WA Institute for a Democratic Future – July 7, 2026

Posted on July 7, 2026

In this Issue:

Summer’s Here!

School’s out, programming is complete, and these five weeks of sunshine, global soccer, a 250th USA Anniversary, and an August primary election are here and in full force.

We had an incredible 2026 programming year. On June 13, we graduated our 2026 Fellowship Class and officially welcomed them into the alumni network. Visit our Facebook and Instagram pages to see the highlights.

And a huge thank you to everyone who joined us, and to our program sponsors, alumni, and board members, who made this year’s event and program possible.

We have a fun, connection-filled few months ahead of us as we continue to build the program, welcome new board members, recruit for the class of 2027, and embark on another election season. We are beyond grateful to be in this work with you. I hope to see you at an upcoming event!

-Emily

See you at T-Mobile Park on Friday, July 31?

Join us for an unforgettable evening at T-Mobile Park as the Seattle Mariners take on the Minnesota Twins. Celebrate democracy, community, and America’s favorite pastime. You don’t want to miss the chance to connect with WAIDF alumni and friends and view fireworks under the Seattle night sky.

📆 Date: Friday, July 31

⚾First Pitch: 7:10 PM PDT

🪑 Our Seats: Section 325, Rows 18–22

🎟️ Tickets: $32

🎆 Postgame Fireworks: Starting ~15 minutes after the final out

See you at the ballpark! ⚾🔥

Get your ticket(s)

West Seattle Fundraiser with Rep. Brianna Thomas ‘12!

Join WAIDF Fellows, alumni, and friends for a patio party in support of our upcoming 2027 WAIDF Fellowship Program, and hear from stellar alumni and your State Representative from the 34th Legislative District, Brianna Thomas ‘12!

Thanks to our hosts, WAIDF Board Member Megan Atchison and her spouse, Dustin Atchison!

📆 Saturday, August 1 | 6 p.m.

📍 Address provided upon RSVP

RSVP Here

Join us on Lopez Island in September!

Join us for an Extended Learning Trip to Lopez Island, Sept. 11–13, hosted by local historian Mary Bywater Cross. Enjoy a beach reception, connect with the Lopez Community Land Trust and San Juan Islands Agricultural Guild, meet local leaders, and explore the island. Shared accommodations are available near the ferry landing.

Questions? Email info@democraticfuture.org.

Learn More & Reserve Your Spot

Class of 2027 Fellowship Applications Open September 1!

Mark your calendars and tell your friends and colleagues!

Applications for the Class of 2027 will open on September 1, but recruitment starts now!

  • Share information about the program with potential fellows you recommend from across the state.
  • Encourage folks to attend October recruitment and networking events, or help host an event in your community.
  • Connect with a WAIDF Board of Staff member to discuss ways to get involved!

Have other ideas, or want to support the 2027 Fellowship or sponsor an upcoming event? Contact emily@democraticfuture.org.

WAIDF Seahawks Night | October 25, 2026!

Join WAIDF alumni, friends and family for our 2026 Gridiron Day on October 25 when our Seattle Seahawks take on the Kansas City Chiefs.

We have 30 seats reserved in Section 319, Row R, Seats 4-17, and 319 Row S, Seats 1-16.

Tickets are $160, and kickoff is at 5:20 p.m. Fingers crossed there is a special appearance from T-Swift!

Get your ticket(s)

WAIDF Extended Learning Trip to Chicago

With the Obama Presidential Center now open, WAIDF is planning our next extended learning trip to Chicago, Illinois. Tickets are not yet available, but we’re monitoring their release.

Interested in joining us? Want to share suggestions or dates? Let us know below!

Let Us Know

Thank You 2026 Program Supporters!

Thank you to our program sponsors, alumni, and board members for making this year’s cohort programming and programs possible.

Copyright © 2026 Institute for a Democratic Future , All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:

Institute for a Democratic Future

401 2nd Ave S Ste 303

Seattle, WA 98104