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Christopher—

Every day we are reminded how the values of democracy and inclusion are threatened—from the weekly tumult in Washington to the ongoing threats facing communities of color and working families across the country.

As we move into 2020, the reality is that these threats to democracy, racial equity, and economic inclusion are not just about the current administration. They stem from a deeper, more systemic failure of our institutions to empower communities in the face of a changing economy and persistent disparities of economic and political power. The movements we build and the policies we propose in these next few years will shape our country for the next generation. 

Civic Power argues that democracy reform at its core has to focus on building and shifting power—and that requires investing in durable grassroots power, on the one hand, and transforming our governance institutions to be more democratically accountable and responsive on the other. This also means that many traditional tools of democracy reform are not powerful or transformative enough to meet the scale of the challenge we face.

Drawing on historical and social science research and case studies of contemporary democratic innovations across the country, Civic Power calls for a broader approach to democracy reform focused on meaningfully redistributing power to citizens. It advocates for both reviving grassroots civil society and novel approaches to governance, policymaking, civic technology, and institutional design. It has the aim of dismantling structural disparities to build a more inclusive, empowered, bottom-up democracy where communities and people have greater voice, power, and agency.

I am thrilled to be able to continue to explore these ideas at Demos. We are deeply committed to both building the independent grassroots power of communities of color and frontline communities, and to innovating bold transformative policy reforms that institutionalize greater democratic accountability and responsiveness. From our work with movement partners to our pioneering of policies that center racial equity and directly empower communities of color in everything from climate policy to economic governance, Demos has continued to be a leader on these issues. 

I hope that this book provides insight into what drives our overall work and theory of change and adds an element of urgency to the need for that change.

In Solidarity,

K. Sabeel Rahman
President, Demos

Daniel—

Today, Demos is launching a campaign for the month of December aimed at raising at least $100,000 to support our work in Winning the Next 20 Years—and we’re excited to announce that the first $25,000 raised will be matched by the Suzanne and David Johnson Foundation.

This Giving Tuesday, we encourage you to give whatever you can—whether $10, $25, $100, or more—to support our critical work, and see your impact doubled when you’re among the first to donate.

Rarely in recent history has the difference between two possible American futures seemed so stark. We can continue down our current path, dismantling democratic institutions and concentrating power among a shrinking number of people—or we can build multi-racial coalitions that put the tools of democracy and economic opportunity in everyone’s hands.

Demos has been at the forefront of the fight for that second future: halting efforts to purge voters in Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Texas; partnering with on-the-ground organizations to restore voting rights to people with felony records in Florida; and playing a key role in passing the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act in New York State, a model for equity-centered policy and advocacy that can be adopted by other states, and by the nation.

Today is a chance to stand as one against a future where only some voices are heard. In the crucial year ahead, we will continue to fight against voter suppression and disenfranchisement and to elevate the issues that will shape this country’s next 20 years—confronting the climate crisis, lifting the burden of student debt, and building the political power of communities of color to achieve a truly equitable society.

The inclusive future we envision is within our reach, and we’re putting in the work now, which is made possible by the backing of hundreds of supporters such as yourself.

Thank you for what you can give today.

In Solidarity,

K. Sabeel Rahman
President, Demos

Christopher—

Today, Demos is launching a campaign for the month of December aimed at raising at least $100,000 to support our work in Winning the Next 20 Years—and we’re excited to announce that the first $25,000 raised will be matched by the Suzanne and David Johnson Foundation.

This Giving Tuesday, we encourage you to give whatever you can—whether $10, $25, $100, or more—to support our critical work, and see your impact doubled when you’re among the first to donate.

Rarely in recent history has the difference between two possible American futures seemed so stark. We can continue down our current path, dismantling democratic institutions and concentrating power among a shrinking number of people—or we can build multi-racial coalitions that put the tools of democracy and economic opportunity in everyone’s hands.

