Mayor’s Brief by Rod Woodbury

Out of Many, One

E Pluribus Unum. Out of many, one. Engraved on various coins and seals of the United States, this Latin phrase has become our nation’s de facto motto.

Of my seven children, six have now earned their Great American Award at King Elementary. Leslie and I treat each one to a Washington, D.C. trip the following year. It’s become a treasured family tradition and a great blessing to learn more about our nation’s founding principles and the great sacrifices made by so many to preserve them.

The U.S. Capitol Visitors Center shows an introductory film called E Pluribus Unum that I love. It provides a much-needed reminder that out of many states, cities, and neighborhoods . . . out of vastly different perspectives and personalities . . . out of so many fiercely independent people . . . one united nation emerged. It reminds me that solutions in America come not from a single voice but from many. Our country is made up of many different races, religions, languages, and ancestries. Our desires are different. Our views vary widely. And sometimes we express those legitimate differences quite passionately.

But in the end “We the People” are still “one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” Despite our differences, we’re really quite good at finding common ground, at balancing our various beliefs, opinions, and desires. The great melting pot.

Boulder City isn’t all that different than our nation as a whole. Our residents have many different backgrounds, world views, objectives, agendas, opinions, perspectives, and values. And we celebrate that diversity. It’s a big part of what makes us great. Sometimes it means vigorous debate and even disagreement. But let’s never lose sight of the bedrock principles upon which our collective success depends–common ground, compromise, consensus, and unity. Let’s never allow our dialogue to devolve into personal attacks or incivility. As we express and examine our differences, let’s always remember to strive for peace on earth and good will toward men.

In Oz, the Wizard awards the Scarecrow a diploma from the land of E Pluribus Unum. If we only have a brain, we’ll earn ours too. Not a bad motto if you ask me.

2017.Jan.E Pluribus Unum.Final.wpd