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Assessment of Mitch Landrieu's Speech for Effectiveness
Consistency with the Premise of Shared Sense of a Desirable Future
The notion of a common vision of a desired future is supported by Mitch Landrieu's statement calling for the removal of Confederate statues in New Orleans. Landrieu stresses the need to move ahead, reconcile and build a better future for the city in his address. He recognizes the terrible history behind the sculptures but maintains that their removal is necessary for growth and togetherness (Borchers & Hundley, 2018). With his call for the city to face its history and look forward to a more diverse future, Landrieu hopes to inspire and coordinate the necessary changes.
Key Elements in the Effective Communication of Vision
Simplicity: In his address, Landrieu successfully conveys his ideas by utilizing simple, understandable language. He does not use jargon or complicated phrases, so people from all walks of life may comprehend and relate to his message (Borchers & Hundley, 2018). Examples of his claims include: “These monuments purposefully celebrate a fictional, sanitized Confederacy; ignoring the death, ignoring the enslavement, ignoring the terror that it actually stood for.”
Metaphor, Analogy, and Example: To make his arguments clearer and more approachable, Landrieu frequently uses analogies and examples. The Confederacy was on the wrong side of history and humanity,” he says, likening the statues of Confederate leaders to false deities. It aimed to break apart the United States and enslave its citizens (Landrieu, 2017). The significance of destroying these memorials is made clearer by this comparison.
Multiple Forums: Landrieu's plan to remove Confederate memorials was disseminated through a number of outlets, not just the speech, which represented a single venue. He talked to local authorities, asked for citizen feedback, and included the city council in the decision-making. By utilizing many channels, we were able to contact more people and boost the possibility that everyone involved would support the plan.
Repetition: In order to drive home his point, Landrieu makes frequent use of repetition. For instance, he stresses again and over again the need to face reality, recognize the hurt these symbols of tyranny have caused, and of forging on in unity (Burch‐Brown, 2022). This emphasizes the significance of his message and invites listeners to consider the recommended alterations.
Leadership by Example: By taking a position on a divisive topic and leading the charge to have the Confederate statues taken down, Landrieu exemplifies the qualities of a true leader. His official capacity as Mayor of New Orleans lends credibility to his statements and actions, demonstrating his dedication to guiding New Orleans into a more diverse and egalitarian future.
Effectiveness and Areas for Improvement
In sum, Landrieu's address successfully paints a picture of a better future for New Orleans and the country as a whole. Landrieu gives New Orleanians reason to have faith in their city's future by discussing its troubled past, questioning the existing quo, and promoting harmony and forgiveness. The speech, however, might be improved in several ways:
Emotional Appeal: Although Landrieu's speech has components that inspire emotion, such as recognizing the anguish and horror connected with the Confederate statues, the effect of his speech might be strengthened by adding additional personal tales or testimonies (Landrieu, 2017). The audience may feel more connected to the statues if particular stories of people's reactions are shared.
Addressing Opposition: Landrieu recognizes the naysayers of monument removal, but he doesn't address their concerns in depth or offer any rebuttals. He could develop bridges and get more support for his idea if he focused on fortifying this component by responding directly to the concerns of people who opposed the removal.
Bible Integration
The Bible often stresses the need to be fair and treat others with dignity. The Bible teaches that every person is made in God's image and is thus valuable and worthy in and of themselves (Genesis 1:27) (NIV). In a community that values and respects the dignity of all persons, the removal of Confederate statues that glorify a history of oppression and slavery may be considered an act of achieving justice and equality.
References
Bible, H. (2007). New International Version, (Holy Bible). Australia. Author.
Borchers, T., & Hundley, H. (2018). Rhetorical theory: An introduction. Waveland Press.
Burch‐Brown, J. (2022). Should slavery’s statues be preserved? On transitional justice and contested heritage. Journal of Applied Philosophy, 39(5), 807-824.
Landrieu, M. (2017). Mitch Landrieu’s speech on the removal of Confederate monuments in New Orleans. The New York Times.
