A new docuseries titled ‘Nevertheless: Democracy Defenders’, executive produced by actress Kerry Washington, is set to debut on YouTube on 15 October 2023. This four-part series aims to delve into the current state of democracy across the globe, highlighting the challenges that numerous individuals and organisations are facing as they work to uphold democratic values.
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The series is a continuation of the original ‘Nevertheless’ project that first launched in March 2025, which focused on women making significant changes in the world. This new season, however, shifts the focus to various aspects of democracy, with each episode concentrating on a specific issue. According to a press release, ‘Nevertheless: Democracy Defenders’ seeks to showcase the efforts of individuals rising against increasing polarisation, threats to civil liberties, and the decline of democratic norms.
The first episode prominently features Hannah Fried, the CEO and co-founder of the organisation All Voting is Local. In the trailer, Fried asserts that “The freedom to vote is the most under attack that it has been since the 1960s.” This episode, set against the backdrop of the Philadelphia primaries, intends to narrate the crucial, grassroots initiatives aimed at protecting voting rights that are currently under threat in the United States.
The series will also spotlight inspiring leaders from around the globe, including Imran Ahmed, CEO of the Centre for Countering Digital Hate; Koketso Moeti, founding executive director of amandla.mobi; and Yordanos Eyoel, the founder and CEO of Keseb. Each of these figures plays a vital role in addressing various issues related to democratic rights, such as ensuring safer online environments and combating the rise of authoritarianism in various nations.
Kerry Washington has expressed her enthusiasm for the series, expressing her commitment to amplifying the voices of community leaders and grassroots organisers. Earlier this year, she was named an executive producer of ‘Nevertheless: Democracy Defenders’ after being awarded the Elevate Prize Catalyst Award. This accolade, which has previously been bestowed upon renowned figures like Dwyane Wade, Matt Damon, and Michael J. Fox, provides recipients with $250,000 in unrestricted funding along with additional resources to further their impact.
Washington elaborated on the inspiration behind the series, stating that it is vital to spotlight the local heroes working tirelessly in their communities. She remarked, “Every single person is the hero of their own story, right? And that every story deserves to be told.” With a strong conviction about the importance of representation, she emphasised that individuals from varying backgrounds should be seen, heard, and empowered to become champions within their communities.
By showcasing these organisations and leaders, ‘Nevertheless: Democracy Defenders’ aims to foster a greater understanding of the complexities surrounding democracy in a global context. The series intends to evoke awareness and inspire action, particularly as the midterm elections approach in the United States.
In light of the ongoing challenges to voting rights and democratic standards, this series is particularly timely and relevant. The creators hope that the compelling stories featured throughout the docuseries will galvanise viewers to engage with their own democratic processes and advocate for their rights.
Viewers can catch the first episode of ‘Nevertheless: Democracy Defenders’ on 15 October on YouTube, promising an insightful exploration into the dynamic, multifaceted landscape of democracy today.