Partners In Democracy
Danielle Allen, Kelly Chasse
Civic Lab
Partners In Democracy is pursuing democracy renovation to deliver a system where everyone is included and has real power to shape our shared future.
Year Founded: 2022
Founded in 2022 to bolster democracy in response to polarization and weakening trust, Partners In Democracy does one thing: democracy renovation. Democracy renovation reconnects people to civic life and redesigns our political institutions and civic infrastructure so people have the tools they need to be responsible and effective citizens— and politicians have the incentives they need to deliver responsive and accountable representation.
We are trapped in a vicious cycle in which dysfunctional institutions diminish interest in participation; reduced engagement in civil society organizations means less learning of habits of compromise and negotiation; a weaker civic culture leads to worse decision-making inside our political institutions.
A healthy democracy is a virtuous cycle in which responsive institutions motivate participation; and active participation in civil society organizations cultivates and is sustained by a civic culture of mutual respect, willingness to compromise, and problem-solving.
We need to flip from the negative to the positive equilibrium. Our 360° standard for healthy democracy – which analyzes democracy deficits in a place-based ways – drives that shift.
A healthy democracy depends on several pillars — not only the right to vote, but also the right to run for office, and the right to see and shape our communities. While many organizations champion one particular reform or focus on one particular aspect of our democracy, Partners In Democracy uses a holistic approach to bring together partners, draw on the strengths of a broad and inclusive coalition, and collectively carry forward a strategic, ambitious agenda for change. With their 360° Democracy Standard, Partners in Democracy prioritizes all the key pillars of a healthy democracy — ensuring they’re driving meaningful progress for the long haul.
Danielle Allen
President
Kelly Chasse
Chief of Staff
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