In a world that seemed to have lost its moral compass, Robert Kennedy was a stalwart guide. He both recognized and acted upon the moral imperative of ending social and racial inequality, even when these beliefs proved unpopular. Working closely with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Ralph Abernathy strongly influenced Kennedy’s work to pass the Civil Rights Act of 1964 while he served as Attorney General. Kennedy believed that, like racial inequality, social injustice—particularly as this related to impoverished children—was fundamentally destructive for a nation and its people. He also believed firmly that those on whom fortune had smiled had a moral obligation to help those less fortunate. Additionally, Kennedy’s strong moral convictions led him to become a vocal opponent of the Vietnam War, challenging how an advanced society could wage war on a poor, underdeveloped country while knowing the destruction and devastation that it was wreaking.
RFK demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of the change process particularly as this related to civil rights. He understood the challenges and hardships that would be encountered before changes to racial equality became institutionalized, and he countered these with prowess and patience. Additionally, Kennedy displayed a keen ability to make friends of his enemies. Several historians point to the fact that Martin Luther King, Jr., initially dismissed Kennedy’s actions as being “soft-shoed” and ineffective, but through consistency of his words and actions, Kennedy earned the respect of King and—by and large—of a nation. Kennedy’s willingness to reach out during the Cuban Missile Crisis and forge a relationship with the “enemy—the Soviet ambassador—helped the US back safely from the precipice of imminent nuclear engagement.
While he demonstrated a thorough understanding of knowledge building / sharing and its importance to the efficiency and success of any organization, Kennedy also recognized that the overt hostility of Lyndon Johnson and J. Edgar Hoover created an environment contrary to knowledge building and sharing; hence, he resigned his post as Attorney General and elected to challenge Johnson for the presidency. In his work to enact civil rights legislation, Kennedy showed prowess in coherence making, which “involves seeking a balance between letting go and even encouraging ‘disturbance’ on the one hand and building coherence, sense and direction on the other. This is the main challenge . . . disturbing the system in such a way "that approximates to the desired outcome" (Learning). Kennedy understood that stress, disorder, and discomfort were necessary products of expanding minds and examining preconceived beliefs, and he was comfortable in his role as the catalyst of this discord.
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Robert Kennedy. (2010). Encyclopedia of world biography. Retrieved September 25,
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ReplyDeleteRobert Kennedy's leadership capacity is very admirable. He opened American minds to see equality from many lenses. His strong moral code guided him to make tough choices. More importantly, he wasn't afraid to show America the real 'RFK'... the family man. The more honest he was with America, the more they trusted him. They began to listen and open their minds to other great leaders like Martin Luther King, Jr.
ReplyDeleteOprah Winfrey's influence may not have been possible without the vision of RFK and Martin Luther King, Jr. Oprah leads with her heart similar to RFK. She isn't afraid to address tough topics encouraging Americans to 'see' the world around them and take action. They both understood the importance of knowledge building, sharing and establishing coherence for the good of all.
Robert Kennedy's strong moral purpose was evident in everything he gave for it, including his life. I have always been fascinated with the Kennedy family and their belief that because of their fortunes, they are obligated to help those less fortunate. This moral obligation was not only in charitable contributions but changing racial inequalities and social injustice. While Oprah Winfrey is not a political figure, she has contributed greatly to leveling social injustices and equality in our country. Her moral compass has endeared her to millions throughout the world. She has opened the hearts and minds through continual knowledge sharing.
ReplyDeleteAs soon as I read why Robert Kennedy ran against Lyndon Johnson for the Presidency of the United States, I saw a direct link between him and Martin Luther, who also went up against the "powers that be" to forge a change. Their task would be difficult but both had the strength, courage and moral sustainment to accomplish what they did. They are both truly inspiring men.
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