The Future of Our Former Democracy

While the United States slips deeper into authoritarianism, Heather Villanueva and Colin Cole from More Equitable Democracy explore how Germany redesigned their elections after World War II to prevent another fascist takeover. As we prepare to rise to our own challenge, how can the U.S. learn from the mistakes and course-corrections of another nation that's been where we are now?

Special thanks to the experts featured in this episode:  

Nicola Hieke, Landeskoordinierungstelle Bayern gegen Rechtsextremismus (Bavaria State Coordination Office Against Right-Wing Extremism)

Martin Lange, ⁠⁠Tour with a Berliner

Professor Thomas Gschwend, ⁠⁠University of Mannheim

Jonny Pechstein, Geschichte für Alle

Brendan MacGurk, Tour Guide (to arrange a private tour, email inquiries to bmacgurk(at)web(dot)de)

⁠Music and archival references⁠  

For more information on More Equitable Democracy’s work, please visit: ⁠https://www.equitabledemocracy.org/

For more information on Larj Media, please visit: ⁠https://www.larjmedia.com/⁠

After the end of World War II, Germany adopted a new electoral system designed to prevent a faction like the Nazis from taking over government ever again. In our new season, we compare how far-right movements operate in modern-day Germany and the United States to explore hard-learned lessons from German political history and what they might mean for democracy in the U.S..

In this bonus episode of 'The Future of Our Former Democracy,' we’re sharing our extended conversation with poet, theologian, and conflict mediator, Pádraig Ó Tuama.  
 
Transcript 
 
For more information on More Equitable Democracy’s work, please visit: https://www.equitabledemocracy.org/  
  
For more information on Larj Media, please visit:   
https://www.larjmedia.com/

This bonus episode we’re sharing a panel discussion between Councilor Hazel Chu from the Dublin City Council and former Lord Mayor of Dublin and Councilor Yemi Adenuga from the Meath County Council, and moderated by Liliana Fernandez from the National Women's Council. Both are women of color who have made significant strides in Irish politics. The discussion covers their historic campaigns, personal stories, challenges faced, and the importance of representation in politics. They also delve into election strategies, voter education, and the impact of the Single Transferable Vote system. Their journeys highlight resilience, authenticity, and the drive to create an inclusive political landscape.
 
Transcript
 
For more information on More Equitable Democracy’s work, please visit: https://www.equitabledemocracy.org/ 
 
For more information on Larj Media, please visit:  
https://www.larjmedia.com/

In this bonus episode, George sits down with Claire Hanna, Member of Parliament from the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) representing Belfast South and Mid Down. Claire shares insights into her journey as an activist and politician, her family's history with the SDLP, and her experiences running in different electoral systems. She delves into the complexities of Northern Ireland's political landscape, the intricacies of the Good Friday Agreement, and the impact of power-sharing mechanisms. Claire also reflects on the changing role of women in politics, the challenges of campaigning, and offers her perspective on the state of democracy in the US.
 
Transcript 
 
For more information on More Equitable Democracy’s work, please visit: https://www.equitabledemocracy.org/  
  
For more information on Larj Media, please visit:   
https://www.larjmedia.com/