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All around us, it seems that divisiveness and political turmoil have risen to a fever pitch. Regardless of the outcome of the election in November, it will take understanding, patience, and determination to heal the country. To this end, the Franciscan Peace Center is inviting people to join in taking a pledge to develop and sustain a sense of peace and nonviolence in all aspects of our lives.

TAKE THE PLEDGE - CHOOSE NONVIOLENCE!

Fill out the form below to take the pledge of nonviolence and peace. Each Monday, from November 9 through December 21, we will send you a list of resources and suggestions on how to lead a more peaceful, just, and sustainable life as we move forward. The new content will also be added to the list below each Monday. It's a way of eliminating violence, one step at a time, starting with ourselves.

RATIONALE

America was founded on a passion for freedom and an open exchange of ideas. It is crucial that we treat every person with dignity and respect and honor their right to disagree. We can move toward a more peaceful democracy by committing to pause and think before we speak and act.  Making peace must start within ourselves and in our families, workplaces, communities, and other social groups. Each of us can commit ourselves as best we can to become nonviolent and peaceful people. As we journey towards peace, we can focus on what brings us together as opposed to what tears us apart.

SCHEDULE OF TOPICS:

Week 1: To Respect Self and Others

To respect myself, to affirm others and to avoid uncaring criticism, hateful words, physical attacks and self-destructive behavior.

Week 2: To Communicate/Listen Better

To share my feelings honestly, to look for safe ways to express my anger, and to work at solving problems peacefully. To listen carefully to one another, especially those who disagree with me, and to consider others' feelings and needs rather than insist on having my own way.

Week 3: To Forgive

To apologize and make amends when I have hurt another, to forgive others, and to keep from holding grudges.

Week 4: To Respect Creation

To treat the environment and all living things, human and non-human, with respect and care. Making sustainable choices.

Week 5: To Choose Nonviolent Entertainment

To select entertainment and toys that support our nonviolent values and to avoid entertainment that makes violence look exciting, funny or acceptable.

Week 6: To Choose Information Sources Wisely

To be mindful of bias in my media choices. To think and research credible sources before sharing on social media.

Week 7: To Stand Up for Justice Nonviolently

To challenge violence in all its forms whenever I encounter it, whether at home, at school, at work, or in the community, and to stand with others who are treated unfairly.

Inspired by the Pledge of Non-Violence

Created by the Institute for Peace and Justice in St. Louis, MO