Representation in Leadership: A Power Rangers Admission
It was the red ranger for me.
It wasn’t because I had something against the black ranger… let’s talk about representation.
Position and Qualities
Are qualification assessments the new Jim Crow tool of separation? One key indication would be irrelevance. My wife showed me pre-interview assessment for a marketing position. It asked for applicants to recognizing number patterns seemed more indicative of an IQ test than qualifications for a marketing position. Some of those voting literacy tests seem like a giant test of will than qualification for voting. I would hope disqualifying people would be an indication that people cannot show themselves responsible with the responsibilities of the position. But, just as it’s easy to hire the wrong person for the job, it’s too easy to ask for qualifications of some other position on accident/purpose.
Leadership positions come with responsibilities. The person who holds the position should be qualified and hopefully someone believes in them to lead. When we make a leader in our image, we sometimes lose the ability to see what makes a leader in the first place. Is it because they look like me or because they have the capabilities to handle the role? In any case, whoever holds the position has that responsibility.
The qualities of the leader matter too. Good morals and empathy are two qualities that can convince others of one’s suitability for leadership. In fact, I say, “Let the responsible hold prominence.” People know how to hold me accountable even for the decisions of those I lead. This is one reason I appreciate when a leader knows how to eliminate the blame game, because no one needs another accuser. So, I value the good qualities of a leader.
Color
By now, you may recognize that the red ranger was the one who was more prominent and looked to for leadership among the group. I did not wish Zack was the leader of the group instead of Jason. I did hope to develop leadership qualities. What I did not see was an African American leading the leaders. I did see one with a seat at the table, a role and responsibilities. I do not want to forget the good in front of me. What I figured was there was leadership to learn from still. In fact, I do want to be the representation I want to see. With that may come a waiting game, but that’s because I’m still being prepared by God for the roles still to come.
Remember the Legends
Did you know Booker T Washington recruited George Washington Carver to Tuskegee? Did you know that George was George Carver and added Washington after knowing Booker? Not only was there influence among them but proximity. Booker led an educational institution with great and convincing direction. George as one of the greatest scientists ever to live. Both of them were born into slavery and died as inspirations. Both were even buried next to each other.
I can imagine having Washingtons as my teachers (especially since George didn’t want to teach at times). A community of intelligent, influential and even godly individuals is inspirational for generations. I guess, I’ll need to start continue some trends the legends started and exemplified.
Errirr