By: Mae Cornes
In a world that often feels strained by conflict and suffering, Compassivistes are emerging. The term “Compassiviste,” coined by the Compassiviste movement’s founder, Ali Horriyat, fuses “compassion” and “activism,” representing a way of life centered on empathy and advocacy.
Horriyat describes a Compassiviste as someone who promotes social justice, equality, and the inherent dignity of all life. They serve as models and provide a roadmap to a more just, sustainable, and compassionate society, guided by the understanding that all beings are interconnected.
Becoming a Compassiviste requires ten steps that can help create a better future for all.
Identify and Reflect on Personal Values
It begins with uncovering one’s core values related to compassion, environmentalism, and justice. Reflect on significant past experiences that have shaped these values. These foundational beliefs will guide future decisions and actions.
Align Actions with Beliefs
Once values are clear, actions must align with them. Share information that educates and inspires others. Always communicate from a place of respect and understanding, even amid opposition.
Practice Compassionate Action
Actively seek ways to live out compassion in everyday life. Choose actions that reflect the commitment to the well-being of all life forms. These gestures do not have to be grand and significant. Even small choices and lifestyle changes contribute to a more compassionate world.
Champion Environmental Stewardship
Environmental issues are vast and complex, necessitating information and understanding. Educating oneself about current environmental problems and the science behind some of today’s pressing environmental issues will go a long way. This knowledge can be used to make informed decisions and lifestyle changes, like reducing personal and household ecological footprints.
Advocating for and supporting policies and practices that protect the environment is also integral to environmental stewardship.
Advocate for Justice and Equality
Support organizations and movements that strive for social equality and environmental justice. Engage in the political process, whether through voting, campaign support, or public office. Each effort contributes to the broader fight against inequality and injustice.
Protect Defenseless Lives
Volunteer with groups advocating for social good. Find organizations like the Compassiviste Foundation that champion animal rights, help marginalized communities, assist refugees, protect children, and safeguard the environment.
If volunteering is not feasible, financial contributions can also support the realization of their projects and advocacies.
Act Individually and Collectively
Actions can always be taken individually or collectively, often leading to more substantial societal changes. Organize or participate in community events like clean-ups, educational seminars, or fundraising activities for meaningful causes. These activities benefit the community and also build a sense of solidarity and collective responsibility.
Join Like-Minded Activists
Collaborate with others to amplify impact and create a network of support. This could be through joining clubs, networks, or online communities that focus on one’s areas of interest. Working together allows sharing of resources, ideas, and strategies, making collective actions more refined and far-reaching.
Challenge Capitalistic Influence
Acknowledge capitalism’s impact on environmental degradation and social inequality. Educate oneself and advocate for alternatives that value well-being over gain. Support policies and practices that promote equitable and environmentally sustainable economic systems.
Curb the Culture of Overconsumption
Evaluate consumption habits. This involves being mindful of buying necessities only, choosing products with minimal or recyclable packaging, and supporting environmentally responsible companies. Look for areas where reduction is possible and consider the environmental and ethical implications of purchases.
Beyond the Checklist
Horriyat emphasizes that being a ‘Compassiviste’ is more than just following these steps as a checklist. It is a continuous, lifelong commitment to improvement and change. Every step contributes to a broader, collective effort to effect positive transformation.
The founder sums it up, “Remember: your contribution is a part of a collective wave of change, and every action counts. Embrace this journey with a sense of duty and as an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Together, our concerted efforts can create waves that reshape our world.”
To connect with the Compassiviste movement, visit its website or follow Compassiviste on social media.
Published by: Holy Minoza
