For Immediate Release
New York, NY — [June 25, 2026] —
NEW YORK, NY / WASHINGTON, D.C. — Unruled Masses (UM) and cylindr today announced a strategic partnership for joint advocacy, events, and promotions of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
The collaboration combines UM’s evidence-based civic action infrastructure with cylindr's publishing platform to expose systemic corruption, the erosion of democratic norms, and the corrupt capture of legal and judicial systems. A primary focus of the alliance is to unite the broader human rights and rule of law communities, with cylindr serving as a dedicated meetinghouse for advocates to share insights and coordinate across diverse fields and perspectives.
"Exposing deeply entrenched corruption requires both rigorous, evidence-based data and a unified front," said Nick Van Zandt of Unruled Masses. "By partnering with cylindr, we are connecting our public intelligence tools with an incredible hub for advocates. This collaboration will amplify the voices of those standing against institutional capture and empower ordinary citizens to actively defend democracy."
Michael Pates, Founder and Executive Editor of cylindr and a Distinguished Fellow at the Human Rights Institute at Georgetown Law, echoed the significance of the alliance. "Advocates across different disciplines too rarely get the chance to collaborate, yet the forces eroding the rule of law are highly coordinated," said Pates. "This partnership marries cylindr’s role as a meetinghouse for information and inspiration with Unruled Masses’ strategic action infrastructure. Together, we can provide human rights defenders with the community and the strategic intelligence needed to confront systemic corruption and protect human dignity."
The two organizations will begin collaborating immediately on upcoming digital campaigns, public events, joint podcast discussions, and joint initiatives designed to expose abuse and foster strategic civic action in order to work towards a fairer, safer, and more dignified place for people to live.
About cylindr
cylindr is an online magazine and digital meetinghouse dedicated to advancing democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Founded and edited by Michael Pates, the platform serves as a collaborative hub bridging the gap between professional advocates, field experts, and engaged citizens. Through in-depth interviews, analytical articles, and thought leadership, cylindr amplifies the voices of individuals committed to the common good, fostering cross-disciplinary dialogue to inspire action and protect human dignity.
Website: cylindrmag.substack.com
Media Contact:
cylindr: editors@cylindr.co