http://www.wingsofjustice.com/05/09/woj05014.htmlLast Thursday, New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin taught all of us a bit about what we have lost in our modern day political leadership in America. In an interview with the one radio station that was still on the air in the Crescent City, Nagin stood up for the abandoned citizens of New Orleans with passion, conviction, candor and outrage. Nagin spoke for his city and the nation when he expressed dismay that Bush was still "spinning" while people in New Orleans were still dying. Nagin was a man unfettered from the normal conventions and niceties of politicians who backslap each other. His was a cry from the heart to rescue the people of his city, and for the loss of the glorious legacy of the city itself.
While Bush uses the word "compassion" as a political tool in an ongoing performance of spin and PR stunts, Nagin's advocacy for the displaced and suffering New Orleans residents came directly from the pain of an open wound that no one was tending to. This wasn't a game to be played out among pundits and beltway politicians as if it were a sporting event. He reminded us that real people were dying and suffering from government neglect.
It was riveting and heartbreaking to hear a leader speak so candidly and with such indignation. We had forgotten that elected officials are supposed to defend those who they serve without first consulting polls or image consultants. He taught us all that a politician can still pull the fire alarm, and move us with his conviction.
By the end of the radio interview, Nagin was too emotionally upset to continue talking, as was the radio newscaster. It was a rare moment of raw honesty from an elected official.
Ray Nagin, in its darkest hour, may the "Wings of Justice" be with you and your glorious, magical city. We heard your desperation, rage, pride and despair, and for that you deserve this week's BuzzFlash "Wings of Justice Award."
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more power to him