“When we build, let us think that we build forever. Let it not be for present delight nor for present use alone. Let it be such work as our descendants will thank us for; and let us think, as we lay stone on stone, that a time is to come when those stones will be held sacred because our hands have touched them, and that men will say, as they look upon the labor and wrought substance of them, ‘See! This our fathers did for us.’” - John Ruskin
- John Ruskin (1819–1900) was a Victorian art critic, social thinker, and reformer whose writings on art, architecture, nature, and political economy profoundly influenced culture, education, and the early labor movement.
Gracious reader,
This past weekend, something extraordinary happened.
At the Civility Summit in Carmel, Indiana, leaders and neighbors came together from across the continent to wrestle with one question: how do we renew civic life in an age of division?
We began with a conversation I led with former Governor Mitch Daniels about civility and leadership in our polarized times.
We continued with keynote talks and a participant-led “Unconference” where educators, business leaders, elected officials, and citizens shared both the challenges they face and the practices that work.
The result? Proof that communities are hungry for more than conversation. They are ready for cultural, moral, and intellectual renewal. I’ve already spoke with dozens of people, who were at the summit and are ready to build something of their own in their community.
And I’m excited to support them.
It all began with a book.
Next week marks the anniversary of The Soul of Civility: Timeless Principles to Heal Society and Ourselves. What began as an idea on the page is now sparking a movement in communities across America and beyond.
In the book, I lay out a theory of social change—a framework that takes civility from aspiration to lived reality. Through four phases—Discover, Ignite, Embody, Celebrate—communities learn together, spark action, embed civility in daily life, and then celebrate progress in ways that inspire others to follow.
This is the next chapter of my work: partnering directly with cities, workplaces, schools, and institutions to help them cultivate civility as a habit of daily life.
Wherever you are—whether you want to start a book circle with friends, convene leaders in your workplace, or bring a full Civility Summit to your city—there’s a place for you in this movement.
👉We’d love to hear from you! If you’re interested in learning more about how to revive civility and foster transformation in your workplace, school, or community, please sign up using this form, and we’ll be in touch with more information.
This is only the beginning.
Warmly,
Lexi
In the news:
Carmel civility summit offers hope amid era of political violence
Indiana to Host Inaugural National Civility Summit in Carmel
Year Ago on Civic Renaissance:
How to start a civil renaissance according to Carmel, Indiana—Inspired by The Soul of Civility!- A guest post by Carmel City Council President Jeff Worrell about how “The Soul of Civility” can empower local leaders to create cultures of civility in their community.
Thank you for being part of our Civic Renaissance community!
