THE MISSION
We must act.
Our nation stands divided. Media literacy is low, and many are unable to sort the sincere from the sensational. We hope to reach as many souls as possible, and share real stories about real people.
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When we march together, play ball together, knit together, or tend our gardens together, we find that there are more commonalities than differences.
Retrieving democracy may require no less than healing our fractured nation,
step by step,
connection by connection,
person by person.​
THE VISION
Realizing the justice that is foundational to our Constitution,
but has thus far been only a dream.
THE MARCH
Democracy 12 was borne of an idea to march.
To march as a part of a movement that is gaining momentum throughout our nation.
To march with strength and conviction...and kindness.
To march in objection to the gross violations of our constitution now happening daily, and to actively engage those who may be passively sitting by, waiting for the work to happen on its own.
We also realize that democracy may require no less than healing our fractured nation,
step by step,
connection by connection,
person by person.​
"12 Days to Democracy"
WHO WE ARE
We are a group of citizens with a variety of histories and backgrounds who have found one another from across the nation — from California to Arizona to Illinois to the Eastern Seaboard — driven by a common purpose to seek justice for all, and to give voice to all of our people.
THE PEOPLE
Founder
Judy Shatkin, MD
In this time of threat to our country's democratic institutions and assault on civil rights, I have discovered a love for my country and a desire to do what is in my power to help to restore democracy, and a hope that when balance is restored, it is restored a more just society for all those who live in its borders.
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My hope is that our walk from Philadelphia to DC will engender new and unknown synergies leading to significant and positive change.
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Harvard University is my alma mater, and I've never been prouder to be an alum than in this moment, Summer 2025.
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I studied medicine at the University of Chicago near my hometown, but left pediatrics in 2009 to pursue music after a bout with breast cancer.
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I'm looking forward to joining with people of diverse hearts and minds to unite and let our voices be heard.
Tracy Dickerson
I’m Tracy Dickerson (she/her) and I’m a Hospice RN, a “rogue kitchen-table theologian” and a table-turner. I’m on the Leadership Team of the Newark Delaware Indivisible chapter and a lifelong Delaware. I’ve been enjoying helping to put the Delaware leg of the March together and hope that as you join is in this endeavor (in whatever capacity) you find joy on the journey.
Delaware captain
Deb Oronzio
Hi! I'm Deb. As the founder of Self-Empower Coaching, I've spent years helping professionals achieve their career aspirations by cultivating strong mindsets and designing their visions for success. Now, I've found a new mission: to be a voice for change and justice. I simply cannot remain silent about what's happening in our country today. Appalled by the current state of affairs, I'm stepping forward as a first-time political activist, compelled by a profound love for my country and a fierce commitment to liberty & justice for all. This fight is my tribute to the nation I cherish, and a vital legacy I'm determined to secure for my grandchildren—especially my six young granddaughters—ensuring their future is built on the promise of true freedom. I'm excited to make many new friends along the way.
Press lead and local host
Our Incredible Team
Wendy Maland
Chief Writer
Amy Bishton
Chief Cartographer
Jaxy Baine
Director of Technology and Equine Installation
Jason Presson
Director of Operations
Reni Adebayo
Digital Media Consultant, The Collectif
Patrick McCarthy
Logistics
Laura Russell
Media Intern
The Non-Violent Resistance:
Stephanie Aaron, Indomitable Leader
Dan Nicholson
Scott Morgan
Amy Sharbaugh
Casey Nielson
Christy Bennett
Karen Ryan Linden
This is a powerhouse group of Chicagoans who want more from our America.
Cathy Spahr
Galvanizing force for justice in Central Pennsylvania. Civic leader who changes communities for the better.
Tiffany Milligan
Maryland Correspondent and all-around can-do magician.
Lucia DiVenere
DC Consultant
Routing Advisory
Our Wise Advisors
Andrew Katz
Able to provide volumes of knowledge in record speeds.
Providing light and love wherever they go. AND some blues harp and crossover composition. AND #jinglesfordemocracy.
Author of "We Are Power" and man of knowledge #wearepower
Co-Sponsors
