Supporting the Democratic Process

“The revolution of 1800 . . . was as real a revolution in the principles of our government as that of 76 was in its form; not effected indeed by the sword, as that, but by the rational and peaceable instrument of reform, the suffrage of the people.”

Thomas Jefferson to Spencer Roane, September 6, 1819

We, the undersigned, stand firmly united behind the inviolable constitutional principle established in the elections of 1800, leaving no doubt that a peaceful continuation or transfer of power after a free and fair election is a cornerstone of our democratic system of government. This continues to be the norm, unbroken after more than two centuries.

While we celebrate the diversity of approaches taken by our organizations, we all are committed to supporting and amplifying this bedrock principle as a critical element of our constitutional system of government. As such, we are personally committing our organizations to sharing free resources related to the electoral process and the peaceful continuation or transfer of power.

The organizations we represent reach millions of our fellow Americans each and every year, and for decades have ensured that our nation’s students, teachers, and the general public have access to the resources needed for robust civic education.

We invite other leaders in the field of civic and constitutional education to unite in our dedication to giving all members of our society access to the non-partisan resources, knowledge, and tools that lead to the broad understanding of the foundation of our constitutional democracy, and the practice of civic virtue that upholds this foundation.

As the celebrated civil rights activist, Rev. Pauline “Pauli” Murray said, “As an American, I inherit the magnificent tradition of an endless march toward freedom and toward the dignity of all mankind.” Today we join together, just as we always have, to celebrate this tradition and reaffirm our purpose to ensure that all Americans have access to a robust education in our most fundamental actions and beliefs.