Together for Democracy brought together a diverse range of leaders, advocates, scholars, artists, innovators, and community change-makers from communities across the nation. The three-day convening featured panels and conversations with civil rights leaders such as Maya Wiley of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, policymakers including U.S. Congressman Joaquin Castro and Tennessee State Representative Justin Jones, prominent scholars, and other national and local change-makers.
Panels at the event included not only discussions about ongoing threats, but also conversations about the inspirational work being done in cities and towns across the country to defend democracy, as well as tactics and tools that have proven effective in those fights. Experts shared insights and information with attendees about digital engagement, grassroots coalition building and storytelling, while public servants and other speakers offered attendees inspiration.
“Democracy is not a given, we must work to keep it. Attacks on public education, the rise of censorship, far-right religious extremism and Christian Nationalism, and attacks on civil rights threaten our nation’s promise of a democracy that works for all during this time. These are the top-of-mind, kitchen table issues that directly affect communities and people’s lives. By bringing together the people doing the hard work on the ground to defend our democracy, those who represent the fabric of our country, we are building the network we need to ensure future generations do not have their freedoms and rights eradicated by extremists.”
Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward