“When the freedom they wished for most was freedom from responsibility, then Athens ceased to be free.”
- Edward Gibbon, historian and author of “The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire”

In just a few short days, the image above has become an iconic reflection of the polarizing impact of the COVID-19 virus response, not only in Michigan, but throughout the nation and the world. The photo above, taken inside the Michigan State Capitol on April 30, depicts state troopers standing in front of angry protesters, with troopers facing the consequences of direct exposure to people who neglected to wear masks. As an asthmatic I’m acutely aware of how contagious this virus is and the critical responsibility all of us have to do everything within our power to stop its spread.

Those pictured were exercising their civil liberties. Right of speech and assembly are paramount, and the social sector has long advocated for this fundamental right. And yet, there are life and death consequences to gathering in close proximity. There is also danger in escalating rhetoric and implied intimidation that we witnessed as some exercised their second amendment right to carry firearms while demonstrating. These actions highlight the paradox of civil disobedience and civic participation that our nation has long observed. 

The central question to be explored: How do we hold civil discourse while exercising our responsibilities during this crisis? And what role does philanthropy play?

Governance in a republic based on core democratic values is by definition messy. The powers and limitations of our government are being tested. The need to secure an economic livelihood is being balanced with health and safety. That process, and policymaker decisions, require input and engagement yet the very remedy for this crisis (in the short term) is isolation. As I reflect on what we have been witnessing in Lansing – individuals and groups gathered to petition their government – there are costs that must be weighed.

There is a cost to those gathered at distances known to be unsafe. There is a cost to our frontline safety workers. There is also a cost to civil discourse.

I’ve written to you about the innovation and new collaborations emerging from this crisis that speaks to the tremendous resiliency of our sector. This is another side to the crisis that requires the full attention of our philanthropic community. 

The challenge to the governor’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” order was a form of civil action, but threats to public officials and disregard for the public health concerns of others demonstrated what Edward Gibbon called, “freedom from responsibility.” Former President George W. Bush recently shared a message, “The Call to Unite” urging us to look for the commonalities among us and to engage in service to others. In this video message, Bush reminds us that it is incumbent on all of us to find ways to help others, seek common ground and advance the common good.

During my listening tour of the state in early 2019, what seems like a lifetime ago, I heard time and again that philanthropy needs to find a way to foster a return to civil discourse, with differences explored without demonization and bitter hyper-partisanship. Honestly, outside of our normal promotion of good governance and encouragement of full civic participation (voting, volunteering, participating in the census), I have struggled with what more we can do to be significant in promoting civil discourse. Now it has become a life or death issue. There seems no other choice and no better time to address this head on.

I recognize this issue has been decades in the breaking and will be decades in the remaking, but here are some initial suggestions of concrete actions we can take today.

Thoughtfully engage with lawmakers. The COVID-19 crisis has put every lawmaker at every level of government in a vital role as both listener and resource. Our community of philanthropy and nonprofit partners can bring their constituents together with lawmakers to discuss concerns and possible innovations. Webinars, conference calls and social media platforms are increasingly being used as effective methods to conduct town halls.
 
Explore organizations working to support civic discourse and democracy. As one example, national philanthropy leader Philanthropy for Active Civic Engagement (PACE) includes several Michigan-based organizations and provides a membership program that helps foundations understand issues and practices in promoting civil society.
 
Support civic participation efforts. In addition to helping with voter registration and education, our community of philanthropy has two prime opportunities to support civic participation. First, there is the 2020 Census. With the end date pushed out, there is time to encourage Michiganders to go online to fill out their nine questions. Second, Michigan is launching a redistricting commission and seeking members. Early results have shown an applicant pool with a remarkable lack of diversity. Philanthropy can work with nonprofit partners to promote broader participation.
 
The need for volunteers is increasing. Our community of philanthropy can promote partnerships with local providers to expand broadband access, expanding e-volunteer opportunities, among other benefits. At the national level there is a call for a dramatic increase in national service, including the collection and distribution of Personal Protection Equipment for frontline workers. There is a significant need for blood donations, as well. Promoting local drives and nonprofits that support blood supplies to medical facilities can be effective ways to support donations.

These suggested actions are no panacea to what ails our civic discourse. Much like trying to boil the ocean with the lighting of a match, the task can seem far beyond our reach, but we can be the champions to call for freedom with responsibility and find common ground. While a match may seem small, it is a place to begin.
 
All the best,

Kyle