Washington, D.C. — Local leaders from the National League of Cities (NLC) today announced a national call for cities, towns and villages across the United States to adopt local civility pledges aimed at strengthening respectful public discourse and restoring trust in local governance.
The announcement was from the 2026 Congressional City Conference (CCC), where more than 2,500 mayors councilmembers and local officials from across the country have gathered in Washington, D.C. to advocate for federal policies that support cities, towns and villages nationwide.
As part of the initiative, the NLC Board of Directors unanimously adopted a civility resolution encouraging local governments to promote dignity, respect and constructive dialogue in public meetings and community engagement.
“I am proud of the first step we took as leaders of the National League of Cities’ with our Board unanimously approving our Resolution to Lead with Civility, Dignity and Respect,” said NLC President, Councilmember Kevin Kramer, Louisville, Ky. We’re encouraging cities, towns and villages across America to develop and pass their own civility resolution as we aim to reduce polarization and create an environment with our shared values of empathy and genuine dialogue.”
Local leaders said the initiative reflects a growing national effort among municipalities to address rising tensions in civic spaces while ensuring residents continue to have opportunities to engage constructively with their local governments.
The announcement comes as local leaders convene in Washington for the National League of Cities’ Congressional City Conference, which focuses on federal priorities including housing, transportation, infrastructure and certainty in federal funding.
“Every day, local leaders translate federal policy into real results for residents. We maintain infrastructure, support local economies, keep our communities safe and respond when disaster strikes,” said NLC Vice President, Mayor Van R. Johnson ll, Savannah, Ga. “One of the most urgent priorities we are raising with lawmakers this week is strengthening disaster relief and recovery policy.”
“From civility, disaster response, housing and rail safety – local leaders are the ones that are stepping up and leading,” said NLC CEO & Executive Director, Clarence E. Anthony. “And you are here in Washington to take that message to Capitol Hill. The voices of local governments matter, and we will remind Congress why and how we deliver.”
During the conference, local officials will meet with members of Congress on Capitol Hill to advocate for policies that strengthen the federal-local partnership and support communities of all sizes.
MEDIA INFORMATION: NLC offers free registration to credentialed press. To RSVP, please contact media@nlc.org.
View a full schedule of events from the conference.
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The National League of Cities (NLC) is the voice of America’s cities, towns and villages, representing more than 200 million people across the country. NLC works to strengthen local leadership, influence federal policy and drive innovative solutions. Stay connected with NLC on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram.