Democracy Night Brings Community Together to Explore the Issues Shaping Democracy
Voting Rights • Media Literacy • Government Accountability
ELMHURST, Ill. – From voting rights and media literacy to government accountability and emerging surveillance technology, today's civic issues are more complex and consequential than ever. As Illinois prepares for another election season and communities across DuPage County continue to navigate questions surrounding public trust, government accountability, and access to reliable information, the Citizen Advocacy Center (CAC) invites residents to be part of the conversation.
On Wednesday, July 29, CAC will host Democracy Night, a free public event from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Wilder Mansion in Elmhurst, bringing together community members and the next generation of civic leaders for an evening of learning, discussion, and civic engagement.
Each summer, students ranging from high school through law school participate in the Citizen Advocacy Center's internship program, researching complex public policy issues, working alongside attorneys and civic leaders, and engaging directly with communities throughout Northern Illinois. Democracy Night offers the public an opportunity to hear the results of that work while exploring some of today's most important civic issues.
This year's presentations will examine some of the most talked-about issues in civic life today, including:
• The Voting Rights Act
• Automatic License Plate Readers
• The Illinois TRUST Act
• Government Budgets
• Media Literacy
Consistent with the Citizen Advocacy Center's longstanding nonpartisan mission, Democracy Night is designed to educate and inform rather than advocate for any political party, candidate, or policy position. The event encourages thoughtful discussion, civil dialogue, and greater public understanding of the issues that affect our communities.
"Democracy works best when people understand the issues, ask thoughtful questions, and feel empowered to participate," said Sheilah O'Grady-Krajniak, Executive Director of the Citizen Advocacy Center. "Democracy Night is an opportunity for neighbors to come together, learn from one another, and engage in meaningful conversations about the policies and institutions that shape our daily lives. Whether you're deeply involved in civic affairs or simply curious to learn more, everyone is welcome."
Democracy Night reflects the Citizen Advocacy Center's ongoing commitment to helping residents better understand how government works, engage thoughtfully in civic life, and strengthen democracy through informed participation.
Admission is free and open to the public, and light refreshments will be provided.
Event Details
Democracy Night Wednesday, July 29, 2026 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wilder Mansion 211 Prospect Avenue Elmhurst, IL 60126
Founded in 1993, the Citizen Advocacy Center is a nonpartisan nonprofit organization dedicated to building democracy for the 21st century by strengthening the citizenry's capacities, resources, and institutions for self-governance. Through civic education, community lawyering, advocacy, and public engagement, CAC empowers individuals and communities to participate effectively in civic life and promote accountable, transparent, and responsive government.
