PULL UP A CHAIR.
THERE'S ROOM
AT THE TABLE.

Join the network of students, individuals and organizations in Central Florida in Building America’s Most Welcoming Community.

THE PLEDGE IS ABOUT
PEOPLE, NOT POLITICS.

A guide. A tool. A gathering. Get what you need to treat others with dignity and grow community. There’s a lot happening at the Central Florida Pledge. Join us and #LiveThePledge.

The Must-Have Guide for Election Season

Dr. Joel Hunter’s new field guide, The Pledge Approach to Faith & Politics, offers guiding principles for staying connected across differences, from a lifetime at that crossroads.

Ease Divisions. Prevent Violence. Solve Problems.

The Central Florida Pledge is partnering with Dignity.Us to bring the Dignity Index to the region—a practical tool for treating one another with dignity, especially when we disagree.

Get Fired Up for PHXCON 2026

Ignite the spark within! On November 14, 2026, join 1,000 Central Florida students at the Rosen Centre, Orlando, to grow your leadership and engage in dialogue across differences. It all starts with YOUth!

Join the thousands of individuals, students, and businesses who have signed the Pledge to help build a stronger Central Florida for all.

Together We Will Build

America’s
Most Welcoming
Community

Together We Will Build

America’s
Most Welcoming
Community

The Pledge is about
people, not politics.

It’s a commitment to treat all people with dignity and respect, especially when we disagree.

Make an Impact

Sign The Pledge and bring this commitment to your workplace, school, or organization. Every signature strengthens the movement.

Stand Together

Connect with The Pledge network through meaningful events and programs — meet new people and show the world what makes our community special.

Start Building Bridges

Discover simple tools to help you talk, listen, and find common ground with the people around you — from family and friends to coworkers and neighbors.

Join the thousands of individuals, students, and businesses who have signed The Pledge to help build a stronger Central Florida for all.

A Region-wide Network

Word of the Pledge has spread far. This heat map shows how quickly the movement is growing. People are choosing a path of solidarity, courage, and hope—a path that says we’re stronger together, our shared humanity matters, and love outweighs hate.

How We’ve Grown
Students and
Individuals
0
Organizations
0 +
Phoenix Ginsburg
Fellows & Interns
0
Campuses
0

Together, we’re proving that unity isn’t agreement; it’s choosing to stand for one another and make Central Florida a place where everyone belongs.

A Region-wide Network

Word of The Pledge has spread far. This heat map shows how quickly the movement is growing. People are choosing a path of solidarity, courage, and hope—a path that says we’re stronger together, our shared humanity matters, and love outweighs hate.

How We’ve Grown
Students and
Individuals
0
Organizations
0 +
Phoenix Ginsburg
Fellows & Interns
0
Local High
Schools
& Colleges
0

Together, we’re proving that unity isn’t agreement; it’s choosing to stand for one another and make Central Florida a place where everyone belongs.

The Pledge

Together, as a community…

We stand in support
and care for our neighbors,
working to eliminate all forms of persecution directed toward anyone who resides in our community.

We unite with strength
and resilience
because of our respect for others within our diverse population — a community for all, regardless of faith, race, gender, ethnicity, culture, beliefs, or identity.

We commit to keeping
Central Florida a safe community
for all who live here and for future generations— protecting and valuing our neighbors, especially those threatened.

To that end, as an individual, student, or representative of a organization,

I commit to the following pledge:

I WILL lead by example—treating all people with dignity and respect, especially those with whom I disagree.

I WILL refrain from inflammatory words and actions, and actively support those being attacked.

I WILL report threatening incidents of hate and violence to 800-423-TIPS (8477)

I WILL educate myself about all forms of discrimination, including antisemitism, homophobia, Islamophobia, racism, and help others in my circle of influence to do the same.

Sign the Pledge Today!

Have questions? Visit our FAQs.

Pledge Wall

The network of individuals, students and businesses who are already
making Central Florida America’s Most Welcoming Community.

5000 and Counting!
0 and Counting!

“The Central Florida Pledge is more than words — it’s a promise that we’ll show up for each other, no matter what. That’s the kind of community I believe in.”

