July 07, 2026

Why Art Might Save America - For Real

52 minutes

How can art help save our democracy? The relationship between art and politics has shaped American history for generations. From challenging those in power to inspiring social movements, artists have long played a vital role in protecting and strengthening democracy. This week, Stacey sits down with actress, director, and activist Kathleen Turner and former mayor of Ithaca and President of People For the American Way, Svante Myrick, for a conversation about the Trump administration's attacks on media and artistic expression, the role celebrities and influencers can play in political mobilization, and People For the American Way's efforts to defend Black voting power amid a racial gerrymandering crisis.

For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email [email protected] and include the name of the podcast, episode title, and episode date.

Learn & Do More:

Be Curious: Check out Colson Whitehead’s novel John Henry Days. The story tracks 120 years of American history - from the folk tale of the railroad worker to how America confronts and cloaks its challenges even now.

Solve Problems: Visit People for the American Way’s website at peoplefor.org and check out their Art of Saving Democracy Action Kit to learn more about how to use art for social impact.

Do Good: Record high temperatures nationwide are slowly easing up, but they are an important reminder to be vigilant about caring for vulnerable communities when extreme weather hits. Please check on your elderly friends and neighbors, particularly those living alone, to make sure they are safe. Learn more about cooling centers in your community where people without power can go.

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By Assembly Required with Stacey Abrams

4.6