Pledge for Nonviolence in the Family
The ‘Family Pledge for Nonviolence’ initiative was started in 1996 as part of the establishment of the ‘Defense Network of Families against Violence’. Since then, approx 200,000 families, students and other individuals signed the pledge. Several modified versions have been created, such as a pledge for school/class, university campus and municipality. The Pledge for Nonviolence has been translated into more than ten languages. Below you read the Family pledge.
Making peace must start within ourselves and in our families
Each of us, members of the _____________________ family, commits ourselves as best we can
to become non-violent and peaceable people.
To Respect Self and Others:
To respect myself, to affirm others and to avoid uncaring criticism, hateful words, physical attacks, and self-destructive behavior.
To Communicate Better:
To share my feelings honestly, to look for safe ways to express my anger, and to work on solving problems peacefully.
To Listen:
To listen carefully to others, especially those who disagree with me, and to consider others’ feelings and needs rather than insist on having my own way.
To Forgive:
To apologize and make amends when I have hurt another, to forgive others, and to keep from holding grudges.
To Respect Nature:
To treat the environment and all living things, including our pets, with respect and care.
To Play Creatively:
To select entertainment and toys that support our family’s values and to avoid entertainment that makes violence look exciting, funny or acceptable.
To Be Courageous:
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.
This is our pledge. These are our goals. We will check ourselves on what we have pledged once a month on ___________ for the next 12 months so we can help each other become more peaceful people.
(This pledge is to be signed by each member of the family after careful discussion of each point.)
