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Howard County delegate invokes Washington’s ‘rules of civility,’ urges listening and restraint
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Summary
A delegate from Howard County used the Washington Day address to urge colleagues to practice patience, listening and civility, citing George Washington’s 'rules of civility' and acknowledging Washington’s ownership of enslaved people as part of a call for honest reflection.
A delegate from Howard County delivered the Washington Day address to the House, invoking George Washington’s “rules of civility” and urging members to prioritize patience, listening and disciplined debate.
The speaker quoted Washington directly, saying, "When a man does all he can, though it succeeds not well, Blame not him that did it," and urged colleagues to respect earnest effort even when legislation fails. The address emphasized restraint in public correction and said leadership requires balancing accountability with dignity.
The delegate also cautioned against rapid acceptance of rumors and the politics of outrage, quoting Washington’s rule advising to "be not hasty to believe flying reports to the disparagement of any," and called for members to strengthen the institution through thoughtful speech and listening.
The remarks acknowledged the nation’s contradictions, saying plainly that "Washington was a man who owned enslaved people," and framed candid acknowledgment of history as part of democratic refinement: "The truth is difficult, and it is essential because democracy has never been a finished work." The speaker highlighted that representation has expanded since Washington’s era, noting that women and descendants of enslaved people now lead and shape policy in the chamber.
The address closed with an appeal to civility and mutual respect: "May our words build trust. May our conduct reflect respect. And may our progress, however incremental, always move us closer to the promise of a democracy that hears all of its people."
