WASHINGTON, D.C. – The McCain Institute at Arizona State University (ASU) introduces “Defending American Democracy,” an event series that will assess the state of America’s democracy and aim to find common ground between voters and elected officials on both sides of the aisle.
The series will examine the biggest issues facing America’s democracy, including the role of journalism, voting rights, political violence and national security. By convening top experts and practitioners, the McCain Institute aims to spark a dialogue about America’s democracy and how all sides can come together to strengthen it.
To launch the series, the McCain Institute released a trailer that highlights the reasons for and themes of the event series. Watch the video here.
“Our country is in serious need of an introspective look at our own democracy,” said McCain Institute Executive Chairman Ambassador Josette Sheeran. “Thanks to the Knight Foundation, we look forward to bringing both sides of the aisle together for meaningful discussions about the ways we can best work together for the country we all love.”
“Renewing faith in America’s democracy will have effects far past our own borders,” said McCain Institute Senior Director for Human Rights and Democracy Programs Paul Fagan. “We are proud to convene these bipartisan discussions that in the spirit of Senator McCain will hopefully lead towards greater American unity.”
The first event of the McCain Institute’s “Defending American Democracy” series, Is the Loss of Local Journalism Endangering American Democracy?, will take place on Friday, February 18, at 12 p.m. EST. Register for the live event here.
These discussions are made possible by a grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.
About the McCain Institute at Arizona State University
Inspired by Senator John S. McCain and his family’s legacy of public service, the McCain Institute is fighting to secure democracy and alliances, defend human rights, protect the vulnerable and advance character-driven leadership, both at home and around the world.
About Arizona State University
Arizona State University has developed a new model for the American research university, creating an institution that is committed to access, excellence and impact. ASU measures itself by those it includes, not by those it excludes. As the prototype for a New American University, ASU pursues research that contributes to the public good, and ASU assumes major responsibility for the economic, social, and cultural vitality of the communities that surround it.