Defending Democracy in the Disinformation Age

Time: 10 am – 4:30 pm MST

Date: April 11

For decades, technology has fostered the advancement of freedom, transparency, and liberty. The more technology has been employed in elections and allowed people to access information, the more democracy benefitted. Yet, over time, technology also became a tool to undermine democracy. To address these threats against American democracy, Arizona State University’s McCain Institute and Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication are honored to invite you to attend our upcoming event: “Defending Democracy in the Disinformation Age.”

This day-long event will feature a series of panels in Phoenix, Arizona, on Thursday, April 11, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. MST at Arizona State University’s downtown Phoenix campus. The panels will focus on the impact of social media on democracy, the loss of local journalism, Congressional legislation and regulations on technology, Arizona and local elections, and disinformation’s impact on veterans and the military community.

At the McCain Institute, we strive to work across the political spectrum to sustain and deepen our democratic institutions and practices. There is no better way to honor the legacy of Senator McCain than to carry on the spirit of fearless bipartisanship.

Panel 1: Digital Divides: Navigating Tech’s Role in American Democracy

Event Synopsis: For decades, technology strengthened democratic institutions and principles including representation, transparency, and individual liberties. Yet, over time, technology has been deployed as a tool by nefarious actors to undermine democracy. This forward-looking conversation will explore the intersection of technology and democracy, and what it means for American citizens and institutions.

Panelists:

• Dhanaraj Thakur, Center for Democracy and Technology
• Matt Masterson, Microsoft
• Michelle Ciulla Lipkin, National Association for Media Literacy Education

Moderator: Kristy Roschke, Cronkite School, ASU

RSVP