The Corrosion of Civility: How Communications Professionals Can Put the Civil Back in Civil Discourse

What does the corrosion of public dialogue in our society mean for the reputation of the public relations profession? Is PR part of the problem? What role does media play? And what can we as professional communicators do to help change the dynamics of public dialogue and be part of the solution? Explore these important questions, learn what PRSA is doing as part of its strategic plan to put the “civil” back in civil discourse and hear the various ways members at all levels — from students to senior leaders — can get involved and help lead this important charge in their own organizations, communities and circles of influence.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to: 
• Recognize opportunities for PRSA members to take meaningful action to address the erosion of civility and civil discourse across all areas of their work.
• Formulate and promote strategies for achieving more effective civil discourse in their day-to-day work and lives as part of a “civility corps” movement that grows within and beyond the PR industry.
• Encourage PRSA Chapters and Sections to incorporate activities that advance and promote inclusive and constructive civil discourse into their plans and programming.