In 1993, with the support of the Province Leadership Team, Justice Coordinator Joanne Tromiczak-Neid helped establish a Justice Commission with six working groups—one focused on nonviolence. In 1994, Sister Ann Walton introduced a resolution titled the Violence-Free Zone Pledge, originally developed by the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR). The working group embraced it and committed to exploring it as a goal.

Over the next two years, the pledge was introduced with the sisters at Bethany Convent, Delegate Assemblies, and community gatherings. Sisters and Consociates provided feedback, and the Justice Commission ultimately approved the pledge. On July 10, 1996, the Delegate Assembly formally endorsed it, declaring the CSJ campus a Violence-Free Zone—a commitment that continues to this day.

Now, with most Sisters living at Carondelet Village (CV), it felt only fitting to extend that designation. A committee updated the pledge
and shared it with campus leadership.

Campus Director Amber Salguero-Mullenbach enthusiastically endorsed the plan. At a community meeting on July 10, 2024, the
proposal and updated pledge were shared with the broader CV community—and received with overwhelming support.

Carondelet Village Administration created signage for entrances, and residents were offered smaller cards to post on their doors. Now, whichever door you enter, you’re reminded: This is a Violence-Free Zone.

Why Is This Important?

The pledge begins with a powerful qualifier: “To the best of my abIlity.” That’s all we can ask of ourselves and one another. These statements invite personal reflection and awareness. We live in a world where violence is normalized—even encouraged.

By pledging to take a different path, we follow the nonviolent example of Pope Francis, Mahatma Gandhi, Dorothy Day, Jesus, and others.

Please join us in choosing the way of peace.