Mercy, heroism and determination are the values carried by the coat of arms of Amsterdam, which have shaped and protected us over the centuries.

These values represent the true spirit of our city, which is characterized by diversity and polyphony. Unfortunately, more and more people are living in their own bubble, causing us to grow further apart. All the while we share an ancient past in which we gather in houses of worship to honor, learn, celebrate, talk, sacrifice and mourn. Traditions that slowly threaten to fade away. But the desire to belong somewhere never disappears.

This constant in our human experience reminds us that now is the time to revive our Amsterdam values, deeply rooted in our history and identity:

We are merciful. Now is the time to come together, to restore solidarity and laughter in our city and face the crises.We open our doors to those who need it most and extend our hand to those who are farthest from us.

We are heroic. It takes courage to embrace the unknown and look at ourselves and others from a different perspective.

New storytelling forms and storytellers help us push our own boundaries and revise existing ways of thinking. Art, culture, rituals and silence are our building blocks for a peaceful revolution.

We are resolute. We put cynicism aside and resolutely choose a path of charity, compassion and vulnerability that makes our community closer.

We stand for equal rights and freedom of love for every human being of any religion, culture, nationality or background.Let us embody the weapon we carry in our hearts:

The Collective Spirit of Amsterdam.