Hats Off for Public Servants!

This week commemorates Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW) nationwide to honor those serving our nation as federal, state, county and local government employees. Annually, the first full week of May is PSRW. Activities will be hosted by the Partnership for Public Service and the Public Employees Roundtable. Events this year will be held from May 3-9 from Capitol Hill in Washington, DC to the Seattle, Washington.

You know who these people are. They include federal, state, county, and local officials. They include firefighters, teachers, social workers, embassy employees and so many others who courageous sacrifice to be a resource for others. As a public servant and former elected member of the Sacramento school board of trustees, I learned during the importance of monitoring the business of government and constantly managing social interactions. It was truly a leading role.

So, it’s encouraging that Public Service Recognition Week celebrations are held. These are not simply banquets or galas to acknowledge public service commitment. On the contrary, many jurisdictions hold community service days, parades, open houses, and recruitment fairs. Celebrations and job fairs will be included as part of the National Mall in Washington, DC too. More details can be found via the PSRW website.

According to B.L. Rayner in Life of Jefferson, President Thomas Jefferson once said, “When a man assumes a public trust, he should consider himself as public property.”

Let’s pause to honor public servants who put service about self.