Real Leadership ~

In this crazy time, real leadership has been hard to find - especially at the pinnacle of our government where it should be the most cohesive, intelligent, and certain to protect the weakest among us.  Longstanding prejudice and systemic racism in this country has affected our black and brown brothers and sisters in ways that damaged their chances for education, economic advancement, basic rights and health.  The ravages of COVID laid all of this bare.  The black men killed by police officers, a small portion of whom I enumerated in my last post, culminating in the murder of George Floyd last week has added incredible fury and fuel to a pandemic of rampant racism and a deadly virus.  Still, there are those who choose to lead.  Many governors, mayors, and yes - even police chiefs - have filled the void and worked to lead us through the ongoing pandemic, the peaceful protests of those who object, demanding change, to the continuation of our racist ways, and the horrible slime who would use this chaotic time to loot and burn.

Yes, even during these times...

These Portland, Oregon officers took a knee in solidarity with protesters.

This police force built bridges, bonding with demonstrators in Flint, Michigan.

And from my own city, Police Chief Roddy issued the statement above, in Chattanooga, TN.

Granted, these are small points of light given the darkness that currently surrounds us.  But, they can light our way, if we let them.  This is what real leadership looks like.  This is where we can draw hope and strength.  This is something we can build on.
Much love to each of you.  ~ les