Mission and Values
DODO is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that protects and strengthens U.S. democracy.
We do this by improving the conversation around democracy reform, diagnosing the ills of our democratic system, and prescribing evidence-based reforms to remedy them. We also stand as a watchdog; fact- checking claims made about reform, and provide accessible and accurate information to political actors, reformers, and the public.
DODO BELIEVES IN:
Democracy, the democratic process, and strong democratic institutions.
The power of evidence.
The importance of accountability.
The transformative capacity of education.
The power of change.
DODO EFFECTS CHANGE BY:
Promoting Voter Education and Engagement
DODO recognizes the vital role of education in promoting democratic principles and civic participation. We aim to provide accessible and impartial information about democracy issues, including research, analysis, and educational resources. DODO fosters informed civic engagement and encourages open dialogue about democratic processes and reforms.
DODO places a strong emphasis on encouraging voter registration, education, and turnout, regardless of party affiliation. They recognize the importance of an informed and engaged electorate. DODO provides high-quality, evidence-based information about democracy issues to empower voters and advocates for policies that remove barriers to voting, such as advocating for accessible polling locations, expanded early voting, or improved voter education initiatives.
Advocating for Electoral and Institutional Reforms
DODO supports reforms that enhance the integrity and fairness of the electoral system. This includes advocating for campaign finance reform to address the influence of money in politics, supporting non-partisan redistricting processes to prevent gerrymandering, and working towards fair and equal representation. By focusing on systemic improvements, DODO aims to create a more equitable and representative democracy.
Advocating for Ethics and Transparency
DODO believes in the importance of transparency and accountability in government. We support measures such as lobbying regulations, ethics reforms, and disclosure of political contributions to increase transparency and reduce the potential for corruption. By addressing issues like conflicts of interest and strengthening government ethics rules, DODO works towards creating a level playing field and restoring public trust in democratic institutions.
Coalition Building
DODO acknowledges the strength in collaboration and actively seeks to build coalitions with a diverse range of stakeholders. This includes other advocacy groups, organizations, academic institutions, and policymakers who share a commitment to democracy reform. By building diverse coalitions, DODO can amplify their message, build consensus around reform efforts, and increase the chances of achieving meaningful and lasting change.