Incivility in American politics dates back at least to Thomas Jefferson’s time.
How to create robust political discourse and constructive deliberation without resorting to rudeness or demonization too often eludes both Democrats and Republicans alike.
Ten years ago, former Charlottesville City Councilor Mary Alice Gunter convened a panel to discuss political discourse and civility. As many can attest, breakdown of civility and fierce partisanship remains an issue today.
Photo of Mary Alice Gunter, Drewary Brown, Opal David and Francis Fife was taken in Charlottesville, Virginia on February 15, 1997.
Drewary Brown was a civil rights activist and a founder of Monticello Area Community Action Agency. Opal David was the first female Albemarle County Board of Supervisor. Francis Fife is a former City Councilor and Mayor of Charlottesville.