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Responsible Leadership in the Face of Challenges

by Ahmed Abdullahi
Friday, January 07, 2011

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The recent Murder of a Somali young man in Edmonton has created an out cry and frustration. This is not the first time and possibly will not be the last considering how things are progressing. It’s a tragedy of yet another young life in Alberta. It’s disappointing and sad to see the blame game go around from the leaders that were supposed to be responsible for calming things down. A sense of responsibility is absent from the discourse. This is a concern for both the community and the general public. There are no simple answers or solutions but authorities and community leaders need to find a way to work together in a professional manner.

 

Furthermore, people should understand that no one person represents the Somali community and its irresponsible journalism to frame the story as such. Many disagree with the articulation of the issue. In addition, individuals that are so called community leaders are not helpful when they use confrontational and provocative language in the media. The community is not happy about this negative and embarrassing representation.  The media should seek community members that are moderate and have a better understanding of the situation. Only those whom have the experience, training and proper education background should represent the community.

 

Leadership is about accepting responsibility. Leaders have a responsibility to their community. They have a responsibility to encourage civic duties and the rule of law. To just point fingers when the community faces challenges is not responsible leadership. Initiatives and programs that promote the participation and understanding of the justice system should be a key focus area. Somalia has fallen into lawlessness two decades ago. The Somalis have come to Canada because of its security and the adherence to the rule of law. The leaders have a responsibility to create an environment in which the community has faith in the judicial system.

 

There is no doubt that the government and the police have invested much to build bridges with Somali-Canadians. The Government has extended resources and the police have created programs to develop trust and a working relationship. The community is in fact appreciative of these supports despite the unwarranted blame being placed on the police by misguided individuals. This approach by community members is unacceptable and counter productive. The unwillingness for individual witnesses to come forth to provide evidence is no fault of the police. The lack of trust of the justice system is no fault of the government. Nevertheless, with cooperation specific programs could be put in place to encourage civic responsibility. 

 

The criticism of the police by some individuals in the Somali community is a call for help and support in the face of an overwhelming frustration and a feeling of hopelessness. These feelings are a reflection of the horrible experiences in the homeland and the breakdown of tradition, family structure and the lack of positive adaptation to the way of life in Canadian society. The process of integration is in its infant stage for the Somali community. They have been in Canada for about two decades compared to many other immigrant groups who have been here longer. In time they will also integrate and become contributing members of society. The community and its leaders must ultimately accept that the initial responsibility towards social and cultural evolution lies within.  

Ahmed Abdullahi works as a Youth and Family Counsellor in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.   [email protected]

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