Take the credibility pledge

Submitted by Samuel Jefferson Kennard

March 17, 2016 7:22 a.m.

Cred . i . bil . I . ty: The quality of being believed or accepted as true, real or honest. Credibility is an exacting and consistent standard that can be lost or damaged through careless or deliberate behavior.

I believe that those of us engaged in advocacy of solutions for the priority issues affecting the general public welfare of our community have a responsibility, a moral and legal obligation, to be credible. Where possible, we must endeavor to clearly delineate facts from opinions. We must narrow credibility gaps, public skepticism of the disparity between what is said or written and the actual fact. Advocacy should be fact-based, grounded in credible behavior and underscored by the highest level of integrity.

In the public discourse of local matters that are important and urgent, sometimes the heat of emotion exceeds the light of reason. Sometimes knowledge is pursued through pseudo science instead of the scientific method. Some people begin with a desired conclusion and use Google research to collect information that supports their pre-conceived position.

Sometimes conclusions presented as facts are based on incorrect assumptions. You get the picture.

Recently, I have noticed a disturbing reaction to some public advocacy, a leap in logic from healthy skepticism to paranoid distrust. Those expressing disagreement with opinions and facts being advocated by others, and unable to challenge the professional and credible opinions, assessments and facts, turn their animus toward attacking the advocate’s motives and impugning their integrity. Resorting to character assassination is truly a sad and contemptuous turn of events.

I urge those of us representing advocacy organizations or otherwise inclined to write opinion letters to newspaper editors, post them on web sites or plead causes before local governmental officials to pledge to be more professional and credible. Take the credibility pledge. This will raise the level of civil public discourse and provide for more informed decision-making.

Editor's Note: Samuel Jefferson Kennard's Florida roots go back to the early nineteenth century. His pioneer ancestor signed the Territory of Florida's First Constitution in 1838 and others have lived continuously on Amelia Island for 150 years. The great grandson of a Cumberland Sound pilot family, Kennard continues a proud tradition of advocacy for a viable Port of Fernandina. Kennard stated, "Nassau County, and Fernandina Beach need a working port. It's part of our rich heritage and who we are."

Kennard is founding chairman of Stand for Amelia Island, Inc., a not for profit State of Florida Corporation dedicated to advocating solutions for important issues affecting the general public welfare of Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island and Nassau County.

Kennard was graduated from the University of Georgia and attended Harvard Business School executive development programs. Kennard is married and he and his wife, Karin live on Amelia Island.