Foundations and individuals have put billions of dollars into efforts to strengthen democracy, especially as political divisions, racial strife, and a once-in-a-century health crisis have put new strains on how America governs itself. After Election Day challenges recede, philanthropy must face big long-term questions: What steps should foundations and big donors take now to ensure our democracy serves all its citizens well in the decades ahead?

Join the Chronicle of Philanthropy for a discussion with some of the country’s leading thinkers to gain a wide-ranging perspective on what matters most. Through two free online briefings in November, you’ll gain access to prominent authors whose ideas appear in “Philanthropy’s Role in Strengthening American Democracy — A Diverse Agenda,” a collection of new essays commissioned by the Kettering and Knight foundations. This session is the first of two.