How Civil Society Organizations Can Contribute to Civic Education: Learnings from a Developing Country

November 1, 2024

Every democratic nation should prioritize developing leaders who act in the best interest of their communities. While governments have a role to play in this process, their efforts must be supported by social movements and civil society organizations.

An Allegory of Good Government and Bad Government

November 1, 2024

In these polarized times, do our political leaders still believe in simple, universal virtues of good governance and recognize the harms of poor governance—values and principles that transcend partisan lines? If so, what are they?

Tools for Building Trust through Law Enforcement-Community Dialogues

November 1, 2024

A recent publication by the U.S. Department of Justice outlines four key components that have fostered productive dialogues between law enforcement and community members. This article underscores the value of these elements and illustrates their implementation in two communities.

Community at the Heart of Health System Transformation: Lessons from Accountable Communities of/for Health

November 1, 2024

Over the last decade, federal and state policies have prioritized strengthening community health systems using approaches that center community residents and community-based organizations in transformation efforts.

More Than a Land Acknowledgement: Authentic Tribal and Urban Native Engagement

November 1, 2024

In recent years, the City of Seattle has begun a process of re-envisioning Tribal and urban Native engagement. This new approach better recognizes the political status of many Native communities and seeks to advance racial equity for all Native people. Through a two-pronged approach, the city has created and re-invigorated engagement pathways. 

The 2024 All-America Cities: Counterweights to the Challenges Facing American Democracy

November 1, 2024

In times of widespread political rancor, policy stagnation, and continued injustice, it’s easy to become despondent about the future. But this year’s All-America Cities and communities across the country are offering an alternative ending.

A Simple Recipe for Complex Community Change: Make Stone Soup 

October 31, 2024

The folk tale of Stone Soup offers important insights to communities seeking solutions for seemingly intractable problems. Among other insights, it suggests that communities already have the ingredients they need to take action and need not wait on resources from elsewhere.

Making Stone Soup: Stories from the Field

October 31, 2024

The folk tale of Stone Soup offers important insights to communities seeking solutions for seemingly intractable problems. Among other insights, it suggests that communities already have the ingredients they need to take action and need not wait on resources from elsewhere.

Return of the Citizen

July 15, 2024

Historically, two contrasting meanings of democracy and democratic governance have co-existed within the United States. One emphasizes politicians and government and the other the agency of the people.

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