Stephen Parks

Professor of English and Global Studies
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Garcia in front of brick wall wearing people power academy tee
Essay

The world seems increasingly attracted to authoritarian solutions for pressing political issues, such as climate change, ethnic violence, and economic turmoil. In the Philippines, however, the next generation is actively building the organizations, campaigns, and movements to rebuild a democratic civic sphere. Over the past year, UVA’s Democratic Futures Project (DFP) has enabled undergraduate students to support and document these efforts, most recently through the publication of Care at the Core: The Power of People in the Grassroots.

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Rania Aziz headshot
Essay

In a world where democratic values are increasingly at risk, young Sudanese activists offer a powerful example of resilience and determination. Through UVA’s Democratic Futures Project (DFP), these activists are exploring pathways toward a more inclusive and just political future in Sudan.