The Future of Our Former Democracy

This bonus episode we’re sharing a panel discussion between Councilor Hazel Chu from the Dublin City Council and former Lord Mayor of Dublin and Councilor Yemi Adenuga from the Meath County Council, and moderated by Liliana Fernandez from the National Women's Council. Both are women of color who have made significant strides in Irish politics. The discussion covers their historic campaigns, personal stories, challenges faced, and the importance of representation in politics. They also delve into election strategies, voter education, and the impact of the Single Transferable Vote system. Their journeys highlight resilience, authenticity, and the drive to create an inclusive political landscape.   Transcript   For more information on More Equitable Democracy’s work, please visit: https://www.equitabledemocracy.org/    For more information on Larj Media, please visit:   https://www.larjmedia.com/

In this bonus episode, George sits down with Claire Hanna, Member of Parliament from the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) representing Belfast South and Mid Down. Claire shares insights into her journey as an activist and politician, her family's history with the SDLP, and her experiences running in different electoral systems. She delves into the complexities of Northern Ireland's political landscape, the intricacies of the Good Friday Agreement, and the impact of power-sharing mechanisms. Claire also reflects on the changing role of women in politics, the challenges of campaigning, and offers her perspective on the state of democracy in the US.   Transcript    For more information on More Equitable Democracy’s work, please visit: https://www.equitabledemocracy.org/      For more information on Larj Media, please visit:    https://www.larjmedia.com/

In this bonus episode, listeners can hear the full presentation and poetry reading from Irish poet, conflict mediator, and theologian Pádraig Ó Tuama, which was excerpted throughout season 1 of The Future of Our Former Democracy. Before jumping in, Colin and George offer a quick reflection on the results of last week’s U.S. presidential election and compare the rise of far-right movements in the U.S. to similar trends in Western Europe, focusing on the electoral dynamics in France, the UK, and Germany. Transcript For more information on More Equitable Democracy’s work, please visit: https://www.equitabledemocracy.org/    For more information on Larj Media, please visit:   https://www.larjmedia.com/

This episode is a special postscript of 'The Future of Our Former Democracy,' focusing on a learning tour organized by More Equitable Democracy to the Republic of Ireland to observe elections in June 2024. Colin and George recount their experiences at the Royal Dublin Society, witnessing the tallying process, and the cultural importance of elections in Ireland. The episode features interviews with Irish citizens including election volunteers, taxi drivers, and elected officials, providing diverse perspectives on the Republic of Ireland's democracy.    Special thanks to the experts featured in this episode:   Yemi Adenuga  Hazel Chu  Teresa Buczkowska  Northern Ireland Youth Forum     Episode photo gallery  Music and archival  Transcript    Video: Ballot Sorting Process in Ireland    For more information on More Equitable Democracy’s work, please visit: https://www.equitabledemocracy.org/    For more information on Larj Media, please visit:   https://www.larjmedia.com/