Governor Josh Shapiro to Join Emily Amick and Sami Sage for Democracy in Retrograde Book Launch at Weitzman Museum

On July 9, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro headlined a dynamic event at the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History celebrating the release of Democracy in Retrograde, a new book by Emily Amick and Sami Sage blending political activism with personal empowerment.

This book launch event in Philadelphia has been one of the summer’s most anticipated civic gatherings. Featuring two of the most influential millennial voices in media and politics, Democracy in Retrograde: How to Make Changes Big and Small in Our Country and in Our Lives delivers a practical, uplifting guide for participating in democracy without burning out.

What Is Democracy in Retrograde?

A modern take on both civic engagement and mental health in politics, Democracy in Retrograde offers readers actionable steps to re-engage with American democracy—without feeling overwhelmed or cynical. This isn’t just another political book—it’s a millennial self-help book for politically curious Americans who want to make a difference but don’t know where to start. The authors discuss multiple themes, including overcoming political apathy, civic engagement as self-care, and finding value in democracy. The book is not just about voting but about claiming your singular place in your country and community, a choose-your-own-adventure map to civic engagement.