Let's Envision
America,
Together
“The America I want Is…” initiative is about individual expression, collective listening and citizen involvement. It’s an idea as important now as at any time in our country’s history. We at Linley Foundation want to inspire and support a national conversation about our country - from our urgent climate challenges to a more equitable America.
Our Inspiration
Our inspiration is twofold. First the Native American Circle, our continent’s original example of participatory democracy. The second is the New England Town Meeting. Both blueprints support and inspire community. They are exercises in listening.
Chief Don Stevens is the chief of the Nulhegan Band of the Coosuk - Abenaki Nation.
Chief Dr.Bobby Joseph is the hereditary chief of the Gwawaenuk First Nation in Western Canada. He is the Ambassador for Reconciliation Canada.
Dr. Michael DeGagne is an Ojibway from the Animakee Wa Zhing 37 First Nation. He is president and CEO of Indspire, and former president of Nipissing University.
Jim Enote is a Zuni tribal member and
CEO at Colorado Plateau Foundation
Francine C. Gachupin, PhD, MPH, is a Pueblo of Jemez tribal member.An Associate Professor, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson. Epidemiologist , focuses on training and research.
The New England Town Meeting, where citizens gather to decide issues of local governance, resolve differences, and hear each other out.
The Program
Linley Foundation is digitizing the Talking Circle. We are asking Americans throughout the land to send us a video on their phones, telling us what they want for their country. We are collecting submissions from all 50 states, while conducting digital ( Zoom) Talking Circles with leaders, influencers, and citizens in all regions of the country. Not everything will be done digitally. We will also conduct a number of in-person, state-by-state Talking Circles. These sessions will be filmed, edited, and available for you to view on our website.
And now it's your turn. Submit your one minute recording about the America you want, or contact us to be part of America´s Talking Circle.
US States and Regions
Digital Talking Circles
Our states are very different. We want them to function well. We want to feel proud of them. They are mostly how we experience America. In this part of our initiative, we are asking citizens and leaders to tell us what they admire about their states. What message can their states send to the nation? And how would America be better off if it were more like their state?
Sponsor your State
We have chosen The Northeast as our first region and Vermont our model state. (Why?)
Northeast
Leaders and Influencers Talking Circle
Citizens´ Talking Circle
In-Person Talking Circle
Join us at our in-person Talking Circles to be held this Fall in Vermont.
Participate, send us an email.
Sponsor an event click here.
America's Digital Talking Circle
Massachussetts
Texas
