TED Democracy Philadelphia

Two hundred and fifty years after the Founding Fathers debated and signed the Declaration of Independence right here in Philadelphia, we’re celebrating the city’s legacy as the birthplace of modern democracy and a blueprint for democracies across the globe in collaboration with TED Democracy. 

TED Democracy Philadelphia, in partnership with Visit Philadelphia, kicked off in July 2024 and featured a series of high-profile events over three years centered around the concepts and pillars that are essential to preserving modern democracy.

This partnership culminated in the first-of-its-kind TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures event in June 2026, which brought together thought-leaders and changemakers from across the globe to explore a bold question: What will we build together next?

Watch: The First TED Talk From TED Democracy Philadelphia

In June 2026, TED Democracy: Founding Futures brought some of the brightest minds and global changemakers to Philadelphia for a full day examining the past, present and future of modern democracy in the city where it started.

At the event, more than a dozen illuminating TED Talks were recorded in the hopes that the ideas explored in them live on and inspire others to take action in their own communities. 

Watch the first TED Talk below and stay tuned for more as we embark on the next 250 years of American history.

If these ideas inspire you, there’s no better place to experience democracy’s living legacy than Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy.

The views expressed in these talks are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily represent the views of Visit Philadelphia.

Michael Dimock: Why Democracy Requires Renewal

In the first of these talks, Michael Dimock, president and CEO of the Pew Charitable Trusts, explores the concept of democracy as an ongoing project — a system that depends on renewal, participation and civic imagination from every generation.

Watch his TED Talk below, then read on to learn how you can take action. 

Take Action: Visit the National Constitution Center

Feeling inspired? Learn more about the U.S. Constitution, its existence as an evolving document and the role all Americans play in shaping its future at the National Constitution Center. 

  — Photo by J. Miczek for the National Constitution Center

Watch: TED Idea Knock Down, Episode 1

The TED Idea Knock Down series pairs experts with different perspectives in a playful game as they tackle big questions together — one block a time.

In episode 1, writer and communications strategist Sally Kohn goes head-to-head with entrepreneur Jeff Maurer as they debate a rich question: Should there be a wealth limit for politicians?  

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A Note About TED Democracy

Visit Philadelphia is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the rich cultural and historical heritage of our city, including its role as the birthplace of modern American democracy. We are committed to making Philadelphia the most welcoming and inclusive city in the U.S. for visitors and residents.

The TED Democracy and Visit Philadelphia partnership, a series of events focusing on the future of democracy from 2024 to 2026, was created to align with the cultural conversations that will take place as we approach America’s 250th anniversary.

Our goal is to offer attendees a thought-provoking and educational experience that respects individual views and beliefs, all while honoring the spirit of dialogue our founding fathers practiced nearly 250 years ago here in Philadelphia.

Visit Philadelphia does not participate in political campaigns, nor support or oppose candidates for public office. We expressly disclaim any statement, or inference, of endorsement or opposition of any political candidate at any TED Democracy event, whether made by its speakers, participants or otherwise.