Democracy: A Love Letter and a Guide for Everyone Fighting to Save It

Democracy Is In Trouble. You Can Help Save It. Here’s How.

In this funny and accessible guide to political activism, Kelly A. Clancy tackles the most vexing question of our time: what kind of world do we want to live in, and how can we make it happen? Based on hundreds of interviews with activists and organizers, as well as Kelly’s personal experience teaching political science and raising politically savvy kids, this book provides insights into what makes change happen, here and around the world.

Part memoir and part handbook, Democracy: A Love Letter is written for busy people with complicated lives. It will inspire you to change your corner of the world—and then give you the tools you need to do it.

What people are saying:
"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." -- Marin Cogin, Senior correspondent, VOX.

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


"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." --Justin Brannan, New York City Councilman

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

"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." -- Michael Levitin, Author of Generation Occupy: Reawakening American Democracy

"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." --Abdi Iftin, Author of Call Me American