“Our Democracy” — A Timely Public Forum Featuring Harvard Professor Steven Levitsky

The Gloucester Lyceum invites the public to a
compelling and timely forum, “Our Democracy,” on Saturday, May 9, held in the Kyrouz Auditorium at City Hall (9 Dale Avenue, Gloucester).

Rooted in the Lyceum’s historic mission to bring people together around ideas that shape our world, this program will explore urgent questions: Where does democracy come from? What are its strengths? How is it challenged? And what can history teach us about sustaining democratic values and institutions today?

The event will feature renowned Harvard scholar Steven Levitsky, co-author of How Democracies Die, who will speak from his forthcoming work, The Great Abdication: How America Lost its Democracy. Levitsky will examine the argument that the United States has entered a period of “competitive authoritarianism” in 2025–2026, and explore the
societal and institutional factors that have contributed to this shift.

Joining him is acclaimed journalist and broadcaster Callie Crossley, host of GBH’s Under the Radar, who will serve as moderator and respondent. Crossley will offer her perspective and guide a dynamic conversation with the audience.

This forum continues the legacy of the Gloucester Lyceum—founded in 1830—as a place for thoughtful exchange, civic dialogue, and intellectual engagement.

Copies of Dr. Levitsky’s book will be available for sale, at the event, courtesy of The Bookstore and will be for sale at The Bookstore prior to the event as well.  There will also be multiple print copies of his books, prior to the event, at the main desk available to borrow with a library card.