AUGUST IS NATIONAL CIVILITY MONTH: Are American Public Institutions Remaining Civil?

National Civility Month is observed every August to promote kindness, empathy, and respectful interactions in all areas of life.  According to National Today web, “National Civility Month is celebrated annually in August to encourage individuals and communities to engage in respectful, thoughtful, and empathetic behavior toward others.”

 Like much of the programs, activities, and training of Missouri Juvenile Justice Association (MJJA), this observance emphasizes the importance of civility in daily interactions, whether in personal relationships, workplaces, or community settings.  Most importantly, National Civility month highlights the role of empathy, active listening, and open-mindedness. 

 Through MJJA’s platforms, ‘active listening and open-mindness’ are qualities infused in many of our training and discussion themes, including active listening circles.  Civility has also been a major training component where we have revealed results of national surveys surrounding civility in the service of non-profit and other public organizations. 

BLOG PROMPT: Although our youth and family organizations are centered around acts of kindness, respect, and empathetic service, do you think that the majority of American public institutions are demonstrating civil behavior and treatment to clients?  What are some recent acts of civility that you’ve experienced and like to see recognized?