17STRONG Respectful Communication Policy

At 17STRONG, we believe in the power of connection, inclusion, and shared community pride. We are committed to inclusion and respect for all, regardless of background, identity, beliefs, or experiences. We recognize and respect the First Amendment right to free expression. Participation in 17STRONG events or spaces does not require agreement with any particular viewpoint, and individuals remain free to hold and express their personal beliefs. However, to encourage a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for everyone, we ask all participants to commit to the following principles of respectful communication. These principles are intended to promote respect, safety, and community well-being, not to restrict lawful speech or viewpoints.

Our Guiding Principles

1. Listen to Understand

  • Make space for others by listening fully and patiently. Give your full attention, ask thoughtful questions to understand (not to argue), and take a breath before responding. When we listen with empathy, we create stronger connections.

    • Conversation Tips:

      • “Can you help me understand why you feel that approach would work best?”

      • “We’d love to hear your thoughts if you’re comfortable.”

      • “In my neighborhood, we experienced something different, but I appreciate hearing how it worked for yours.”


2. Communicate with Care

  • Use your voice to build up others. Share your ideas clearly and kindly, even when perspectives differ. Focus on the issue, not the person. Speak with purpose, and take a breath before you begin to keep conversations moving forward with respect and understanding.

    • Conversation Tips: 

      • “I feel differently about this approach because…”

      • “I’m concerned this proposal may not solve the garbage problem,” instead of “Your plan won’t work.”

3. Respect and Include Everyone

  • Treat each person with kindness and dignity. Invite all voices into the conversation, and be mindful of how your words, actions, and body language can create a space where everyone feels valued, heard, and welcome.

    • Conversation Tips: 

      • “That’s a good point—I hadn’t thought of it that way.”

      • “Thank you for bringing that up—it’s important to consider.”

      • Introduce yourself, learn names, build connection.


4. Own Your Impact and Start Fresh

  • We all make mistakes. What matters most is how we respond. If your words or actions caused harm, acknowledge it, apologize sincerely, and move forward with care. Every meeting is a fresh opportunity to grow, contribute, and collaborate.

    • Conversation Tips: 

      • “Do you have a few minutes after the meeting? I’d like to talk about something you said.”

      • “Let’s take a moment to regroup before moving forward.”

5. Work Together with Purpose

  • Great things happen when we work together. Support clear goals, share responsibility, and communicate openly. Stay focused on our shared mission, and collaborate across neighborhoods, perspectives, and roles to create meaningful change.

    • Conversation Tips: 

      • “I see it differently—maybe we could combine our ideas.”

6. Celebrate the Work and the People Doing It

  • Pause to recognize progress and appreciate the people behind it—including yourself. A small thank-you or encouraging word helps energize our shared efforts and builds community pride.

    • Conversation Tips: 

      • “Thanks for sharing—I’d like to build on that.”

7. Honor Confidentiality and Trust

  • Trust is built one conversation at a time. Protect what others share in confidence, and help create an environment where everyone feels safe to speak openly and honestly.

Additional information to share for events like the Hamilton Neighborhoods Summit

  • Review the Session Agenda Ahead of Time

    • Take time to read the session descriptions before the event to help you choose sessions that fit your goals for the day.

  • Honor the Mission of 17STRONG

    • Greet others warmly, welcome new attendees into conversation, and avoid language that excludes or alienates.

  • Respect the Structure of the Event

    • Allow presenters and participants to speak without interruption. During Q&A, keep your comments relevant, concise, and on topic.

  • Engage Constructively When You Disagree

    • It’s okay to have a different perspective. What matters is how you express it - with care and respect.

  • Support Presenters and Volunteers

    • Presenters are giving their time and sharing their lived experiences as volunteers. If you disagree with something said, do not confront them during or after the session. Instead, speak with a 17STRONG Board Member or City of Hamilton Neighborhood Services Team member to continue the conversation respectfully.