Applying the Mom Pledge to the 2012 Election

Elizabeth Flora Ross, who runs The Mom Pledge, advocates for a cease fire in the Mommy wars. She has encouraged moms with an online presence to take an oath to act in a kind and responsible manner.

I have rewritten this oath to apply to all Americans participating in the election process. With election day fast approaching, the debating and mud slinging is quickly picking up pace and I thought it was important to remind everyone that we all still have to live with each other after it is all over. While the debates are between Republican and Democrat, Liberal and Conservative-type positions, not breast or bottle feeding, circumcision or intactivism issues, the pledge remains the same. Emotions are high, and the stakes are no less than our future, but there is always time for kindness and respect.
 

PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN PLEDGE

I am proud to be [an American]. I will conduct myself with integrity in all my online activities. I can lead by example.

I know my children learn from my attitudes and actions. I promise to model respectful, compassionate behavior. It starts with me.

I pledge to treat my fellow [Americans] with respect. I will acknowledge that there is no one, "right" way to [run a country]. Each [American] makes the choices best for [their] family.

I believe a healthy dialogue on important issues is a good thing. I will welcome differing opinions when offered in a respectful, non-judgmental manner. And will treat those who do so in kind.

I stand up against cyber bullying. My online space reflects who I am and what I believe in. I will not tolerate comments that are defamatory, hateful or threatening.

I refuse to give those who attack a platform. I will remove their remarks with no mention or response. I can take control.

I want to see [all Americans] work together to build one another up, not tear each other down. Words can be used as weapons. I will not engage in that behavior.

I affirm that we are a community. As a [citizen] , I will strive to foster goodwill among [all Americans]. Together, we can make a difference. 


Bullying is never okay, no matter what the context. What is most important, as is the wonderful right of all Americans, is to exercise your voice with its unique perspective by getting out and voting in an informed manner.