In the News

Dozens of House lawmakers from both parties have proposed a resolution that calls on the government to recognize July 12 as a National Day of Civility, and says people are becoming so mean that the U.S. should consider civility training in schools.

"[C]ivility training in schools, a national campaign to promote civility, a conscious public effort to practice civility, and a National Day of Civility may combat the threats posed by increasing incivility and distrust in our institutions," the resolution stated.

Freshman Rep. Charlie Crist, D-Fla., proposed the resolution Thursday along with most freshmen from both parties.

Crist and Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., are distributing wristbands to lawmakers that say "Practice the GOLDEN RULE every day," to remind Congress about the importance of civility. The golden rule is from Matthew 7:12, which says people should treat people the way they want to be treated themselves.

The call comes just weeks after the shooting at the Republican baseball practice in Alexandria, Va., which reopened the debate about how harsh public discourse can affect people. It also led some to blame members of the opposing party for this sharper discourse.

The resolution says a day of civility is needed because discourse and dialogue are being threatened by "growing division in and coarsening of our political culture." Many agree that the problem is especially acute in Congress.

"[A] majority of Americans believe incivility in our politics encourages general incivility in society and deters citizens from engaging in public service," it said.

The measure says Congress supports a National Day of Civility, encourages the promotion of civility in schools, at work and elsewhere, and "calls on all Americans to practice civility."