August is National Civility Month. This month emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness, empathy, and respect. It's an opportunity to reflect on how our actions affect those around us and find ways to improve ourselves in this regard. By fostering professional communication and conduct, we can create a safe space for difficult conversations, helping employees feel acknowledged, appreciated, and more receptive to feedback.

Civility goes beyond surface-level politeness; it profoundly impacts employee mental health. When people are consistently treated with respect, they experience lower levels of stress and anxiety. NIH offers several resources to enhance and maintain well-being, including the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and the Office of the Ombudsman. If you observe inappropriate behavior, contact the Civil Program for support in ensuring a safe work environment for everyone.

The Office of Director Executive Office (ODEO) is offering a variety of events aimed to practice civil behavior and create a dynamic, diverse, and productive workplace where everyone can be thrive:

• The Say Good Morning Campaign (throughout August): Start each day by greeting your colleagues with a cheerful "Good Morning!" to create a welcoming atmosphere. This can be done in person, over the phone, or via instant messaging apps. Please refer to additional details on how to participate and the importance of greeting colleagues here.
• Coffee and Civility: Morning Microlearning 30-Minute Sessions: Each Monday let’s chat about what civility in the workplace looks like. We’ll discuss roadblocks to have courageous conversations, and the importance of broadening our point of view
  • Date and Time: August 12, 19, 26 at 9:00am – 9:30am
  • Join here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87101248697?pwd=5pdTE6XIbCYrnNIayBtKcY3HoGLwpe.1 
  • Meeting ID: 871 0124 8697
  • Passcode: 917828
• I Didn't Mean to Offend You! Panel Discussion on-navigating microaggressions and building community: Join this panel discussion about how to foster healthy curiosity and a more respectful workplace.
  • Date and Time: August 21, 2024, at 12:00 – 1:00
  • Join here: https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/bae3d1b3-3cb3-4400-b52b-e4d78fb6c4ae@14b77578-9773-42d5-8507-251ca2dc2b06
• Civility Discussion with Civil, EDI, EAP & Ombuds Office: Learn more about the OD offices designed to support employees. Engage in discussions surrounding how best to respond to common workplace scenarios and the resources available to all staff.
  • Date and Time: August 28, 2024, at 12:00 - 1:30
  • Join here:https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/3f0e32af-3166-4a0d-99e6-73b14843b6f4@14b77578-9773-42d5-8507-251ca2dc2b06