FAQ

What are the HOPE Accords?

The HOPE Accords are a non-partisan civic values agreement endorsed by community cheerleaders and champions who believe that good governance starts with good intent, and that high standards of behavior are to be expected of all public servants.

What are we agreeing to?

We believe Humanity, Opportunity, Parity, and Empathy are moral rights and ethical imperatives. We choose this model of HOPE as our guiding framework and honor its principles in all our endeavors.

What does that mean?

We acknowledge every person must be allowed to…

Express identity: customs, cultures, beliefs, practices (Humanity)

Access resources: education, healthcare, shelter, food (Opportunity)

Seek benefits: personal, professional, familial, communal (Parity)

Realize potential: purpose, inclusion, inspiration, agency (Empathy)

… and own our responsibility to make that possible.

What does that sound like?

"Every decision we make will start with the simple understanding: we treat every single person in this community with dignity and respect. No exceptions." (Humanity)

"We are making investments in our future, ensuring that every student has access to a quality school, and every worker can find a good job right here in town." (Opportunity)

"You, your small business, your neighborhood, your family—everyone deserves an equal shot at growth and success. That is our definition of fairness." (Parity)

"My duty is to pay attention—to listen not just to your words, but to the emotions behind them—and to respond to your experiences with measurable action." (Empathy)

Why does it matter?

The HOPE Accords outline a common-sense standard of service for all living beings that transcends political labels and partisan squabbles.

When candidates and public office holders agree to this standard, they promise to weigh every decision, every budget dollar, every policy, and every action against the greater well-being—yours, mine, and ours.

And you and I? We have a way to measure their success.

The HOPE Accords are a tool, designed to help us demand HOPE, feel HOPE, promise HOPE, and share HOPE.

The HOPE Accords are meant for everyone.