Relative of FDR sees ‘crisis in leadership’
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By Deirdre Cox Baker | Saturday, June 09, 2007 |
\Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt’s granddaughter said this country is in a crisis of leadership, both internally and on the world stage.
Anna Eleanor Roosevelt calls for Americans to step up and become responsible citizens, to lead by example and work to enable others to empower themselves.
Roosevelt was in downtown Davenport on Friday as keynote speaker for The Women’s Connection 10th anniversary Women in Leadership luncheon at the Radisson Quad-City Plaza Hotel.
“It’s such a privilege to live in a democracy, and there are responsibilities that go along with this,” she said. “Are you doing your part? Are you fulfilling your commitments? We wear the badge of citizenship too easily.”
Roosevelt was not born when her grandfather served as president of the United States from 1932-1944. But she does well remember her grandmother, Eleanor Roosevelt, and finds inspiration from one of the 20th century’s most revered female role models.
She hosted a “conversation” between herself and several hundred women, speaking briefly and taking a host of questions that centered on Eleanor Roosevelt.
Roosevelt said that while America was still rather isolated when her grandfather was president of the United States, it is much more “borderless” today because of technology.
The old-style of leadership that was present in the 20th century has now changed. Citizenship is the new leadership style, played out in quality partnerships.
“It’s not about being iconic, it’s about being a good partner,” she said, arguing that these qualities are seen even in the great leaders of the past. “What I learned from my grandparents is this: What you do together is what shapes the world,” she said.
Roosevelt’s grandparents would be pleased with several aspects of politics these days, including the current run-up to the 2008 Presidential election.
There will be a long but thoughtful discussion on just who would be the best choice for our next president, she said, noting this is the first open seat in many years with no incumbent. The announced Democratic candidates would all make good presidents, Roosevelt said, declining to name her favorite.
Deirdre Cox Baker can be contacted at (563) 383-2492 or dbaker@qctimes.com.
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