Founded and directed by Dr. Mindy Romero, the Center for Inclusive Demcoracy's mission is to improve the social and economic quality of life in U.S. communities by producing non-partisan, data-driven research that informs and empowers a wide range of policy and on-the-ground organizing efforts through education and outreach for a more engaged, transparent and representative democracy. CID conducts a range of national and multi-state research initiatives exploring voting behavior, civic engagement, electoral reforms, voting rights, deliberative dialogue, and more.
The following describes the three areas of CID's work:
1. Independent Democracy Research: The Now and the “What’s Next”
CID is expanding its ability to conduct independent, applied research designed to create a better understanding of the urgent challenges and opportunities for greater engagement and representation in U.S. democracy. Through consultation with local, state and national stakeholders, CID is also seeking to identify “what’s next” in the field of engagement, exploring critical overarching questions related to how our nation addresses the current democracy crisis and moves beyond it.
2. Educational Outreach Program: Translating Research to Inform and Empower
In 2026, we are extending our educational reach and impact by creating dedicated outreach and communications programs designed to inform state and community-level engagement efforts, as well as policymaking conversations. This work includes outreach to (and often partnership with) four main audiences: 1) Nonpartisan statewide, regional and community-based organizations, 2) Local elected decisionmakers, 3) State legislative staff/members and 4) Media (traditional and new).
3. Direct Support of Community Engagement Efforts: The Power of Community-Level Engagement Data
Throughout our history, we have regularly supported nonpartisan civic engagement groups and worked with local decision-making bodies to help facilitate positive change in their communities through the power of data. Typically, this work involves customized data presentations, trainings and consultations to both statewide and local stakeholder groups. Beginning in 2026, CID is now expanding and more widely proactively offering our expertise and research to support groups and organizations seeking to bring about a more engaged and representative democracy.
