ICSLD
Promoting Lifelong Civic Learning and Democratic Participation
Empowering Civic Learning
Our Mission
The Institute of Civic Studies and Learning Democracy (ICSLD) promotes lifelong development of the skills and capacities necessary for democracy. We bring together scholars, civil servants, community activists, and education practitioners who believe democracy is not merely a form of government, but a way of living together where citizens co-create their shared environments. Through research, dialogue, and collaboration, we equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and passion to actively engage in democratic processes and contribute to the betterment of society.
History
The Institute continues the tradition of the Summer Institute of Civic Studies, held annually since 2009. These 10-day residential retreats have brought together over 300 scholars, practitioners, and activists from around the world to collaboratively study and enact projects promoting civic capacities. Emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches and international diversity, the institutes have been hosted at Tufts University, James Madison University, and universities in Germany and Ukraine.