Alan Ginsburg, Ginsburg Family Foundation
Archbishop Allen Wiggins, The Hope Church of Orlando

“My real hope for the future is that people will understand that we’re all made in the image and likeness of God. And it’s a real gift that we have been given.”

Bishop John Noonan, Catholic Diocese of Orlando

“Central Florida is a 21st century community of great promise. People come to Orlando for economic, educational, and quality of life opportunities. Anti-semitism, hate and intolerance, have no place in The City Beautiful. The Pledge is an affirmative action that promotes awareness, education and resilience of the issue before us. As the famous song ‘Let There Be Peace on Earth’ reminds us, ‘Let me walk with my brother, in perfect harmony, and let it begin with me.'”

David Odahowski, Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation
Dr. Chris Roelke, Stetson University

“Kindness and respect are ethical disciplines, not feelings, and they are essential to a healthy, diverse, democracy.”

Dr. Grant Cornwell, Rollins College

“I’m trying to ‘love my neighbor’ better.”

Dr. Joel Hunter, Central Florida Pledge

“As the daughter of immigrants and an English-language learner, I know it is essential for all students to feel embraced for who they are. Every student belongs in our schools and in our community.”

Dr. Maria Vazquez, Orange County Public Schools

“There is a reason I call Central Florida home. I see a community steeped in kindness, inclusion, and respect. A community who comes together when one of us is hurting. Our unity and our love for our neighbors are what makes us so special and that is why I support The Central Florida Pledge.”

Frank Santos, Rosen Hotels & Resorts

“In a world where many have sharp and decided opinions, the Central Florida Pledge is a call for civility and reason through which we can better understand one another. Instead of writing off or walking away, the need is for dialogue and understanding. This is why I lovingly and openly subscribe to the Central Florida Pledge.”

Garry Jones, Full Sail University
Imam Tariq Rasheed, Islamic Center of Orlando

“Because I believe that hate is the worst offense and we should live with inclusion of all”

Jamie Merrill, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida

“I believe I must set an example of love and kindness and that I can make a difference.”

Jennifer Evins, United Arts CFL

“Love for every life.”

Kathy Ramsberger, Dr. Phillips Center

“Every day is an opportunity to help change our world for the better – kindness is free and available to all.”

Kay Rawlins, Orlando City & Orlando Pride

“This is an important starting point to getting our world back to what we want it to be.”

Mark Brewer, Central Florida Foundation
Mayor Buddy Dyer, City of Orlando

“I believe that fostering a community of inclusion for all is not just a moral imperative, but a strategic necessity. A safe and welcoming environment ensures that every individual, regardless of background or circumstance, feels valued, empowered, and connected.”

Mayor Jerry Demings, Orange County

“History teaches us that people of ill will are in the minority, even when it seems otherwise. It’s the obligation of the majority of people of good will to stand up, speak out, and take action.”

Rabbi David Kay, Interfaith Council of Central Florida
Randy Haffner, Adventhealth Florida

“I support love winning.”

Rev. Terri Steed-Pierce, Joy Metropolitan Community Church
Scott Maxwell, Orlando Sentinel

“It is important that we stand united in our commitment to reject any and all forms of hatred in our community. Together, we pledge to nurture understanding, foster empathy, and embrace diversity. Our unity lies our strength and shared commonalities, which is what remains incredibly special about Central Florida.”

Sheriff Dennis Lemma, Seminole County
Sheriff John Mina, Orange County

“In the words of Edmund Durk, ‘The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.'”

Teresa Jacobs, Orange County Public Schools

“I believe all people should be treated with respect and kindness, especially in how we treat our neighbors and others right here in Central Florida.”

Tony Jenkins, Florida Blue

Our Story

This isn’t just a campaign —
It’s a call to action.

People from all walks of life have come together—choosing courage, kindness, and community—to build a growing network dedicated to creating America’s Most Welcoming Community. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or just discovering us, this is your invitation to be part of something bigger.

It starts with one choice. One voice. Yours.

Our Team

A growing network of community members, leaders, and partners.

