A Message from the LWVWI Community Alliances Committee:  As a result of our work to implement the League’s DEI Policy, the Community Alliances Committee developed “Respectful Communication Guidelines” to help all League members communicate better with one another. Empowering voters and defending democracy are incredibly important goals. To achieve them, we all need to bring our best selves to the table each time we meet. While we’re working together, it’s important that we all check our emotions. Here are some guidelines to help when having conversations. We encourage all Leagues to start meetings with a reminder about respectful communications and periodically review these guidelines with members. We welcome feedback from members to help us improve the guidelines.

1. Respect confidentiality. In our work, conversations may come up that involve sensitive topics. To feel safe in expressing how members feel, confidentiality must be honored.
   
   
2. Be authentic and welcome that from others.
1. Share what is important to you.
2. Speak from your experience.
3. Be considerate of others who are doing the same.
3. Show respect and suspend judgment.
1. People tend to judge one another. Setting judgment aside opens you up to learning from others and makes them feel respected and appreciated. Remember, we are all at different points in our DEI journey.
2. Try truly listening, without interruption or crosstalk. If you are not sure about what someone said, without interrupting, ask them to repeat or clarify.
4. Be patient. Not everyone communicates in the same way. Some people aren’t comfortable speaking up to share their viewpoints in a group setting. Some people need more time to process what they hear before being able to come up with a comment or response.
   
   
5. Be aware of your tone when speaking. Kindness is always appropriate and appreciated.
   
   
6. Be aware of your nonverbal communication. This is especially important when meeting on Zoom or other video conferencing.
   
   
7. Be curious and actively listen to understand.
1. Conversation is as much about listening as it is about talking. You might enjoy exploring how others’ experiences have shaped their values and perspectives.
2. Note any common ground as well as any differences.
3. Look for areas of agreement or shared values that may arise and take an interest in the differing beliefs and opinions of others.
8. Be purposeful and to the point.
1. We’re all busy people with many things on our plates. Try to keep comments concise and relevant to the question being answered or the topic being discussed.
2. Be conscious of the need to share airtime with other participants.
9. Own your part in the conversation and try to be a good guide. Take responsibility for the quality of your participation and the conversation as a whole. Be proactive and respectful in getting yourself and others back on track if needed.

Developed by the LWVWI Community Alliances Committee: May 2022
Board Approved: October 1, 2022