International Democracy Day, a holiday that deserves much gravitas but is virtually unknown outside of the elite halls of multinational institutions. As half-and first-generation immigrants to the U.S. with roots in Sub Saharan Africa, we have committed our careers to fighting for inclusive democracy both at home and abroad. We believe it is possible to be fiercely patriotic to America while simultaneously critical of our practice of democracy and approach to global leadership. Our collective experience in senior roles in government and civil society has led us to the conclusion that the concept and practice of American democracy needs to be reconceptualized for the 21st century.
