We at the Institute for Democratic Engagement & Accountability (IDEA) were horrified by George Floyd’s murder, just the latest in a long line of Black Americans killed by those sworn to serve and protect. These tragic deaths add to the all too chronic urgency of engaging our institutions to demand justice and accountability.

There are many ways to engage so as to hold our democratic leaders and institutions accountable. 

IDEA’s work centers on deliberative engagement to foster accountability between elected officials and their constituents. But oftentimes meaningful deliberation is impossible until direct action forces all parties to create preconditions of genuine equality.

We stand in solidarity with those protesting to finally make Black Lives Matter in the fullest sense. Protest and deliberation can work together to deepen democracy. After enduring the dogs and night-sticks, John Lewis stood for a seat in Congress. As we move forward, IDEA commits to listening, reflecting, and working to find more direct and substantial ways to contribute to racial inclusion and equality in our country.