This time of year is notably hectic for our entire community, with organizations diligently implementing programs, strategizing for 2024, and managing funding initiatives. Similarly, individuals are concluding another year, which encompasses managing personal lives, family responsibilities, professional commitments, and active citizenship. The festive season, while a source of joy, often brings its own set of challenges. Many of us grapple with political and social divides, especially in gatherings with loved ones during the holidays. The pressures of creating the "perfect holiday" can exacerbate financial difficulties, and a pervasive sense of uncertainty, both personally and nationally, adds to the stress as we transition into 2024.

In these times of uncertainty, I am immensely comforted and inspired by our community of dedicated practitioners and actively engaged individuals. Whenever I feel overwhelmed by the changing of the calendar, I am heartened by the remarkable growth and resilience of our community. Our collective strength, fostered through mutual support and collaboration, positions us optimally to provide effective tools for people, regardless of where they are on their civic journey.

Our bridging movement has gained unprecedented depth and strength. The Listen First Coalition is poised to bring the collective message of bridging work to more people than ever before. The coalition of the National Association of Nonpartisan Reformers is committed to sharing best practices and resources, setting us up for success in the upcoming year's campaigns. The TRUST Network continues to develop a robust warning and response system to counteract hate and political violence. Additionally, the CivXNow coalition is making significant strides in educating the next generation, preparing them to be proactive and informed participants in civic life.

With these systems and resources more solidly in place than ever, I am filled with hope for 2024, despite the prevailing national uncertainty. Our readiness to welcome people into our comprehensive and supportive ecosystem is a testament to our collective commitment to fostering a healthier, more inclusive democracy.

As we bid farewell to this year and welcome the new one, let's carry this spirit of hope and collaboration forward into 2024. See you there!

Featured Content

A More Perfect Union (Article) December 14th: Reflections on a Visit to Maricopa County

AllSides (Article) December 18th: When Democrats Change Their Minds on Immigration

American Promise (Article) December 17th: American Promise Sounds Alarm as Lawsuits Threaten Maine’s Safeguards Against Foreign Election Interference

Ballotpedia (Blog) December 19th: 2023 in review: state legislative activity on election administration

Divided We Fall (Article) December 20th: The Top 10 Bridge Building Books to Buy this Holiday Season

Interactivity Foundation (Article) December 14th: Just Imagine…Death over Slavery

Independent Voter Project (IVN) December 19th: Rep. Dean Phillips on How the DNC Turns on Members Who Want to Give Voters Choice

Issue One (Article) December 18th: Dangerous by Design - How Social Media Companies Are Hurting Our Kids, National Security, and Democracy — and What We Can Do About It

Mormon Women for Ethical Government (Blog) December 14th: Greenwashing Explained (and What You Can Do About It!)

Podcasts

Ballotpedia (On the Ballot) December 14th: RCV's long history and many different variations

Civity (This is Civity) December 18th: Writer and Civic Renaissance Founder Alexandra Hudson on “The Soul of Civility”

DaviesContent (How Do We Fix It?) December 15th: The Origins of Today's Identity Politics - Yascha Mounk

McCourtney Institute for Democracy (Democracy Works) December 18th: Year in Review: Media, Mental Health, and Threats to Democracy

Citizen Connect Featured Events

Network for Responsible Public Policy (December 21st @ 7:30 pm EST) Ukraine Update IV

Citizen Discourse (December 28th @ 11:00 am CST) Conversation Collective

Citizen Assembly (December 29th @ 7 pm CST) Designing the Perfect Society (COH) – 1on1 discussion

Ideos Institute (January 5th) National Day of Dialogue

Fix Democracy First (January 10th @ 5:00 pm PST) Democracy Happy Hour

Featured Fulcrum Articles

David L. Nevins, December 21st: So this is Christmas. And what have you (we) done?

Kevin Johnson, December 20th: Citizens need a better understanding of 'election overtime' before next November

Elizabeth Doty, December 19th: Addressing the root causes of dysfunctional American politics with Business for America

Evan Charles Lewitus, December 18th: Ballot initiatives show value of policy polls for lawmakers

David Meyers, December 15th: Former members of Congress say threats of violence are on the rise