Democracy Remixed: Black Youth and the Future of American Politics

In her book Democracy Remixed: Black Youth and the Future of American Politics (Oxford University Press), scholar Cathy J. Cohen offers an authoritative analysis of the state of black youth in America today. Utilizing results from the Black Youth Project, a groundbreaking national survey, Cohen focuses on the experiences of young black Americans and provides a complex and balanced picture of the intersection of opportunity and discrimination in their lives. 

This Open Society Foundations event explores the topics raised in Democracy Remixed by looking at the role black youth play in the current political landscape; focusing on what elected officials, community organizers, leaders, and others can do to inspire civic participation and engagement among black youth; and providing strategies on how to nurture leadership among black youth in their communities.

Speakers

• Cathy J. Cohen, Political Science Professor at the University of Chicago and author of Democracy Remixed: Black Youth and the Future of American Politics
• Edward James, Blogger, Black Youth Project
• Biko Baker, Executive Director, The League of Young Voters
• Monifa Bandele, Senior Programs & Outreach Manager, National Coalition on Black Civic Participation
• Erin Byrd, Civic Engagement Coordinator, Blueprint NC
• Alisha Morgan, Georgia State Representative and staff member of Young Elected Officials
• Thomasina Williams, Program Officer for Democracy, Rights and Justice Program, Ford Foundation
• Bryonn Bain, Poet and Activist
• Rashid Shabazz, Program Officer for the Campaign for Black Male Achievement (introduction)
• Cristobal Josh Alex, Program Officer for the Democracy and Power Fund (introduction)

This event is sponsored by the U.S. Programs Democracy and Power Fund and Campaign for Black Male Achievement of the Open Society Foundations.