DEMOCRACY is a fragile political system that empowers citizens to participate in decision-making to determine how their society is governed, how legislators and other governmental officials are elected or selected, how resources are distributed, and what rights will be accorded to the citizenry. This is often spelled out in a founding document such as a constitution.

Diversity is a challenge because differences in race, ethnicity, culture, values, customs, religion, and ideology may lead to conflicting or competing aspirations. As a nation of immigrants and one of the world’s most diverse societies, the United States has experienced challenges keeping a peaceful coexistence among its various factions.

Attacks on democratic institutions like the media, the courts, and free and fair elections can erode trust in government and lead to autocratic forms of government.