About the Institute

The Institute for Civility in Government is a non-profit organization that works to reduce polarization in society. Through educational programs and membership, the Institute aims to build civility in a society that increasingly tilts towards uncivil speech and actions.

Explore: Our Mission | How do we accomplish our mission? | How do we define civility?



We are a grassroots, non-partisan, non-profit organization that aims to build civility in a society that seems to increasingly tilt towards uncivil speech and actions.

About The Institute

We are a grassroots, non-partisan, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that aims to build civility in a society that seems to increasingly tilt towards uncivil speech and actions. The Institute does not endorse any political candidate, nor do we take a position on any issue. We are about process, not positions. Not a think tank, and not a watch dog organization, we serve as a catalyst for change. Together we can make a difference!

The Institute facilitates dialogue through Congressional Student Forums. We teach respect by engaging groups (young and old) in trips to our nation's capital, Washington, DC., where people are able to engage the political process through personal participation. We build civility through our membership, speaking engagements and civility workshops.

We invite you to visit each of our pages and learn more about this absolutely unique citizens’ movement for change.  We hope you will add your voice to the call for civility - join the Institute or donate to the Institute today!

More Information

For additional information on who we are and what we do, you may also find this overview of Institute activities to be a helpful starting point.

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Students at Hart Senate Office Building

Student trips to Washington, D.C. allow students to witness and participate in the governing process first hand. Learn more »

My favorite thing about the United States? Lots of Americans, one America.” – Val Saintsbury

Institute members receive a Civility Quote of the Month (like the one above from October, 2008) delivered directly to their inboxes every month. Learn about joining and become a member today!