Civility Resources
Why is Civility Important?
Civility is the cornerstone of a healthy and functioning democracy. In an era of increasing polarization, maintaining respectful and constructive dialogue is essential for bridging divides and finding common ground. Civility fosters mutual understanding, reduces conflict, and allows for collaborative problem-solving. It enables us to engage with diverse perspectives, build stronger communities, and develop effective solutions to shared challenges. By prioritizing civility, we create an environment where every voice is heard and valued, paving the way for a more inclusive and resilient society.
Local Resources
The Rhode Island Alliance of Braver Angels is dedicated to depolarizing politics and fostering constructive dialogue across partisan divides. As a non-profit organization, we bring together individuals with diverse perspectives to bridge the gap between differing viewpoints and promote understanding and respect. Through workshops, community events, and civic engagement initiatives, we empower citizens to engage in civil discourse and collaborate on solutions to shared challenges. Our mission is to build a more united and resilient community by encouraging open communication, empathy, and a commitment to the common good. Together, we strive to create a political environment where every voice is heard and valued, making Rhode Island a model for constructive civic engagement and bipartisan cooperation.
The Media Education Lab advances digital and media literacy education through leadership development, scholarship, and community engagement. Founded by Professor Renee Hobbs, the Lab creates free multimedia curriculum materials, offers professional development, and conducts research to improve media literacy practices. Their programs and resources empower learners of all ages to critically engage with media, fostering informed and active citizenship. The Lab's initiatives include workshops, webinars, and community events designed to enhance media literacy and promote critical thinking skills.
Courageous RI is dedicated to preventing violence and extremism in Rhode Island through authentic and respectful conversations. Supported by the Department of Homeland Security, the initiative focuses on enhancing civic participation and improving media literacy. By fostering critical thinking and promoting tolerance, Courageous RI empowers individuals to ask the right questions and become more informed citizens. Their programs, including the Youth Media Contest and Courageous Conversations, aim to build a more understanding and resilient community across the political spectrum.
Books
We think we have the answers, but we need to be asking a lot more questions. Journalist Mónica Guzmán is the loving liberal daughter of Mexican immigrants who voted—twice—for Donald Trump. When the country could no longer see straight across the political divide, Mónica set out to find what was blinding us and discovered the most eye-opening tool we're not using: our own built-in curiosity.