Reclaiming America

Co-Facilitators: Steve McDonnell, 970-237-0618, smcdonnell947@gmail.com, Kent Brown, 970-672-8401, kent.c.brown@comcast.net Dates: Tuesdays, April 1—May 20, 2025 (8 weeks)
Time: 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM 
Texts: Democracy Awakening, Heather Cox Richardson* (Penguin Random House, 2023) available through Amazon or Barnes & Noble ($16.00 Paperback) Presentations: Participants are expected to be fully engaged in the readings and discussions. You will be encouraged to provide short analyses or reports to the class on related topics. Location: Foxtail 2, Senior Center Class Limit: 24

Heather Cox Richardson explores several key themes related to challenges and opportunities facing American democracy:

Historical Context and Lessons - Richardson explores the patterns and cycles of American history, such as the clash between equality and concentrated power.

The Fragility of Democracy - Richardson emphasizes how democracy can be undermined by authoritarianism, corruption, and the erosion of norms.

Inequality and Power - Richardson discusses how economic inequality and the consolidation of power by elites threaten the democratic process.

Media and Misinformation - The book delves into the role of media in shaping public opinion and the dangers of misinformation, propaganda, and the undermining of trust in reliable institutions.

The Importance of Civic Engagement - A central theme is the power of individuals to shape the course of history through activism, voting, and collective action.

Hope and Resilience - Despite the challenges, Richardson offers an optimistic vision for the future.

The class may be challenging at times, but we promise that it will be an honest, uncompromising pursuit of the truth. Furthermore, it will end on a positive note.

*Richardson is one of America’s pre-eminent historians who has the unique ability to connect the dots of history to create a clear and enlightening whole.