How to Use CivicMark

The Basic Rules

  1. The Charter never changes - It means the same thing everywhere
  2. Free to use - No fees, no permission needed
  3. All or nothing - Adopt the full charter, no modifications
  4. Self-certified - You decide if you meet the standards

Quick Start

Display the amber diamond ◆ anywhere you want to signal commitment to civil discourse:

  • Add to your website footer
  • Put on your storefront window
  • Include in your event materials
  • Wear on clothing or accessories
  • Add to your social profiles

When someone sees the mark, they know you operate by the CivicMark Charter.

Digital Spaces

  • Websites: Add diamond badge to footer with link to CivicMark.org
  • Forums/Communities: Include "We follow the CivicMark Charter" in guidelines
  • Apps: Show mark during onboarding or in settings
  • Social Media: Add diamond emoji or badge to profiles
  • Email: Include mark in signature

Physical Spaces

  • Businesses: Display window decal or door sticker
  • Events: Include mark on tickets, badges, or signage
  • Organizations: Add to membership materials
  • Public Spaces: Post in community centers, transit, libraries

Personal Use

  • Clothing: Iron-on patches, pins, printed designs
  • Accessories: Stickers on laptops, water bottles, bags
  • Vehicles: Window clings or bumper stickers
  • Business Cards: Small diamond in corner

Implementation Options

Simple Checkbox

☐ I agree to the CivicMark Charter

QR Diamond

Use our QR code rotated 45° inside the diamond shape - scannable and recognizable

Text Reference

"This [space/event/platform] operates under the CivicMark Charter"

Visual Display

Just the amber diamond - those who know, know

What CivicMark Doesn't Do

  • Doesn't replace your existing rules - it's a baseline
  • Doesn't guarantee perfect behavior - it's a commitment
  • Doesn't require monitoring - it's self-regulated
  • Doesn't prevent you from having higher standards

For Organizations

You can require CivicMark agreement as a baseline while maintaining additional policies. For example:

  • A forum can have the Charter as minimum standard plus specific topic rules
  • An event can require Charter agreement plus a code of conduct
  • A business can display the mark while having employee handbooks

No Gatekeepers

There's no approval process, no certification body, no membership. If you agree with the Charter and commit to it, you can use the mark. It's that simple.

Get the CivicMark