Pro-Democracy Programs at Universities & Nonprofits

Pro-Democracy Centers & Institutes

There are the seemingly countless schemes to suppress the vote. The Brennan Center for Justice, featured below, is one example among many illustrating the invaluable work in support of democracy being done by university-based centers and institutes. In addition, this section includes a few links to foundations and nonprofit "think tanks" engaged in similar (and similarly important) work. These organizations do many things of interest and value to pro-democracy reformers. They produce helpful research reports and databases, undertake campus-focused student engagement campaigns, enter into collaborative consulting for local governments and community-based organizations, work with state legislators, carry out public information campaigns, provide training in discussion and deliberation skills, facilitate cross-divide discussions, and engage in public advocacy for basic pro-democracy principles and reforms.

No single organization does all of these things, but most do several. Since they are usually state taxpayer supported, the menu of services they offer is often focused primarily within their respective states. In some cases, services are provided nationally, but the most fruitful place for activists to look first will be to those university centers and institutes located in their own states.

Brennan Center for Justice

Based at the NYU School of Law, the Center is a nonpartisan law and policy institute that works to reform, revitalize - and when necessary, defend - our country's systems of democracy and justice. The Center's focuses include voting rights, fair redistricting, campaign finance reform, and related issues. Collaborating with grassroots groups, advocacy organizations, and reform-minded government officials, the Center contributes legal strategy, policy development, empirical research, and high-impact communications to advance its goals. The Center's work is supported by donors, pro bono law partners, interns, fellows, and staff.

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Centers, Institutes, Foundations & Nonprofits

Bipartisan Policy Center