Lt.-Gov. Janet Austin: We need constructive participation in our democracy

One of the biggest threats to democracy in the 21st century is the erosion of civility in public discourse and the polarization of politics.
Across the globe, the political landscape has become increasingly fractured. Individuals are engaging less with those who have viewpoints different from their own, while the tone of rhetoric from political leaders has become more combative.
Many believe the internet has accelerated and accentuated this shift. We are now able to digitally surround ourselves