290 | Hahrie Han on Making Multicultural Democracy Work
Sep 23, 2024
01:15:33
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Hahrie Han, a distinguished political scientist and director at Johns Hopkins, explores the intricate dynamics of democracy and racial solidarity. She dives into the innovative 'Undivided' initiative that fosters empathy in multiracial settings, highlighting its success in transforming cultural dialogues. The conversation touches on grassroots activism, the challenges faced in political engagement, and the unique role of community-driven efforts in enhancing democratic processes. Discover how these insights can reshape our understanding of inclusion and collective action.
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Quick takeaways
Democracy requires more than voting; it demands active civic engagement and critical thinking about political issues to foster meaningful participation.
Unexpected coalitions, such as a local megachurch supporting universal preschool, demonstrate how diverse community groups can collaborate for progressive change.
The Undivided program illustrates that multidisciplinary strategies, including insights from various fields, enhance civic engagement and foster racial solidarity in diverse communities.
Deep dives
Rethinking Hiring Practices
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The Need for Engaged Democratic Participation
Democracy is often perceived as a simple act of voting, but meaningful participation extends far beyond that. Active engagement requires citizens to think critically about political issues, mobilize, and organize within their communities. This commitment to participatory democracy fosters a deeper understanding of the political process and encourages individuals to advocate for their beliefs actively. By emphasizing the importance of involvement, individuals can work collectively towards shaping a society that reflects their values.
Understanding the Dynamics of Democracy
Political scientists often highlight the complexity of democracy, emphasizing the necessity of accepting uncertainty in political outcomes. Individuals in a democratic society are called to embrace a system that prioritizes a commitment to rights and responsibilities, even in the face of varied outcomes. This acceptance of uncertainty can challenge people emotionally and cognitively, leading many to question their involvement in the process. By exploring how commitment influences democratic functioning, society can foster individuals who are more engaged and willing to participate in political discourse.
Lessons from a Unique Political Case Study
The case of a successful electoral initiative in Cincinnati illustrates how unexpected coalitions can form within civic engagement efforts. A local evangelical megachurch led by a pastor galvanized community support for a universal preschool initiative despite the broader political landscape leaning conservative. The involvement of the church in advocacy efforts showcases the potential for religious organizations to enact progressive change in political contexts. This example urges the exploration of collaboration across various community sectors to bolster civic participation and achieve significant policy goals.
Building a Framework for Lasting Engagement
A multidisciplinary approach to creating civic engagement programs can lead to successful outcomes within diverse communities. The Undivided program, aimed at fostering racial solidarity, combines insights from business, community organizing, and neuroscience to enhance its effectiveness. By facilitating small, multiracial groups, individuals gain the confidence and experience needed to engage with sensitive topics like race and inclusion. This framework highlights the importance of cultivating environments where participants can support one another while navigating complex societal issues over the long term.
It's a wonder democracy works at all -- a collection of people with potentially different interests have to agree to abide by majority vote even when it goes against their desires. But as we know, it doesn't always work, and racial and ethnic tensions are one of its biggest challenges. Hahrie Han studies the ground-up workings of democracy, how people can come together to successfully enact change. In her new book Undivided: The Quest for Racial Solidarity in an American Church, she investigates an example where democracy apparently has worked remarkably well, and asks what lessons we can draw from it.
Hahrie Han recieved her Ph.D. in political science from Stanford University. She is currently the Director of the SNF Agora Institute, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Professor of Political Science, and Faculty Director of the P3 Research Lab at Johns Hopkins University. She was named the Social Innovation Thought Leader of the Year by the World Economic Forum, is a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and gave the 2024 Tanner Lectures on Human Values at Harvard University, among other awards.