Dear LSA Community,
As we come into this new year, I reflect on the passing of U.S. President James (Jimmy) Earl Carter. I was a child when Jimmy Carter was elected, only a few years old. His presidency shaped aspects of my childhood in significant ways. President Carter weathered significant criticisms related to the economy and more—yet, as a child, I felt safe.
He was not a president that leaned into division or aggrandizement, but one whose very core recognized the humanity in others. However, his presidency was marked by difficult decisions, from addressing inflation to responding to the Iran hostage crisis. The nightly news regularly featured lengthy lines at gas stations. In his bid for reelection, those images came to symbolize aspects of his presidency.
Some praised Jimmy Carter as the peanut farmer from Georgia, sensing that he reflected and understood hard-working Americans. Those same characteristics were overshadowed by the criticisms of others, some of whom belittled Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, for their modesty. While Americans tightened their budgets, the Carters were critiqued for their lack of grandeur at the White House.
However, for those paying attention, Carter will be remembered for his profound humanity, commitment to service, and distinct efforts to advance equality for women and girls. He appointed more women to the federal bench than all prior presidents combined. He expanded U.S. federal courts at a level that has not been witnessed since. During his presidency, he advanced peace in regions rife with hostility, and secured the Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel. And, perhaps, we have all been a little safer due to his administration’s commitment to making the nonproliferation of chemical, conventional, nuclear, and biological arms a significant part of his foreign policy platform.
Jimmy Carter began his term in office by pardoning those that evaded the Vietnam War draft. He built homes for veterans and others who could not afford housing until he could no longer swing a hammer or lift a screwdriver.
His is a legacy to be celebrated and a life to recognize.
My best,
Michele Goodwin