Gather. Learn. Share. Vote. Repeat.
Backyard Democracy is about nurturing civic life where we already feel connected — around kitchen tables, on porches, in shared courtyards, or wherever we gather. It’s where conversations deepen, trust grows, and neighbors become collaborators.
Sidewalk Civics (coming soon) brings this energy into public spaces — meeting people on sidewalks, in parks, at markets, or on casual walks. It’s civic engagement in the everyday, visible and accessible to all.
Together, they form a movement:
Rooted in relationships.
Focused on learning together.
Building power from the ground up.
Growing civic culture close to home.
Empowering You and Fueling Democracy
We’re a grassroots 501(c)(4) based in Santa Fe, NM, working to boost local civic engagement and build community power. We believe democracy thrives when we all understand how to use it — and when we keep things neighborly and accessible.
Backyard Democracy is a community-rooted initiative to grow civic culture close to home.
We believe democracy isn’t just something that happens at the ballot box every few years. Democracy is for every person in every space. It’s built in the everyday moments where we gather, talk, and take small steps together.
Whether it’s a backyard potluck, a café meet-up, or a chalked sidewalk message, we make it easy for neighbors to connect, learn, and spark change.
Our vision is a vibrant, local democracy that belongs to everyone — no matter where you live or what your “backyard” looks like.
“Why us, why now?”
Democracy needs more than voters. It needs informed, connected neighbors who show up for each other and for their communities.
That’s what we’re building — join us.
FRIENDLY FAQ
“What if I don’t have a backyard?”
No problem! Backyard Democracy is about wherever you feel at home. It could be your front stoop, apartment courtyard, a coffee shop, or even a virtual living room.
“Is this partisan?”
No — we’re about civic culture, not political parties. We want people to understand local issues, connect with neighbors, and participate however they choose.
“Do I have to host big events?”
Not at all. It can be as simple as inviting a few friends over or chalking a message on the sidewalk.
“Why sidewalks?”
Sidewalks represent the public sphere — a place we all share. Sidewalk Civics is about making civic life visible and inviting, right outside our doors.