Demos has been at the forefront of the fight for that second future: halting efforts to purge voters in Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Texas; partnering with on-the-ground organizations to restore voting rights to people with felony records in Florida; and playing a key role in passing the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act in New York State, a model for equity-centered policy and advocacy that can be adopted by other states, and by the nation.

Today is a chance to stand as one against a future where only some voices are heard. In the crucial year ahead, we will continue to fight against voter suppression and disenfranchisement and to elevate the issues that will shape this country’s next 20 years—confronting the climate crisis, lifting the burden of student debt, and building the political power of communities of color to achieve a truly equitable society.

The inclusive future we envision is within our reach, and we’re putting in the work now, which is made possible by the backing of hundreds of supporters such as yourself.

Thank you for what you can give today.

In Solidarity,

K. Sabeel Rahman
President, Demos

Daniel—

In 2018, Florida voted to enable citizens with felony records—people like me—to vote. My organization, the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, played a leading role in winning this right for 1.4 million Floridians. But we couldn’t have done it without Demos.

Demos equipped my organization with help and strategic advice on how to win the voting amendment. They supported my leadership when I felt I couldn’t go on. And this year, when our opponents in Florida tried to stop us from creating programs to help people overcome the barrier that fines and fees pose to the vote, Demos and its legal team showed up in federal court to defend our ability to help our community.

Those of us on the front lines of social justice need organizations like Demos that show up ready and able to fight for democracy.

Demos distinguishes itself by its commitment to centering and strengthening black and brown grassroots leadership and organizations. Through its Inclusive Democracy Project, Demos partners with my organization and 25 others in 15 states to advance democratic reform and racial equity.

The democracy that we knew and believed in is in grave danger. America needs Demos now more than ever.

Please give a tax-deductible donation to help Demos defend democracy and win a more inclusive future.

Thank you for your generosity.
 

In solidarity,

Desmond Meade of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition

Christopher—

In 2018, Florida voted to enable citizens with felony records—people like me—to vote. My organization, the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, played a leading role in winning this right for 1.4 million Floridians. But we couldn’t have done it without Demos.

Demos equipped my organization with help and strategic advice on how to win the voting amendment. They supported my leadership when I felt I couldn’t go on. And this year, when our opponents in Florida tried to stop us from creating programs to help people overcome the barrier that fines and fees pose to the vote, Demos and its legal team showed up in federal court to defend our ability to help our community.

Those of us on the front lines of social justice need organizations like Demos that show up ready and able to fight for democracy.

Demos distinguishes itself by its commitment to centering and strengthening black and brown grassroots leadership and organizations. Through its Inclusive Democracy Project, Demos partners with my organization and 25 others in 15 states to advance democratic reform and racial equity.

The democracy that we knew and believed in is in grave danger. America needs Demos now more than ever.

Please give a tax-deductible donation to help Demos defend democracy and win a more inclusive future.

Thank you for your generosity.
 

In solidarity,

Desmond Meade of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition

Daniel—

As we move into 2020, we’re proud to share a snapshot of our accomplishments from the last year.

One of Demos’ defining characteristics is our multi-faceted approach to our work for a multiracial democracy.

There is transformative potential in taking on democratic and economic issues from multiple angles—through policy and research, grassroots partnerships and campaigning, and proactive litigation. In 2019, we saw yet again how ours is an approach that wins.

Stay tuned for what we have planned for 2020!

Christopher—

As we move into 2020, we’re proud to share a snapshot of our accomplishments from the last year.

One of Demos’ defining characteristics is our multi-faceted approach to our work for a multiracial democracy.

There is transformative potential in taking on democratic and economic issues from multiple angles—through policy and research, grassroots partnerships and campaigning, and proactive litigation. In 2019, we saw yet again how ours is an approach that wins.

Stay tuned for what we have planned for 2020!

Christopher—

At Demos, we have worked tirelessly for an America where all people, particularly those who have borne the brunt of injustice, can thrive.

