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Ten U.S. Cities Stand Up for Democracy

In a significant move towards global democratic solidarity, ten U.S. cities are poised to join the Pact of Free Cities, a renowned network of mayors committed to upholding democratic values and the rule of law. This expansion was announced during the Pact's annual summit, scheduled for May 12, 2026, marking a pivotal moment in the fight against authoritarianism in Europe.

The Pact of Free Cities: An Overview

Founded in 2019, the Pact of Free Cities was established by the mayors of Bratislava, Budapest, Prague, and Warsaw to counter rising authoritarian tendencies and to protect shared democratic values across nations. The Pact currently includes a diverse range of cities such as Amsterdam, Barcelona, Kyiv, London, and Paris. It unites local leaders who understand the crucial role municipalities play in safeguarding democracy and promoting civil rights within their communities.

The newly joined U.S. cities are:

• - Beaverton, OR
• - Boston, MA
• - Chicago, IL
• - Cincinnati, OH
• - Cleveland, OH
• - Montgomery, AL
• - Oklahoma City, OK
• - San Antonio, TX
• - San Diego, CA
• - Seattle, WA

This inclusion signifies a bold step towards international collaboration, where these American cities will add their voices to a growing faction advocating for democracy across the Atlantic.

A Strategic Partnership

The U.S.-based nonprofit, Alliance for Local Leaders International (ALLIES), has been designated as the Pact's Strategic Partner. In this role, ALLIES will support the expansion and operation of the Pact, facilitating communications and exchanges among mayors, and aiding in the assimilation of new cities into this international coalition.

As Ambassador Nina Hachigian, Founder and CEO of ALLIES, states, "The addition of these great American cities brings a vital, pragmatic perspective to our shared global challenges." She highlights the importance of local leaders in addressing pressing issues like protecting democratic institutions and handling infrastructure demands at the community level.

Defending Democratic Values Locally

Throughout the years, mayors from various cities have emerged as staunch defenders of democracy, leveraging their influence to combat injustices at home. For instance, Mayor Gergely Karácsony of Budapest transformed the city's Pride parade into a municipal event, bravely challenging a hostile national environment under former Prime Minister Viktor Orban. In another example, Boston's Mayor Michelle Wu provided testimony in Congress advocating for the rights of immigrant communities, reinforcing the commitment of city leaders to uphold basic human rights.

By joining the Pact of Free Cities, these new U.S. members reinforce their role at the frontline of democratic leadership, showcasing the impact of local governance in sustaining democratic culture and community-centered politics.

Conclusion

The ten American cities joining the Pact of Free Cities represent a crucial reinforcement of the global commitment to democracy, rights, and law. Their participation signifies hope in an era where authoritarianism challenges liberal democracies, asserting that local governance can indeed make a substantial difference in the worldwide fight for justice and democracy. The Pact continues to symbolize the strength of collaboration among cities across continents—an exemplification of shared values in action, where local leaders are not just responding to their communities’ needs but engaging on a global stage.

For further insights about the Pact and its initiatives, visit the Alliance for Local Leaders International website.