Together we are committed to standing against hate and building a more inclusive future. While this movement belongs to everyone who signs the pledge, these are some of the individuals helping guide the vision, nurture partnerships, and grow the impact of our collective work.

Alan H. Ginsburg
Ginsburg Family Foundation
Chairman
Ginsburg Family Foundation </br> Chairman
Marc McMurrin
Ginsburg Family Foundation
President & CEO
Ginsburg Family Foundation </br>President & CEO
Dr. Joel C. Hunter
Central Florida Pledge
Chairman
Central Florida Pledge </br>Chairman
RK Kelley
Central Florida Pledge
Vice President
Central Florida Pledge </br>Vice President
Dr. Lua Hancock
Phoenix Generation
Vice President
Phoenix Generation </br>Vice President
Samantha Romero
Ginsburg Family Foundation
Office Administrator
Ginsburg Family Foundation </br>Office Administrator
Ashly Rodriguez Reyes
Phoenix Generation
Program Coordinator
Phoenix Generation </br>Program Coordinator
Claudia Puerta
Central Florida Pledge
Bookkeeping and Accounting Manager
Central Florida Pledge </br>Bookkeeping and Accounting Manager
Florian Tacorian
Central Florida Pledge
Network Coordinator
Central Florida Pledge </br>Network Coordinator

Partners

Rabbi David Kay
Central Florida Pledge
Chair of InterFaith Council
Central Florida Pledge </br>Chair of InterFaith Council
David Yahn
Central Florida Pledge
Podcast Engineer
Central Florida Pledge </br>Podcast Engineer
Robert Andrescik
Communications & Digital Strategy
Head Rocketeer (Founder) of Media Blanket
Communications & Digital Strategy </br>Head Rocketeer (Founder) of Media Blanket
Kara Robertson
Development & Sponsorships
Founder & CEO of Prism Philanthropy
Development & Sponsorships </br>Founder & CEO of Prism Philanthropy

Interns

Isabella B. C. Colombo
Central Florida Pledge
Social Media Intern
Central Florida Pledge </br>Social Media Intern
Solange Ruiz
Central Florida Pledge
Social Media Intern
Central Florida Pledge </br>Social Media Intern
Umi Fazal
Central Florida Pledge
Interfaith Intern
Central Florida Pledge </br>Interfaith Intern
Nicolle Rodrigues Nobre
Central Florida Pledge
Curriculum Intern
Central Florida Pledge </br>Curriculum Intern
Ann Mary Thomas
Central Florida Pledge
Research & Assessment Intern
Central Florida Pledge </br>Research & Assessment Intern

The Phoenix Generation

The Youth Arm of The Pledge, a student-led community where young people connect, lead, and turn their passion into real-world impact. Start your leadership journey today!

Phoenix Generation Scholarships

Phoenix Ginsburg Fellows lead the youth movement in Central Florida. Each Fellow receives $2,000 for education, as well as funding for local initiatives, and access to mentorship, and leadership training.

Phoenix Generation Internships

Supports fellows and the organization by answering a community call to unite Central Florida—fostering kindness, inclusion, and respect on campus while advancing the Central Florida Pledge.

Rising Together Leadership Conference

The Phoenix Generation Conference is more than an event—it’s a student-led movement to grow, lead, and take initiative. Together with educators, students confront tough, often overlooked topics.

Programs and Events

Through our programs and events, young people move from conversation to action—collaborating with communities and local leaders to create real, lasting change. Show up. Shine out. Join in!

All students are welcome. We invite you to join — but first, sign The Pledge!

Shop

Make a statement — Wear the Pledge!

Show support, spread the word, and help grow America’s Most Welcoming Community.

Share

Help spread the word —
Share the Pledge!

Contribute

Join us and help to grow a network of change-makers across Central Florida and beyond.

The Ginsburg Family Foundation generously covers the overhead to operate The Central Florida Pledge. This means every dollar you contribute goes to:

  • Mobilize community support when challenges arise.
  • Equip leaders, students, and organizations to build bridges of understanding.

Thanks to the Interfaith Council of Central Florida (EIN: 45-5420165) for receiving your tax-deductible contributions as the fiscal partner of the Pledge Network.

