Be a Good Citizen. Tips from Diplomat Richard Haass
Author and diplomat Richard Haass shares his quick “Haass Takes” on the 10 essential obligations of citizens that can help to heal a divided country and preserve American democracy.
A Citizen’s Guide to Preserving Democracy
We the People
This feel-good animated short celebrates the spirit of America and this country's democracy, which was built on the foundation that “We the People” are the source of our government’s power. Individuals can have a say in creating the kind of…
Inside the workshops teaching friends, neighbors and political foes to compromise
The U.S. is facing a deep crisis of polarization that is threatening our democracy. From the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol to the recent assassination attempt against Donald Trump, we are seeing that the increasingly bitter, ugly language…
Overseas and at home, these veterans are putting country first
In contemporary American politics, the concept that we’re all Americans first, and political party second, has waned in recent decades. But that idea is more important than ever as we take on internal and external threats to our democracy.
Meet the AmeriCorps members increasing internet access in rural towns
Public trust in the government is near historic lows, according to the Pew Research Center. Today, 35% of Democrats say they trust the federal government, compared with 11% of Republicans. But things don't have to stay this way. Through grassroots…
Get Involved: How will this Chicago-area community collectively spend $3 million?
Voting is the most obvious way to participate in our democracy. But, getting involved goes far beyond the vote. For Evanston, Illinois, participatory budgeting is one way to encourage civic participation, and invite community members’ ideas and voices into the…
Remain Civil: From political opposites to friends, the Civility Project was born
American democracy is under threat. Do you have what it takes to be a good citizen? Join Preserving Democracy as we dig into the ten habits of good citizens in a new digital series. In Episode 3, we explore what…
Promote the Common Good: What do Jay-Z and library card sign-ups have in common?
Public parks, mass transit and libraries are all examples of the common good. In the 1800s, free public libraries were commonplace in America. Over the centuries, they've evolved, providing resources for the public well beyond books. In 2023, the Brooklyn…
Be Informed: How local news orgs are reaching skeptics
A watchdog free press, also known as the Fourth Estate, is essential for a healthy democracy. Being informed is a critical part of being an engaged citizen. But in 2024, many Americans disagree about where and what news is accurate;…
A Citizen’s Guide to Preserving Democracy
American democracy is under threat. Do you have what it takes to be a good citizen? Join Preserving Democracy as we dig into the ten habits of good citizens in a new digital series, A Citizen’s Guide to Preserving Democracy.…
A Citizen’s Guide to Preserving Democracy
A Citizen’s Guide to Preserving Democracy is based on Richard Haass’ best-selling book "The Bill of Obligations: The Ten Habits of Good Citizens." Through interviews and real-life examples of tenets like 'Be Informed,' 'Reject Violence' and 'Stay Open to Compromise',…