Libraries strengthen democracy every day. 

Join us on Saturday, June 13, for big ideas, thoughtful conversation, and a shared civic moment.

This symposium features 15⁺ brand-new TED Talks focused on the evolution and future of democracy, streaming live from Philadelphia during America’s 250^th anniversary.

Founding Futures: TED Democracy Live
Saturday, June 13
8 am to 3 pm
Brookwood Library

Listen to some of the world’s brightest thinkers, offering brand-new TED Talks designed to challenge perspectives and inspire action.

Topics will range from media literacy and race to the intersection of AI and democracy, economic equity, and more.  

This hybrid event is a come-and-go format designed to fit your schedule. Stop by for an hour or stay all day. These sessions are free, ADA accessible, and open to the community. No registration required. 

Translation and interpretation services are available upon request, with a notice period of 72 hours. Call 503-615-6500. Requests submitted with less than 72 hours' notice cannot be guaranteed.

Schedule

8 am            Welcome & Session 1: TED Democracy Live, streamed from Philadelphia

Foundations 
Speakers: Thomas Devaney, Michael Dimock, Aria Florant, Jen Golbeck, Anuj Gupta, Scott Reich
Artists: Zinadelphia

9:30 am       Break

9:45 am       Local programming, Including speakers: Shriya Raghavendra and Ishita Grandhi

11 am          Session 2: TED Democracy Live, streamed from Philadelphia

Friction
Speakers: Tami Pyler, Terrill, Xochitl Gonzalez, Shamichael Hallman, Jeffery Maurer, Paul J. Mrstick, Katie Paris, Danielle Roberts

12:30 pm    Break

1 pm            Session 3: TED Democracy Live, streamed from Philadelphia

Forging Ahead
Speakers: Jon Alexander, Louis King II, Sally Kohn, Janelle A.N. Persaud, Jasmine E. Sessoms, Laura Smythe, Young Philadelphia's Continental Congress

2:30 pm       Wrap Up Discussion

Scheduled Speakers include:

• Jon Alexander, Citizen Futurist
• Terrill “Terry” Bouricius, Recovering Politician
• Michael Dimock, President, Pew Research Center
• Aria Florant, Reparations Catalyst
• Jen Golbeck, AI Ethicist

See the full current Speaker Lineup (scroll down for speaker list and bios)

Presented in collaboration with Visit Philadelphia and partners nationwide, and sponsored by The Pew Charitable Trusts, this event connects local conversation to a national moment.