A new chapter is taking shape for the Center for Inclusive Democracy.
As of July 1, the Center for Inclusive Democracy (CID) will transition to an independent national organization, building on the strong foundation we developed with previous affiliations at UC Davis and, most recently, at USC. This moment is about stepping up for democracy. As the broader landscape shifts and institutions of all kinds, including academia, are being constrained, it’s become increasingly important to ensure that our nonpartisan work continues to grow with the focus, integrity, and stability that this moment for our democracy demands.
The Center's independence will allow us to protect the mission and vision that have guided us from our beginning 16 years ago: advancing inclusive democracy through rigorous research, trusted data and meaningful engagement. We will continue collaborating with our many partners within academia, as well as a growing state and national network of community partners who are committed to the critical, timely and urgent work of democracy. Our research, data and educational tools will continue to be used across the country in highly impactful ways by policy makers, election officials and community advocates. Our transition will further strengthen and expand this work.
Our conviction is strong, and we are ready to meet the moment. This new chapter empowers us to secure the best of both worlds: deep collaboration and academic rigor, paired with the independence needed to move decisively in a time when democracy itself requires vigilance and the ability to act quickly. In a period when so much is uncertain, one thing is not—our responsibility to protect and strengthen democratic participation and representation. This transition ensures we can meet that responsibility, fully and without compromise.
Below, learn about our partnership with Sierra Health Foundation, read statements of congratulations from leaders in the democracy field, and get a sneak peek at CID's plans for its new era...
In partnership,
Mindy Romero, Ph.D. CID Founder and Director
Our Partnership with Sierra Health Foundation
Sierra Health Foundation—a private philanthropy focused on promoting health, racial equity and racial justice with communities and organizations—will partner with and invest in CID in its new capacity, with its Center at Sierra Health Foundation serving as CID's new fiscal sponsor.
"We are honored that the Center for Inclusive Democracy (CID) will be partnering with The Center at Sierra Health Foundation as CID steps forward as an independent national organization. At Sierra Health Foundation, our mission is rooted in advancing equity, dignity and the health of all Californians—work that is inseparable from a truly inclusive democracy. Hosting CID at the Center at Sierra Health Foundation enables them to continue the rigorous, nonpartisan research and trusted data work for which they are nationally known, at a moment when our democracy requires vigilance, clarity and a renewed sense of purpose. We are excited to collaborate more closely and to support this critical work as, together, we strengthen democratic participation, representation and the wellbeing of communities across California and the nation."
- Chet P. Hewitt, President and CEO, Sierra Health Foundation
Leading Voices in The Pro-democracy Field Stand with Us
We are thankful for the many statements of support and congratulations from our esteemed colleagues in the pro-democracy field. Click here to read their statements.
Independent Research
CID is expanding its ability to conduct independent, applied research designed to create a better understanding of the urgent challenges and opportunities for greater engagement and representation in U.S. democracy. Through consultation with local, state and national stakeholders, CID will also seek to identify “what’s next” in the field of engagement, exploring critical overarching questions related to how our nation moves beyond its current democracy crisis.
Education and Translational Work
We are extending our educational reach and impact by creating dedicated outreach and communications programs designed to inform state and community-level engagement efforts, as well as policymaking conversations. This work includes outreach to (and often partnership with) four main audiences: 1) Nonpartisan statewide, regional and community - based organizations, 2) Local elected -decisionmakers, 3) State legislative staff/members and 4) Media (traditional and new).
Supporting Nonpartisan Engagement
Throughout our history, we have regularly supported nonpartisan civic engagement groups and worked with local decision-making bodies to help facilitate positive change in their communities through the power of data. Typically, this work involves customized data presentations, trainings and consultations to both statewide and local stakeholder groups. Beginning in 2026, CID will expand and more widely promote and proactively offer our expertise and research to support such groups and organizations.
Click here for a video highlighting CID's impact.