Photo by Miroslav Liska via iStock.
Independent Civil Society is Essential for Healthy Democracy
The Bill of Rights Monument at Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza in Phoenix, AZ.
Democracy is more than just free elections, accountable institutions, and equal protections. It is a culture of trust, open debate, and common purpose—a civic faith. Without this culture, democratic institutions rest on weak foundations and are vulnerable to manipulation.
The charitable organizations of civil society have long worked to bring people together to build and sustain the culture of democracy by supporting innovative solutions to complex challenges across America. Even in the 19th century, Alexis de Tocqueville observed, “Americans of all ages, all stages of life, and all types of disposition are forever forming associations.” It is in these associations that Americans learn the “habits of the heart” that are key to democratic culture.
It’s no wonder that, throughout history and across the globe, charitable organizations have been a target of dictators and autocrats, who mischaracterize their work and restrict their fundamental freedoms in efforts to systematically silence civil society. Targeting charitable organizations imperils our democracy and undermines our sense of common purpose.
Democratic culture and the civil society that sustains it are not luxuries reserved for the few; they are essential to a vibrant and healthy democracy that promises life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all. That’s why charitable organizations and foundations in the United States are required to follow strict rules to ensure they operate in the public interest, as the RBF has always done.
The RBF stands in solidarity with our fellow foundations and charitable organizations. If politicians can successfully target one charitable foundation or nonprofit, the one that serves your family, community, or beliefs could be next.