How I Learned Civic Engagement Is Real —It’s How Democracy Works

How local involvement, public‑service networks, and everyday acts of civic responsibility shape democratic outcomes, especially in an era of polarization and declining institutional confidence.

The Real Threat to Democracy Is Not the Don – but Unrealistic Expectations

We fail democracy as an American ideal by allowing it to be flawed but expecting it to be flawless.

Can We Choose Democracy?

"Democracy isn’t a fixed state, it’s an ongoing project. Are we doing the work to keep it?"

The Obama Presidential Center Shows How Far We’ve Come — and How Far We’re Falling

"I felt the elation of how far we’ve come and the ache of how far we’re falling."

Fulcrum Fellowship Selects Six Emerging Journalists for 2026 Summer Program

Fellows will contribute reporting that expands the reach of their storytelling and strengthens journalism that informs, connects, and empowers communities

How Anti-Black Racism is Fueling the Widespread Cruelty Against Kevin González and Other Latinos

How systemic cruelty against Latinos is fueled by a U.S. racial hierarchy that equates "proximity to Blackness" with lower social worth.

Why an Ex‑Immigration Lawyer Found a New Mission Teaching Civics in Public Schools

During a recent civics class a student asked me why [...]

Sousveillance: When the Public Surveils the Surveillance State

Practical steps for safe sousveillance—the public's act of recording the surveillance state for accountability.

How Ranchers and Grassroots Organizers Are Shaping Democracy in Wyoming

"We bring Latinos and Native Americans. We bring them to the capital. We want people to start seeing us..."

How Community Television Strengthens Democratic Voices

CAN-TV, empowers residents to create and broadcast their own content, promoting local democracy and giving marginalized communities a voice.

How Move To Amend Is Challenging Corporate Power, One Resolution at a Time

Co-directors Alfonso Saldaña and Jennie Spanos lead a growing movement to curb the influence of money in American democracy

Does My Vote Still Matter?

The exhaustion voters are experiencing is causing citizens to disengage from politics.

A Letter to Latino Voters

Eligible Latino voters sat out an election whose outcome greatly impacts them.

Improving Infrastructure In Washington To Benefit Both People and Nature

A project in Bellevue to update essential wastewater systems is designed to improve habitats for fish and wildlife and increase access to natural areas for people of all abilities.

Marcela Betancur: Improving policymakers’ understanding of the community’s needs

The Latino Policy Institute focuses in areas including education, economic equity, housing, health, and workforce development.