John Jay College Of Criminal Justice | The City University of New York

Promoting civility and fostering a respectful campus community  

What is Civility?

“Civility is claiming and caring for one's identity, needs and beliefs without degrading someone else's in the process.”
...and it begins with us.

—Institute for Civility in Government Co-Founders, Cassandra Dahnke and Tomas Spath

Civility is about more than merely being polite, although being polite is an excellent start. Civility fosters a deep self-awareness, even as it is characterized by true respect for others. Civility requires the extremely hard work of staying present even with those with whom we have deep-rooted and perhaps fierce disagreements. It is about constantly being open to hear, to learn, to teach and to change. It seeks common ground as a beginning point for dialogue when differences occur, while at the same time recognizes that differences are enriching. It is patience, grace, and strength of character.
—Institute for Civility in Government Co-Founders, Cassandra Dahnke and Tomas Spath

John Jay College of Criminal Justice is committed to strengthening the sense of community, civility, social and environmental consciousness, and mutual respect in the College.
—John Jay College Master Plan – John Jay @ 50

Mission
Team Civility’s mission is to promote civility and foster a respectful campus community by beginning the conversation and raising the awareness of the 10 Keys to Civility, developed by the educators at BecauseItMatters.net.

Team Members will participate in a variety of on-campus events designed to raise the awareness of the need for civility in our professional and personal lives.