RICHMOND, VIRGINIA — The Library of Virginia announced today that it will host a free livestream of TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures, a daylong symposium on Saturday, June 13, featuring more than 15 original TED Talks focused on the past, present and future of democracy.

Streaming live from Philadelphia leading up to America’s 250th birthday celebrations, the symposium convenes bold thinkers and civic leaders to share ideas and solutions designed to inform and inspire. Registration is required at https://lva-virginia.libcal.com/event/16731312.

Through a collaboration with Visit Philadelphia and the American Library Association, and sponsored by The Pew Charitable Trusts, more than 65 libraries across the country are hosting satellite livestream events — expanding access to these critical conversations and fostering local engagement nationwide.

“We’re proud to join libraries nationwide providing access to these important discussions at such a pivotal moment in our nation’s history,” said Librarian of Virginia Dennis T. Clark. “As the Commonwealth’s library, we work to create spaces where Virginians can explore the ideas that shape our civic life. This livestream brings a national conversation on democracy directly to our community and invites attendees to engage with the themes raised by the speakers.”

The symposium, set for 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., will be co-hosted by curiosity expert, speaker and author Scott Shigeoka, host and creator of The Curiosity Mobile, alongside TED Democracy curator Kelly Stoetzel, a creative producer and former TED Head of Conferences who specializes in turning powerful ideas into unforgettable experiences. The program’s initial speaker lineup — covering topics from media literacy and race to the intersection of AI and democracy, economic equity and more — includes:

• Jon Alexander, an author advocating for active citizenship and democratic renewal through writing, advising and convening
• Terrill “Terry” Bouricius, a former elected official who is working toward reform within the U.S. system of representation
• Aria Florant, CEO of Liberation Ventures, a catalyst for creating a culture of repair in America
• Jen Golbeck, a computer scientist and AI researcher whose work touches on the ethics of AI
• Xochitl Gonzalez, a Pulitzer Prize finalist author and part-time staff writer at The Atlantic, with a focus on economic inequality
• Shamichael Hallman, an author and national leader of the Urban Libraries Council advancing libraries as essential civic infrastructure
• Sally Kohn, a nationally recognized television commentator, writer and executive presence coach working with top executives and political leaders
• Jeffrey Maurer, a writer and former candidate for the Indiana Secretary of State who is working to prepare future generations to think independently
• Katie Paris, a former national politics professional whose current focus is on community organizing and helping to increase civic participation
• Janelle Persaud, a media specialist and TEDxTurkeyen organizer focused on democracy, development and governance in postcolonial societies
• Tami Pyfer, a former elected official and advisor doing work around dignity in speech
• Scott Reich, a legal scholar and historian who explores how individuals and communities respond to adversity
• Laura Smythe, a journalist and communications specialist focused on the intersection of legacy journalism, social media, AI platforms and the creator economy

Additional speakers will be announced prior to the event. 

For more information on TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures, visit https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/events/ted-democracy-philadelphia-founding-futures/.
 

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About the Library of Virginia
The Library of Virginia  is the leading source of information on Virginia’s history, government and people. The Library’s collections, containing more than 134 million items, document and illustrate the lives of both famous Virginians and ordinary citizens. Our online resources draw nearly 2 million website visits per year, and our on-site records, exhibitions and events bring in thousands of visitors annually. The Library is located in downtown Richmond near Capitol Square at 800 East Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23219. Learn more at www.lva.virginia.gov.
 

About Visit Philadelphia
VISIT PHILADELPHIA® is our name and our mission. As the region’s official tourism marketing agency, we build Greater Philadelphia’s image, drive visitation and boost the economy. On Greater Philadelphia’s official visitor website, visitphilly.com, visitors can explore things to do, upcoming events, themed itineraries and hotel packages. Compelling photography and videos, interactive maps and detailed visitor information make the site an effective trip-planning tool. Visitors can also find loads of inspiration on Visit Philly’s social media Channels.
 

About TED
TED is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to discovering and sharing ideas that spark conversation, deepen understanding and drive meaningful change. Rooted in curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge, TED brings together people across disciplines and cultures to better understand the world and engage with ideas in their communities.

Founded in 1984 as a conference focused on Technology, Entertainment and Design, TED has grown into a global platform spanning science, business, education, the arts and more. Through TED Talks, podcasts, TED-Ed educational content and independently organized TEDx events around the world, TED reaches audiences in more than 100 languages. The organization also leads major initiatives, including the Audacious Project, which has helped catalyze more than $3 billion in funding for global impact, as well as Countdown and TED Democracy.