Recognizing World Civility Day

Floor Speech

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Mr. MRVAN. Madam Speaker, it is with great honor and respect that I recognize the Community Civility Counts Initiative as the organization celebrates its annual World Civility Day on April 27, 2022, along with the Gary Chamber of Commerce, the entire community of Northwest Indiana, and beyond. World Civility Day is a day in which we are asked to become aware of our behavior towards others and to become mindful of our thoughts, words, and actions. It is a day to remember that we can be better people in every aspect of life, and to remember that our actions serve as an example for generations to come. In observance of this special event, a day of civility-themed activities will be held in Merrillville, Indiana, at the Dean and Barbara White Community Center, followed by an awards banquet at Avalon Manor.

In 2015, Chuck Hughes, Executive Director of the Gary Chamber of Commerce, and Dr. Gordon E. Bradshaw, Chairman of the Public Policy Committee, worked together through the Gary Chamber to create the Civility Counts Initiative. The organization's mission is to build public awareness of civility and to help transform communities through positive programs and relationships. The Initiative works to raise the consciousness level of individuals and groups of people, as so many of us face incidents of disrespect, intolerance, bullying, or violence. For striving to make a difference in our communities, the organization and its supporters are to be commended.

This year, the organization welcomes many significant and remarkable speakers and guests who have worked to promote the powerful message of peace and civility throughout their careers, all of whom are truly worthy of our sincere admiration. The keynote speaker for the ceremony is Robert A. Rohm, Ph.D., who has been a noteworthy teacher, principal, and director of curriculum development. Dr. Rohm is also a very successful author who has written over twenty books, including numerous top sellers. In addition, the workshop speakers include Reverend Dr. Janette Wilson, founder and Executive Director of PUSH for Excellence, Inc. and a senior advisor to Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., as well as Art Norman, NBC 5 News ambassador and Vice President of the National Association of Black Journalists. The organization will also honor special guest Dr. Clyde Rivers, who is the founder and President of IChange Nations and an Ambassador-at-Large for the Republic of Burundi, Africa.

Madam Speaker, I ask you and my other colleagues to join me in honoring and congratulating the Community Civility Counts Initiative and in celebrating World Civility Day. The significance of this movement will have a positive impact for generations to come. For their influence, passion, and dedication to the community of Northwest Indiana and beyond, the leaders and supporters of the Community Civility Counts Initiative are worthy of the highest praise.

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