Government & Politics
USE YOUR VOICE - Understanding Democracy & Shaping Political Change
Democracy works best when everyone takes part - and voting is just the beginning.
Use Your Voice is a new series of free, thought-provoking conversations designed to help you understand how democracy really works and how you can influence political decisions as an active citizen.
This opening session brings together leading voices from Centre for British Democracy, Operation Black Vote, and Unlock Democracy to explore the foundations of democracy - past, present and future.
Together, we’ll examine:
Taking place at Kensington Central Library beautiful lecture theatre, the session is designed to be welcoming, accessible and interactive. Audience members are encouraged to engage with the panel, ask questions and share perspectives - but listening is just as welcome.
This event is the first in a free public series focused on citizenship, participation and political empowerment. Whether you’re curious, frustrated, hopeful, or simply want to understand more, this conversation is for you.
Come listen. Come question. Come use your voice.
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Andrew Blick is Professor of Politics and Contemporary History at King's College London and co-director of the Centre for British Democracy.
His work uses historical analysis to illuminate contemporary political issues, with a particular focus on democratic development, the UK constitution, and the workings of government. He is the author of 15 books and has advised the UK Parliament, devolved administrations, and courts in the UK and abroad, including serving as an expert witness in major constitutional cases and as a historical adviser in the landmark Supreme Court Article 50 case.
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Hannah Phillips is a policy professional and advocate researcher promoting civility and gender equality in public life. With a decade of experience in the public sector and academia, her unique background spans local, national and international policy.
She has significant experience advising and implementing strategic priorities, including at the United Nations, UK House of Commons, a large London Local Authority and the University of Oxford’s Blavatnik School of Government. When not working, she will probably be binge reading another novel.
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Tom Brake is Director of Unlock Democracy. He joined the organisation after 22 years as a Member of Parliament, during which he was a leading advocate for democratic reform, including extending Freedom of Information laws to private companies delivering public services, protecting UK elections from foreign interference, and campaigning for votes at 16.
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Please note that this talk will be presented as a hybrid event.
Please see below for the directions to the entrance to Kensington Central Library's lecture theatre:
