Print Isn’t the Only Thing We Do Clearly: Let’s Talk Civil Discourse

At Swift Printing, we’re known for crisp lines, bold color, and dependable service—but let’s be honest, the lines in our community conversations aren’t always so clean.

As a family-owned print shop in Grand Rapids deeply rooted in civic engagement, education, and business development, we care about more than what goes on paper. We care about what goes into building a stronger, more unified community.

Civil discourse might not seem like a “print shop” topic, but to us, it's right on brand. Just like a well-printed poster, good communication is clear, impactful, and built to last.

The insights below were gathered from a recent Grand Rapids Economic Club luncheon I attended—an incredibly valuable discussion that challenged us to consider how we engage with one another. Here are six strategies that stuck with me—not just as a printer, but as a parent, wife, a Trustee, and a community member.

1. Prioritize Deep Reading Over Soundbites

We’re all busy, but nuance doesn’t live in headlines. Long-form reading—whether it’s a leadership book (you know I love a good book + highlighter moment), a local newspaper, or a blog like this one—helps develop the kind of well-rounded perspective that fuels thoughtful dialogue.

We believe in being informed—and print is a great place to start.

2. Learn from History

You don’t have to be a historian to appreciate the past. The rivalries, debates, and even missteps of our founders remind us that disagreement is nothing new. What matters is how we handle it. That’s something I’ve come to respect more through programs like the Michigan Political Leadership Program, and it’s worth reflecting on as we shape the next generation of Grand Rapids leadership.

3. Embrace Respectful Disagreements

Whether it's at a township board meeting or over coffee with a neighbor, disagreement can be productive. We don’t all have to agree, but we do have to listen. That’s how we move from defensiveness to solutions. And honestly? It’s where some of the best growth happens.

4. Foster Community Inclusion

We’re all in this together—and our language should reflect that. Words matter. (Trust me, as someone who lives and breathes typefaces and kerning, I really mean that.)

When we speak in terms of “we” and “our”, like former GRPS Superintendent Teresa Weatherall Neal often modeled, we remind everyone they belong at the table.

5. Choose Cooperation Over Conversion

Not everything needs to be a debate. Sometimes the win is in finding common ground, not changing minds. At Swift Printing, we collaborate with people from all walks of life. We may not always see things the same way, but we always are respectful and move forward, together.

6. Pursue Virtue and the Common Good

Doing the right thing doesn’t always come with applause. But it always matters.

In the printing world, we call that quality control—in life, it’s called integrity. Standing firm in your values while still respecting others’ viewpoints is what the Founding Fathers meant when they talked about “the common good.” It’s something I aim to pass down to my kids and model in both public service and business.

Memorable Quotes From The Event

“We want our community to get better. It’s going to take all of us. This isn’t about one person or one leader; it’s about every one of us deciding how we will engage.”
— Doug DeVos

“It takes courage to lead. It also takes courage to say, ‘I don’t quite know how to do this, but together, we can figure it out.’”
— Teresa Weatherall Neal

“The more you learn about American history, the more you’re struck by our shortcomings—and the virtues we aspire to.”
— Jeff Rosen

I’m grateful to the Grand Rapids Economic Club for hosting the conversation that brought these reflections to life. We need more of this—spaces where civic-minded folks can learn from one another and build up our community from the inside out.

Building Better Conversations—and Communities

At Swift Printing, we often say we’re in the business of helping others shine. Sometimes that’s through a beautiful print project. Other times, it’s about using our platform to promote thoughtful dialogue, strong relationships, and a better future for Grand Rapids.

If you’re looking for a local print shop that believes in both professional quality and community character, we’re your people.

📬 Let's create something meaningful—on paper and in person.
Visit us at swiftprinting.com or stop by our shop on Bridge Street. We’d love to hear what you’re working on.