Library Plans To Make Discussions In Everett More Civil

September 18, 2019

Events in Everett

Tired of all the shouting? Here’s an alternative.

If you think there is too much shouting and not enough civil conversation in Everett, Washington lately you are not alone.

Now there’s a plan by some folks to do something to create change. Here’s more.

Civil Everett is a planned program series presented by the Everett Public Library and City of Everett designed to engage the community around the broad theme of civil discourse. The goal is to bring the community together to tackle challenging topics and conversations together in a productive and respectful way.

Civil discourse is a dialogue of mutual respect and listening where people are open to learn, constructively articulate a point of view, explore areas of agreement and disagree respectfully. We benefit from multiple solutions that contribute to better decisions, improved public policy and better quality of life.

At what point does a conversation become a battle? The kick-off event for the Civil Everett series features philosopher David E. Smith, who provides tools and insights needed to have civil conversations in an angry age. Smith takes a deep look at those moments when civility breaks down and explores how we can have meaningful, respectful conversations on notoriously difficult topics. This talk lays the foundation needed for developing thoughtful, fruitful conversations about challenging issues. An interactive workshop will follow the talk.

Smith holds a PhD in religious studies from Temple University. For the past decade, he has held roles as a lecturer, assistant professor, and associate professor of philosophy and religious studies. He currently teaches at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Washington.

This program will be held on Thursday, Oct. 3, at 6:30 p.m. in the Cascade High School library, at 801 E. Casino Road, in Everett. The program is free and open to the public. Space is limited, and advance registration is required by calling 425-257-8000.

This program is co-sponsored by the Everett Public Library, City of Everett, League of Women Voters and Humanities Washington.

For more information, call 425-257-8000 or visit www.epls.org/civil.



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