Labor Day not only celebrates the contributions of workers but also honors the leaders who have paved the way for progress in various industries. Beyond their achievements, these icons offer valuable leadership lessons that resonate across time and professions. Let’s delve into the stories of some Labor Day icons, extracting insights that can guide us in today’s complex professional landscape. LEADERSHIP LESSONS FROM LABOR DAY ICONS
CORN AND TOMATO RISOTTO
September marks the tail end of corn and tomato season. Hillary has been making this recipe since she found it in a House & Garden magazine in 1997. It tastes like summer but is also great comfort food for fall. Delicious! INGREDIENTS Tomato Concasse • 2 shallots, diced • 1 garlic clove, chopped • 2 tbsp olive oil • 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, peeled (drop in boiling water for 30 seconds and the peel will come off easily) • 1/2 cup white wine Risotto • 6–8 cups chicken broth or stock • 1/4 cup chopped shallot • 3 tbsp olive oil • 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice • 3 ears of corn (peel and cut kernels off cob) • 1/4 cup heavy cream • Handful of herbs, chopped • Salt and pepper
Cesar Chavez: Champion of Empowerment Cesar Chavez, a prominent labor leader and civil rights activist, demonstrated the power of empowering others. As the co- founder of the United Farm Workers (UFW), Chavez advocated for fair wages and better working conditions for farm laborers. His commitment to nonviolent protest and community mobilization showcased the strength of collective action. One of his key leadership lessons is the importance of empowering your team, fostering a sense of unity, and advocating for justice.
Mary Harris ‘Mother’ Jones: Fearless Advocacy Known as “Mother” Jones, Mary Harris was a fiery labor and community organizer. She fearlessly championed the rights of workers, particularly child laborers, and played a pivotal role in the labor movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Her leadership lesson lies in her unwavering determination to stand up for those who couldn’t speak for themselves. Leaders today can learn from her courage to address difficult issues, amplify marginalized voices, and advocate for positive change.
Eleanor Roosevelt: Compassionate Leadership Eleanor Roosevelt, the former First Lady and human rights advocate, exemplified compassionate leadership. Her dedication to social justice, civil rights, and women’s rights showcased the impact of using one’s platform to uplift marginalized communities. Her leadership lesson centers on the importance of empathy, active listening, and using your influence to create a more equitable and inclusive world.
DIRECTIONS
1. Make the concasse: In a large skillet, sauté the shallots and garlic in the olive oil for several minutes until softened. Add the tomatoes and white wine. Simmer for 15 minutes. 2. Make the risotto: Put chicken stock in a pot and bring to a simmer. In a separate 2-quart sauté pan, cook shallots over medium heat. Add rice and stir. Add 1 cup stock, stirring until absorbed. Continue adding about a cup of broth at a time and stirring until the rice is tender, 20–25 minutes. 3. Reduce heat, add 1/2 cup tomato concasse, corn kernels, cream, and 1/4 cup herbs. Add salt and pepper. Cook until corn is heated through. 4. Reheat remaining concasse. 5. Serve risotto with concasse on top and sprinkled with herbs.
Steve Jobs: Innovative Vision Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple Inc., was a visionary leader who revolutionized technology and design. His relentless pursuit of innovation and perfection transformed industries and created products that shaped modern life. His leadership lesson revolves around embracing innovation, thinking outside the box, and fostering a culture that encourages bold ideas and calculated risks.
Dolores Huerta: Persistence and Perseverance Dolores Huerta, another UFW co-founder and labor activist, showcased the power of persistence and perseverance. Her work in advocating for farm workers’ rights spanned decades, demonstrating the impact of long-term commitment to a cause. Her leadership lesson emphasizes the value of determination, resilience, and staying focused on your goals even in the face of challenges.
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