#mayorsatsxsw

Death of Civil Discourse: Can City Hall Save It?

Mar 9, 2024

2:30pm – 3:30pm CT

The fundamentals of civil discourse are faltering. Growing tensions at all levels have trickled down to the humble town square. Normal conversations about city budgets and community programs are being displaced by intense discussions about national politics, culture wars, conspiracy theories, and global conflicts. How can city leaders maintain a space for respectful and productive dialogue to advance the common good of their communities? Hear from mayors who are trying to maintain a platform for civil discourse that advances local issues while avoiding the traps of our hyper-polarized world.

Programming descriptions are generated by participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of SXSW.

photo of Jane Castor
Jane Castor

City of Tampa

photo of John Giles
John Giles

City of Mesa

photo of Steven Reed
Steven Reed

City of Montgomery

photo of Nan Whaley
Nan Whaley

US Conference of Mayors

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