Civility in Public Life
Civility is at the core of the values of our society and democracy. How do we choose to treat one another in civil discourse and public interactions? And, how do we model this for our children and others?
“Civility has become 'moments of surprise' in our public discourse,” stated Connie Ryan Terrell, Executive Director of the Interfaith Alliance of Iowa. “It is time we return to an expectation of civility within our community and throughout our society.”
Interfaith Alliance of Iowa has long been a champion of maintaining civility within the public square. Really, it was how we were founded. In the public
Civility is, in the end, about treating others with the dignity they are due simply because they are human beings; children of God, some would say. Disagreeing with them perhaps, but always with respect.
The Better Together civility project is a starting point on which community leaders and members in all areas of life – business, politics, faith communities, schools, organizations - can build upon that expectation. Interfaith Alliance of Iowa is a partner organization along with the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, Character Counts in
We are proud and excited to be part of this great, collaborative effort and encourage you to attend the events that have been planned. Other tools and ways to make a difference will be listed in the coming months so be sure to check back!
You can also learn more through the Better Together website.
Better Together: Creating Community through Civility
Join us in the "Big Read" of The Big Sort by Bill Bishop.
The Better Together project is moving forward with an all-community read of The Big Sort by Bill Bishop. It is a fascinating book about how we got to this place of incivility in our society.
You can pick up a discounted copy of the book at the University Bookstore in
It is our hope that, regardless of where you live in our state, you will join in on the “Big Read” of The Big Sort. Are you part of a book club? Would your adult education class at your church, synagogue, etc. be willing to read it together? How about a group of colleagues at work? What about your Breakfast or Rotary Club? Our hope is to get as many Iowans as possible to read the book and begin a discussion about the state of civility in
UPCOMING EVENTS (SAVE the DATES!)
Reservations are requested for both events listed below. Go to the www.BetterTogetherIowa.com website to reserve your seat.
- September 16: Bill Bishop, author of The Big Sort, visits
- February 3, 2010: Dr. P.M. Forni, award-winning professor at
