 The National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation (NCDD) will co-host a webinar with Colorado State University Center for Public Deliberation, titled “Talking Democracy (or Not): How Local Newsrooms Choose Their Words” on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, from 9–10 a.m. Pacific (12 p.m.–1 p.m. Eastern). This post-2024 election discussion will explore how the language used by local journalists and civic practitioners shapes public understanding and participation in democracy. Drawing on new research from Press Forward and PACE’s Civic Language Perceptions Project, the event will examine how words like community, service, and connection often foster more engagement than explicit democracy-focused terms. Participants will hear from experts in journalism and civic engagement about how newsrooms can communicate democratic values effectively while building trust across differences. The session aims to equip attendees with practical tools for inclusive, authentic civic communication that bridges divides and strengthens community participation. In the wake of the 2024 election, communities nationwide are grappling with fundamental questions about civic engagement and democratic participation. For local journalists and civic practitioners, one challenge stands out: how do we talk about democracy in ways that bring people together rather than push them apart? The National Coalition for Dialogue and Deliberation invites you to join a timely conversation that explores the power of language in civic life. On Wednesday, November 12th, from 9-10am Pacific (11am-12pm Eastern), this webinar will examine new research revealing how the words we choose shape community engagement and understanding across differences. The Power of Civic LanguageRecent findings from Press Forward and PACE's Civic Language Perceptions Project illuminate a striking paradox: while most Americans recognize that reliable local news is essential to democracy, explicit democracy messaging can sometimes create barriers rather than bridges. The research suggests that words like community, service, and connection may open more doors to meaningful civic participation than traditional democracy-focused language. This presents both a challenge and an opportunity for those working to strengthen democratic engagement at the local level. How can newsrooms and civic organizations maintain their democratic mission while speaking in ways that resonate across diverse audiences? How do we honor the importance of democratic institutions while meeting people where they are? Navigating Linguistic Challenges TogetherThe webinar will bring together perspectives from journalism and civic engagement to explore these questions in depth. Participants will examine how local newsrooms are adapting their approach to civic language, what the research reveals about audience perceptions, and how organizations can communicate their democratic values without alienating the very communities they aim to serve. This conversation aligns deeply with NCDD's commitment to fostering dialogue that honors multiple perspectives and creates space for genuine understanding. By examining how language itself can either facilitate or hinder democratic participation, attendees will gain practical insights for strengthening their own community engagement efforts. The session recognizes that effective civic communication requires both authenticity and strategic awareness—staying true to democratic values while remaining accessible and inviting to all community members. For local journalists, civic practitioners, dialogue facilitators, and anyone interested in strengthening community connections, this post-election dialogue offers valuable tools for navigating an increasingly complex civic landscape. The insights shared will help participants communicate about civic life in ways that invite participation, build trust, and bridge differences rather than deepen divisions. Join this important conversation about the future of civic language and democratic engagement. Register now at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_liJVb03TT7qUBjwcXIDVqg and be part of shaping how we talk about—and strengthen—democracy in our communities. Resources the webinar will draw on:
1 Comment
Kathy Wilson
11/4/2025 03:24:16 pm
Thank you for addressing this very important influencing aspect of political communication - the specific language to employ, or not, in messaging. Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
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NCDD is a community and coalition of individuals and organizations who bring people together to discuss, decide and collaborate on today's toughest issues.
© The National Coalition For Dialogue And Deliberation, Inc. All rights reserved.
© The National Coalition For Dialogue And Deliberation, Inc. All rights reserved.