Pledge to Be Peaceful

Dear friends,

According to the American Psychological Association “this election is a significant source of stress for more than two-thirds of American adults -- up from half during the 2016 presidential election” and another survey from More in Common cites “about 7 in 10 Americans are worried about the risk of widespread violence after the election”. This is disturbing because our peaceful transfer of power has been one of the hallmarks of our government. When one candidate won’t meet with you because you aren’t in his party and the campaign ads are more about fear and negativity rather than any productive discussion of the issues we face, it is clear the system is broken and the stress and worry are warranted.

I’d like to propose that we make a pledge today to “step back from the brink” as this article in Humanity United outlines and regardless of the outcome, be a voice for peace, for hope and for reconciliation. The DC Peace Team is offering some trainings in nonviolent election action starting this Sunday. If we each pledge not to engage in violence in any form and urge the same from our families, our neighbors and co-workers, we the people can take an important step to healing our fractured world.

Let’s lead the way -- join me in pledging to be peaceful, Betsy