Andrew Tarsy’s Post

The election season might be over, but the broader landscape influencing our work across industries—whether it's city planning, engineering, or beyond—has shifted. As a DEIJ practitioner, my focus remains on the ways colonialism, imperialism, capitalism, anti-Blackness, and whiteness continue to shape our environments. It’s essential for professionals in all fields to recognize and commit to understanding what I call the "Interlocking Systems of Racial Oppression." This model is a reminder that systemic violence, particularly racialized violence, is not just a thing of the past; it’s actively maintained and often reinforced by individual actions. That’s why we must all strive to identify and address these deeply rooted structures. On December 3 at 7 pm EST, we’re hosting a FREE Post-Election Debrief and Reflections Webinar to explore how these systems continue to impact our political climate, workplaces, and communities. This is an opportunity to debrief, reflect, and strategize a sustainable path forward together. What we’ll cover: Insights on how the election results may impact professional organizations, relationships, and individual initiatives. A breakdown of the shifts we’re observing and their potential implications for our communities. Practical guidance on navigating these systems with resilience and purpose. This will be an open space to ask questions, share experiences, and connect with others committed to equity in challenging times. This space has been designed for anyone navigating professional life, organizational leaders, a community advocates, or simplyfolks  looking to deepen their understanding. Janice Gassam Asare, Ph.D., Samantha (Dr. Sam) Rae, EdD, MPH and I invite you to join us! Secure your spot and bring your questions to the table! Let’s keep pushing forward with awareness, strength, and support. Limited spots so make sure you register today at: https://lnkd.in/gTqJi9bp #DEI #PostElection #FreeWebinar #RacialEquity #SystemicChange #LeadershipForChange #ProfessionalDevelopment

How will your life be impacted the day after the election? Regardless of the results, leaders in local communities will move forward bettering others and the worlds they live in. Check out how in this week's #leadershipandmain blog post at the link below: https://lnkd.in/eZxgygca

Please read my MEDIUM post from two weeks ago on the strategic steps the Democratic Party should take post-debate to strengthen their position. In it I emphasize the importance of unifying the party, focusing on key policy areas like healthcare, economy and social justice, and effectively countering misinformation. Empathetic leadership style and commitment in addressing pressing issues can resonate with voters.

"As we approach another election season, we’re reminded of the power of our vote and our voice. 🗳️ But our ability to impact the world doesn’t end at the ballot box. True influence goes beyond the polls; it’s shown in our everyday actions, in the moments we choose to lead with compassion, even when it’s difficult. Embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion means respecting others’ experiences and acknowledging our common humanity, especially when we disagree. ❤️ How we treat those around us—our coworkers, neighbors, and communities—speaks louder than any vote we cast. By fostering a culture of empathy and understanding, we create ripples of positive change that last far beyond any election season. Let’s make it our mission not only to vote but to lead by example, ensuring everyone around us feels valued, heard, and respected. Let’s use our power to inspire, serve, and uplift every day. 💡 How are you leading with compassion this week? Let’s hear from you in the comments! ⬇️⬇️ #ServeWithHeart #LeadWithLove #Leadership #vote

Politics don’t have to be adversarial! Wherever we are on the spectrum, there are essential skills we should be equipped with as we enter election season! Communicating effectively and approaching politics with curiosity helps us have generative conversations even though we may be divided.  But how do we accomplish this?  My course Talking Boldy: When Inclusion meets Politics at the Office is useful for leading and engaging in constructive political dialogues when they become inevitable. This empowers you and your team to maintain unity and drive towards shared objectives. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/ejNyURUU

Politics don’t have to be adversarial! Wherever we are on the spectrum, there are essential skills we should be equipped with as we enter election season! Communicating effectively and approaching politics with curiosity helps us have generative conversations even though we may be divided.  But how do we accomplish this?  Our course “Talking Boldy: When Inclusion meets Politics at the Office” helps you lead and engage in constructive political dialogues when they become inevitable. Empower yourself and your team to maintain unity and drive towards shared objectives.

