National Civic League Uplifts Democratic Values Despite Political Changes

The National Civic League (NCL) continues to champion inclusive, equitable, and diverse democratic practices, standing firm in their values despite shifts in the political climate. Through powerful leadership and a commitment to evidence-based strategies, NCL demonstrates how true community engagement must account for the full spectrum of voices and experiences. Their work shows that fostering equity not only uplifts the most disadvantaged but also strengthens outcomes for entire communities. Learn how NCDD members and dialogue practitioners can get involved in advancing these essential democratic ideals. Read more in the blog post below.

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Partner Spotlight: How Our Friends at NCL Continue to Advance Inclusive Democracy

​The National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation (NCDD) is pleased to highlight important work from our friends and partners in the field. Recently, the National Civic League (NCL) published a powerful statement reaffirming their commitment to inclusion, equity, and diversity as essential components of effective democracy.

Standing Firm on Democratic Principles

In a recent article titled "Effective Democracy Depends on Inclusion, Equity, and Diversity," NCL President Doug Linkhart articulates how the organization's core values remain unchanged despite shifts in the national political landscape. The National Civic League has long advocated that local governance functions best as a partnership between government entities, residents, and other stakeholders—with all voices being heard and respected.
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As Linkhart notes in his March 3, 2025 piece, "These values will not shift in the face of changes in national politics." The full article can be found at: https://www.nationalcivicleague.org/effective-democracy-depends-on-inclusion-equity-and-diversity/

The Power of True Community Diversity

​The NCL emphasizes that diversity encompasses far more than just racial or ethnic factors. It includes political ideology, age, differing abilities, housing status, length of residency in a community, and many other considerations. Their work demonstrates that without incorporating this full spectrum of perspectives into problem-solving and governance structures, communities cannot create environments where everyone can thrive.

​The NCL's approach is grounded in practical evidence. Their work highlights how addressing disparities caused by poverty and other social determinants leads to improved overall public health, education, and quality of life for entire communities. This viewpoint is supported by statistical evidence showing that improving conditions for those most disadvantaged raises average conditions more quickly than incremental improvements focused on those already doing well.

How NCDD Members Can Engage

The National Civic League offers various ways for dialogue and deliberation practitioners to connect with their work:

• Explore their resources on community engagement strategies
• Consider organizational membership for access to their Promising Practices Database
• Subscribe to the National Civic Review for cutting-edge research and case studies
• Participate in their community engagement consultation services

Supporting Partners in Democratic Practice

The NCDD believes that supporting organizations like the National Civic League strengthens our collective ability to build more inclusive democratic processes. Their practical approaches to engaging diverse communities align closely with NCDD's mission to bring together and support people, organizations, and resources in ways that expand the power of discussion to benefit society.
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For those interested in learning more about the National Civic League's work or accessing their resources on inclusive community engagement, visit their website at nationalcivicleague.org.