Executive Insight

Last week, emotionally, we experienced highs and lows in our community. We celebrated our nation’s flag; we honored those that have fought and still fight for our constitutional freedoms. We remembered the awful attacks on 9/11. We also witnessed the assassination of a man presumably because of his religious believes and political ideology.

Ironically, Sept. 17 marks the 238th anniversary of the delegates to the Constitutional Convention, in Philadelphia, signing the final draft of the Constitution of the United States. A document that guarantees our basic rights as citizens of this great nation. With these rights comes responsibilities.

We extend our deepest sympathies to those affected by last week’s tragic shooting. It is a painful reminder that the ideals written nearly 250 years ago are not always safe. When violence tears apart our sense of safety, we are reminded that freedom without security, community without respect, and rights without responsibility fail us all.

While the date may feel like history, its significance remains very alive in every promise of justice, equality, and liberty that we hold dear. The Constitution is not just about past grand words but about the responsibility each of us must live up to today.

As your County Executive, I believe we must do more than observe Constitution Day; we must live it. That means committing ourselves to policies that protect our citizens, foster community connection, and ensure every person, regardless of their background, feels both safe and valued.

Here and nationwide, we do our best not when divided but when we stand together. I hope, that as we mark this anniversary, we renew our dedication to the principles that define us and let yesterday’s sorrow strengthen us and help us “Form a more perfect Union.”

Thanks, D.W.