🌟 Appreciating the Job of a Politician: A Reflection 🌟 As we navigate the complex landscape of governance, let’s take a moment to recognize the tireless efforts of our elected representatives—the politicians who shoulder the weight of public service. 🗳️ ➡ Door-to-Door Conversations: Imagine the sun beating down relentlessly as a politician walks from house to house, seeking positive ratings from countless interviewers. Each door holds a story, a concern, a dream. It’s more than just a campaign—it’s a genuine connection with the heartbeat of the community. ➡ Enduring the Elements: Politics isn’t confined to air-conditioned offices. It’s about standing under the scorching sun, feeling the rain on your skin, and listening to the winds of change. Politicians brave these elements because they believe in making a difference, rain, or shine. ➡ The Battle for Relevance: Every election cycle, politicians face a battle—a battle not only against opponents but against their own track record. They reapply for their jobs, presenting their vision for a better future. It’s a high-stakes interview, and the voters hold the pen. ➡ Beyond Echo Chambers: “My kind of people” doesn’t cut it in politics. Effective politicians engage with diverse communities—urban, rural, young, old, across party lines. They listen, learn, and bridge gaps. It’s about understanding that unity lies in diversity. ➡ The Open House: Imagine living in a glass house, where privacy is a luxury. Politicians open their doors to constituents, welcoming grievances, ideas, and sometimes even criticism. It’s a delicate balance—serving the public while safeguarding their own lives. So, the next time you see a politician on the campaign trail or addressing a town hall, remember the layers beneath the surface. It’s more than a job; it’s a calling—a commitment to shaping our collective destiny. Feel free to share your thoughts! #PublicService #Leadership #Democracy

🗳️ **How 5 Minutes from You Can Change a Nation** As professionals dedicated to shaping industries and innovating for the future, we know the value of time. Yet, there’s one action, taking merely 5 minutes, that has the profound power to impact our nation's future—**voting**. Voting isn’t just a right; it’s a cornerstone of our democracy. Each ballot cast is a voice, a declaration of our values and aspirations. When we step into the voting booth, we’re not just selecting representatives; we’re influencing public policy, impacting economic strategies, and ensuring our voice is heard in the corridors of power. In our busy lives, these 5 minutes might seem minor, but their ripple effects are monumental. They determine the quality of governance and the direction of national policy. Remember, every great change starts with a single, simple action. This election season, let’s prioritize our visit to the polling booth. Encourage your team, your peers, and your network. Share resources, discuss the importance of each vote, and maybe even organize a group visit to the polls. Let’s unite our professional prowess to empower our democratic duty. Because when it comes to governance, we’re not just bystanders; we're stakeholders. Your 5 minutes can change a nation. Let’s make them count! 🌐 #VotingMatters #DemocracyInAction #Leadership #CivicEngagement

We are marching, closer and closer to another polarizing national election. There is a growing lack of tolerance and civility, building along this same timeline. Studies continue to show a rising level of distrust with government. As a local government leader, with 20+ years of experience, the distrust in government is what hurts my heart the most. Luckily, local government has the highest trust and approval ratings of any level of government. This is mostly because we are the level of government that is closest to the people. To many in our communities, D.C. might as well be Narnia. Local government leaders are public servants, not politicians. While being politically savvy is part of the job, our code of ethics requires us to be apolitical. Local government is the heartbeat of a community, thriving on the pulse of public trust. This trust is earned daily through proximity and familiarity; our public servants are more than faceless entities. We are your neighbors, coaches, and friends. As true public servants, we provide not because we must but because we are compelled by a love for their community and a commitment to see it flourish. Let’s turn down the volume on Fox/Cnn and toast the real champions of government, at the local level. Their service may be silent, but their impact resounds in every corner of the lives they touch. Without a doubt, public service is a calling. Its a calling to make the world a better place, one interaction, one policy, one priority at a time. It’s a calling to improve our little piece of the world…to work for the cause, not the applause. We have to remember this on our good and bad days. We must answer the call. We are making a difference in the way citizens view their government. A shout out to all of the public servants answering the call. 🙌 My #motivation is to collaborate with you. 🤜🏼🤛🏽 Let’s connect 🔗 I focus on #leadership in city & county management and #kindness as our currency💫 Click my profile 🔔 and check out my hashtag #cscottandrews #LeadWithLove Work for the cause, not the applause. 👏 -Scott @cscottandrews Dr. Scott Andrews, ICMA-CM

Outrage is everywhere—on the left and on the right—and many companies have found themselves in the crosshairs. People are angry with the world—in some cases, rightfully so—and now view companies as they do governments, as targets of their wrath and potential forces for social change. Managing outrage has moved from being an occasional leadership challenge, like handling a PR crisis, to a necessary and critical leadership capability, like strategic thinking or financial acumen. On Friday this week, Outthinker Networks members will meet with Karthik Ramanna, author of the book "The Age of Outrage: How to Lead in a Polarized World" and Professor of Business and Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford. He'll cover the upcoming US elections, providing insights on potential policy shifts, economic implications, and strategic considerations for businesses in light of various election outcomes. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a thought-provoking dialogue about how the election results might reshape the business landscape and influence corporate strategy in the coming years. To join events like these, apply for membership at: https://lnkd.in/e3u-CgxG