When you restore democracy, you cannot say that only those who worked for the restoration of democracy will be allowed to use the privileges of a democracy.
Corazon AquinoRead
I acknowledged that I owed my presidency to People Power. I resolved during my presidency that I would in turn empower the people.
Interpretation
Power and leadership should be derived from the people, and it is essential to empower them in return.
In this quote, Corazon Aquino reflects on the importance of People Power in her rise to the presidency, highlighting that her leadership is a consequence of the people's support. She emphasizes her commitment to reciprocate by empowering the citizens, thus fostering a system of governance that values and uplifts the voices of the people.
In practice
In a speech about community engagement, one could say, 'As Corazon Aquino reminds us, our leadership must empower the people.'
When you restore democracy, you cannot say that only those who worked for the restoration of democracy will be allowed to use the privileges of a democracy.
The media's power is frail. Without the people's support, it can be shut off with the ease of turning a light switch.
There is much that women can bring into politics that would make our world a kinder, gentler place for humanity to thrive in.
Freedom of expression - in particular, freedom of the press - guarantees popular participation in the decisions and actions of government, and popular participation is the essence of our democracy.
I've reached a point in life where it's no longer necessary to try to impress. If they like me the way I am, that's good. If they don't, that's too bad.
Faith is not simply a patience that passively suffers until the storm is past. Rather, it is a spirit that bears things - with resignations, yes, but above all, with blazing, serene hope.
People ask me what's the most important function when you're starting an organization or setting up the kind of culture and values that are going to endure. The discipline I believe so strongly in is H.R., and its the last discipline that gets funded.
There's some evidence that if you're recruiting, you tend to recruit a mini-me. Then you have a very comfortable group round a table. You all think alike. You agree. People are arguing that the banking crisis was because too many of the relevant bodies were thinkalikes, and that if they'd had more diversity, maybe it wouldn't have happened.
I always believe that ultimately, if people are paying attention, then we get good government and good leadership. And when we get lazy, as a democracy and civically start taking shortcuts, then it results in bad government and politics.
May it be my privilege to have the happiness of establishing the commonwealth on a firm and secure basis and thus enjoy the reward which I desire, but only if I may be called the author of the best possible government; and bear with me the hope when I die that the foundations which I have laid for its future government, will stand firm and stable.
Good governance never depends upon laws, but upon the personal qualities of those who govern. The machinery of government is always subordinate to the will of those who administer that machinery. The most important element of government, therefore, is the method of choosing leaders.
Here's the thing: every office I've run for I was the first to win. First person of color. First woman. First woman of color. Every time.
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