Richmond, Virginia, USA is a City of Compassion on a quest to heal and transform.  On May 7, 2020 the city joined the International Charter for Compassion, a global movement guided by the Golden Rule:  to treat others as you wish others to treat you. These efforts raise awareness around the world of how hope and compassionate action can benefit communities to heal suffering and division.  For Richmond, being a Compassionate City is more than a label.  Compassion should be at the core of our community's actions:  how we live, how we legislate, and how we connect and thrive.

Since 2017, Richmond-based Befriend supports this effort by connecting people across the city to meet one another and forge new relationships.  The goal is to unite with one another through compassion.  With this focus, we create friendships instead of divisions, so that every person can embrace empathy, foster understanding and build one community for all.  Befriend's concept translates to anywhere in the world.

By signing this petition, you commit to making the world a better place – and to bridge differences through our connections!

Steps You Can Take

1. First, sign this petition.  By doing so, you take the first step in uniting the world through compassion. Thank you!
2. Next, listen and learn how to grow your compassion towards others.  All acts make a difference – no matter how big or small.  Follow @befriend.movement and @humanservices.rva for suggestions.
3. Last, show your compassion and make a difference!  Get closer to others different from yourself.  Go outside your comfort zone.  Embrace the uncertainty that follows and remain ever hopeful that true change can happen.  This space is where new beginnings emerge and our world can heal and transform.  Post your compassion actions using #unitethroughcompassion.

Every person can change the world through compassion.  This petition is for everyone:  you, your family, your friends, your city, your state, your country – the world.  Anyone can participate. Everyone belongs.  Let's unite the world through compassion and create a better tomorrow for all.