Defending Democracy

The stakes for American democracy have never been higher. Across the country, efforts to suppress voter participation, undermine basic civil, democratic and constitutional rights, and intimidate free speech are accelerating.

The New World Foundation believes that building a strong, vibrant and inclusive democracy is both the great challenge and the great opportunity of our time. Through our civic engagement work, we are investing in the leaders, organizations, and coalitions that are shaping a democracy that truly reflects—and serves—all of us.

From the earliest days of the civil rights movement, the New World Foundation has stood alongside communities fighting for justice, equality, and a voice in democracy. For decades, we have supported grassroots leaders and community-based organizing to expand civic participation, particularly among those who have been systematically excluded from decision-making.

As one of the early foundations to recognize the need to weave organizing and civic engagement, we worked closely with philanthropic partners (donors and foundations) to strengthen local leadership in civic participation and voter education. Since then, our commitment has only deepened. We continue to invest in leadership development, grassroots organizing, and policy advocacy that ensures the voices of marginalized communities are not just heard—but drive real change.

Our civic engagement work focuses on strengthening the infrastructure needed for a vibrant, inclusive democracy. By resourcing this work, we help ensure that civic participation is not episodic or seasonal, but long-term and transformative.