Civility Breaks Out In Tucson

The cause of civility is being advanced in Tucson, Arizona.

Today, the University of Arizona announced that Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton will co-chair a new National Institute for Civil Discourse at the University of Arizona.  According to a press release by the University of Arizona,

One of the key goals for the institute is to connect people with diverse viewpoints and to offer a venue for vigorous and respectful debate. Among the institute's first events will be an executive forum with media, foundation, academic, government and corporate leaders regarding moving forward the national conversation about civil discourse and proceeding with constructive solutions.

Last week, Gabrielle Gifford's aid Ron Barber announced the formation of The Fund for Civility, Respect, and Understanding.  The Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, which will administer the fund announced that,

The fund, created by the Barber family, will support nonprofit programs or organizations that work to heal the wounds inflicted on January 8, 2011. It will honor those who lost their lives or were injured that day, and will pay tribute to the first responders, citizens and medical personnel who came to their aid. The fund will support nonprofit activities in public schools, faith communities, and mental health. Concerts will play an important role in building the fund and in healing and unifying our community.

An all star fundraising concert, featuring  Jackson Browne, Alice Cooper, and many other musical acts will kick off the fund on March 10, 2011.  Tickets are on now sale at Ticketmaster.

To read more about The National Institute for Civil Discourse and The Fund for Civility, Respect, and Understanding, see below:

Bush, Clinton to Chair New National Institute for Civil Discourse at the University of Arizona, UANEWS, 2/21/11.

University of Arizona Sets Up Civility Institute, New York Times, 2/21/11.

The National Institute for Civil Discourse Website

The Fund for Civility, Respect, and Understanding, Community Foundation for Southern Arizona

Shooting victim Barber launches fund for Civility, Respect and Understanding, FOX11AZ.com, 2/17/11.

Browne, Cooper to play benefit in Tucson, Ariz, Arizona Daily Star, 2/17/11.