Sebelius Calls for National Unity

A day after being named Leader of the Year by the Harvard College Democrats, Kan. Gov. Kathleen Sebelius packed the John F. Kennedy Jr. Forum as she delivered a speech on the importance of national unity.

A mostly female audience watched as she traded compliments with her political colleague, Jeanne Shaheen, the director of the Institute of Politics (IOP) and a former Governor of New Hampshire.

Citing the unity the country experienced in the wake of 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina, Sebelius called for a less individualistic society.

“Today we live in what many call an ownership society. In actuality, its more like a ‘you’re on your own ship’ society,” said Sebelius.

“It doesn’t have to be like this,” she added. “Three hundred million individuals can achieve little, but 300 million Americans can make a difference.”

Sebelius’s speech at the Forum was the culmination of her two-day stay as a visiting fellow at the IOP.

“These two days have provided a very interesting opportunity to meet with variety of students,” said Sebelius in an interview prior to her speech,

“I spoke with several groups of students, including one in which I advised a group of young women who aspire to one day run for office. I’ve always believed it is fundamental to share information,” she said.

Brigit Helgen ’08, the president of the Harvard College Democrats, applauded Sebelius as a role model for women, and said her presence at the group’s gala Tuesday night drew a capacity crowd.

“Governor Sebelius is an incredibly intelligent and articulate woman. She is a great role model for all women and all Democrats,” Helgen said.

Helgen went on to highlight the reasons behind Sebelius’ selection for the group’s award.

“She has governed very well despite being a Democrat in the very red-state Kansas,” Helgen said. “She also has a lot of potential on the national scene. She could even end up being a vice-presidential running mate. It’s important to have leaders like Sebelius who have the goal of getting things done while at the same time promoting unity.”