Below is an important contribution from the DEI Committee.
AUGUST WAS NATIONAL CIVILITY MONTH
People being civil to others makes the world a whole lot better and is the key focus of National Civility Month. This holiday was founded to help the world remember to treat others how we wish to be treated — with kindness, empathy, and respect. While researching this holiday, my initial thought was, "why do we need this holiday; shouldn't civility be the norm?" But then I watched the news, and it was crystal clear that the world needed a reminder.
The Pandemic and isolation, coupled with the loss of life, income, and social contact, have shown a decline in emotional civility. I am not sure when the decline in civility happened, but I have been inclined to blame the Pandemic. So back to the basics we go!
What is the purpose of civility?
Civility helps diverse groups come together as a society and group, reducing disputes and conflict significantly.
What are examples of civility?
Civil behavior involves kindness, empathy, respect, humility, and more. Practicing civil behavior means acting with humanity, whether helping someone cross the street, feeding the homeless, or even helping someone financially.
What does lack of civility mean?
Lack of civility, or incivility, describes people acting against humanity and empathy by harming others through actions, words, or gestures. 'Incivility' comes from the Latin 'incivilis,' which means 'not a citizen.'
We all can agree that the emotional civility of many individuals has dwindled, and some may say civility has vanished. "Reverend Dr. Sharon Styles- Anderson releases a book called "Emotional Civility: The New Standard for Global Success" about the concept she founded — 'emotional civility' — which she coined to help people understand that how we feel influences our interactions with others. Her book reminds us of the impact emotional incivility has on our communities. When you think about how a person interacts with you, remember you never know what people are going through emotionally, so give as much Grace as you can. You can learn more about this concept and purchase her book here:
https://www.drsharonempowers.org/product-page/emotional-civility-the-new-standard-for-global-success
How can you help improve civility?
Practice civility ourselves
Actual change begins with us. So, remember to maintain civility in all interactions with other people. Spend time reflecting on your actions, noting how people reacted to them, and figuring out how you can better yourself in this regard.
Influence others toward civility
Your civility can inspire others, too, like a ripple effect. Be the role model and the standard of decent human behavior, so others around you maintain the same levels of civility.
Raise awareness about civility together
Talk to people around you about the importance of civility. You could also drive change by encouraging various officials to hold special civility awareness and training events. (Year-long).
I am more aware of how I interact with others, and I hope this reminder about civility has also encouraged you to be mindful. I have this picture in my office with the following caption. "In a world where you can be anything, be KIND."
Lora Mayes, RN