Presidents' Day 2021
Dear Howard University Community,
Any year in which we inaugurate a new president, the holiday of Presidents Day takes on additional significance. We should take advantage of the opportunity to reflect on the nature of the presidency and how we as citizens engage with the individuals who hold that esteemed office.
It is important that we recognize our own power to influence the president. More than any other politician, the president of the United States is susceptible to the feedback and pushback of a nation. Actions that are well received are reinforced; deeds that are critiqued are reevaluated.
We should pray that presidents have the strength to make good-faith mistakes, the courage to lead even when they expect dissent, and the faith to do what they see is right even if others say they are wrong. But the windows of the White House are open, and the president is always testing the temperature of our country and gauging the winds of change. It is our duty to stand up and shout our praise as well as our protest toward Pennsylvania Avenue.
A country in need of change cannot have a president who is unwilling to change himself or herself. Presidents should have a resolute inner core, grounded in certain unassailable principles. But their external bearing should be under constant renovation to suit the needs of the ever-shifting times we live in.
On Presidents Day 2021, we should think about what kind of president we want and what kind of president we need. The two presidents for whom this day was initially created to recognize, George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, provide terrific templates. All presidents are flawed, including those two men. But the best ones recognize their flaws and have the humility to better themselves. We should study the history of our nation to identify the best and most-needed presidential attributes, especially during moments of crisis.
Our country cannot afford for President Joe Biden to be anything but his best. Yes, he will err; he will make mistakes. But the summation of his presidency must be excellence. The presidents who accomplish the most are those who empower their teams to help execute their agendas. As a former vice president himself, he has vowed to lean on Vice President Kamala Harris for support. He will find that support in abundance.
We should offer all presidents, regardless of their political party, our blessings to find the best in themselves. Right now, as our country is experiencing monumental national pain, we need President Biden to help heal our country and lead us to better days ahead.
Excellence in Truth and Service,
Wayne A. I. Frederick, M.D., MBA
Charles R. Drew Professor of Surgery
President