Beatty Reflects on Importance of National Day of Civility

Beatty Reflects on Importance of National Day of Civility

Today, July 12, 2018, is recognized as National Day of Civility, an initiative dedicated to improving political discourse between individuals of differing opinions. To mark the occasion, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03), co-founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Civility and Respect Caucus, issued the following statement:

"Civility is not about changing people's minds but rather about treating each other with respect and engaging in open and honest dialogue. As co-chair of the Congressional Civility and Respect Caucus, this National Day of Civility and all year long, I urge my constituents, fellow Ohioans, and all Americans—including Members of Congress, Senators and the White House—to be mindful of people with opposing perspectives, beliefs and political affiliations. Yes, we can disagree without being disagreeable and without vilifying each other in the process."

In February 2018, Beatty teamed up with Congressman Steve Stivers (R-OH-15) to launch the Congressional Civility and Respect Caucus. Since then, Beatty and Stivers have visited three Central Ohio-area schools as part of their #ReviveCivility Tour, with more events planned for the future. To join the Caucus, prospective members must have a partner from the other side of the aisle and commit to hosting similar bipartisan events in their district on the importance of civility and respect. Currently, the Congressional Civility and Respect Caucus has 22 members and many more have expressed interest in joining.

For more information on the Congressional Civility and Respect Caucus, please read Beatty and Stivers' joint press release. Also, pledge your commitment to being more civil, and be sure to join the conversation online by using the hashtags: #ReviveCivility and #SummerOfCivility.