02/21/2025
Well said sir, well said 👏👏👏
Rotary International’s Mission in the Trump Whirlpool
While I’m not a member myself, I’ve long been inspired by the ideals of Rotary International — and I’ve found Rotarians (both liberal and conservative) to be smart, caring, and delightful community leaders. I’ve eagerly given talks at Rotary clubs across the USA, and I’ve enjoyed partnering with my local club on philanthropic projects over the years.
Rotary leaders have told me they are “shocked” and “heartbroken” by what’s happening in our country, and they report that the gutting of USAID has impacted virtually all of Rotary’s international programs.
I appreciate the “love thy neighbor” focus of Rotary’s mission. But with all the political change, chaos, and, frankly, global bullying happening in our democracy lately, times are tough for ideals like that.
I know it’s complicated (and scary) to speak out. But in a society that values its freedom, when it becomes “scary to speak out”… it’s the most important time to do just that. In the last 10 days, I’ve been speaking out on stage in eight different cities — and from Omaha to Cleveland to Philadelphia, audiences have found hearing my message to be, in their words, “cathartic”… an experience that releases pent-up emotions and provides a powerful feeling of relief.
I’m curious if Rotary International will, as an organization, also raise its voice... or just lay low. And if the answer is “lay low,” will Rotarians update their mission to reflect their organization’s true colors?
For reference, here are a few ways that Rotary International currently describes itself on its website:
“Rotary is a global network of more than 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change.”
“Rotary members believe that we have a shared responsibility to take action on our world’s most persistent issues. Our clubs work together to promote peace; fight disease; provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene; save mothers and children; support education; grow local economies, and protect the environment.”
“Our mission: We provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through our fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.”
I love these words, and I admire Rotary’s high-minded ideals. They inspire me. So, to all my travel buddy Rotarians out there: What will you say today?