Civil discourse revisited

Terry Ward
CEO & Publisher
Ward Media

We must strive to distinguish between unproductive hostility and the righteous indignation that often accompanies calls for change.”

– Terry Ward

In the wake of the shocking assassination of political activist Charlie Kirk, our national conversation is once again marked by grief, outrage, and deep division. Tragedies like this underscore the fragility of our civic life and force us to confront a troubling question: How do we talk to one another in an environment where words, rhetoric, and ideology are so often weaponized?

This moment reminds me of a column I wrote in August 2024, reflecting on the dilemma of civil discourse. Then, as now, the tension between civility and urgency was at the forefront. I believe it’s worth revisiting today, not as an answer but as an invitation—to think carefully about how we engage with each other, how we allow for honest disagreement, and how we build a culture where passionate advocacy does not cross into violence.

Here is that column, first published on August 20, 2024:

The dilemma of civil discourse

In an era marked by polarization and heated rhetoric, the notion of civil discourse has become both a beacon of hope and a subject of intense scrutiny. As we reflect on the state of public conversation in our society, we find ourselves grappling with a subtle yet pervasive challenge: the bias toward civility itself.

At first glance, the pursuit of civil discourse seems an unequivocally noble goal. It conjures images of reasoned debate, mutual respect, and the free exchange of ideas – cornerstones of a healthy democracy. Indeed, many institutions and leaders have long advocated for such dialogue as the key to addressing our most pressing issues.

However, we must ask ourselves: Does our emphasis on civility sometimes come at the cost of necessary confrontation? Are there moments when the demand for polite discourse inadvertently silences voices that need to be heard?

The civil rights movement of the 1960s serves as a reminder that progress often requires disruption. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "Letter from Birmingham Jail" eloquently challenged the notion that the pursuit of justice should always prioritize social tranquility. Today, as we face urgent issues from climate change to systemic inequality, we must consider whether our societal preference for "civility" sometimes impedes meaningful action.

This is not to advocate for incivility or to dismiss the importance of respectful dialogue. Rather, it is a call for nuance and self-reflection. As engaged citizens, we must strive to distinguish between unproductive hostility and the righteous indignation that often accompanies calls for change.

In our communities, workplaces, and public forums, we need to reevaluate our approach to discourse. While providing space for diverse viewpoints, we must also be mindful of the power dynamics at play in public conversations. It's crucial to amplify voices that challenge the status quo, even when their methods may not align with traditional notions of civility.

Our collective goal should be to foster a society that is not just polite, but just and equitable. Achieving this may sometimes require us to embrace discomfort and to question our own biases – even those that seem, on the surface, to be virtuous.

As we navigate these complex social dynamics, each of us has a role to play in shaping the nature of our public discourse. We must strive for a balance that allows for passionate advocacy while maintaining the mutual respect necessary for productive dialogue. This might mean:

1. Listening actively to perspectives that challenge our own, even when they're expressed forcefully.
2. Recognizing that tone policing can be a form of silencing, especially for marginalized voices.
3. Distinguishing between civility as a tool for respectful exchange and civility as a shield against uncomfortable truths.
4. Creating spaces where difficult conversations can occur without the immediate demand for politeness trumping the need for honesty.

By critically examining our attachment to civil discourse, we open the door to a more dynamic and inclusive public sphere. One where the substance of arguments isn't overshadowed by their presentation, and where the urgency of certain issues is given its due weight.

As we move forward, let us work toward a public discourse that is not just civil, but also just, inclusive, and truly transformative. It's a challenging balance, but one that's essential for addressing complex problems and building a society that can evolve through both reasoned debate and impassioned calls for change.

Terry Ward is the CEO of Ward Media and the publisher of NCW News, Cashmere Valley Record, Lake Chelan Mirror, The Leavenworth Echo, Quad City Herald, and the Wenatchee Business Journal. He can be reached at terry@ward.media.