People for the American Way Foundation

Mission Statement

In times of hardship, in times of crises, societies throughout history have experienced wrenching dislocations in their fundamental values and beliefs ... We are alarmed that some of the current voices of stridency and division may replace those of reason and unity. If these voices continue unchallenged, the results will be predictable: a rise in `demonology' and hostility, a breakdown in community and social spirit, a deterioration of free and open dialogue, and the temptation to grasp at simplistic solutions for complex problems. People For the American Way was established to address these matters. Our purpose is to meet the challenges of discord and fragmentation with an affirmation of `the American Way.' By this, we mean pluralism, individuality, freedom of thought, expression and religion, a sense of community, and tolerance and compassion for others. People For the American Way will reach out to all Americans and affirm that in our society, the individual still matters; that there is reason to believe in the future; not to despair of it; and that we must strengthen the common cords that connect us as humans and citizens. By educating the American people and raising their level of understanding about the basic tenets by which our society is sustained, People For the American Way will fulfill its mission.