Realizing the promise of democracy
We bring people together to explore and build solutions to the greatest challenges facing democracy.
October 15-17, 2025 | Charlottesville, VA
Democracy360
Three days of bold ideas, engaging conversations, and visionary thinking.
Our People
Our Work
Events
Join the Conversation: Democracy in Action
Kat Calvin, Reed Howard, Sally Hudson, Dreama Montrief Johnson, Sam Pressler
Meet a diverse group of changemakers who are building and strengthening democracy from the ground up—in neighborhoods, community organizations, polling places, and even on the ballot.
Join the Conversation: Common Ground, Common Sound
Mike Ellison
Across cultures and throughout history, music has brought people together to communicate, reflect, and connect. Part community concert and part participatory rhythm session, this event welcomes everyone—no experience required—to join in a shared civic act through sound.
Becoming America: Past, Promise, and the Path Ahead at 250
Kathleen DuVal, Jane Kamensky, Vann R. Newkirk II, Jayme Swain, Alan Taylor
An exclusive advance screening from Ken Burns’ upcoming documentary series, The American Revolution, followed by a conversation reflecting on the nation’s founding and what it means today.
Looking for past events?
View ArchiveIn the News
Democracy360: Imagining the Next 250 Years of American Democracy
As Americans raise urgent questions about the health and direction of democracy, the Karsh Institute’s signature event brings together voices from a variety of perspectives to confront these questions, wrestle with competing ideas, and envision a democracy strong enough to thrive for generations to come.
Storytelling, Sound, and the Soul of Democracy
Democracy360 speakers Beth Macy and Mike Ellison explore the critical relationship between democracy and the arts.
A Simple Act to Strengthen Civic Life
What Karsh Institute Practitioner Fellow Sam Pressler learned from a neighborhood-gathering experiment in Charlottesville—and how others can do the same with a $50 microgrant.
connectivetissue.substack.com
September 3, 2025
The Karsh Institute Announces Full Democracy360 Program
From marquee conversations and exclusive previews to participatory debates and working sessions, UVA’s flagship democracy gathering invites the public to engage in shaping America’s future.