As we begin, however tentatively, to move into a new moment in US political life, calls for unity are often met with skepticism and disdain. But perhaps unity is the wrong measure of democracy anyway. What if instead we ask, Who are our people? Where do we belong? In this moment coming out of the pandemic, how can we think together about expanding the scope of our people and what it means to belong so that we can consider what democracy requires of us and for us in this fraught moment.

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David Gutterman is a professor in the departments of Politics, Policy, Law & Ethics and Women’s and Gender Studies at Willamette University. He teaches courses on ethics, political theory, religion and politics, and the politics of sex, sexuality, and gender and the politics of the body. His current research explores civil religion, civic engagement, and public space in the United States. David has been involved with Oregon Humanities since 2002, participating in programs, leading discussions, contributing to the magazine, and serving on the board of directors. He lives with his family in Salem.