Meaning: Barbara Jordan, a prominent American lawyer, educator, and politician, made the statement, "We call ourselves public servants but I'll tell you this: we as public servants must set an example for the rest of the nation. It is hypocritical for the public official to admonish and exhort the people to uphold the common good." This quote encapsulates the notion that those who serve the public, in any capacity, must embody the principles and values they advocate for in their own conduct. The quote reflects Barbara Jordan's belief in the responsibility of public servants to lead by example and uphold the common good.

Barbara Jordan's career was marked by her commitment to public service and advocacy for civil rights and social justice. As an African American woman, she broke barriers and became the first woman to represent Texas in the U.S. House of Representatives. Throughout her career, she championed equality, fairness, and the empowerment of marginalized communities. Her perspective on the role of public servants stems from her deep understanding of the challenges and responsibilities inherent in serving the public.

The notion of public servants setting an example for the rest of the nation speaks to the concept of leadership through action. Public officials, whether elected representatives, government employees, or civil servants, are entrusted with the well-being and interests of the public. Therefore, their behavior and integrity serve as a model for the broader society. By adhering to ethical standards, demonstrating accountability, and prioritizing the common good, public servants can inspire trust and confidence in the institutions they represent.

The quote also touches on the idea of hypocrisy within public service. Barbara Jordan highlights the contradiction that arises when public officials espouse certain values or expectations for the public while failing to uphold those standards themselves. This hypocrisy undermines the credibility of public servants and erodes public trust in the institutions they represent. Jordan's words serve as a reminder that public servants must align their words with their actions and consistently embody the principles they advocate.

In contemporary society, the quote remains relevant as a call for integrity and ethical leadership in public service. In an era marked by skepticism toward government institutions and public officials, the imperative for public servants to lead by example is more crucial than ever. The conduct of public servants, from elected leaders to civil servants, shapes public perceptions of governance and influences societal norms.

Moreover, the quote resonates beyond the realm of politics and government, extending to all professions and roles that involve serving the public. Whether in education, healthcare, law enforcement, or other fields, individuals who serve the public carry a responsibility to uphold high ethical standards and promote the common good. By setting an example through their actions, they contribute to the cultivation of a more just, equitable, and cohesive society.

Ultimately, Barbara Jordan's quote encapsulates a fundamental principle of public service – the imperative for those in positions of authority and influence to exemplify the values they champion. It serves as a timeless reminder of the moral and ethical obligations inherent in serving the public and the profound impact of leading by example. As society continues to grapple with complex challenges and evolving expectations of leadership, the wisdom conveyed in these words endures as a guiding beacon for public servants and individuals committed to making a positive difference in the world.