Overview
Members of Congress learn how to work together across party lines. This program teaches respectful conversation and listening skills. When leaders from different parties talk with respect, they make better decisions for everyone. The training brings Democrats and Republicans together to build trust and understand each other's viewpoints. Participants learn that civility—treating people with respect—makes government work better. Real legislators have said this training changed how they work with colleagues right away. One state said the program helped new members work better together from day one. When leaders listen to different ideas, they find solutions that work. This program helps Congress get things done by bringing people together, not pushing them apart. Trust and respect make better laws.
Why it matters
Who gets included matters. Who gets heard matters. Who benefits from the decisions made in your city matters. Inclusion isn't just a value — it's a measure of how well a community is actually working. When more people are in the room, better decisions get made. For everyone.
“Training that teaches Congress members to work together respectfully across party lines.”
Who this is for
You've felt left out or overlooked
Find organizations and resources that center people who are often pushed to the margins.
You're an advocate or ally
Deepen your understanding of systemic barriers and the work being done to dismantle them.
You want your community to be more inclusive
Connect with civic efforts that expand who gets to participate and who benefits.
What the data shows
Go deeper
“There is one Thing, my dear sir, that must be attempted and most Sacredly observed or We are all undone. There must be a Decency, and Respect, and Veneration introduced for Persons … of every Rank, or We are undone. In a popular Government, this is the only Way”
~ John Adams, in a letter, (1776)
“[The State Legislative Program] with the National Institute for Civil Discourse is desperately needed in today’s political environment. The ‘Building Trust Through Civil Discourse’ presentation was the most impactful segment of our 2024 new member orientation program, and its influence was immediate and palpable.”
“In Connecticut we are proud of our tradition of civility and bipartisanship. Fostering discussion and listening to opposing viewpoints yields better policy - and can get you the votes to cross the finish line. NICD has long been a leading voice in returning civility to the legislative process. We are so appreciative that NICD comes to Hartford to work with our new members and puts a bold headline on civil discourse.”
“Our members loved [the workshop]. They left energized and even more committed to advancing the cause of civility and respectful discourse in the public square.”
“We learned that civil discourse does not mean abandoning one’s principles—rather it means listening respectfully to those with whom we disagree while advocating our own beliefs and principles in a respectful manner—an approach that, when employed, has improved and strengthened our process.”
“It’s really about learning and trusting, being present for each other in a way that is counterintuitive for the way that our politics have developed.”
“Civility is more than just having good manners; without it, our system of government cannot function effectively. As citizens, it is our responsibility to expect better from our leaders and from each other. We all benefit when improved civility becomes a mutual priority.”
“[Next Generation] is what we need in our country. I feel like the public is really crying out for civil discourse.”
NICD’s State Legislative Program offers a workshop made for state legislators by state legislators. “Building Trust through Civil Discourse” is an interactive, half-day workshop that equips legislators with the tools and time to practice civil discourse in their state’s legislature and work more effectively across the aisle. The energizing program improves the culture so civil discourse and collaboration are at the heart of legislating. In addition to the half/full-day workshops, the Legislative Program has a full menu of shorter offerings curated to assist state legislatures.
Workshops are led by current and former state legislators who are trained as facilitators to help foster civility and bipartisan collaboration around the country. Each year, NICD’s Legislative Program trains additional legislators to join this dynamic group of leaders. Becoming a facilitator provides state legislators with a chance to effect change in their states and nationwide.
PHONE: 202-975-7145
EMAIL: jackthomas@arizona.edu