FAQs

More to learn and understand
about The Pledge.

What is the Central Florida Pledge?

The Central Florida Pledge is a growing network, uniting neighbors, leaders, and organizations across all backgrounds to stand up for a safer, more welcoming community. By signing the Pledge, people commit to treating others with dignity, standing against hate, and stepping up when needed—building a region where everyone feels they belong. It reads:

I WILL lead by example, treating all people with dignity and respect, especially those with whom I disagree
I WILL refrain from inflammatory words and actions, and actively support those being attacked
I WILL report threatening incidents of hate and violence to 800-423-TIPS (8477)
I WILL educate myself about all forms of discrimination, including antisemitism, homophobia, Islamophobia, racism, and help others in my circle of influence to do the same

The Pledge was born out of a moment of crisis. After the terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023, over 100 local leaders from diverse backgrounds—spanning education, religion, government, and the corporate sector—came together to affirm their commitment to a united Central Florida. They co-authored The Pledge as a way to take a stand against all forms of prejudice and bigotry so that no group feels unsafe or marginalized.

Anyone who calls Central Florida home. Individuals, families, students, business leaders (for-profit and non-profit).

If you care about making this a better place for everyone, this is for you!

You’ll be part of a growing network. You’ll get select updates, stories, and community alerts.

No! This is NOT political, it’s personal. The Pledge brings people together around shared values of dignity and respect.

You are! The Central Florida Pledge is powered by a diverse network of community leaders, nonprofits, religious groups, businesses, and everyday residents. It’s not led by a single organization—it’s a grassroots network fueled by people like you.

The questions we hear most from representatives of businesses or organizations.

Any business, nonprofit, school, or organization based in Central Florida that shares the values of The Pledge. Whether you’re a restaurant, a church, a tech startup, or a family-owned store—if you care about people, you qualify.

The Pledge Community Seal is a visible mark that you will receive once you register your organization. It recognizes businesses, nonprofits, and organizations that commit to the values of the Central Florida Pledge. It tells your customers, clients, and team members:

“This is a place where everyone is valued and respected.”

Unlike traditional certifications, the Pledge Community Seal is not based on paperwork or compliance—it’s based on values. It reflects your heart for the community and your commitment to creating a welcoming and respectful space for all. It’s simple, meaningful, and deeply human.

No, a financial commitment is not required.

We do ask every organization to consider an annual sponsorship based on their capacity to support the network. This optional annual sponsorship helps fund the growth of The Pledge Network, new resources, ongoing community engagement, and visibility for your business as a trusted Pledge Community Seal partner.

The Pledge Seal is a powerful signal to your customers, partners, and community that you stand for something bigger. It tells the community your organization leads with integrity, values every person, and is committed to building a stronger, more welcoming Central Florida. When you align with The Pledge, you don’t just gain credibility—you gain a community.

Here’s what you receive with your investment:

  • The Pledge Starter Kit (digital and physical) – Show your values proudly online and in your space
  • Team Launch Guide – Equip your staff to live out the Pledge from day one
  • Website Promotion – Be listed on the Central Florida Pledge site as a values-driven business
  • Campaign & Event Features – Opportunities to be spotlighted in high-visibility community efforts
  • Ongoing Support & Resources – Stay connected with tools, training, and a growing network of changemakers

It’s not just a seal. It’s a network. And your business belongs in it.

Pledge network members commit to:

  • Treating everyone—customers, employees, vendors—with dignity and respect.
  • Listening, especially when you disagree.
  • Creating spaces that are safe and welcoming for all.
  • Speaking up with courage when it matters.
  • Taking small, consistent steps toward a stronger community.

You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be intentional.

We provide a Team Launch Guide with simple, ready-to-use language you can share in a staff meeting, email, or employee bulletin. It helps your people understand what the Pledge means and how to carry it forward together.

We’ll provide:

  • Graphics for social media and signage
  • A short “About the Seal” blurb you can add to your website or newsletter
  • Support if you’d like to host a Pledge event with your customers.

I have more questions. Can I talk to someone? Absolutely. We’d love to meet you, hear from you.

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The Central Florida Pledge
https://centralfloridapledge.com/