Activism
As those providing services to families suffering from violence
in their own homes, we at the Center for Nonviolence feel very clearly the
connection between the violence in our broader community, our nation and our
world – and the violence many experience at home. We know that unless problems are solved within a creative
framework of equality and mutual respect, the resolution to the problem often is
related to which party has greater power and resources, and always comes at a
greater expense to those with less power and resources.
We believe war is an example of the habit of seeking to solve problems
by asserting power over others. We believe in every scenario a nonviolent
response is a healthier, more life-affirming response.
Nonviolence is not simply ‘lack of response’, or being weak in the
face of an adversary. Quite the
contrary, nonviolence is the gentle strength that comes from a sincere effort to
understand one another, to allow for differences, and consistently seek
solutions of mutual benefit. This
is the kind of strength we wish for our clients, our nation, and our world.
We believe violence is the wrong choice:
This time and every time. War
is violence. The costs of war to the well-being of humans, animals and the
planet is simply too great compared to any short-term political or financial
gains, or any gains in status or increased
power of any individual or nation.
Therefore, we at the Center for Nonviolence, endorse the Pledge of Resistance,
and affirm our individual and collective responsibility to speak publicly and
privately about this war. We pledge
to foster dialogue within the community and world, to consistently reflect
nonviolent philosophy, and to promote peace.
This policy was formulated in response to the
current debate – October, 2002 – but intended to create an ongoing policy
position for the Center for Nonviolence. We
acknowledge there may be a time in the future for reconsideration of this
policy. We believe this policy is
congruent with the mission of the Center for Nonviolence.
This policy does not authorize any actions or political lobbying
inconsistent with the rules of 501c3 nonprofit corporate status, and all
employees and representatives of the Center are responsible for familiarizing
themselves with these laws. [top]
Approved by Coordinating Panel: October 11, 2002
Final draft prepared by staff: October 25, 2002
The Center for Nonviolence recognizes the inherent goodness and
validity of each sexual orientation, including gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and
heterosexual, and the human right of each person to be or to make personal
choices about their sexual orientation. We affirm equally the value of
each relationship, regardless of orientation.
Violence and shaming of anyone for their sexual orientation is
unacceptable and oppressive.
The Center is committed to using its resources toward ending
all forms of oppression. We affirm the equal right of gays,
lesbians, bi-sexuals and heterosexuals to exist, to have access to
economics and other resources, to be free of violence and abuse, and to
have safe places to gain information, discuss and develop their thinking
about themselves and sexuality.
The opposition of gay. lesbian and bi-sexual people is
real. Part of our work is to help lift that oppression.
Established: April 18, 1995
center for nonviolence
