New Tempe Civility Resolution promotes respectful discourse in community

Tempe, AZ - A new Civility Resolution adopted yesterday in Tempe aims to encourage kindness, respect and community connections.

The Tempe City Council has joined a national effort to foster welcoming, respectful and inclusive communities where residents, elected officials, employees and community members can engage in constructive dialogue, even when perspectives differ.

The resolution affirms the Mayor and City Council's commitment to respectful and constructive communication in public meetings, community discussions and interactions with one another. The resolution also supports the public's ability to participate in City government and express their own viewpoints in a civil way.

"Civil discourse is foundational to a healthy democracy," said Councilmember Doreen Garlid. "Discussion and debate in the public square should be productive not hostile. We can disagree without dehumanizing others."

Earlier this year, the National League of Cities (NLC) Board of Directors announced a national call for cities, towns and villages across the United States to adopt local civility pledges aimed at strengthening respectful public discourse. Garlid is NLC's Second Vice President.

NLC research shows that 74% of municipal leaders report some or significant conflict between groups in their communities. Civility pledges and resolutions are designed to reduce polarization and create an environment that values shared goals, increased empathy and genuine dialogue.

Ultimately, the national effort aims to improve civic discourse and public engagement and build communities where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Read Tempe's Civility Resolution.