Share your thoughts
A lot has changed since the last International Day of Democracy.
The day is meant to be a chance to review the state of democracy in the world and “reinforce the importance of upholding free speech, civil liberties, and the rule of law; ensuring accountable institutions; and protecting and promoting human rights,” according to U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres.
But many fear democracy is eroding. Research shows that Americans’ trust in government and each other is on the decline. There is less hope, less civil dialogue, and less faith in local and federal government.
To explore those changes, we’re hosting a live Q&A as part of our Public Matters initiative.
We want to hear from you about your questions on democracy, housing, civic engagement and local government. Submit them in the form below.
Then, join our livestream Wednesday, Sept. 24 at noon on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
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New sleep cabins in Pacific Beach will soon house six people working their way out of homelessness. This group is already part of a program where they work to clean public streets, which includes sidewalk sweeping, trash pickup, landscaping, graffiti removal and custodial work.
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The group, whose members are descendants of the area's first Spanish settlers, celebrated its 44th annual luncheon on Saturday.
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A new state law that aims to increase development near certain transit stops takes effect Wednesday. Cities across the state, including San Diego, are mapping out exactly where it will apply, and which areas may be delayed or exempted.
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The city of San Diego and the county dodged a bullet Thursday in the leadup to the deadline to put statewide initiatives on the ballot.
Who We Are
Public Matters is an initiative of KPBS, inewsource and Voice of San Diego.
These three independent, non-profit journalism organizations are sharing content, conversation, and events that ensure all San Diegans understand their opportunity to participate in the democratic process and that it means more than voting in an election.
At its core, it is about reminding us that we have a shared humanity, and together we are empowered to make positive change.
Public Matters is generously funded by Irwin and Joan Jacobs.
Quinn Owen
Public Matters Editor
Jake Gotta
Social Media Host and Reporter
Paola Hernández-Jiao
Public Matters Community Engagement Manager