Opinion: Civility shouldn’t be mistaken for passivity

By Jeff Worrell

Jeff Worrell

Civility can sometimes be mistaken for passivity. A gentle nod, a polite smile, an agreement to disagree. But what if true civility wasn’t the soft, easy option, but the bravest one?

Let’s call it what it really is: radical.

Radical civility is the courage to stay at the table when conversations get uncomfortable. It’s the choice to see someone’s humanity when we’re told to pick a side. It’s firm, not flimsy — rooted in respect, not silence. And in today’s world, where division is monetized and outrage gets clicks, choosing civility might just be the most countercultural act we can make.

I believe in conversations that cross backyards, not battle lines. We believe disagreement doesn’t disqualify someone from dignity. And with Project Civility, we’re not asking people to be

quiet — we’re asking them to be brave enough to connect.

So yes, call it radical. We’re okay with that. Let’s listen fiercely, speak kindly, and act with purpose. It won’t always be easy. But then again, the best things rarely are.