Civility in North American Life (1993)

WHEREAS, the diversity and pluralism of North American society require respect and tolerance for persons having different ethnic or religious backgrounds, or having different points of view on societal and/or political issues; and

WHEREAS, in recent years we have witnessed increased manifestations of incivility, stridency and rudeness in the media, political campaigns and even deliberative governmental bodies; and

WHEREAS, a stable and vibrant democracy requires that the expression of opposing opinions and the resolution of dispute takes place under conditions of non-violence, appropriate deliberations and perceived fairness to all differing viewpoints.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that THE UNITED SYNAGOGUE OF CONSERVATIVE JUDAISM:

1. calls upon its affiliated synagogues and their congregants to take every opportunity to encourage civility and good manners in all areas of our society, including the media, governmental processes, and synagogue activities, and
2. promotes programs which encourage the reliance on due process, the legal system, and alternative dispute resolutions without apprehension of violent reaction to such processes.