Looking Beyond the Election: A Call to Reflect, Connect, and Support Democracy Together

As we navigate the wake yesterday’s election, there is hope in our community. Through your practice, reflection, and connection, each of you brings a renewed commitment to democracy. Our collective work continues well beyond election day, sustaining democratic values and fostering meaningful dialogue in our communities. 

​Below are several updates for the Practitioner Mobilization for Democracy initiative...

Upcoming PMD Theme: Post-Election Reflection—Ensuring Democracy through Dialogue
This month, the Practitioner Mobilization for Democracy (PMD) is focusing on “Post-Election Reflection: Ensuring Democracy through Dialogue.” This theme is especially timely as we come together to guide our communities through post-election conversations, creating space for connection and healing.

Community of Practice – Post-Election Support Group (Nov 14)
The days following an election often bring a mix of emotions, insights, and challenges. On November 14, our Community of Practice will host a post-election support session, offering a space for reflection and discussion. This session is open to all practitioners who are ready to share experiences, navigate community conversations, strategize for engagement, or reflect on lessons learned. Join us in this supportive, confidential space to exchange ideas, address challenges, and support one another. Sign up here!

New Schedule for November & December PMD Forums
In the spirit of continuing support and to accommodate the upcoming holiday season, the timing for our next forums have been modified and are scheduled for:

• November 19 at 10am PT / 1pm ET – Post-election themes and reflections
• December 17 at 10am PT / 1pm ET – Closing the year with insights and shared visions for 2025

These forums are an ongoing source of inspiration and support for our democratic journey. If you haven’t already, mark these dates in your calendar or sign up for more information, and consider inviting others who might benefit from this empowering work!

October Forum Recap & Calls to Action
Our October 24 forum emphasized the impactful role of mediators and facilitators in supporting democracy through constructive dialogue, especially during election periods. Here are some key takeaways:

• Manuel Herrera shared pathways to engage effectively in local politics and encouraged participants to explore civic action through his upcoming workshop.
• D.G. Mawn from NAFCM invited practitioners to join the TRUST Network and participate in Slack discussions.

Presentations also introduced resources for enhancing civic engagement:

• The Fulcrum
• Democracy Resource Hub
• Healthy Democracy Ecosystem Map

Participants engaged in discussions on strategies for bridging divides, supporting local communities, and preparing for post-election challenges. 

Explore Our New Website Space and Share Feedback
We’re excited to announce the updated website here on the NCDD site! This space is designed to be a comprehensive resource and engagement hub for the PMD initiative. We invite you to explore the site and share any feedback to help us continue improving it. Check it out at ncdd.org/practitionermobilization.html

PMD Listserv Options: Stay Connected and Engaged
To support our members and partners in their democracy-focused work, we offer two dedicated listservs—Info and Discussion. These platforms are designed to keep you informed, provide valuable resources, and foster meaningful conversations on democracy and the vital role of facilitators and mediators in strengthening it.

• PMD-INFO: A one-way communication listserv for key updates, announcements, and resources from NCDD’s Practitioner Mobilization for Democracy initiative. Similar to our NCDD Updates list, this listserv provides subscribers with essential information and opportunities to engage with PMD’s latest work. To subscribe, send a blank email to: [email protected]
• PMD-DISCUSSION: A dynamic, multi-directional listserv designed to foster dialogue and collaborative discussion among NCDD members engaged in pro-democracy work. Subscribers are encouraged to share insights, ask questions, and explore strategies with peers who are equally committed to supporting democratic practices. Similar to the NCDD Discussion listserv, this listserv is an open forum for active exchange. To subscribe, send a blank email to: [email protected]
  To send an email to this discussion, email: [email protected].
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A Commitment to Dialogue and Respect
In times of heightened emotions and diverse perspectives, the work of mediators and facilitators is more crucial than ever. You are living proof that democracy is not just a system—it’s a practice rooted in respect, listening, and understanding. Our communities need to see this in action. Let’s show how better conversations are possible and make space for all voices through dialogue.

​Together, let’s ensure that this post-election period brings out the best in our communities and in ourselves. Thank you for showing up in ways that matter and for helping us build a foundation of connection and understanding in our democracy.

In solidarity,
The Practitioner Mobilization for Democracy Team