Given the recent change in government here in the US, I've been thinking a lot about my personal beliefs and values. As part of this process, I decided to write my own personal manifesto. I hope that even if I do not see eye to eye on political matters with all my neighbors and fellow citizens, we can find some common ground on the values that matter most to me.

As a reminder, everything on this blog is my own opinion and does not reflect the views of my employer or anyone else.

My Personal Manifesto

Life is inherently unequal, shaped by factors beyond our control—genetics, financial circumstances, and sheer luck. I feel that those who are fortunate bear a responsibility to help those who are not, and that principle should be a foundation of our society. A truly fair and compassionate world requires us to ensure that everyone, regardless of gender, race, or any other characteristic, is given a fair and equal chance. When some groups consistently achieve more success than others based on traits like skin color, it signals a deeper flaw in our society. Equality must be more than a principle—it must be a reality reflected in the systems and institutions that govern us.

Freedom is one of life’s most important values, but it should not come at the expense of others’ well-being. We should accept people as they are, reserving judgment only when someone’s actions cause real harm—discomfort, unease, or disagreement with someone’s identity, culture, or way of life does not constitute harm. Prejudice and bigotry, when disguised as "freedom of expression," should not be allowed to infringe upon others’ dignity and rights under the guise of tolerance.

In making political or social decisions, it is essential to think beyond our immediate reactions and consider the broader impact, including possible side effects. Policies must align with their stated goals and follow through on their commitments. For example, if a policy restricts abortion under the guise of protecting unborn children, it should also provide resources and support to ensure those children are cared for and supported after birth. Making a decision without committing to its consequences is irresponsible and ultimately harmful. True responsibility means considering all dimensions and consequences and committing to the outcomes of our choices.

A society grounded in truth and information is best equipped to address these challenges. Facts and science must take precedence over opinions or political agendas, ensuring our systems and policies are rooted in evidence rather than ideology. Truth is non-negotiable, and it must guide our decisions and perspectives. Science and evidence are the tools we use to uncover systemic injustices, evaluate the impacts of our actions, and create solutions that reflect reality, not rhetoric.

This manifesto is a call for a society that values truth, compassion, fairness, and foresight. It is a vision of a world where integrity, responsibility, and respect for all people guide our actions and our choices.