Day 5- Democracy as an Institution: Looking Back, Moving Forward

As our journey continued, Day 5 brought us into deep conversations about democracy—not just as a system, but as an institution that demands active participation, self-awareness, and a commitment to progress. Through thought-provoking discussions, political insights, and an emotional visit to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, we explored the tension between learning from history and the need to move forward with purpose.

Morning Reflections: Drivers, Rearview Mirrors and Forward Motion

We began the day with an analogy from one of our fellows that set the tone for our discussions: Driving a car with a need to look in the rearview mirror. While reflection is crucial, how often do we allow the past to limit our forward progress? Can constant retrospection prevent us from fully embracing new opportunities and solutions?

Through thoughtful dialogue, we came to a powerful conclusion—change is achievable, and we have the ability to shape systems, shift paradigms, and make an impact. But that impact starts with understanding the structures we navigate and our role within them.

The Independent Center: Authenticity, Choice, and the Power of the Middle

We began the day with Adam Brandon from the Independent Center, discussing choice, social tolerance, and fiscal responsibility. He emphasized that independents may be democracy’s best hope, offering practical solutions over partisan division—echoing David Ogilvie’s (Class 52) insight that magic happens in the middle.

Independents succeed through:

• Authenticity – Being real, not performative.
• Tolerance – Viewing issues through a broad lens.
• Empowerment – Taking control of one’s own path.

A lingering question: Is authenticity a virtue? One thing was clear—real change starts locally, where we must be Drivers and Thermostats, shaping systems rather than reacting to them.

A Radical Centrist Approach: Meeting with Congressman Adam Gray

Our next session took us deeper into the realities of governance with Congressman Adam Gray, who brought forward a perspective often overlooked—how rural communities are treated in a democratic system based on representation.

Gray identifies as a radical centrist, a term that reflects his commitment to problem-solving over political posturing. His message was one of collaboration over conflict—the idea that real progress happens when people come to the table to solve problems, not just to protect their own interests.

What stood out most was a realization we had heard twice that day: Major achievements are bipartisan. Whether in state legislatures or independent movements, the most effective solutions are rarely those born from a single ideology. Instead, they emerge from the middle ground—from leaders willing to listen, collaborate, and prioritize outcomes over optics.

The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum: Systems and Their Consequences

The afternoon brought a shift in tone as we visited the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. This experience forced us to examine democracy from another lens—the consequences of when systems that uphold democracy fail.

The Holocaust was not just a tragic event; it was the result of interconnected systems working toward destruction:

• Systems of unrest and economic disparity that created vulnerability.
• Systems of narrative and storytelling that turned propaganda into policy.
• Systems of assumption and ignorance that allowed hate to spread unchecked.
• Systems of mobilization and control that enabled the systematic targeting of entire populations.
• Systems of industrialization that transformed genocide into a mechanized process.

Among the most striking artifacts was a letter from Helen Keller to German students, challenging them with these words: “History has taught you nothing if you think you can kill ideas.”

This message resonated deeply. It was a reminder that ideas—whether for good or for harm—exist beyond the individuals who carry them. As leaders, we must recognize the power of systems and our ability to influence them.

We left with an essential question: How do we use curiosity to better understand systems and their interconnections? It is not enough to simply change an element within a system—leaders must shift paradigms to truly make a positive change and impact. The horrors of the Holocaust must never be repeated.

A Night on the Floor of Congress: Lessons in Leadership with Congressman David Valadao

As the sun set over Washington, D.C., we stepped onto the House floor—a humbling reminder of leadership’s weight and historical impact. Congressman David Valadao welcomed us, emphasizing that true leadership isn’t just about policy but about being a good person.

He stressed the power of listening, sharing how trust is built through conversation, not confrontation. In a divided political climate, understanding different perspectives is key to progress.

He also highlighted the importance of owning mistakes, reminding us that leadership isn’t about perfection but accountability. Taking responsibility, even in difficult moments, defines integrity.

As we left the Capitol, we reflected on his message: Character matters more than titles. The best leaders are authentic, humble, and committed to serving others—not just making decisions, but shaping a system where respect and understanding drive real change.

Final Thoughts: Democracy, Leadership, and Our Role Moving Forward

Democracy is both fragile and resilient, dependent on the people who participate in it. Whether through bipartisan problem-solving, independent movements, or historical reflection, the message was clear:           

• Systems shape outcomes, but they are not unchangeable.
• Progress happens in the middle.       
• Authenticity and engagement at the local level are key to real impact.

As the day concludes we find ourselves asking: Will we be the leaders who influence the system rather than just react to it?

If today proved anything, it’s that the answer must be yes.

With gratitude,

Jake Barcellos, Patty Martinez, and Timothy Murray and the members of Class 54.