Attaining Functional Solidarity: Visioning An Inclusive Nation

Abstract

With the advent of time, societies and people become complicated and dispersed. The valuing of solidarity is being left behind. In turn, there arise chaos, conflicts and underdevelopment among people and within societies. This waning sense of solidarity calls for visionary leadership and reflective practices modeled by institution heads and down to workplaces. Mindfulness is such quality and awareness of valuing, a mental state that is achieved by focusing on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one's feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations. Social change theory posits processes of change in a culture’s past and present and is attained in mindfully carrying out vision and mission statement. Solidarity is best achieved in being mindful of the nation’s history, eventualities and the course of action undertaken that bring about social change. This study aimed at exploring the vision statements of leaders as well as their ways of attaining their vision. It assumed barriers to solidarity attainment and social processes. Employing qualitative design, social constructive methodology, it analyzed interpretations and interactions of leaders and followers. It employed one-on-one interview to select institutional leaders whose definition and practice of solidarity were sought. The following themes arise from the analyses: The public leaders’ definition of solidarity revolves around- Gearing towards sustainability, freedom from poverty, social justice and equity, brighter future for the new generation, credible and effective police organization. In implementing these, leaders would take it as a challenge, unite constituents, develop competencies, give the best shot, provide material support, instill values and discipline and role modeling. There are barriers to the attainment of functional solidarity such as: technical competence, deterioration of motivation, the act of doling out, presence of political pressure, and harassment from influential people. Lastly, to attain functional solidarity, themes revolve around: shared decision making, direction check,  time span awareness, mindfulness of the rate of change, and structuring society thru conscientious policies and programs. Implications for educational and political psychology particularly the values of mindful leadership are forwarded.