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The "Infamous" Photo (Editorial)by Patti Sewall, Editor of PEACEKeeper Let me begin this column with a confession of sorts: I never meant to offend anyone. You're probably thinking, "Uh oh, this can't be good." Actually, it is good. It's just all in the way you look at it.Last issue I replaced the attractive, business–attire photo of State President Mike Jimenez that runs on page five with a more recent reflection of your strong union leader. I did this for a few reasons, none of which includes embarrassing him or the membership. I ran the new photo because that's what he looks like now and he is trying to make a statement on behalf of the membership, and because he's trying to rally the troops as the organization attempts to negotiate a new contract with the state. I also thought it would be an interesting way to see just how many people are paying attention to this publication. What I found out was a bit surprising. Surprising in that, as of this writing, I've only heard from one member who good–naturedly asked what the heck was going on. However, I have since been told by some of our executives in the building that "many, many" people were unhappy about the new photo, and phoned to complain or logged their comments on the popular pacovilla blog. As state president, Mike has never been one to shy away from a challenge, or anybody presenting a challenge. Most of you know that. He may not look like the most professional person on the Senate floor, but he's the one I'd listen to. With or without the facial hair and growing mane, he simply appears to know what he's talking about. Attitude and conviction-along with knowing the facts-go a long way here. Mike is who he is, and he doesn't easily lose his focus. And that, my friends, is a good thing. That said, I'll add that while I don't want to offend those who think photo #1 is best, I also don't want to tee off those who prefer photo #2. Sound wishy–washy? Maybe, but it can't be helped. On one hand, our crazy mixed–up society long ago ruled that appearances do indeed matter, and this membership has worked very hard over the years to get outsiders to recognize their professionalism as peace officers. Who am I to dismantle that, even unintentionally? On the other hand, I did, after all, publish the controversial photo that prompted the comments. And in the last few days some have asked what does it really matter what the photo looks like, when he is walking around looking like something else, making a stand for you all, in this recent shaky world of politically correct correctional systems. In other words, how much worse can a photo be from the real thing, as one retired member asked. I suspect the "many" offended members took umbrage to the updated photo because, working within the facilities, they are not allowed to let it all hang out, so to speak, as Mike appears to be doing, and many members may be worried what such an appearance says to the rest of the world about the professionalism of this organization and its membership. An understandable concern. But remember this, whatever your opinion of the importance of image, the impact of a photograph, or even scraggily hair and a 5 o'clock shadow, the absolute bottom line is that your professionalism, or the perception of your professionalism, lies entirely in your hands-not in Mike's reflection. How you conduct yourselves within your workplace, your communities, as a representative of CCPOA, with family and friends, is how the world will judge your integrity and professionalism-or lack thereof. All you have to do is hold true to who you are, what you do, and why you became a peace officer. Caveman jokes aside, if you're doing the right thing, no one can doubt your character. No one can discount your professionalism. It's a way of life, not a reflection in the mirror.  Print This PageBack to Volume 24, Issue 2 Back to PEACEKeeper Main Page |
