Democracy & Civic Engagement

“Freedom is not a state; it is an act. It is not some enchanted garden perched high on a distant plateau where we can finally sit down and rest. Freedom is the continuous action we all must take, and each generation must do its part to create an even more fair, more just society.”

– John Lewis


The past several years have dramatically demonstrated that this bold American experiment in democracy is more fragile than we imagined. Trust and civic engagement have decreased, while economic inequality has increased. Information is suspect. Our media institutions are under-resourced and under attack. 

Futures Unbound is dedicated to strengthening our democratic foundations. We envision a thriving democracy without barriers. Where all of us are free to participate, express ourselves, take a stand, and advocate forcefully for change. 

To get there requires a movement to access the levers of power. This calls for widespread civic engagement and an electoral process available to all, as well as media institutions and information systems that serve the public interest. 

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 Grantee Spotlight


American Civil Liberties Union of San Diego and Imperial Counties


aclusandiego.org

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The ACLU of San Diego & Imperial Counties fights for individual rights and fundamental freedoms for all through education, litigation, & policy advocacy. 

The organization’s current focus areas are Advancing Justice (addressing inequities and civil liberties violations in our criminal justice system), Advancing Immigrant Rights, and Advancing Democracy (restoring and increasing voter access to the polls).