How Do We?

A simple question recurred to me as I read in the NY Times today, June 4th, that another Catholic school, this one in Harlem, is closing: How do we maintain a democracy without democratic institutions? That is, without institutions that serve or promote social equality? Colleges and universities, at least most of them, have become increasingly elitist, drawing their students from the upper or upper middle classes whenever they can. Public schools are under attack. "Privatizing" schools is highly attractive these days. Does anyone really think that a system of "privatized" schools will promote social equality? I don't. So the question recurs: How do we maintain a democracy without democratic social institutions?