FIRSTHAND: DEMOCRACY – Screening and Community Conversation

Join Tri States Public Radio and WTTW for this unique opportunity to engage with residents and thought leaders as they reflect on strengthening our democracy.

July 4, 2026 marked the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This historical marker arrived at a moment of strain for American democracy, as political polarization deepens and the public trust shifts.

During this event, an episode of FIRSTHAND: DEMOCRACY will be screened, followed by a panel discussion moderated by executive producer Dan Protess. This event is an opportunity to hear from local leaders whose daily work shapes the state of local, state, and national democracy. 

The conversation will explore what active citizenship in a democracy looks like. How do we prepare ourselves for the challenges that continue to face our communities? And how do we ensure that our government serves all its constituents?

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Major support for FIRSTHAND: DEMOCRACY is provided by the Julian Grace Foundation, the Edwardson Family Foundation, and the Lohengrin Foundation. Additional support is provided by the Alvin H. Baum Family Fund, Nancy Clark, Sylvia Furner, and the Marc and Jeanne Malnati Family Foundation.