Kettering Foundation

If US democracy falters, what happens to the global fight for freedom? Kettering senior fellow Alexander Vindman explains the critical challenges we're currently facing, from disinformation to global instability, and what it will take to defend democracy at home and abroad on the newest episode of #TheStakes with Brad Rourke.?

Black history doesn’t end with February. Art doesn’t stop at the canvas. And democracy is an ongoing commitment. Let’s keep making space for the voices that shape our world. We extend our deepest gratitude to the artists who created, the storytellers who shared, and the community that showed up in support of Visual Voices: Storytelling through Poetry at Black Palette and EboNia art galleries. Your presence, your passion, and your commitment to the arts are a testament to the power of collective expression and shared history. In the words of Kettering Foundation Artist-in-Residence Sierra Leone, "?we can continue because we have in the past."

On Monday, March 3, our President and CEO Sharon L. Davies will join Kettering Foundation Senior Fellow #AlexanderVindman at #PoliticsAndProse to discuss his latest book, The Folly of Realism. This conversation will examine the consequences of Western policymaking on Russian aggression and its broader impact on democracy. Mark your calendars to join the livestream or attend in person in Washington, DC: https://lnkd.in/gK-xpQmi

His actions tell the story: an all-out attack on DEI, democracy, and international cooperation. Why? Because an inclusive democracy, where everyone has a voice, is a direct threat to his power. Alex Lovit pens our latest in the #FromManyWe series, focusing on how Trump’s second administration and why collective action is more critical than ever: https://lnkd.in/gDNpyx5S

America is sliding into competitive authoritarianism, where elections happen but power is abused. In his latest article, #StevenLevitsky breaks down how Trump is weaponizing government institutions to tilt the playing field. Originally published in The Atlantic, this piece is now available without a paywall through the Kettering Foundation. Read it now and stay informed: https://lnkd.in/gqYyxRSz

Feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world? Here’s what you can do. “You can choose something that you care about and just focus on [one] thing. If we all do a part, we're still getting to the whole.” - #MadibaDennie. From where you put your money to the conversations you start, small choices that connect with your values add up. Listen to #TheContext for more ways to push back against injustice.

Carlos Varela, the Poet of Havana, has spent decades turning Cuba’s pain, hope, and resilience into song. His words have challenged, inspired, and united generations, reminding us that art has the power to bridge divides. As a proud sponsor of Canvas, the Kettering Foundation supports storytelling that explores the intersection of art and democracy. Learn about Varela’s journey and how artists continue to speak where politics fall silent: https://bit.ly/3QzoNuE

?? ICYMI: The latest edition of News & Notes from the #KetteringFoundation is here! Stay up to date on the latest insights, research, and conversations shaping democracy and civic life. If you're not subscribed yet, don't miss out on our biweekly updates. Read more and sign up here: https://conta.cc/3XazWWv

“There are multiple constitutional crises happening right now.” - #MadibaDennie. How did we get here? And what can we do about it?? Attorney and author Madiba Dennie breaks it down in this week’s episode of #TheContext: https://lnkd.in/gaEznJYM

Visual Voices is more than an exhibition; it is a call to engage, reflect, and shape the future. Join us on Sunday, Feb. 23, at EbonNia Gallery from 2 to 4 p.m. for the closing program of Visual Voices: Legends, Icons, & Offsprings. Hear Rhine McLin, Christopher Shaw, and Annette McGee Wright, children of Dayton icons, share their stories of legacy, leadership, and finding their own path. Explore the works of African American artists inspired by Dr. King’s 1964 Dayton speech, now on view at EbonNia and Black Palette Art Galleries through Feb. 28.