Civil Discourse


The Office of Civil Discourse and Engagement (CDE) combines and expands existing efforts and expertise on how to engage in constructive conversations with educational programs to increase awareness, enhance knowledge and understanding, and offer alternative or varied solutions to important social problems.

CDE offers these opportunities to faculty, staff, students, and the community. CDE is a part of the Ginsburg Center for Inclusion and Community Engagement and supports the Multicultural Student Center, LGBTQ+ Student Support Services and the Cultural Center.

  • CDE defines Civil Discourse as:
    • Constructive conversation or dialogue which intends to enhance understanding.
    • Civil discourse is honest, brave, productive, and requires taking responsibility for truly listening and talking about important local, national, and global topics/issues (American University). 
    • Civil Discourse promotes intellectual discovery and includes all of us to provide a well-rounded perspective.
  • Civil Discourse is:
    • Productive
    • Honest
    • Brave
    • Audience Based
    • Listening and talking
    • Each speaker’s own responsibility to engage
    • Makes space for people to share (guidelines)
  • Civil Discourse is not:
    • Mere politeness
    • Exercise in martyrdom
    • About telling other people who they are
    • Purely performative
    • A debate or “winning” (UMichigan)

Involvement

As a UCF student, you are part of a university that prides itself on providing the best opportunities for its attendees. With hundreds of clubs and organizations available for you to join, it might be tough to decide how to make your college experience more personal. CDE is here to help you narrow down your choices.

Other Ways to Get Involved