New Program Brings Democracy to Life—and Young People to the Table 

Dear Friends,

At Everyday Democracy, we know Democracy is not built at the ballot box—it takes root in the stories we share, the art we create, and the spaces where we gather to learn, reflect, and imagine together.

That’s why we’re excited to launch our new Arts, Culture, & Democracy Program. In partnership with museums, libraries, and cultural institutions, this bold initiative creates interactive experiences that bring communities together to explore history, practice democratic skills, envision a more inclusive future—and take action.

This April, we kicked off our first two events at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and the Westport Museum for History & Culture. These experiences brought students and community members into deep dialogue—through art, food, and reflection—about identity, power, civic responsibility, and the histories that shape our lives today. These were not lectures or panel discussions—they were interactive, collaborative spaces where history comes alive and democratic skills are practiced in real time.

Read on to see how students in Boston and Connecticut are discovering their civic power through cultural experience—and how Everyday Democracy is building a more inclusive, multiracial democracy from the ground up. 

Yours,

Merle McGee, President & CEO

Cultivate Joy: A Physical Antidote to Disconnection

In a time of growing disconnection, small moments of trust and care matter. A 20-second hug might seem simple—but science shows it can reduce stress, foster trust, and strengthen the bonds we need for collective resilience.

For a multiracial democracy to thrive, we need more than policy—we need connetion, shared joy, and the energy to keep going. Practices like these remind us that connection is civic infrastructure.

Learn more about the 20-second hug—and try it today.

Support a Culture of Democracy

Everyday Democracy is powered by everyday people – like you. Your contribution today supports interactive community and cultural events that equip the next generation with skills, knowldge, and connections to uphold democratic values.