Democracy: A Love Letter

(and a guide for everyone fighting to save it)

A new book from Kelly Clancy that critics are calling A Must-Read! and “A compelling read for activists, dreamers, and all who believe in the power of democracy.”

“This book will make you feel like an optimist about politics for the first time in your life.”

—Ashwini Habbu, Austin Texas

Advance Praise for Democracy: A Love Letter

Marin Cogin, Senior correspondent, VOX.

With wisdom, warmth and humor, Clancy has put forth a practical guide for those looking to make meaningful change in their communities. Infused with the collective knowledge of activists from across the country, Democracy: A Love Letter offers a much needed antidote to our era of political cynicism.

Innosanto Nagara, bestselling author of A is for Activist, Oh, the Things We’re For! and other books for children of the 99%

"In these times when we feel so much has been lost, it is important to remember that we actually know how to win. When we organize and engage people inclusively and holistically, the arc of justice prevails. Democracy: A Love Letter is a succinct, practical, and empowering guide to applying proven organizing frameworks to (little-d) democracy itself."

 Justin Brannan, New York City Councilman

“Saving democracy should not be some lofty, abstract idea that only matters to historians and political scientists. Saving democracy is the only way regular people like you and me can make sure our government works for us and responds to our daily needs. Deeply informed by conversation and collaboration with experts from across the county, Clancy entertains along the way as she shows us, invaluably, why we should care, what we can do about it, and most importantly, why the right time is always now.”

Brooke Foucault Welles, Professor, Northeastern University and co-author of HashtagActivism: Networks of Race and Gender Justice

“In this book, Clancy outlines an ambitious vision for an inclusive democracy and gives practical advice on how to get there. Democracy: A Love Letter is a must-read for progressive activists, scholars of social change, and anyone who is concerned about the state of democracy today.”

 Michael Levitin, Author of Generation Occupy: Reawakening American Democracy

"Envisioning a culture of continuous protest, where resistance isn't just occasional but something we incorporate into our daily lives, Clancy asks us to reimagine the democracy we want to live in — then organize and fight to make it a reality. This timely and conversational how-to guide for current (and would be!) activists conveys a sense of optimism about what ordinary people can accomplish when they make collective demands from the powers that be."

Abdi Iftin, Author of Call Me American

"In Democracy: A Love Letter, Kelly Clancy, PhD, takes readers on an inspiring journey through the resilient spirit of democracy. As a recently naturalized U.S. citizen, an activist and a recently registered voter, this book provided me with a roadmap for better mobilizing and organizing. It is an essential companion for anyone dedicated to making a meaningful impact in their communities. Clancy’s passionate call to action will inspire you, as it did me, to embrace your role in shaping a more just and inclusive world. A compelling read for activists, dreamers, and all who believe in the power of democracy."