HER MISSION WAS TO SPEARHEAD THE MESSAGE THAT THE UN WOULD SET ASIDE NO PERSON AND NO COUNTRY.

country. One of her significant achievements was forming and composing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The document promised the political influence of powerful nations to ensure the fair treatment of all human beings and that everyone deserved economic security and personal safety. Regardless of origin, politics, race, creed, or sex, all people were of equal value. Acceptance of this principle would provide a worldwide foundation for peace. As a woman, she often vocalised her agreement with article 16 of the Declaration, which stated that both men and women have equal rights in marriage and divorce.

Rather than take the role of domestic aide and hostess, Eleanor Roosevelt rebelled by becoming a political activist referred to as the eyes and ears of her husband, whom she influenced with her ideas. She was present at board meetings and often spoke up, offering her left-wing opinions. Many resented her presence in these meetings believing her inclusion was inappropriate. Often labelled as a socialist for her stances on women’s rights, civil rights, and human rights, some campaigned for her removal from power, seeing her as a traitor to her class. The FBI held files on Eleanor, which became the largest in American history, resulting in Director J. Edgar Hoover

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Continued from page 39 becoming increasingly suspicious of her actions and intentions.

Eleanor Roosevelt developed immunity to criticism, protecting her from the sexist oppression of her time. This shield could have been in the form of a thick skin, which has its downsides causing some to infer that she was cold. Rather than the warm nature that often accompanies empathy, critics regarded her demeanour as sometimes so cold she could freeze the heart. Sometimes the words we need to hear can hurt because we misinterpret the underlying intention. Nonetheless, the people listened to her message, which helped even out the hierarchy between men and women.

Just as a fire starts with a spark, a movement begins with a new voice. Former First Ladies Rosalynn Carter, Hillary Clinton, and Michelle Obama have all followed in the footsteps of Eleanor Roosevelt. However, the one leading the movement must prepare for opposition. Breaking the mould is problematic because a preexisting framework provides a way of life for those living within the boundaries and conforming to prescribed rules. These paradigms offer people security because it means tomorrow will be much the same as today. It takes courage and strength of character to challenge the mould, let alone break it. However, if it is antiquated or unfair, then all that is required is for one person to speak up and say so.

Eleanor Roosevelt knew that with power comes responsibility. Although she abandoned many political affiliations, she was an influential figurehead with an authoritative network with whom she could realise her ambitions. Other first ladies had not challenged public expectations but assumed the role with quiet submission and service. Instead, Eleanor recognised that through her privileged position, she could make a difference in the world and contribute towards the greater good.

Eleanor Roosevelt was a proclaimer of human rights, an influence on modern-day first ladies, and a servant to the rest of the world. While we could learn much more from her, we can summarise her lessons in leadership with the following principles.

ELEANOR ROOSEVELT WAS A PROCLAIMER OF HUMAN RIGHTS, AN INFLUENCE ON MODERN-DAY FIRST LADIES, AND A SERVANT TO THE REST OF THE WORLD.

Lesson 1: Never Let Hardship Steal Your Vision

Lesson 2. Develop Maturity Through Pain

Lesson 3. Lead People With Cultural Awareness Lesson 4. Develop knowledge Through Listening

Lesson 5. Be Bold and Courageous with New Ideas

Lesson 6. Promote Equality and Impartiality

Lesson 7. Stand For What is Right Lesson 8. Rise Above the Criticism

Lesson 9. Break the Mould Lesson 10. Be Responsible with Power 