People being civil to other people is what makes the world a whole lot better and is the key focus of National Civility Month, which is held in August each year. This holiday was founded to help the world remember to treat others the way we wish to be treated ourselves — with kindness, empathy, and respect. This month follows a common theme like other similar awareness months centered around civility, including National Win With Civility Month, International Civility Awareness Month, and more.
NATIONAL CIVILITY MONTH TIMELINE
18th Century
Rights for Everyone
More and more movements crop up, inspired by a culture of demanding rights and civility for everyone — the American Revolution, the French Revolution, and the Bill of Rights.
December 10, 1948
Global Recognition
The U.N. adopts the historical Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which defines the rights and freedoms all humans deserve.
April 22, 2016
Is Civility Vanishing?
The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research at the University of Chicago states that 74% of Americans believe manners and behavior have declined in the U.S.
May 18, 2021
Emotional Civility is Defined
Reverend Dr. Sharon Styles- Anderson releases a book called “Emotional Civility: The New Standard for Global Success” about a concept she founded — ’emotional civility’ — which she coined to help people understand that how we feel influences our interactions with others.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL CIVILITY MONTH
- Practice civility ourselves
True 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 towards 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 this day. You could also drive change by encouraging various officials to hold special events on civility awareness and training this month (or year-long).