National Civility Month is observed every year in August in the United States and Canada. It was established to encourage people, businesses, schools, and communities to practice civility — meaning courtesy, respect, and consideration — in everyday interactions.
🌟 Purpose of National Civility Month
Promote Respectful Behavior: Reminds individuals and organizations to interact with kindness and professionalism.
- Strengthen Communities: Civility fosters trust, cooperation, and inclusion in workplaces, schools, and public spaces.
- Counteract Incivility: Provides a response to growing concerns about hostility, polarization, and disrespect in public life.
- Encourage Leadership by Example: Highlights the role of leaders, educators, and influencers in modeling respectful conduct.
🗓️ Origins
Founded in 2000 by the Civility Center (a nonprofit dedicated to helping people live, work, and lead with civility).
- Chosen for August because it follows July — a month associated with independence and freedom in the U.S. and the celebration of the birth of the Confederation in Canada — as a reminder that true freedom requires responsibility, respect, and civility.
💡 How It’s Celebrated
Community events & workshops on conflict resolution, communication, and diversity.
- Business initiatives promoting workplace respect and customer service.
- Schools & youth programs that teach kindness and digital civility.
- Public awareness campaigns that encourage courtesy in public spaces and online.
📌 Why It Matters
Civility is more than politeness; it’s about valuing others, listening actively, and engaging constructively — whether in personal relationships, workplaces, or civic life. National Civility Month serves as a collective reminder that respect and empathy make societies stronger.