One of our signature initiatives is to make it possible for anyone, regardless of their race or class, to attain a college degree without the burden of student loan debt.

Donate to Demos today to ensure a future of college without debt for all Americans.

During the 2016 presidential campaign, Demos was instrumental in bringing a bold, progressive concept of debt-free college into the mainstream—and today our vision for debt-free college and race-forward student loan cancellation remains a key focus of the presidential primaries. For years, Demos has been informing the national debate around college affordability and student loan debt, explaining why this issue is so important for racial justice and why it is essential to fight for public goods like higher education. Through our advocacy efforts, we’ve seen Demos’ policy initiatives and analyses adopted by multiple campaigns.

With the concept of debt-free college firmly centered in both state and federal politics, we’re closer than ever to achieving real policy change that would benefit millions. Now we’re seeking your support to transform the lives of working-class families and people of color. Please make a donation to help these efforts.

In 2020, Demos will:

• Continue to advance bold solutions at both the federal and state level that guarantee an opportunity for college without debt.

• Work with partners to ensure that students have access to housing, childcare, and basic needs, and that educational institutions increase access and opportunity for students of color.

• Fight back against a system that has left behind millions of borrowers—especially Black and brown borrowers—and advance a race-forward agenda that relieves the burden of debt for those currently struggling to pay their student loans.

To do all this, we’re scaling up Demos’ research, partnership, and advocacy work. And we can’t do it alone. Right now, your gift can help achieve our shared vision of an economy that works for us all.

Together, let’s make college without debt a reality. We’re aiming to raise $100,000 by the end of December and have already raised more than $73,000. Please help us reach this goal and support our efforts in 2020.

In solidarity,

Mark Huelsman
Associate Director, Policy & Research
Demos

Daniel—

At Demos, we have worked tirelessly for an America where all people, particularly those who have borne the brunt of injustice, can thrive.

One of our signature initiatives is to make it possible for anyone, regardless of their race or class, to attain a college degree without the burden of student loan debt.

Donate to Demos today to ensure a future of college without debt for all Americans.

During the 2016 presidential campaign, Demos was instrumental in bringing a bold, progressive concept of debt-free college into the mainstream—and today our vision for debt-free college and race-forward student loan cancellation remains a key focus of the presidential primaries. For years, Demos has been informing the national debate around college affordability and student loan debt, explaining why this issue is so important for racial justice and why it is essential to fight for public goods like higher education. Through our advocacy efforts, we’ve seen Demos’ policy initiatives and analyses adopted by multiple campaigns.

With the concept of debt-free college firmly centered in both state and federal politics, we’re closer than ever to achieving real policy change that would benefit millions. Now we’re seeking your support to transform the lives of working-class families and people of color. Please make a donation to help these efforts.

In 2020, Demos will:

• Continue to advance bold solutions at both the federal and state level that guarantee an opportunity for college without debt.

• Work with partners to ensure that students have access to housing, childcare, and basic needs, and that educational institutions increase access and opportunity for students of color.

• Fight back against a system that has left behind millions of borrowers—especially Black and brown borrowers—and advance a race-forward agenda that relieves the burden of debt for those currently struggling to pay their student loans.

To do all this, we’re scaling up Demos’ research, partnership, and advocacy work. And we can’t do it alone. Right now, your gift can help achieve our shared vision of an economy that works for us all.

Together, let’s make college without debt a reality. We’re aiming to raise $100,000 by the end of December and have already raised more than $73,000. Please help us reach this goal and support our efforts in 2020.

In solidarity,

Mark Huelsman
Associate Director, Policy & Research
Demos

Christopher—

From all of us at Demos, thank you for standing with us this past year and continuing to be an important partner in our work.

Earlier this month, we asked you to join our Winning the Next 20 Years campaign to raise $100,000 for Demos’ critical work by December 31. Your outpouring of support has been amazing—as of this morning, we’ve received over $86,500 in donations. Now, we have less than $15,000 left to reach our goal!

