Bill Westenberger

Putting the Unity in CommUNITY

BY BILL WESTENBERGER

Regardless of the media source or where you stand on any issue, there seem to be more and more problems dividing our world, nation and community. What’s odd is most people have similar beliefs on most things but recently are finding themselves being polarized and almost forced into a category. This division is causing more communities to be ripped apart. As I see this happening around me, it is becoming increasingly painful.

Fortunately, there are still people among us who, even in division, find common ground to unify. Unfortunately, they don’t seem to make the headlines or become the lead stories. It doesn’t seem as newsworthy to seek peace and understanding. It’s even more troubling when stones are cast toward those who want calmer waters.

In June, the Kennesaw Police Department (KPD), along with my citizen advisory board, hosted the second annual Unity in Community Juneteenth Celebration. Amazing is the only way I can describe the day that our KPD team shared with those we serve. This was a gift provided by the vision of advisory board members. They saw what could be and created a beautiful event.

What you might not know is that the creators of the celebration had

The winners of the tug-of-war contest chant “We’re No. 1” during Kennesaw’s Juneteenth celebration.

this vision during a time when the relationship between law enforcement and the people they served was strained and broken. They saw healing before many felt it would ever be possible. They trusted their hearts and have been able to help rebuild trust.

Slavery was an extremely dark time, and through emancipation, these United States were able to begin a sincere path to unity. Now, as we continue to help share acceptance for those who might not feel equal, we celebrate Juneteenth by sharing opportunities to unite and develop relationships and friendships that build connections. In just its second year, this event already has established a platform that is giving back by contributing to a scholarship program that’s helping middle school students with returnto-school resources.

Thankfully, there are those in our community who see unity shining through the curse of division. This vision will continue to build us into a better community than we were yesterday. I can’t wait to see what it looks like.

Until next time, stay safe.

Bill Westenberger has served as chief since 2008. He was given the 2019 Kennesaw Citizen of the Year Award.