An open letter to Colorado's elected leaders

Dear Friends:

Election Day 2010 has come and gone. The political ads and debates that commanded our attention are over, and those who will be leading our state and nation forward have been selected and are poised to begin their work. Our focus now turns to the future and what we as Coloradans can do together to ensure that our state grows and prospers.

In that effort, we – business leaders, labor unions, non-profit organizations and advocacy groups – pledge to be mindful that understanding how we approach each other, and our elected officials, as we map the road ahead is as critical as the methods we suggest and the outcomes we choose.

We write today as organizations committed to approaching the coming session of the Colorado General Assembly, and our interaction with the 112th Congress, in a thoughtful and respect-filled manner. We understand that the challenges faced by our state and nation are many and the solutions, in some cases, are too few. However, we know that direct attacks and unfounded statements that are uttered in the heat of debate are harmful and only lead to further deterioration of the civility and respect that should be the cornerstone of our democratic processes.

We urge our elected officials, both in Colorado and those representing the Centennial State in Washington, D.C., to commit to this same pledge. Challenges will rise, viewpoints will differ, and lines will be drawn. In those inevitable challenging times, we respectfully request that we all commit to rise above the rhetoric and negativity and focus on finding solutions that are to the betterment of Colorado and the country as a whole.  

Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can address our challenges. Join us.

 

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News coverage about the civility letter

Colorado's call for civility - ABC News
Denver Metro Chamber, other groups urge civility among elected officials - Denver Post
Denver Metro Chamber makes plea for civility in Congress, Legislature - Denver Business Journal
Denver chamber of commerce calls for political calm - Examiner.com
Colorado's push for civility in government - Colorado Matters, Colorado Public Radio