The well-attended event goes to show that the country is full of decent people who believe in the foundational importance of civility in a healthy, functional republic. (Photo provided)
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The Project Civility National Summit, sponsored by Merchants Bank and Duke Energy, opened last Friday evening, Sept. 26, with a welcome reception and a fireside chat featuring former Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels.
Daniels addressed the urgent need for restoring civility in American life, offering reflections on leadership, respectful dialogue, and the role communities can play in setting a new tone.
Daniels
Daniels praised Carmel for playing host to the first national summit, noting that the call for civility comes at a critical time. He emphasized that civility is not about avoiding disagreement but about relearning how to disagree respectfully.
“Civility is not the mark of a coward; it’s the opposite,” he said. “What takes courage is finding common ground.”
Daniels encouraged leaders and citizens alike to reject insults, avoid negative campaigning, and create opportunities for constructive dialogue, particularly in the upcoming election cycle. He also urged younger generations to engage with people who hold differing views rather than isolating themselves, saying that modeling respectful leadership requires courage.
The Summit, a grassroots initiative launched by local civic leaders, aims to inspire communities nationwide to establish Project Civility chapters. The effort seeks to rebuild connections, foster mutual understanding, and encourage leaders to set a higher standard for public discourse.
The Summit continued on Saturday, Sept. 27 with workshops and discussions designed to equip participants with resources to advance the movement in their own communities.
Photo provided
Photo provided
About Project Civility
Project Civility, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is a grassroots initiative that began in Carmel with founder Jeff Worrell and a small group of citizens united by a shared belief: cultivating civility in communities across the country is key to rebuilding connections and driving positive change. Its mission is to promote respectful dialogue, active listening, and constructive community engagement through educational programs and chapter partnerships to establish more Civil Cities throughout the United States. To learn more and join the movement, visit projectcivility.com.
