HCIMT hosted an illuminating session on “How the Right Reconstructs the Promise of Democracy” on December 12, 2024. The talk was delivered by Dr. Shaunna Rodrigues, a Core Lecturer in Contemporary Civilization at Columbia University, renowned for her expertise in political ideologies and democratic theory. Dr. Rodrigues provided an in-depth analysis of how conservative movements globally reinterpret democratic principles to align with their ideologies. Through compelling examples and scholarly insights, she explored the evolving nature of democracy, the role of institutional changes, and the impact of political narratives in reshaping its promise. The session was highly interactive, with participants actively engaging in discussions on the implications of these ideological shifts on governance and society. Dr. Rodrigues’ thought-provoking responses to questions on democratic evolution, ethical governance, and the role of rhetoric sparked meaningful dialogue among students and faculty.