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Family Pledge of Nonviolence

Making peace must start within ourselves and in our family. Each of us, members of the ___________________ family, commit ourselves as best we can to become nonviolent 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 at solving problems peacefully.

To listen: 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.

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 twelve months so that we can help each other become more peaceable people.

Pledging family members sign below:

"Eliminating violence, one family at a time, starting with our own."

(Families Against Violence Advocacy Network c/o Institute for Peace and Justice)