Press Releases

 On Thursday, Reps. Mike Johnson (R-LA) and Charlie Crist (D-FL) introduced legislation to designate a National Day of Civility. The bipartisan bill has attracted scores of co-sponsors so far. It proposes an annual observance on July 12, inspired in part by the language of Matthew 7:12, which begins: "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.”  

Johnson authored the “Commitment to Civility” back in January, and 50 freshman members of the 115th Congress have signed the pledge. The document memorializes the members’ agreement to, among other things, restore collegiality, trust and civility to the Congress, encourage productive dialogue, and work to build consensus and the public's trust in America’s institutions. Today’s legislation is a continuation of that effort.

Rep. Johnson released the following statement:

"Civility is not something we should simply talk about one day and forget the next. It is a principle we should practice 365 days a year. Just last week, we witnessed the kind of violence that can result from the increasing vitriol in our public discourse. We have to return to the ideals that made our country great and to the idea that every person is worthy of dignity and respect. I am proud to join my colleagues in both parties in establishing a National Day of Civility to serve as a reminder that before we are Republicans and Democrats, we are first and foremost Americans.”

Background

The 7th annual report on Civility in America was released last week, finding that incivility has reached “crisis levels” in our country. Nine out of 10 Americans agree that incivility leads to intimidation, threats, harassment, discrimination, violence and cyberbullying. A majority of Americans believe that incivility in our politics encourages general incivility in society and deters citizens from engaging in public service.