Realizing the promise of democracy
We bring people together to explore and build solutions to the greatest challenges facing democracy.
“A More Perfect Union”
Karsh Institute Executive Director Melody Barnes served as co-moderator for a PBS conversation with Ken Burns about how America’s founding principles remain relevant to governance today.
www.pbs.org
Our People
Our Work
Events
Taxes
How have debates over taxation shaped American history and its democracy? Vanessa Williamson (Brookings) discusses her new book with Justene Hill Edwards, UVA associate professor of history.
Religion
What is the role of religion in public life and how has religious thought given shape to American democracy and religious freedom? Jerome Copulsky (Georgetown University) and Adam Jortner (Auburn University) will discuss their new books in a conversation with Nichole Flores (UVA Religion).
Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi: Congress as a Cornerstone of American Democracy
Speaker Emerita of the House Nancy Pelosi speaks on the important role Congress plays in meeting Americans’ needs.
Looking for past events?
View ArchiveIn the News
Free Speech and Accountability: Balancing Interests in the Public Square
Between free expression and the values of a diverse society lies a contested space that shapes accountability and democratic participation.
Marking 250 Years of the American Experiment
The Karsh Institute of Democracy is leading a yearlong effort to connect the nation’s founding ideals to the challenges and responsibilities of democracy today.
How Banking Offered African Americans a Path to Freedom and Citizenship After Enslavement
An award-winning book by UVA historian Justene Hill Edwards, with support from UVA’s Karsh Institute of Democracy, chronicles African Americans’ economic aspirations and a bank’s tragic collapse during Reconstruction.
At UVA250 Kickoff, Speakers Say Intellectual ‘Death’ Leads to Rebirth
In an event co-sponsored by the Karsh Institute, Cornel West and Robert P. George say to find the truth, you must admit you might be wrong.
news.virginia.edu