Building a political agenda for belonging: Can we create convergence amidst divergence?

What sort of policy agenda can unite a political coalition for democracy and belonging? To create a future where everyone belongs, we need a bold policy agenda that articulates the full range of structural shifts that belonging demands ― and just as critically, a broad coalition with the power to advance that agenda and sustain wins.  But instead of a broad coalition, we are often hampered by multiple competing frameworks, with disconnected agendas, analyses, political power ― all while authoritarianism is consolidating power  and causing immense harm. This session will examine three prominent frameworks for social progress that have the potential to challenge authoritarianism and othering: democratic socialism, abundance, and racial justice.

• Where is there common ground between them?
• Where is there room to negotiate and build a shared agenda and strategy, despite ideological differences?
• How might a convergence of these agendas lead to policy ideas that are more durable and equitable than those they separately center?

With leading strategists who are shaping progressive narratives, policy ideas, and organizing on the ground, we will explore the possibilities for, and challenges of, building a cohesive policy agenda and political movement for belonging