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Case Study: Interpersonal Leadership
Abstract
This study examines the response of the city of Asheville to the "Defund the Police" movement
in 2020, applying statesmanship principles and leadership competencies. It emphasizes the
importance of considering diverse stakeholder perspectives and conducting well-researched
policymaking. The analysis incorporates statesmanship and servant leadership, highlighting the
commitment to the greater good and community needs. Emotional intelligence is identified as
vital for leaders navigating complex issues with strong community reactions. The study also
introduces a Christian perspective on trust, integrity, and accountability in leadership. It
concludes by addressing the impact of the city council's decisions on public safety and
community cohesion, emphasizing the need for emotional intelligence-based statesmanship for
ethical and effective governance.
Keywords: statesmanship, covenant, servant leadership, emotional intelligence
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Case Study: Interpersonal Leadership
Case Study: Interpersonal Leadership in Asheville's Response to 'Defund the Police'
Effective statesmanship in governance requires leaders to prioritize the well-being of
their constituents. Public administrators, both elected and non-elected, play a crucial role in
actively engaging in statesmanship and addressing complex policy issues with nuanced decision-
making (Newswander, 2012). This study focuses on Asheville's response to the "Defund the
Police" movement, exploring the city administration's choices in the context of statesmanship
principles. Specifically, it assesses the role of emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills in
navigating complex policy issues with strong reactions from supporters and opponents. The
objective is to understand how statesmanship traits, such as nuance, compassion, and bringing
people together, were applied in managing this controversial issue impacting the Asheville
community.
“Defund the Police”
The "Defund the Police" movement, calling for reductions in police funding and
responsibilities, gained momentum in 2020 after the tragic death of George Floyd (Harmon &
Harman-Heath, 2021). Asheville found itself entangled in this controversy as community
activists advocated reallocating police budgets to address root causes of crime, such as housing,
healthcare, and education. The city administration faced the challenge of balancing diverse
perspectives while ensuring public safety.
As the government sought to address racial disparities and use of force, Asheville
implemented policies reducing the police budget and responsibilities per "defunding" reforms.
However, rising crime statistics compelled a reexamining of impacts on safety. Asheville's rising
rates of violent crime merit examination considering recent changes to law enforcement. Assaults
and armed robberies rose 21.8% and 20% from 2021 to 2022, coinciding with staffing changes.
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Case Study: Interpersonal Leadership
Nearly 100 officers left since May 2020 (Brown, 2023). In early 2023, Asheville City Council
voted to substantially raise the police budget, reflecting officials grappling with reform and
community protection tradeoffs. Further analysis could provide lessons on crafting changes that
balance competing priorities around justice and safety.
Leadership Competencies
Denhardt et al. (2013) highlight leadership abilities that support efficient decision-making
and policy formation. These skills include considering the opinions of various stakeholders,
refraining from implementing policies prematurely, and carefully analyzing workable
alternatives. To promote inclusion and participatory governance, leaders are urged to actively
interact with community members. The focus on thoroughly researched policymaking protects
against the influence of ephemeral influences and emphasizes the significance of making
informed decisions (Bearfield et al., 2023). The abilities delineated encourage elected officials to
promote equitable, knowledgeable, and efficient government by considering a range of
viewpoints, deliberate policy decisions, and community involvement (Newbold, 2011).
Statesmanship
Newswander (2012) emphasizes that statesmanship is a concept rooted in the advocacy
for the state and its residents, characterized by moral discernment and intellectual sophistication.
Statesmen are expected to navigate the complexities of governance with a focus on the well-
being of the community and the ethical considerations that accompany such responsibilities.
McGuinness (n.d.), in the context of leadership, introduces the concept of servant
leadership, which places emphasis on empowerment and prioritizing the needs of others over
self-interest. Servant leaders are driven by a commitment to serve and uplift those they lead,
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Case Study: Interpersonal Leadership
fostering an environment that encourages personal and professional growth among followers
(Denhardt et al., 2013).
When the leaders of Asheville decided to defund the police, they deviated from the
servant leadership values of empowerment and did not follow the rules of statesmanship.
Defunding the police entails a calculated reallocation of resources, and considering this choice in
the context of statesmanship raises the possibility that the moral and intellectual implications of
the decision's effects on the community were not carefully considered.
Given the possible moral ramifications and the effect on the populace, it is unclear if
defunding the Asheville police helps the greater good of the city considering the decision to
disregard statesmanship norms. The leadership style that aims to empower and uplift the citizens
impacted by the choice to defund the police may be called into question if it is not in line with
statesmanship principles. This would mean that the community's welfare is not being prioritized
over individual interests (McGuinness, n.d.).
Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence, as outlined by Kotzé and Venter (2011), encompasses four key
components: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management.
Self-awareness involves recognizing and understanding one's own emotions, strengths, and
weaknesses. Self-management pertains to the ability to regulate and control one's emotions,
particularly in challenging situations. Social awareness focuses on understanding the emotions
and perspectives of others, while relationship management involves effectively navigating and
influencing interpersonal dynamics.
Leaders who possess strong emotional intelligence are adept at managing various issues
and employ effective leadership approaches. They can navigate complex situations with a
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Case Study: Interpersonal Leadership
heightened awareness of their own emotions and an understanding of how those emotions may
impact others (Denhardt et al., 2013). Additionally, leaders with robust emotional intelligence
can foster positive relationships, communicate effectively, and navigate conflicts successfully
(Kiel et al., 2009).
An example of the relevance of emotional intelligence in leadership is evident in the
criticism faced by Asheville officials following the passing of George Floyd. The drastic changes
implemented during this period drew attention to the importance of leaders exhibiting emotional
intelligence. In this context, leaders should demonstrate an ability to consider diverse viewpoints,
understand the emotions of the community, and work toward justice and community
reconciliation. By doing so, leaders can navigate challenging situations with sensitivity and
contribute to building trust and cohesion within the community (Bearfield et al., 2023).
Covenant
Griffith (2021) argues defunding the police creates questions about whether the biblical
command to uphold public order and ensure justice is being fulfilled, which is why it is
inconsistent with Christian leadership values. Christian leadership frequently prioritizes serving
and safeguarding the community, reflecting the idea of stewardship over other people's welfare
(Fischer, 2010). Defunding the police can be viewed as a deviation from the Christian ideal of
preserving communities and fostering peace, since it may result in a decrease in law enforcement
capacities.
Furthermore, Christian teachings frequently emphasize the significance of empathy,
mercy, and compassion—values that are essential in meeting the many needs of people within a
society (Fischer, 2010). These ideals might be compromised by the choice to defund the police,
which could make it more difficult for them to protect the weaker members of the community
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Case Study: Interpersonal Leadership
and deliver necessary services. Defunding the police raises concerns about whether this action is
consistent with the Christian command to love and care for one's neighbors, as Christian
leadership generally emphasizes a commitment to the common good (Griffith, 2021).
Conclusion
Public safety and community cohesion were badly impacted by the Asheville City
Council's handling of the "Defund the Police" issue, which revealed a lack of emotional
intelligence and interpersonal skills. Because of a lack of police officers and understaffing,
impoverished communities may be disproportionately affected by the anticipated increase in
violent crime. It is crucial to teach leaders emotional intelligence-based statesmanship and
decision-making to guarantee efficient government and community leadership.
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Case Study: Interpersonal Leadership
References
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