How do we restore public trust when incivility and polarization are at all-time highs? Rebuilding that trust is essential to effective governance, yet local leaders today face unprecedented challenges and demands. 

In this video interview, Alexandra O. Hudson, founder of Civic Renaissance and author of The Soul of Civility, shares insights on leading through division with clarity, consistency, and respect.

It's not just a crisis of trust—not just a crisis of hyper partisanship—that is destabilizing our democratic institutions. It's not just a crisis of division. It is a crisis of dehumanization," Hudson said. 

Drawing on conservations with leaders across the world, Hudson reveals what civility and leadership practices can strengthen public trust in today's polarized environment.

This interview addresses:

1. What is driving the erosion of public trust in communities today.
2. The role local government leaders play in shaping civic culture.
3. Practical ways to navigate disagreement while maintaining nonpartisanship.
4. How leaders can foster environments where public trust can grow.

Local Government Reimagined Conference: Democracy and the Public Trust | Philadelphia, May 13-15

We look forward to having Alexandra Hudson as the Local Government Reimagined conference keynote speaker in Philadelphia this May! As polarization rises, ethical leadership matters more than ever. Join local government peers for networking, education sessions, and workshops celebrating the nation's 250th anniversary. You'll gain practical strategies and tools to lead high-stakes meetings, manage scrutiny and rebuild community confidence. 

Learn more at lgr.icma.org.