Only 2 days left! Make your tax-deductible gift today.

In 2020, Demos will:

1. Defend voting rights through litigation, grassroots organizing campaigns, and original research focused on expanding the right to vote and fighting voter suppression.

2. Build an inclusive democracy through our Inclusive Democracy Project, a network of state-based organizations across the country, led primarily by people of color, that generates ideas, research, policies, and legal and campaign strategies to liberate Black and brown people to fully participate in our democracy, and that holds elected officials accountable to the people they represent rather than to the moneyed interests who finance their campaigns.

3. Promote debt-free college by advancing policy discussion in the public debate as well as pushing for large federal and state investments in public higher education, institutional reforms that increase access and opportunity for students of color, and bold, race-forward policies to cancel the burden of existing student loan debt.

4. Advance climate equity by working with grassroots and national allies at the intersections of social, racial, economic, and environmental justice to advocate for innovative solutions like the Green New Deal and to ensure that economic and racial equity are built into the transition to the renewable energy economy we need.

There’s still time to make a donation to support our 2020 initiatives and help us reach $100,000. Your tax-deductible gift will help Demos ensure “we the people” includes us all.

In solidarity,

Rodney McKenzie, Jr.
Executive Vice President, Movement Strategies
Demos

P.S. To receive your tax credit, checks must be mailed by December 31, or you may give by credit card online at demos.org/donate by 11:59 pm on December 31.

Daniel—

From all of us at Demos, thank you for standing with us this past year and continuing to be an important partner in our work.

Earlier this month, we asked you to join our Winning the Next 20 Years campaign to raise $100,000 for Demos’ critical work by December 31. Your outpouring of support has been amazing—as of this morning, we’ve received over $86,500 in donations. Now, we have less than $15,000 left to reach our goal!

Only 2 days left! Make your tax-deductible gift today.

In 2020, Demos will:

1. Defend voting rights through litigation, grassroots organizing campaigns, and original research focused on expanding the right to vote and fighting voter suppression.

2. Build an inclusive democracy through our Inclusive Democracy Project, a network of state-based organizations across the country, led primarily by people of color, that generates ideas, research, policies, and legal and campaign strategies to liberate Black and brown people to fully participate in our democracy, and that holds elected officials accountable to the people they represent rather than to the moneyed interests who finance their campaigns.

3. Promote debt-free college by advancing policy discussion in the public debate as well as pushing for large federal and state investments in public higher education, institutional reforms that increase access and opportunity for students of color, and bold, race-forward policies to cancel the burden of existing student loan debt.

4. Advance climate equity by working with grassroots and national allies at the intersections of social, racial, economic, and environmental justice to advocate for innovative solutions like the Green New Deal and to ensure that economic and racial equity are built into the transition to the renewable energy economy we need.

There’s still time to make a donation to support our 2020 initiatives and help us reach $100,000. Your tax-deductible gift will help Demos ensure “we the people” includes us all.

In solidarity,

Rodney McKenzie, Jr.
Executive Vice President, Movement Strategies
Demos

P.S. To receive your tax credit, checks must be mailed by December 31, or you may give by credit card online at demos.org/donate by 11:59 pm on December 31.

Daniel—

We’re less than $6,000 away from reaching our goal! You can get us beyond the finish line—make a tax-deductible donation to Demos right now to support our work in 2020.

This is it—the last chance to make a tax-deductible donation in 2019. You know what’s at stake: the future of our democracy.

Give the gift of progressive change and bring us over the top.

With your help, Demos will continue to fight against voter suppression and disenfranchisement, while advancing the issues that will shape this country’s next 20 years—confronting the climate crisis, lifting the burden of student debt, and building the political power of communities of color to have an equal say in our society.

Support Demos’ work in 2020.

Thank you so much—and Happy New Year!

