Who’s Responsible?

Both during and after a crisis, there is often a lot of conjecture about ‘who caused the problem?’

Who should fix it? Who should pay for it? Who’s responsible?

In the face of such questions, effective and principled leadership is marked by a willingness to take responsibility for the wellbeing of all people in your circle of influence.

A way forward is much less about determining where to lay the blame and far more about ensuring that nobody is left behind.

Over the past few months we have convened weekly meetings with our Welcoming Cities members and I have been deeply encouraged by their commitment to inclusion. Our members have shared and discussed numerous innovations and different ways of working to make sure that no-one in their communities is isolated or forgotten. 

The work is happening at all levels, from grassroots emergency relief through to the Council Chambers. Mayors have been committing the efforts of their local council towards ensuring a safety net for all. Some Councils have even created a Virtual Community Centre to maintain connection with, and support for, their residents.

We each have a responsibility to our household, street, school, workplace, and community.

We have a responsibility to look out for our neighbours.

We have a responsibility to call out, and protect people from, exclusion and racism.

We have a responsibility to support the vulnerable.

The answer to the question, ‘who’s responsible?’ is, quite simply, we all are. Thank you for playing your part.

Stay safe and well,

Aleem