In 2008, the election of the country’s first African American president was on the horizon. Couple that with by the year 2050, one in five Americans will be foreign-born, and you have a time where American identity was beginning (and continues) to be questioned: what does it mean to be American? Who is American? What does American “look” like? To create a space that encouraged the exploration of answers to those questions and to have candid conversations around race, identity, and democracy, Imagine 2050 was born.
Five years, over 2,000 pieces of original content, and more than half a million visitors later, Imagine 2050 has exposed organized bigotry and threats to our democracy; highlighted communities that have united across challenges; and provided analysis of triumphs and tragedies that affect our ability to move forward as a nation.
It is through the support of our readers, the contributions of our writers, and a shared commitment to disempower all that stands in the way of a safe, equitable, multiracial society, that we have made it to this wonderful fifth birthday.
This anniversary issue of Imagine 2050 takes a look back at all that we have accomplished in the last five years, pulling together stories that exemplify what we stand for. In this special edition issue of the magazine, you will find thoughtful and engaging commentary on the dangers of adults not addressing racism with their teens and in their communities; the Boston Bombings and Sikh temple shooting; the rise of white nationalism; the “threat” immigrants pose to underemployed actors, among other amazing stories.
In this moment of reflection, we continue to envision a nation that embraces the right of all people to live free from hate, no matter their religious, racial, or ethnic identities.
We are incredibly proud of what Imagine 2050 has accomplished thus far. Our commitment to providing readers with thoughtful analysis and dedicated research every day remains steadfast. We invite you to join us in the journey.