Research Program
The Research Department supports Demopolis Coalition's mission to strengthen participation in local politics across the United States. Led by Director Lauren Elle Darby, the department conducts research that helps those involved with the organization — as well as our internal departments — understand local politics and expand into new communities.
Our Work
We currently operate in four different states: New Jersey, Oklahoma, Massachusetts, and Georgia. The Research Department serves as an innovative hub to analyze the histories and diverse political landscapes of the localities in which the organization operates. Our research informs internal strategy while generating suggestions on how we can evolve. Additionally, our research is shared with donors, sponsors, and government officials to create tangible change in local policies.
Our Vision
Over the next year, this department will undergo a transition to operate as a think-tank — going beyond providing internal research to producing extensive research that will influence the future of local politics. As this transition progresses, the department will provide both city- and state-level briefings and reports that inform discussions on how local government can best serve the people they represent.
Our Team
The Research Department is led by a Director and seven specialized subdivisions:
Works to find out the history, culture, and demographics of each locality we currently operate in and are looking to expand into.
Finds out what is going on in all our localities' local governments and evaluates what matters to the people.
Develops a curriculum for all college chapters to follow, working with our Chapters Program to teach students about local politics.
Discovers innovative ways for the organization to move forward using evidence curated by the rest of the research department.
Evaluates the department's expenses and how they are used in tandem with the rest of the organization.
Collects and analyzes data across all operating localities to support evidence-based recommendations.
Performs qualitative analysis of people within our localities to gauge what they view as the key issues in society.