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Join or Die: A film about why you should join a club—and why the fate of America depends on it

What happened to bowling leagues, town meetings, and civic clubs—and why does it matter? Join or Die is a timely, engaging documentary that explores the quiet unraveling of American community life and its profound impact on democracy.

Following renowned social scientist Robert Putnam, author of Bowling Alone, the film traces decades of declining civic participation and asks urgent questions about what makes democracy work, why it’s in crisis, and what we can do to rebuild it. Along the way, Putnam is joined by voices ranging from Hillary Clinton and Pete Buttigieg to grassroots organizers across the country who are finding new ways to bring people together.

Thought-provoking, accessible, and unexpectedly inspiring, Join or Die makes a compelling case for the power of showing up—and joining in.

Sunday, January 18
Showtime: 2:00 PM (Doors open 1:30 PM)
Next Stage Arts, 15 Kimball Hill, Putney
$10 General Admission | All ages
Tickets at nextstagearts.org