In solidarity,

K. Sabeel Rahman
President
Demos

P.S. To receive your tax credit, checks must be mailed by December 31 or you may give by credit card online at demos.org/donate by 11:59 pm on December 31. If you’ve recently made a contribution, thank you for your support!

Christopher—

We’re less than $6,000 away from reaching our goal! You can get us beyond the finish line—make a tax-deductible donation to Demos right now to support our work in 2020.

This is it—the last chance to make a tax-deductible donation in 2019. You know what’s at stake: the future of our democracy.

Give the gift of progressive change and bring us over the top.

With your help, Demos will continue to fight against voter suppression and disenfranchisement, while advancing the issues that will shape this country’s next 20 years—confronting the climate crisis, lifting the burden of student debt, and building the political power of communities of color to have an equal say in our society.

Support Demos’ work in 2020.

Thank you so much—and Happy New Year!

In solidarity,

K. Sabeel Rahman
President
Demos

P.S. To receive your tax credit, checks must be mailed by December 31 or you may give by credit card online at demos.org/donate by 11:59 pm on December 31. If you’ve recently made a contribution, thank you for your support!

Daniel—

This week was the first full week of Black History Month. At Demos, we are celebrating by lifting up the achievements of those making history and building power for the movement. And as always, we ground ourselves in what these leaders are working for—a more just and inclusive democracy and economy. More to come this month!

1. This year’s State of the Union was full of myths and mistruths.
   Our experts weighed in on what is fact vs. fiction under this administration when it comes to consumer protections, student debt, the health of our democracy, the climate crisis, and more.

2. In 2020, the traditional gatekeepers of what’s possible can step aside. The grassroots sets the agenda.

   In Politico, Demos President K. Sabeel Rahman writes of how the grassroots has centered progressive issues like the climate crisis, mass incarceration, student debt, and health care. Their work is the reason policymakers are finally taking positions on the issues that most affect Black and brown communities.

3. The denial of voting rights to pretrial jail detainees is one of the most hidden and racially disparate forms of voter disenfranchisement.

   On any given day—including Election Day—over half a million people who are innocent until proven guilty sit in jail awaiting trial. Although they are eligible and often registered to vote, citizens detained pretrial cannot get to the polls and often have no way of voting by absentee ballot. Read how Demos is working to change this systemic problem.

4. Pay attention: the House of Representatives is advancing economic justice.

   Our economy is systematically tilted against Black and brown families in so many ways. The House of Representatives just passed bills that will promote equity in 2 key areas: on the job and in trying to get credit. Demos looks at why the PRO Act and the Comprehensive CREDIT Act represent major advances.

5. With this week’s (and every future) political debate, a reminder to always consider racial wealth inequality and the urgent need to address structural racism.

   Contrary to popular belief:

   • Attending college does not close the racial wealth gap.
   • Working full-time does not close the racial wealth gap.
   • Spending less does not close the racial wealth gap.

   Simply put, so-called “personal responsibility” is no match for how past racial injustices are carried forward. We need to change policy to disrupt cycles of inequality.

 We're Hiring! 

6. Consider applying for our open positions, including Associate Director of Media Strategies and Director of Policy & Research.

Christopher—

Happy New Year from all of us at Demos! Here are a few things we’re thinking about as 2020 begins:

 Democratic Reform 

2. Such inconsistencies in voting rights across the country point to one solution: a right-to-vote constitutional amendment.
3. In the meantime, we just joined other voting rights advocates in obtaining a legal settlement with the state of Arizona to improve statewide access to voter registration.
4. Also in Arizona news, our partner LUCHA (Living United for Change in Arizona) tells their story in the New York Times. The lessons they share of how Arizona became a model for democratic reform makes this a must-read for the movement.

 “Folks who benefit from having fewer people participate are constantly looking for new ways to suppress turnout.” 

— Stuart Naifeh, Demos Senior Counsel on the Wisconsin purge, quoted in The Guardian

 Economic Justice