Where democratic values thrive, civil discourse is celebrated and communities are empowered to engage in the democratic process.
The Baldacci Institute for Civil Discourse at Virginia Commonwealth University’s College of Humanities and Sciences is dedicated to strengthening democratic values, nurturing civic collaboration, promoting a civil exchange of ideas, and empowering citizens throughout VCU, Richmond, and beyond.
News & Events
News
April 3, 2026
VCU series on democracy marks America’s 250th anniversary
With public events and online offerings, the College of Humanities and Sciences program explores how ideals are evolving.
Feb. 5, 2026
Here are five primary dangers from political AI chatbots, VCU expert Jason Ross Arnold says
The political science professor also shares advice – and a stark warning about the threat to democracy.
Nov. 24, 2025
Virginia Government Simulation lets students pick up the bills
In its second year, the mock legislative session led by VCU welcomed more than 100 participants from Virginia colleges.
Events
May
18
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Jun
01
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Jun
15
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VCU Receives National Recognition For Community Engagement!
Earlier this month, the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching awarded VCU with the 2026 Carnegie Community Engagement Classification. The classification accredits VCU's commitment to advancing community-engaged teaching, research, and service. In addition to highlighting the positive impacts made by VCU's community and civic service organizations like IDEP and VCU Votes.
The IDEP's Annual Report
Learn how the Institute for Democratic Empowerment and Pluralism has grown over the past year and its direction towards the future!
The IDEP is proud to be a Commemorative Partner of The Virginia American Revolution Commission (VA250)!
Of the thirteen original colonies, none played as fundamental a role as Virginia in the formation of our country. From the ideas that inspired it, to the battlefields that decided it, there is simply no America without it. As we mark 250 years of Independence, now is the perfect time for you to reconnect with your country in the place that made it possible. Please join us at VA250.org.