About Us

Join Our Growing Movement!

Democracy is only as strong as those who stand up for it. We’re a team of advocates, researchers, and citizens committed to preserving it for generations to come.


Democracy Doesn’t Defend Itself.

Defense of Democracy is a national nonpartisan nonprofit organization. We believe that the health of our republic depends not just on those in power, but on an engaged, informed, and courageous citizenry.

Our Mission is to empower citizens to join the pro-democracy movement at a local level. 

Our vision is an America where the pillars of our republic, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, are unshakeable and protected by a renewed civic spirit.

What We Do: We connect people with the tools, information, and community they need to take meaningful action. We build power through partnership. Our growing coalition of partner organizations spans education advocacy, voting rights, LGBTQ+ equality, anti-censorship efforts, and civic engagement, united by a shared commitment to a government that truly serves its people.

Get Involved: Whether you’re showing up to a school board meeting for the first time, committing to volunteer behind the scenes, or joining our Torchbearer Circle of monthly donors, there’s a place for you in this movement. 

Democracy doesn’t defend itself — but together, we can.

Our Team

Karen Svoboda
Executive Director

Mark Westin
Director of Communications

Katie Williams
Director of Marketing

Joe Smith
Director of IT

Our Board

Dr. Charles Prince

Chair

Donald Faho

Treasurer

Marsi Thrash

Secretary

Other Board Members

Bruce Rutter

Adolph Brown

George Neill

Rickey Richard

Donald Dea

Tom Crowley

Annette Deigh

Conor Broll

Ryan Hawley

©2026 Defense of Democracy, Inc. is a  registered 501c(4) organization that focuses on nonpartisan education and advocacy in protecting public institutions in the United States. 

Visit Defense of Democracy, Civic Education, our registered 501c(3) arm, here.

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