James Olmsted, a retired conservation easement attorney and co-founder and president of Democracy4All (D4A), has dedicated his life to preserving natural landscapes and fostering a sustainable future. Through D4A, a nonpartisan nonprofit, he now focuses on a broader mission: reinforcing democracy as the foundation for addressing society’s most pressing challenges.
Democracy4All is committed to strengthening democracy through education and advocacy. We believe that transparent elections, accountable governance, and active civic participation are essential for a fair society. Our nonpartisan work promotes accessible voting, opposes efforts to suppress voter rights, and encourages citizens to hold public officials accountable. By empowering individuals, we aim to build a more resilient democratic system.
James Olmsted's decades of environmental advocacy have shown him that a strong democracy is the cornerstone of meaningful progress. Without it, we cannot protect the systems and policies that sustain our society or address the urgent threats facing our planet. At D4A, we see these challenges as deeply connected:
James Olmsted’s work at Democracy4All is informed by America’s earliest civic traditions. He is a descendant of James Olmsted, who immigrated to New England in 1632 and is remembered within the Olmsted family as “The Immigrant.” From that same lineage came Gideon Olmsted, a Revolutionary War veteran whose successful challenge to unlawful state authority helped establish the principle that democratic governance must be accountable, lawful, and rooted in the consent of the governed. That enduring principle continues to shape James Olmsted’s belief that protecting democratic institutions is essential to defending social safety nets, addressing climate change, and preserving the public good.
Learn more about the historical legacy of Gideon Olmsted and its relevance today.
The challenges we face are significant, but they are not insurmountable. Democracy4All invites you to engage in this vital work—not by joining our organization, but by taking up these shared goals in your own way. Learn about the issues, vote in every election, advocate for fair governance, support policies that protect social safety nets and the environment, and inspire others to do the same. Together, we can build a future where democracy thrives, society is equitable, and our planet is preserved for generations to come.
Visit the Democracy4All website to explore resources and stay informed. Your commitment to these principles—through your voice, your vote, and your actions—will shape a just and sustainable world.
Our "Contact Your Elected Officials" guide includes direct links that help you quickly identify your federal, state, and local representatives, many of which allow you to contact them immediately by email or phone. You’ll also find calling scripts to help you get started with the most important calls you can make: informing your elected officials of your views and urging them to take action.
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