Join or Die, a 2023 SXSW film, follows the story of America’s civic unraveling through the journey of legendary social scientist Robert Putnam, author of Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community. Putnam’s groundbreaking 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—including Eddie Glaude, Jr., and Raj Chetty—as well as inspiring groups building community in neighborhoods across the country, Putnam explores three urgent civic questions: What makes democracy work? Why is American democracy in crisis? And, most importantly, what can we do about it?
RBF President and CEO Stephen Heintz will lead a discussion with the film’s main subject, Robert Putnam and its directors, Rebecca Davis and Pete Davis, on its making and message. A reception will follow the panel.