Television journalist and MSNBC’s Chief Correspondent and host of Velshi, Ali Velshi, was the guest speaker at an event hosted by the Asia Society Northern California, on September 26, 2024.
Ali was joined in conversation by M.R. Rangaswami, Founder of Indiaspora and Co-Founder of Sand Hill Group. The event was supported by the Motwani Jadeja Family Foundation and the Aga Khan Council for the Western United States..
While the conversation began with the historical journey of his family, recounted in his book, "Small Acts of Courage: A Legacy of Endurance and the Fight for Democracy," it transitioned into a broader reflection on the global state of democracy, particularly considering the upcoming 2024 U.S. Presidential election. He voiced concern about the fragility of democracy, not only in the United States but across the world. Ali argued that the upcoming election would serve as a critical test for American democracy, urging the audience to focus on what they can control and exercise their own right to vote.
Drawing from his experiences reporting across the globe, Ali detailed the political challenges facing several democracies, including India, South Africa, France, and the United Kingdom. "The world is experiencing a democratic backslide," he said, pointing to the rise of nationalist movements and the erosion of democratic norms in these countries.
Ali addressed the critical role of the media in the current climate of disinformation. During the Q&A session, he stressed the importance of "triangulating" information—seeking out multiple sources to facts — and called on individuals to push back against false narratives, especially in an era where misinformation can spread faster than ever through social media and artificial intelligence. "Don’t just consume news, question it," he advised.
Ali also spoke of the issue of civic responsibility and the importance of local community engagement. He emphasized that democracy is not only shaped at the national level but also thrives through grassroots efforts. He shared an anecdote from his time in Philadelphia, where a local block captain ensured 100% voter turnout in their neighborhood by encouraging every eligible person to vote. He underscored that small, local acts of civic engagement—such as registering voters, educating communities, and facilitating access to polling stations—are foundational to the strength of democracy. "The battle for democracy is fought not just in the halls of government, but in our own neighborhoods," he said, stressing the importance of empowering individuals to take action within their communities.
When asked about the role individuals can play in combating these threats, Ali echoed the theme of his book, urging the audience to engage in "small acts of courage." These acts, he emphasized, are often overlooked but can have a significant impact when compounded across communities. He recounted the story of his grandfather’s involvement in Gandhi’s Tolstoy Ashram in South Africa, where non-violent resistance was employed as a tool for social change. "The world changes when people, in small ways, choose courage over complacency," Ali said, urging Americans to take a stand for democracy, whether by voting, volunteering, or simply staying informed.
As the 2024 election approaches, Ali's message is clear: democracy is on the line, and the responsibility lies with every individual to defend it. Whether through small acts of courage or exercising the right to vote, citizens must remain vigilant. Ali's discussion at the Asia Society was a powerful reminder that the future of democracy is not guaranteed—it must be fought for, one courageous act at a time.
