The State of American Democracy Project seeks to strengthen democratic institutions by igniting an honest conversation on equality, justice, tolerance and fairness. This episode is the first of a ten-part conversation series, where political thought leaders explore the moral foundations of democracy as the most certain way of defending the dignity of all citizens.

Reforms will not be adequate enough to confront deteriorating democratic institutions without structural political and economic shifts. America is overdue for a reckoning with the dark side of its history — including racism, inequality, militarized violence, stolen land, voter suppression and corruption. It’s imperative that compassion and justice guide the movement toward a more just democracy.

To see the whole project, visit the State of American Democracy website.