Chautauqua Institution, in partnership with the Karsh Institute of Democracy at the University of Virginia, is proud to present the 2025 Forum on Democracy, held June 8–10 at the historic Athenaeum Hotel.

Co-curated by Institution staff and the 2024–25 Chautauqua Perry Fellows in Democracy Melody Barnes and David French, the Forum will feature leading voices on politics and culture across three days of presentations, panel discussions and audience engagement. The strength of our democracy depends on a civic culture that sustains it. Can we foster a shared set of norms, values, and beliefs that empower our institutions and help us navigate our differences?

The 2025 Forum will open Sunday evening with a keynote discussion between Barnes and French, moderated by Jeffrey Rosen, president and CEO of the National Constitution Center. Barnes and French will close the Forum with a summary discussion on Tuesday morning, which will mark their final programmatic engagements as the inaugural Chautauqua Perry Fellows. In between, attendees can look forward to keynotes and panel discussions that offer valuable insights and ideas to strengthen the democratic institutions that support civic life. Join us for an unforgettable experience that aims to rejuvenate our civic spirit and strengthen our communities.

To register and for more information, click here.

A general outline of the activities scheduled for June 10 is included below. Additional expert speakers and panelists will be added as they are confirmed, and registrants will receive a more detailed agenda as the Forum dates approach.

Morning

• Plenary Panel Discussion (TBD)
• Audience Participation Activity
• Closing Summary Discussion
• Melody Barnes, Executive Director, Karsh Institute of Democracy, University of Virginia; 2024–25 Chautauqua Perry Fellow in Democracy
• David French, Opinion Columnist, The New York Times; 2024–25 Chautauqua Perry Fellow in Democracy