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Civic courage — what does it look like and how can more of us embody it? In the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election, a study by Pew Research highlights a concerning trend among Americans: nearly two-thirds feel exhausted, 55% express anger, and a mere 10% report feeling hopeful about politics. Our guest Sam Daley-Harris believes we need advocacy organizations to train individuals to take bold actions — the sort that have an impact and leave volunteers feeling empowered and transformed. Daley-Harris is the founder of the anti-poverty lobby RESULTS in 1980 and Civic Courage in 2012. Jimmy Carter hailed the first edition of his book, "Reclaiming Our Democracy: Every Citizen’s Guide to Transformational Advocacy,"  as a “roadmap” for global involvement in shaping a better future. Kirkus Reviews praises the updated 2024 edition as "A handbook for aspiring activists that readers will find to be both inspiring and practical." A conversation to kick off election year, Daley-Harris suggests how to head off despair, and Laura shares some closing comments on citizenship and spaceships. Recorded at CUNYtv in NYC.

“Those who benefit from the status quo are perfectly happy with a large population who thinks nothing will get any better . . . Cynicism is obedience. If I'm cynical, I'm being obedient to the way things are rather than getting involved” - Sam Daley-Harris

Guest:  Sam Daley-Harris: Founder, RESULTS & Civic Courage; Author: Reclaiming Our Democracy

Full Episode Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more.

Music In the Middle:  “Losing Steam” by Salami Rose Joe Louis from her latest album Akousmatikous released on Brainfeeder Records. And additional music included- "Steppin"  by Podington Bear.

Laura Flanders and Friends Crew:  Laura Flanders, along with Sabrina Artel, Jeremiah Cothren, Veronica Delgado, Janet Hernandez, Jeannie Hopper, Gina Kim, Sarah Miller, Nat Needham, David Neuman, and Rory O’Conner. 

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