Strengthen democracy at home and serve as a refuge for those fleeing tyranny.
Improve U.S. credibility on human rights by matching foreign-policy rhetoric with domestic democratic strength. Advance reforms that bolster voting rights and the rule of law, and expand refugee admissions for those fleeing tyranny (including people from Hong Kong and targeted communities like Uyghurs). This closes the say–do gap that authoritarian propagandists exploit.
Why this works
- Closes the say-do gap – it’s harder for autocrats to deflect criticism as hypocritical if the U.S.
- leads by example.
- Offering safe haven saves lives and preserves the voices of movements (exiled activists can continue the fight).
Common Cause
AdvocacyBuilding a stronger democracy and accountable government
Mechanism
About LobbyingHow Common Cause uses funding
- Define a concrete domestic reform objective and a refugee admissions objective aligned to the cause.
- Build the case with briefs and coalition alignment that link domestic credibility to global human-rights leadership.
- Engage lawmakers and staff with meetings and testimony as measures move.
- Track timing and adjust strategy as partisan dynamics and negotiations shift.
- Close the loop with clear updates on reforms advanced and policy follow-through.
Milestones
Checkpoints and the expected timing for each step
- 1
Policy targets defined
0–30 daysA clear package of voting-rights or rule-of-law priorities and refugee goals is documented.
- 2
Coalition + materials ready
1–2 monthsBriefs and partner alignment are ready for key offices and hearings.
- 3
Legislative engagement window
2–4 monthsEngagement lands around a decision window and a concrete measure advances.
- 4
Public follow-through update
OngoingUpdates document outcomes and next steps after action, defeat, or carryover.