Civil society is a term that describes the social and political environment in which individuals and groups interact. Synonyms for civil society include the public sphere, civic culture, community life, and societal sphere, among others. Each of these terms encompasses the same core ideas: the importance of community engagement, the protection of individual rights, and the promotion of social justice. Together, they describe a vibrant and diverse society that values inclusion, diversity, and dialogue. Whether referring to a local community organization or a national movement, the language we use to describe civil society reflects our values and beliefs about the world we live in and the kind of society we want to create.