The Rotary Club, the Svoboda Center for Civic Engagement at St. Olaf College, the League of Women Voters of Northfield and Cannon Falls, and the Northfield Public Library, along with other partners, are joining forces to host a free screening of the 2023 documentary film, "Join or Die" at St. Olaf College's Viking Theater.
Join or Die is a film about why you should join a club — and why the fate of America depends on it. In this feature documentary, follow the half-century story of America's civic unraveling through the journey of legendary social scientist Robert Putnam, whose groundbreaking "Bowling Alone" research into America's decades-long decline in community connections could hold the answers to our democracy's present crisis. Flanked by influential fans and scholars — from Hillary Clinton, Pete Buttigieg, and Surgeon General Vivek Murthy to Eddie Glaude Jr., Raj Chetty, and Priya Parker — as well as inspiring groups building community in neighborhoods across the country, join Bob as he explores three urgent civic questions: What makes democracy work? Why is American democracy in crisis? And, most importantly... What can we do about it?
Directed by Rebecca Davis & Pete Davis
93 minutes // English // 2024
The screening will be followed by a discussion. Attendees will also have a chance to learn from local organizations what opportunities they have for you to join. Light refreshments will be provided.
Interested in joining an organization?
Become a member or volunteer for these local organizations. They'll be glad to answer any questions that you have. Click the link to learn more.