Direct Democracy Diaries

Ballot measures are reshaping democracy from the ground up—but what does it really take to run one? In our very first episode, co-hosts Chris Melody Fields Figueredo and Caroline Sánchez-Avakian sit down with Desmond Meade—MacArthur “Genius,” Time 100 honoree, and the visionary behind Florida’s Amendment 4, which restored voting rights to over 1.4 million people.
Together, they unpack the strategy, storytelling, and sheer determination that make ballot measures powerful tools for change. From building unlikely coalitions to centering the voices of those most impacted, this episode dives deep into why ballot measures matter now more than ever—and how dreaming big can transform our democracy.

Learn more about the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition: floridarrc.com and grab a copy of Desmond Meade’s book. You can also listen to Desmond’s podcast, Our Voice, with co-host Neil Volz.

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Ballot Initiative Strategy Center | BISC Foundation

Direct Democracy Diaries is a podcast exploring ballot measures from grassroots campaigns to transformative victories. Hosted by Chris Melody Fields Figueredo and Caroline Sánchez-Avakian from the Ballot Initiative Strategy Center, this show brings you stories of activists and organizers who've harnessed direct democracy to create change.

Whether you're a seasoned ballot measure leader or a newcomer, tune in as we break it all down. Each episode features compelling stories from leaders, covering coalition building, signature gathering, defending victories, and showing how democracy works from the ground up.

Through intimate conversations with campaign leaders and activists, you'll learn how ballot measures drive progressive change in this critical political moment. Perfect for passionate democracy advocates, young leaders, and activists ready to make their mark. Join us in celebrating the people, strategies, and victories shaping democracy's future, one diary entry at a time.

https://ballot.org/