A Conversation with Anne Applebaum and Katie Couric: The State of American Democracy

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Thursday, April 25, 2024, 12:00 pm EDT

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Preserving
Democracy

Protecting our Democracy requires that democratic principles, institutions, and practices are able to resist and counteract fascist ideologies and movements.

Issues We Care About

Why It Matters

Voting Rights
Free & Fair Elections
Independent Media
Protecting Minority Rights
Ethics & Accountability
Rule of Law

Take Action To Preserve Democracy

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Upcoming Event Calendar

Thursday, April 25, 2024, 12:00 pm EDT

BigTentUSA is thrilled to have back Pulitzer Prize winning author and esteemed historian Anne Applebaum under the tent in [...]

Wednesday, May 1, 2024, 7:00 pm EDT

BigTent is pleased to host a conversation featuring Former Congresswoman Liz Cheney R WY and MSNBC contributor Charlie Sykes [...]

Wednesday, May 8, 2024, 7:00 pm EDT

Join us for a riveting discussion with two of the most influential voices in media and politics PBS NewsHour [...]

Tuesday, May 14, 2024, 12:00 pm EDT

BigTent is thrilled to bring back Vote Forward We welcome Executive Director Yasmin Radjy to the tent We will [...]

Wednesday, May 15, 2024, 7:00 pm EDT

Join us for a critical conversation as we delve into the profound impact of right wing media on our [...]

Tuesday, June 4, 2024, 7:00 pm EDT

BigTent is thrilled to host MSNBC 8217 s legal expert Barbara McQuade on TUESDAY June 4 at 7Pm ET [...]

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Our Other Issues

Learn about BigTent’s other areas of focus and how you can take action today!

The Problem

Voter Suppression

Many states have implemented laws and policies that make it more difficult for certain groups of citizens, particularly minority groups and low-income individuals, to vote. This includes laws that restrict early voting, require specific forms of identification, and close polling locations in certain areas.

What Can You Do?

Scroll down for Actions, Events, and more information about Voting Rights.

The Problem

Election Security Concerns

Concerns about foreign interference, disinformation campaigns, and accusations of voter fraud have increased in recent years. Political leaders are challenging election results with false claims of fraud despite evidence to the contrary. Efforts have been made to enhance transparency, cybersecurity, and oversight of voting practices. However, disinformation and false claims pose significant challenges for electoral integrity.

What Can You Do?

Scroll down for Actions, Events, and more information about Free & Fair Elections.

Just after the 2022 midterms, 1,000 U.S. adult citizens were asked how confident they were that votes in the U.S. were counted correctly.

Very Confident
34%
Somewhat Confident
26%
Not Too Confident
18%
Not Confident At All
10%
Not Sure
12%

The Problem

Partisan Attacks On the Media

The attack on independent media outlets is a threat to democracy. These outlets provide crucial reporting, inform the public, and hold those in power accountable. Such attacks can seriously impact the functioning of democratic institutions.

What Can You Do?

Scroll down for Actions, Events, and more information about Independent Media.

The Problem

Degrading of Individual Rights

Protecting minority rights is crucial in building inclusive societies based on democratic ideals. It guarantees fair treatment, prevents discrimination and abuses of power, and fosters a more equitable and just world.. 

What Can You Do?

Scroll down for Actions, Events, and more information about Protecting Minority Rights

The Problem

Lack of Accountability

Corruption and lack of government accountability undermine the functioning of democratic institutions and make it more difficult to address important social and political issues. Ultimately, it can lead to abuses of power, violations of civil liberties, and a lack of transparency and fairness in the political process.

What Can You Do?

Scroll down for Actions, Events, and more information about Ethics & Accountability.

The Problem

Erosion of the Rule of Law

The rule of law in America is threatened by the erosion of the principle that everyone, including those in power, is subject to the law. Political polarization has led to concerns about the politicization of the judicial system and selective enforcement of laws. Leaders now focus more on winning elections and promoting partisan agendas, rather than upholding democratic principles.

What Can You Do?

Scroll down for Actions, Events, and more information about the Rule of Law.