The Resilience of Democratic Institutions With Timothy Heaphy

Public trust in government institutions and faith in democracy itself have eroded over six decades. Why has this happened, and what can we do about it? Legal expert and author Timothy J. Heaphy draws on his unique role as the lead investigator for two pivotal events: the 2017 racist and antisemitic riot in Charlottesville and the January 6, 2021, insurrection. He explores what these moments reveal about the declining trust in institutions and, more broadly, the state of American democracy.

Heaphy joins moderator Elaina Plott Calabro, acclaimed journalist and staff writer at The Atlantic, to discuss his new book, Harbingers: What January 6 and Charlottesville Reveal About Rising Threats to American Democracy. Together, they explore the challenges and lessons learned from these pivotal events, as well as the implications for the resilience of democratic institutions.

This event is hosted by the Karsh Insitute of Democracy in partnership with the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, the Karsh Center for Law and Democracy, Public Service Pathways, and the Virginia Festival of the Book. Food will be provided for registered attendees. A book signing will immediately follow the event, with books available for purchase.

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