On Thursday, 13 presidential centers in the US jointly emphasized the importance of adherence to the rule of law and democratic principles in a newly released statement. In the wake of the many challenges confronting global democracy, the organizations underlined the need for peaceful civil discourse on political matters.
The statement stressed, “We, the undersigned, represent a wide range of views across a breadth of issues. We recognize that these views can exist peaceably side by side when rooted in the principles of democracy. Debate and disagreement are central features in a healthy democracy. Civility and respect in political discourse, whether in an election year or otherwise, are essential.”
Reiterating these sentiments, the Obama Foundation and George W. Bush Presidential Center urged Americans to fulfill their civic responsibilities through active participation in the government and democratic processes.
Various issues concerning the rule of law have arisen in the United States this year. Reports have indicated government abuses of power, including increased immunity for law enforcement officers. Other highlights include the vilification of immigrants, the separation of migrant families dictated by US policies, and the restrictions on teaching certain topics such as slavery, race, and gender in schools. The controversy even extends to former US President Donald Trump, who faces several charges of election interference associated with the 2020 presidential election.
Among the signatories of the joint statement are notable institutions like the Obama Foundation, George W. Bush Presidential Center, Clinton Foundation, George & Barbara Bush Foundation, and The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, as well as The Carter Center, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, Richard Nixon Foundation, LBJ Foundation, John F. Kennedy Library Foundation, Truman Library Institute, Roosevelt Institute, and Hoover Presidential Foundation. These organizations represent one unified voice upholding the principles of democracy.