DEMOCRACY FEST 2026

Talk. Listen. Connect.

As we enter this critical midterm election season, First Parish Brewster Unitarian Universalist (FPBUU) is bringing our community together to celebrate the democratic and civic values that unite us. This community-wide Democracy Fest will inspire and connect people with meaningful ways to strengthen our democracy, protect our rights, and become active participants in civic life.

Please join us on Saturday, September 19
from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at
First Parish Brewster, 1969 Main Street, Brewster.

The presentations will be recorded and available on the FPBUU YouTube channel.

What is a Democracy Fest?

Festival Highlights

  • Keynote Address: Danielle Allen, Harvard constitutional law scholar, author, and Director of the Allen Lab for Democracy Renovation at the Harvard Kennedy School, will discuss the challenges facing our democracy and the role each of us can play in protecting it.
  • Braver Angels: Learn practical approaches to bridging political divides and fostering respectful dialogue within our communities.
  • Cape Housing Panel: Local leaders will discuss the challenges and opportunities surrounding housing on Cape Cod.
    • Amanda Bebrin, Brewster Select Board member and Director of Housing Advocacy at the Community Development Partnership

    • Elizabeth Jenkins, Orleans Assistant Director of Planning and Community Development

    • Donna Kalinick, Brewster Assistant Town Manager

    • Alisa Magnotta, CEO Housing Assistance

  • Community Action Fair: More than 20 local civic organizations and FPBUU Social Justice Task forces will share volunteer opportunities and ways to get involved in strengthening our communities.
  • Family-Friendly Festival: Enjoy live music, good food, and activities for all ages while exploring opportunities to make a difference.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Community Action Fair (civic organization tables on front lawn)

10:15 a.m. Welcome Remarks, Rev. Julia Jones, Sanctuary

10:30 -10:50 Braver Angels Presentation, Sanctuary

11:00 – 11:40 Keynote Address by Danielle Allen, Sanctuary

12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Pizza next door at the Woodshed and ice cream truck in the front parking lot.

12:30 – 1:15 Affordable Housing Panel, Sanctuary