Osceola County, FL, Council Meeting
2 March 2020
Jocelyn Williamson (333 words)

Good afternoon Madam Chair, commissioners, staff, citizens, and guests. Thank you for including me in this first meeting of March.

Today is the beginning of early voting for the presidential preference primaries in Osceola County. And March is designated Women’s History Month. With that in mind I would like to quote Susan B. Anthony when she said “Someone struggled for your right to vote. Use it.” In fact, Anthony was arrested and convicted for voting in her hometown of Rochester, New York in 1872 before women had the right to vote. We've come a long way since then and I am glad to see the representation of women on the Commission here in Osceola.

We gather together today to find the best solutions for the county. So, with that goal in mind, and before we begin, let us take time to pause and refocus our thoughts for the task at hand.

To quote another distinguished woman in history - Harriot Tubman - “Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” This cannot be more true than for those here to serve the County in any capacity this afternoon.

Everyone gathered in this room - is here with the dream and the energy to make a difference for the County.

May we recognize the value of each voice which speaks today. Let us strive to achieve a balance between listening and reflecting, between speaking and acting. May we focus fully and embrace the patience needed to truly listen to each other.

Let us incline our ears toward reason, apply our hearts to understanding and seek knowledge for the hope of finding common ground and bettering the County of Osceola.

May we remember the people who are in our community and impacted by the choices we make this afternoon – including those future generations, whose lives are guided by the decisions reached.

Thank you.