AFF-GR: How Civil Society can Reopen our Communities (Virtual Event)

Over the past several months, more and more of the basic functions of life have been regulated and taken over by governments of all levels. Relief from the economic misery caused by widespread shutdowns in response to COVID-19 is increasingly coming in the form of impersonal, blank checks from the state. Countless businesses are closed – many of which may never reopen – depriving communities of goods, services, and employment.

There is a missing piece to the current public discussion: civil society. In his seminal book Democracy in America, Alexis de Tocqueville wrote that “The health of a democratic society may be measured by the quality of functions performed by private citizens.”

Grand Rapids has long been known for its robust philanthropy, a plethora of non-profit organizations providing aid and relief to those in need, and a community built around voluntary action to help friends and neighbors. These are vital assets as the city, and the state, start to reopen in the weeks and months to come.

Join AF-Grand Rapids on Tuesday, May 19, at 7:00 PM for a virtual event with Rev. Robert A. Sirico to discuss the importance of civil society, its role in COVID-19 relief and recovery, and how it can help reopen our city.

Rev. Sirico is the President and co-founder of the Acton Institute, founded and headquartered in Grand Rapids since 1990, as well as the Pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus parish in Grand Rapids’ West Side neighborhood. See his full bio here: https://www.acton.org/about/staff/rev-robert-sirico