Private digital communication channels, from encrypted messaging apps to collaboration platforms—now shape how leaders govern, journalists investigate, businesses operate, and communities organize. Yet these same tools exist largely outside traditional public accountability, records laws, and institutional oversight. This session explores the courage required to confront that reality: balancing privacy, free expression, and innovation with transparency, trust, and democratic responsibility.
Drawing on real-world experiences from technology leaders, civic institutions, and policy practitioners, the panel will examine how organizations and governments are navigating off-platform communication, misinformation risk, compliance obligations, and ethical decision-making in moments of pressure. Rather than framing the challenge as “technology vs. democracy,” the conversation will highlight practical, courageous choices — where leaders chose openness over convenience, governance over shortcuts, and long-term trust over short-term efficiency. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how technology can reinforce democratic values when guided by intention, accountability, and collaboration.
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Note: This Summit session is ticketed.
Please purchase your
tickets on Humanitix. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.
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A special thank you to our sponsors: The 14th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, Virginia Tourism, R.L. Beyer Custom Homes, Ludwig Kuttner, and The City of Charlottesville
