Democracy demands new ideas.


Harvard’s hub for research and teaching on democracy

The Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation develops ideas and fosters practices for equal and inclusive, multiracial, and multiethnic democracy and self-government.

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From expanding voting access to developing new strategies for antiracist organizational change, we tackle the most pressing issues facing democracy and democratic institutions around the world today.

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Before the Civil Rights Act, My Great-Uncle from Roxbury Took on Pullman in 1954 — and Won
A photo collage of some members of the Greenidge family.

Commentary

Before the Civil Rights Act, My Great-Uncle from Roxbury Took on Pullman in 1954 — and Won

As we commemorate 100 years of Black History Month, it is worth remembering that progress was not driven by headlines alone. Beyond the monuments and courtrooms, everyday people took risks to demand dignity and fairness. Among them was my great uncle, whose pursuit of a promotion became a catalyst for change.

The Present — and Future — of Alternatives to Police

Commentary

The Present — and Future — of Alternatives to Police

Allen Lab Affiliate Benjamin A. Barsky examines alternative emergency response programs — arguing for a democratic model of public safety governance in which responses to nonviolent incidents are shared across government and civil society rather than dominated by police.

India & the Olympics of AI

Commentary

India & the Olympics of AI

Allen Lab Fellow Jeremy McKey reflects on India’s AI Impact Summit, exploring the theme of diffusion and the implications for sovereignty and democracy.

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