Men's Network Against Domestic Violence

The Men's Network Against Domestic Violence developed the pledge to challenge non-violent men to become aware of domestic violence. This challenge includes learning about contributing factors, relationships to other violence, how to take action to support those affected by violence, and how to take action to end domestic violence.

Taking the pledge is a first step. In taking the pledge we are asking men to become aware of their potential and role in ending the violence. With awareness and intention, the values of equality and non-violence can be taught and highly valued in our culture. Joining together with other intentioned men, we can work toward a better future for children, women, and men.

Join community leaders as diverse as Norm Maleng, King County Prosecuting Attorney; Ron Sims, King County Executive; Rob McKenna, State Attorney General; David G. Reichert, Congressman; R. Gil Kerlikowske, Seattle Chief of Police; Lorenzo Romar, UW Men’s Basketball Coach; Steve Leahy, President Seattle Chamber of Commerce in taking the pledge.

Update: since the pledge was published, many men have expressed concern about the acknowledgement listed within the pledge, “I commit to make the changes required to stop the violence in my life and to end it elsewhere.” Many read this as an admission that they are violent. The intent of the phrase is to realize that someone in your circles may be perpetrating it or being victimized by domestic violence. It is an acknowledgement that we have to hold violent brothers accountable, give survivors the support they need, and work to prevent domestic violence.