Opinion: What We Cherish, We Must Also Protect

This past weekend, as my family — and families across the country — gathered to celebrate the Fourth of July, I found myself reflecting on what first drew me to public service and what continues to inspire me today. I believe deeply in the promise of democracy, but I also know it doesn’t fulfill itself. The gifts of personal freedom and opportunity come with responsibility: to care for our community, to listen across differences, and to show up for one another — especially when it’s hard.

That belief is rooted in my own experience, but I also see it reflected every day here in Riverside. We are a city of doers, of problem-solvers, of neighbors who look out for each other. Local government may not dominate the headlines like Washington or Sacramento, but it’s where the real work happens — and where people feel it most. When a streetlight goes out or a pothole needs fixing, it’s City Hall you call. That closeness creates trust, connection, and accountability. It’s what makes Riverside... Riverside.

At a time when national dialogue often feels polarized and impersonal, our shared values stand out as a powerful example of what community can look like. I’ve seen residents speak passionately on opposite sides of an issue, yet still shake hands, thank each other, and walk away with mutual respect. That kind of engagement is not just admirable — it’s essential. And it’s something we must actively protect.

Civility is not weakness. It’s strength. It’s the discipline of listening with empathy, of disagreeing without demeaning, of remembering that even in conflict, we are still neighbors. Respectful engagement is what allows democracy to function. And in Riverside, it’s part of who we are. It’s part of what I call the Riverside Way.

But we cannot take it for granted.

This is a moment of choice. Across the country, civic trust is being tested. Conversations too often become battlegrounds instead of bridges. But here in Riverside, we have both the opportunity and the responsibility to lead differently. We can show that progress doesn’t require hostility — and that strong convictions don’t require harsh words.

As your local leaders, we help set the tone. That tone should be one of humility, inclusion, and above all, respect. Leadership isn’t just about what we post or what we promise — it’s about how we treat one another. That’s where trust is built. That’s where change begins.

So, as we celebrate our nation’s birthday, I invite you to stay involved and stay respectful. Speak your truth. Listen with care. Participate in the civic life of our city — not just because you can, but because your voice, shared with civility, helps strengthen the very foundation of our community.

We all have a role to play in shaping the future of Riverside. Let’s make sure it’s a future grounded in kindness, fairness, and mutual respect.

Thank you for being part of this community. Let’s keep building it together.