Institute for Civility

Institute for Civility We believe that civility is about more than just politeness, although politeness is a necessary first step. And civility begins with us.

"Civility is claiming and caring for one's identity, needs, and beliefs without degrading someone else's in the process."
- Cassandra Dahnke and Tomas Spath, co-founders of the Institute for Civility The Institute for Civility is dedicated to reducing the polarization of our political and legislative processes by facilitating dialogue, teaching respect, and building civility in both the public an

d private spheres. It 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 whom we have deep-rooted and fierce disagreements. It is political in the sense that it is a necessary prerequisite for civic action. But it is political, too, in the sense that it is about negotiating interpersonal power such that everyone’s voice is heard, and nobody’s is ignored.

The world is constantly changing, and growth requires more than experience alone. It requires curiosity, humility, and a...
06/22/2026

The world is constantly changing, and growth requires more than experience alone. It requires curiosity, humility, and a willingness to keep learning.

Lifelong learning extends beyond professional development. It includes learning how to listen, understand different perspectives, engage in respectful dialogue, and build stronger communities.

Every conversation is an opportunity to learn something new. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow.

What is something you've learned recently that changed your perspective?

Today, we honor Juneteenth, a day that commemorates freedom, resilience, and a significant moment in our nation’s histor...
06/19/2026

Today, we honor Juneteenth, a day that commemorates freedom, resilience, and a significant moment in our nation’s history.

Understanding our shared history is essential to building a more respectful future. Juneteenth reminds us that progress is not only measured by laws and policies, but also by our willingness to listen, learn, and engage with one another in good faith.

As we celebrate freedom today, may we also recommit ourselves to fostering dialogue, understanding, and community.

"The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them." —Ida B. Wells

06/17/2026

Every donation represents more than financial support.

It represents a belief that respectful dialogue, civic engagement, and leadership development matter.

Thank you to those who invest in building stronger communities.

Your support helps us:
✅ Train leaders
✅ Engage students
✅ Promote civility
✅ Strengthen communities

https://www.instituteforcivility.org/give/

You don't have to share someone's opinion to listen respectfully and learn from their perspective.
06/15/2026

You don't have to share someone's opinion to listen respectfully and learn from their perspective.

June is about connection, conversation, and courage. This month, we’re highlighting how civility helps communities grow ...
06/10/2026

June is about connection, conversation, and courage. This month, we’re highlighting how civility helps communities grow stronger — one respectful conversation at a time.

Big milestone unlocked 🎉Institute for Civility is now SHRM Certified, allowing eligible participants in our trainings to...
05/27/2026

Big milestone unlocked 🎉

Institute for Civility is now SHRM Certified, allowing eligible participants in our trainings to earn SHRM professional development credits.

We’re excited to continue helping organizations, leaders, educators, and communities strengthen communication, civility, and collaboration in meaningful ways.

Because healthier conversations create healthier workplaces. 🤝

Today, we honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. On a day rooted in remembrance, ...
05/25/2026

Today, we honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. On a day rooted in remembrance, Memorial Day also reminds us of the responsibility we share as citizens — to lead with respect, compassion, and civility toward one another.

Even in disagreement, we can choose dialogue over division and understanding over hostility. That choice honors the very freedoms so many sacrificed to protect.

As we gather with family and friends today, may we pause to remember those who never made it home — and recommit ourselves to building a nation worthy of their sacrifice. 🇺🇸

At the Institute for Civility, our trainings are designed to help individuals and organizations:✔️ Navigate difficult co...
05/13/2026

At the Institute for Civility, our trainings are designed to help individuals and organizations:
✔️ Navigate difficult conversations with confidence
✔️ Build stronger, more respectful relationships
✔️ Turn conflict into productive dialogue—not division

Join Us, tomorrow at 12pm CST for our virtual Civility 101 training: Together We Rise: Communication that BUILDS

Free for members, $5 for non-members
👉Register here: https://www.instituteforcivility.org/action/event/info/?reset=1&id=50

It’s a beautiful day for GIVING!
05/07/2026

It’s a beautiful day for GIVING!

Can you feel the energy? 🎢

Give DeKalb County is almost here! On May 7, you'll have 24 hours to give to the causes you care about and make a BIG difference for DeKalb County.

Plan your donations, tell your friends and neighbors, get the whole family involved. Together, let's make this the best year yet!

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