The Project on Civic Dialogue

Founded in 2018 as the Project on Civil Discourse, the Project on Civic Dialogue fosters opportunities for active and worthwhile conversations. Though our beliefs and perspectives vary, we work from two core values: first, that dialogue is a skill that can be learned and must be practiced (and not a spectator sport). And second, that expressive freedom is a necessary condition for dialogue, but the real work is in collaborative inquiry, listening, and learning. 

We understand that we are asking more from ourselves than mere civility; we commit to listen generously, think critically, engage meaningfully, and inquire rigorously. We are all architects of our own voices, and we seek to use them and develop them with purpose and integrity. 

Cafe Dialogue 

Join us Wednesdays at 6pm for dialogue opportunities, including student-led discussions, Disagree with a Professor, and special guests. Food always provided. See Instagram for schedule and details. 

Disagree with a Professor

As featured in The Washington Post, come practice your dialogue skills alongside peers and featured faculty. See Instagram for schedule and details. 

Become a peer facilitator

Learn dialogue skills, lead discussions in and out of classes, create Cafe Dialogue programs, sharpen your listening and communication skills, and get paid. Learn more about becoming a peer facilitator.

Grant Program

Starting in fall 2023, PCD will offer dialogue grants to AU community members and groups.  For information about our grant program, contact dialogueproject@american.edu. 

AmeriMUNC Partnership 

Since 2022, PCD students have worked with AmeriMUNC to provide civic dialogue training. Email civicdialogue@american.edu to get more information.

Request a facilitated discussion in your course 

Faculty: looking for a co-curricular activity or in-class dialogue opportunity? PCD’s trained dialogue facilitators can tailor a dialogue opportunity to your course. See peer discussion descriptions. Our facilitators can also meet with students who are preparing group projects and help them lay the groundwork for productive collaboration. Email civicdialogue@american.edu to request a session and to get more information. 

For-credit skills courses (starting spring 2024)

We will offer our first for-credit courses in spring 2024. Check back for more information.