The commit to civility program showcases a governing board’s commitment to a civil, respectful, and effective approach to local leadership. Our next training takes place October 17, 2024.
Disagreement and debate are features, not flaws, of the democratic process. Nowhere is that process more effective than in local government, where decisions are made that have a direct impact on the lives of communities.
A requirement of democracy, however, is civility. An uncivil debate is simply an argument. An uncivil disagreement is a fight. When looking at our larger, national political climate, civility is too often bypassed, and our communities and citizens suffer as a result.
NCLM’s Commit to Civility program looks to maintain local government’s civil and respectful approach, and strives to educate municipal officials about their role in civil society by equipping them with the tools needed to be effective in participating in it and leading their communities. This program will help leaders obtain the information and skills that will help with maintaining composure in emotionally charged situations.
“There is a growing lack of civility that has permeated all aspects of society, including interactions with local government,” said NCLM Executive Director Rose Vaughn Williams. “North Carolina cities are working to set the example that there can be a healthy exchange of ideas, vigorous debate and disagreement all in the atmosphere of respect.”
The objectives of the Commit to Civility program are to understand that:
- Civility is about disagreeing without disrespect, seeking common ground as a starting point for dialogue about differences, listening past one’s preconceptions, and teaching others to do the same. Civility is the hard work of staying present even with those with deep-rooted and fierce disagreements.
- Civility is inherently political, not only because it’s a prerequisite for civic action, but because it’s about negotiating interpersonal power such that everyone’s voice is heard.
For your town to achieve its Commit to Civility Certificate, elected officials must complete the following steps:
- First, at least 75% of a municipality’s governing board must attend NCLM’s Commit to Civility training. This course is free of charge. (The next offering is online on October 17.)
- Second, course participants must sign the individual pledge.
- Third, the municipality must adopt the ‘Commit to Civility’ Resolution at an upcoming council meeting (a template is provided at the training).
- Lastly, the signed copy of the Resolution and the individual pledge forms must be submitted to NCLM.
Towns across North Carolina are already pursuing their Certificates! Join us on October 17 to begin your Commit to Civility journey.
More information can be found at nclm.org/aml, or you can reach out to the NCLM Learning and Development department at learning@nclm.org.
