Wisdom of the Crowds

Citizens’ assemblies have moved from experimental tools to proven methods for solving complex public problems and strengthening trust—between residents and their government, within communities, and in people’s own capacity to engage with hard issues. The next frontier is shifting from one-off, ad hoc assemblies to models of repeated use. This public event explores what it takes and what it means for governments to meaningfully absorb and act on assemblies’ recommendations as a matter of routine, rather than an exceptional break from conventional politics.

We will examine how ideas travel from participants to staff, across departments, and ultimately to elected officials. We’ll also consider why a government might commit to holding an assembly on a regular basis (such as every year), and what benefits, opportunities, risks, and challenges arise from that commitment. In addition, the discussion will surface the structures, skills, and resources needed to make recurring assemblies possible—and, time permitting, what a fully institutionalized assembly might look like in the United States.

This panel brings together on the ground leaders across the country including government representatives and civic organizers to share practical lessons with an audience of citizens’ assembly implementers from across the United States and Canada. This event is sponsored by FIDE North America, the National Civic League, and New America’s Political Reform Program. The panel discussion will take place from 4:00–5:00 p.m., with a reception to follow.

Welcome and Introductions:

• Mark Schmitt, Director, New America’s Political Reform
• Dr. Marjan Ehsassi, Executive Director, FIDE - North America

Moderator:

• Dr. Hollie Russon Gilman, Senior Fellow, New America’s Political Reform

Panel:

• Brenda Ritenour, Neighborhood Engagement and Services Manager, City of Boulder
• Mike Squire, Division Manager of Community Engagement, City of Dayton
• Kevin O’Neil, Managing Director of New Frontiers at the Rockefeller Foundation