International Civility Awareness Month

International Civility Awareness Month: Promoting Kindness and Respect

International Civility Awareness Month is an annual observance dedicated to promoting kindness, respect, and considerate behavior in our daily interactions. It serves as a reminder to treat others with dignity and foster a more harmonious society through civil discourse and actions.

Quick Facts

When is it?: May
Tagged as: Civility, Awareness, Kindness
What’s the hashtag?: #CivilityAwarenessMonth
When was it founded?: 2010
Who founded it?: Association of Image Consultants International (AICI)

History of International Civility Awareness Month

International Civility Awareness Month was established in 2010 by the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI). The initiative was inspired by Dr. P.M. Forni, a professor specializing in civility at Johns Hopkins University and author of “Choosing Civility: The 25 Rules of Considerate Conduct.” The idea was put forward by AICI members Yasmin Anderson-Smith, Carole Ann Lyons, and Katherine Wurzburg, along with the marketing committee of AICI.

Timeline

2008: The idea to raise awareness for civility is conceived by AICI members.
2009: The Civility Project officially kicks off at the AICI annual conference.
2010: The inaugural International Civility Awareness Month is celebrated at AICI’s annual conference in Vancouver, British Columbia.
2011: AICI awards certificates to the founding members of the Civility Counts Project at the international conference in Hawaii.

International Civility Awareness Month Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	May 1	Thursday
2026	May 1	Friday
2027	May 1	Saturday
2028	May 1	Monday
2029	May 1	Tuesday
2030	May 1	Wednesday

Observed International Civility Awareness Month

International Civility Awareness Month is observed through various activities and initiatives aimed at promoting civil behavior and respectful communication. Organizations, schools, and communities often organize events, workshops, and campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of civility in our daily lives.

During this month, individuals are encouraged to reflect on their own behavior and communication styles, and to make a conscious effort to treat others with kindness and respect. Many participate in the 31-Day Civility Challenge, which provides daily activities to practice and promote civility.

Businesses and workplaces may also use this month to focus on fostering a more respectful and inclusive environment, organizing training sessions or team-building activities centered around civility and effective communication.

Fun Facts About International Civility Awareness Month

The golden rule of civility is to treat others how you would like them to treat you.
Civility impacts not only personal relationships but also professional image and leadership.
The first Civility Proclamation declared May 13 as Los Angeles Civility Awareness Day.
AICI’s Civility Counts Project has expanded globally since its inception.
Dr. P.M. Forni, the inspiration behind the project, received AICI’s IMMIE Bravo Award for his contributions to civility.

Quiz

In which month is International Civility Awareness Month observed?
Who founded International Civility Awareness Month?
What year was International Civility Awareness Month established?
What is the golden rule of civility?
Who was the professor that inspired the creation of this awareness month?

(Answers: 1. May, 2. Association of Image Consultants International (AICI), 3. 2010, 4. Treat others how you would like them to treat you, 5. Dr. P.M. Forni)

FAQs

What do people do during Civility Awareness Month?
People participate in activities that promote civility, spread awareness, and work on improving their own civil behavior.

What is the 31-Day Civility Challenge?
It’s a calendar-like infographic that lists one civil activity to carry out each day of the month, helping people observe Civility Awareness Month.

How can I participate in International Civility Awareness Month?
You can participate by practicing kindness, attending civility workshops, organizing community events, or taking part in the 31-Day Civility Challenge.

Why is civility important?
Civility is crucial for building healthy relationships, fostering effective communication, and creating a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Can businesses benefit from observing Civility Awareness Month?
Yes, businesses can use this month to improve workplace culture, enhance team communication, and promote a more respectful and productive environment.

Importance of International Civility Awareness Month

International Civility Awareness Month plays a crucial role in promoting a more respectful and harmonious society. By focusing on civility, we can improve interpersonal relationships, reduce conflicts, and create more inclusive environments in our communities and workplaces.

This observance encourages individuals to reflect on their own behavior and make conscious efforts to treat others with kindness and respect. It serves as a reminder that small acts of civility can have a significant impact on our daily interactions and overall social cohesion.

Moreover, in an increasingly divided world, International Civility Awareness Month provides an opportunity to bridge gaps, foster understanding, and promote constructive dialogue across different groups and perspectives.