When coalitions are locally-based, they are better able to connect civic engagement with building community power, as residents are able to have a greater influence on the policies that are enacted by their local government. When coalitions are inclusive, they are positioned to engage so-called “unlikely voters” who have historically been marginalized by the democratic process. By centering local and state-level advocacy efforts on the needs and priorities of underrepresented communities, coalitions are able to expand the electorate and increase civic participation over the long-term. In short, communities are more “bought in,” which makes them more committed to actively supporting the ongoing implementation and defense of policy victories.

In the face of discouraging statements from the new administration that it intends to roll back decades of protections for women, people of color, immigrants, the environment and participation in our democratic institutions—and given the executive branch’s power to appoint federal judges who agree with such rollbacks—state courts will be a key line of defense. As laws and public policies attacking these rights are challenged in state courts, it will be incumbent upon Piper to support organizations which educate and empower communities and the public at large to defend the integrity and impartiality of these courts.

Piper announces the launch of the Fellowship for Leaders Strengthening Democracy, in partnership with the Rockwood Leadership Institute. The year-long fellowship—consisting of a cohort of 24 leaders from the money in politics and fair courts fields—aims to diversify the leadership of both fields, and to build more impactful organizations, better positioned to engage diverse constituencies and win reform.