Franklin named a 2026 All-America City for its efforts to strengthen civic health and build trust, and for its civic infrastructure—the network of relationships, partnerships, and capacities driving effective decision-making and problem-solving.
June 28, 2026 – Franklin, TN, was recognized today as one of ten All-America City Award winners. The National Civic League presented this honor to recognize Franklin work to create a thriving and welcoming community where trust and belonging are abundant.
Earlier this year, communities from across the country submitted written applications showcasing their efforts that not only strengthen civic life and rebuild trust but also address pressing challenges and lay the foundation for a better future. The field was narrowed to twenty finalists and this week, these finalist communities traveled to Denver, Colorado, where they connected and shared insights with peers, learned from national thought leaders, and presented their work to a jury of nationally recognized civic leaders. After careful deliberation, the jury selected ten winning communities, including Franklin, Tennessee.
As one of the nation’s fastest-growing cities, Franklin, Tennessee, works hard to ensure that growth strengthens the distinct qualities that make it a vibrant hometown. That commitment was tested in 2023 when extremist groups sought to influence local politics. Residents, civic leaders, businesses, and local institutions responded with overwhelming participation, record voter turnout, and a public affirmation of the community’s values. In Franklin, engagement doesn’t stop after the polls close, initiatives such as Breakfast with the Mayors and FrankTalks create regular opportunities for residents to engage with one another on local issues. The city is also expanding civic leadership opportunities, strengthening transparency, and creating new pathways for youth participation in public life through its collaboration with Franklin Tomorrow on the Healthy Democracy Project.
Learn more about Franklin’s winning efforts.
We are proud to name Franklin a 2026 All-America City. What stood out in their application and presentation was not just what they have accomplished, but that they did so by putting residents in charge of shaping their community’s future. Franklin is a model of what civic health looks like in practice: neighbors building trust across difference, institutions opening doors to real participation, and a community that has chosen to face its challenges together. That is exactly the spirit America’s 250th anniversary calls us to celebrate.
-Doug Linkhart
President, National Civic League
About the National Civic League
Through a set of complementary programs, the National Civic League advances inclusive civic engagement and promotes innovations in democracy to make decision-making more participatory, equitable, and effective.
The Center for Democracy Innovation works with communities to understand, test, and disseminate the next generation of civic innovations. Civic Genius rebuilds civic culture through deliberative public processes, citizen assemblies, and trainings that strengthen the relationship between governments and the residents they serve. Local Policy Labpartners with local governments to translate promising ideas into action, providing technical assistance, policy resources, and a national network of local leaders committed to strengthening democracy. Spread the Vote expands access to civic participation for Americans facing barriers to voting, through direct support, voter education, and on-the-ground programs.
The League also maintains the Model City Charter, organizes the All-America City Awards, publishes the National Civic Review, sustains the Healthy Democracy Ecosystem Map, and supports an extensive national network of local elected, appointed, and civic leaders.
More information is available at nationalcivicleague.org.
Thank You to Our Sponsors!
