Growing up in an Irish seaside town with a population of 3,000, I took a sense of community for granted. On my first day in secondary school, I remember being introduced to a nun who had taught both my mother and my grandmother. At the time, I found it somewhat suffocating. Looking back, I see the layers of unspoken mutual support, the extra bread and cakes made for a neighbor, the extra children staying for meals, the extra people in the car for any long journey.
In the Local Issue of the #CarnegieReporter magazine, we focus on the importance of local leaders in strengthening our democracy at a time of growing polarization. We tell stories about civic heroes, from librarians to educators, who draw communities together. We learn from leaders like governors Spencer Cox and Gov. Wes Moore, who — in a remarkable dialogue with Judy Woodruff — teach us how to “disagree better”. We share insights from policymakers, journalists, academics, and humanitarians who are finding solutions to polarization and rebuilding the forces of social cohesion. Through a comic series, we show you the experiences of naturalized citizens who have contributed immensely to our country and are part of our annual #GreatImmigrants tribute.
I invite you to read their stories today. I hope that in doing so, you will feel, as I do, some sense of optimism that there are so many smart, creative, compassionate Americans working toward a stronger democracy. We at Carnegie are committed to identifying these extraordinary women and men, and are honored to be able to support their work. https://lnkd.in/eR2Hwv87
As national politics become increasingly polarized, local communities across the country continue to uphold democratic values.
The Local Issue of the #CarnegieReporter, our flagship magazine, tells the stories of librarians, educators, journalists, humanitarians, naturalized citizens, and other civic leaders who are bringing together their communities and strengthening our democracy.
👉 Visit https://lnkd.in/ejqSr8Bs to read these stories or to download your free copy of the magazine.