Yesterday morning, I was honored to attend the City of Dallas Council Inauguration ceremony at the Meyerson Symphony Center. Yes, it was a grandiose occasion where dignitaries, civic leaders, role models, even our future (shout out to the Parks and Rec Department for sending a couple of summer camps to witness this event) were in attendance, but that’s not why I was excited. Yes, it’s believed to be one of the youngest councils in Dallas’ history, speaking volumes based on the historical decision makers of the city and how this affects young intellectuals views of Dallas proper, but THAT didn’t even excite me, either. For the first time, I had several friends (and one former teacher-she taught me AP Government) who were starting their career as a city policy maker, and I felt very proud of them. I’m witnessing people who I’ve learned from and worked with in “the movement” achieve one of their goals, and I’m extremely happy for them. They have all worked hard the last several months (and years) to get to this point, and they deserve to enjoy this time….
This entry isn’t designed to be a very long message, I just want to thank the 15 people who will be doing the work of the people of Dallas; from enduring hours long of council meetings, becoming target practice at town hall meetings, not feeling appreciated for the daily decisions made to better the city, and sacrificing their time, energy, and talents from their families to help the greater good. You are true leaders who will be admired, acknowledged, and appreciated for the work you will do to help your constituents.
With that, I trust you all are doing this for the right reason; to make ALL of Dallas a better city. You all are the city’s highest ranking officials; the realization that, if different people from different backgrounds can work together and create a solution for the greater good, then ALL of the city will benefit. Do you notice I’m emphasizing ALL, lol.
Everyone on that stage motivated me. I was able to see the bigger picture, and want to make sure I’m able to do what I need in order to make your job effective at the horseshoe. We need both policy makers and the citizens to pull their weight in order make this work, and I’m willing to do just that.
Let’s make Dallas Great!
Mr. Matt Houston 