professionals): $80.00

• MWELA Student Members: $55.00

• Non-Members / Guests: $95.00

Register to attend.

Know Before You Go

The restaurant is conveniently located near the Federal Triangle and Metro Center subway stations. Valet parking is available during dinner for $12, located on the 11th Street side of the restaurant. Limited metered parking is available. Parking garages are located on 11th St. between E and F Streets, and on 11th St. between F and G Streets. (Note: It is recommended that attendees verify local parking or valet options directly with Fogo de Chão closer to the event date).


Thank you to our Sponsors

Platinum Level

Katz Banks Kumin

Gold Level

Gilbert Employment Law, P.C.
Kalijarvi, Chuzi, Newman & Fitch, P.C.
The Employment Law Group
The Erlich Law Office, PLLC