Democracy From Where I Stand

Democracy From Where I Stand promises an evening crackling with discussion and connection. Leading women from around our city and around the world sound out on the state of government, representation, rights and freedom. In a year where 62 countries vote in national elections – 49% of the world’s population – we’re reflecting on what democracy means. No better place to do it than in The City of London – the world’s longest-running municipal democracy.

This live event is inspired by Financial Times’ Democracy digital film series, developed in consultation with LIFT and featuring short new films by Margaret Atwood (Toronto), Aditi Mittal (Mumbai), Elif Shafak (London/Istanbul) and Lola Shoneyin (Lagos). Join us for this special night of LIFT ideas Democracy From Where I Stand and catch these films online. 

Full line up announced soon.

Presented by LIFT and The Financial Times as part of LIFT the City. Supported by the City of London Corporation in collaboration with Destination City. 

Democracy by Margaret Atwood
In a year in which more than half the world goes to the polls, acclaimed novelist Margaret Atwood asks whether democracy is fragile and easily destroyed or flexible and resilient.

In That Top by Aditi Mittal
The Indian comedian takes on the role of both father and daughter in a comedy sketch exploring family tensions over the meaning of democracy.

Terra Incognita by Elif Shafak
The Turkish novelist explores democracy’s delicately balanced ecosystem in a collaboration with renowned experiential art collective Marshmallow Laser Feast.

How coups and military dictatorship in Africa threaten democracy by Lola Shoneyin

The Nigerian poet and author recites a poem about how coups and military dictatorships in Africa have threatened democracies over the decades, arguing the case for retaining, embracing and shaping democracy.

Credits

Presented as part of LIFT the City, supported by the City of London Corporation.

Images courtesy of Financial Times.