The National Institute for Civil Discourse

This is exciting news. Presidents Bill Clinton and George H.W. Bush announced today that they will become honorary Chairmen of the newly created National Institute for Civil Discourse at the Universit of Arizona.

Their quotes are quite telling, and say a lot about the need for more participatory and deliberative democratic processes.

Bush said, "Our country needs a setting for political debate that is both frank and civil."

Clinton declared,  the new institute "can elevate the tone of dialogue in our country."

We, of course heartily agree. The tone of our larger conversation needs changing. And, it begins with each one of us. Our work in our large meeting process values the coming together of people for the purpose of engaging in a deeper dialogue, one that invites both advocacy and inquiry. We have incredibly powerul tools at our disposal, and we have the methodology to use these tools effectively. What underlies this work is a set of values that suports giving and getting real information, informed choice, and mutual accountability.

There is another ray of hope this President's Day. Let's all think about ways each of us can deeply connect with each other. You can read the whole story in today's Washington Post.