The City of Ballarat has joined a worldwide movement designed to restore compassionate thinking and action.
Mayor Samantha McIntosh today (Thursday 24 October) signed the global Charter for Compassion, reaffirming Council’s commitment to being a Compassionate City.
The charter comprises of more than 430 cities in 53 countries that are working to make the world a more compassionate place.
In 2008, world-renowned writer and religious historian Karen Armstrong won the global TED prize and made a wish to create, launch and propagate the Charter for Compassion.
The charter is based on the fundamental principles of universal justice and respect.
Council has already taken part in the Compassionate Ballarat network establishment which aims to:
- Help Ballarat residents to see, notice and take compassionate action
- Engage city leaders in applying compassion throughout their organisations
- Contribute to the global charter outcomes by testing international compassionate city measures
- Provide a framework and resources for residents wanting to participate in Compassionate Ballarat
- Create opportunities for the City of Ballarat to contribute to the Charter for Compassion
Since it was established 14 months ago, Compassionate Ballarat has been working in the areas of public policy, education, health, business and the community to provide education resources, promote and connect the compassionate work occurring across the city, and organising communication tools and avenues.
Compassionate Ballarat is currently hosting Celebrating Compassion, a week-long celebration which includes a range of concerts, volunteer activities, book clubs, exhibitions, films, free talks and more.
