I was raised with the principle of treating others as I would like to be treated. However, when I observe the world around me, it often appears that people have forgotten the true meaning of empathy. Populism is gaining ground, discussions about Black Pete are (still) heated, and acceptance of gender neutrality remains a challenge. Moreover, refugees are met with fear and resistance. While I strongly oppose populism and support the LGBTQ+ community, as well as welcoming refugees with open arms, I understand why some individuals may feel apprehensive. Nevertheless, I firmly believe that such apprehensiveness should never hinder our progress as a society. We should all make an effort to reach a middle ground with each other and maintain ongoing calm conversations with empathy.

My goal is to bridge the divide between different perspectives and encourage open dialogue. I believe that by fostering empathy, we can create a better world. Understanding each other’s experiences and feelings is crucial in building connections and finding common ground.

To address this need for empathy, I have felt compelled to write a manifesto. Through this manifesto, I aim to spark conversations and inspire individuals to embrace a more empathetic attitude. Together, we can strive for a society where understanding, compassion, and respect are at the forefront.