David Kato

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/30/weekinreview/30gettleman.html?ref=world

This article talks about David Kato, a Ugandan who was killed because he was gay. I thought this article was interesting because although Kato was not a big political figure, he still represented a lot of people. Even though he knew that being up front about his sexuality would not bring good things, he was still known as "the most out" gay Ugandan and the country's leading gay rights crusader. He was willing to take so many risks by being "out" in order to fight for people just like him. Kato could have just sat by because he knew he would be taunted and threatened, but instead he believed that his role was to fight and liberate. He felt that because he was able to get quality education, it was his role to help those just like him who may not be able to speak out.

Kato definitely demonstrates being a leader through the style approach. His leadership is shown in his actions and behaviors toward others. Kato demonstrates relationship behavior through his desire to help people. He is concerned for others and puts forth his efforts into helping people, most specifically those who do not have a voice.

However, Kato also demonstrates a little bit of position power through his status as a professional teacher. Kato believes this type of status enables him to fight and liberate those who cannot because of the lower status they may hold. Kato is able to use his power as a teacher to help fight for his and others' beliefs.


(Posted by: Kelly Yuen)

Rupert Murdoch - Shapes Public Opinion

This serves as an excellent example of a shaper of public opinion.  Murdoch discusses his views on U.S. involvement in the war.  Although individuals may not agree with our involvement, Murdoch does a tremendous job of explaining the importance of taking a stance.

I feel it is important because he influences an opinion, but his ideas and beliefs tend to at least get others involved.  Whether the issue be U.S. at war, or communism, or any given scenario, each person has the ability to take a stance.  Murdoch and others that speak out for their beliefs and attempt to persuade, at least promote involvement in any given issue.

It made me think...Do I particularly have my own stance on an issue, or do I merely agree with somebody else's opinion?

-Danny Mielneczek

Introduction

Welcome to our blog!
We will focus our posts on current leaders of social movements, leaders of political change, and anyone else who may be leading change and taking risks. Whether these leaders are successful in their attempts or not, they give us a better idea of their style of leadership and the impact that they are making.

Kellen Hill

Tara Kaeb

Nick Kulavic

Danny Mielneczek

and

Kelly Yuen