As Election Day looms, anxieties run high. How can we navigate the uncertainty and potential chaos surrounding this pivotal moment for American democracy? Carrie Fox, CEO of Mission Partners, sits down with Joe Goldman, president of Democracy Fund, and Crystal Hayling, Democracy Fund board member, to explore these critical questions.
Drawing on their recent paper, “On Black Swans, Gray Rhinos and the 2024 Election,” Joe and Crystal offer a framework for resilience in the face of unpredictable events. They emphasize the importance of listening to frontline communities, who often recognize the warning signs of looming threats – the “gray rhinos” – long before they reach the mainstream, highlighting the overturning of Roe v. Wade as a prime example, noting that activists on the ground had foreseen the danger and stressed the critical link between voting rights and reproductive rights.
The conversation turns toward the concerning rise of political violence, a potential gray rhino demanding attention. Joe and Crystal underscore the importance of heeding the alarms raised by those most vulnerable to such threats, emphasizing that preparedness is not about predicting the future, but about empowering communities to respond effectively.
They discuss the crucial role of philanthropic funding in supporting these efforts. Crystal advocates for general operating support, giving organizations the flexibility to adapt to evolving challenges. They champion the “All By April” campaign, which encourages early funding disbursements to maximize impact, and introduce a new initiative, “Election Day to Every Day,” aimed at providing sustained support beyond the election cycle. This sustained support is vital, they argue, particularly given the possibility of delayed election results and the need for ongoing work to protect democratic integrity.
Finally, the fundamental question: Is American democracy possible? They agree that its survival depends on active engagement and a commitment to building a more inclusive and just system and urge listeners to join the fight. The responsibility for safeguarding democracy rests with all of us.
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