Deepening polarization poses an existential challenge to America's Constitutional democracy. A study by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace study found that “severe polarization correlates with serious democratic decline” and the unprecedented extended period of intense polarization in the United States puts it in “uncharted and very dangerous territory."
Building a healthier and more resilient democracy depends heavily on our ability to reduce polarization by leaning in, listening first, and resisting the temptation to vilify those whose opinions are different from our own. A healthier democracy doesn't require more agreement. It requires that we cherish and nurture mankind's noblest and fairest system for managing our differences.
Team Democracy’s mission is to bring Americans of all political perspectives together around our shared commitment to the core democratic principles of our Constitutional Republic. We promote and amplify positive messages and actions that underscore the importance of our democratic institutions, norms and processes.
Studies from psychological literature show that one of the most effective ways to overcome polarization is through reinforcing a shared purpose or identity. To that end, we promote three core initiatives that:
Amplify Americans' shared values in support of safe and fair elections;
Inspire and incentivize opportunities for broader, healthier civic engagement; and
Create national events that exemplify the value of pulling ourselves together rather than pulling ourselves apart
In a few short years, Team Democracy has helped Americans to affirm and celebrate our shared values and vision, through each of our three core initiatives. We have
Earned over 4,700 signatures on the Principles for Trusted Elections from supporters, candidates, and organizations from everywhere on the political spectrum.
Launched a digital Civics Credentialing System (CCS) creating pathways that help inspire, amplify and reward Americans' healthier civic engagement;
Hosted 5 rafting trips for R.A.F.T. for America across the country in 2024, continuing to highlight the power of real-world collaboration across the country.
Team Democracy is building upon the success of three powerful initiatives in 2024:
The Civics Credentialing Platform, built on open digital badge technology, encourages broader and deeper civic participation by citizens, civic leaders and organizations. . Shared across social media platforms, digital badges give added voice and visibility to the actions and behaviors that strengthen our Constitutional democracy.
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Team Democracy hosted red/blue pairs of Americans (civic leaders, lawmakers and everyday citizens) on 2024 rafting adventures from coast to coast, demonstrating that no matter what our differences, as Americans we are all in the same boat, and we always do better by pulling together than by pulling apart. Read about our 2024 season and plans for 2025.
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The Principles for Trusted Elections is a cross-partisan national program helping to restore voters’ confidence in our democratic republic sponsored . by the Carter Carter Center and Gerald R. Ford Presidential Center and managed by Team Democracy. Sign the Principles for Trusted Elections and show your support for fair, safe, and secure elections.
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