Leadership Lessons from Lincoln: Building Unity in Divided Times

By Valarie R. Austin, November 27th, 2024, 4:30 PM EDT

(Previously Published on LinkedIn)

In today’s politically divided classrooms and workplaces, young leaders face the daunting challenge of uniting people with differing perspectives. During one of America’s darkest hours, President Abraham Lincoln delivered his Gettysburg Address, declaring, "...conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal." These enduring words offer timeless guidance on fostering unity and inclusion.

On that November day in 1863, Lincoln addressed a nation fractured by civil war, appealing to its higher ideals. Today, we face our own tests of unity and leadership amid societal divisions. As both a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel and a career readiness author, I have witnessed firsthand how the principles of inclusive leadership drive success—whether in military service, education, or the workplace. These lessons remain as vital now as they were in Lincoln’s time, particularly for those poised to lead the next generation.

Who Decides What It Means to Be American?

Throughout our history, America has wrestled with questions of identity or "American-ness." Who belongs, and who gets to decide?  Immigrants, racial minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and others have often been told they are “not American enough” based on arbitrary and exclusionary standards. These challenges often manifest in familiar refrains: "You do not look like an American," " You do not sound like an American," "You do not pray, live, or love the right way."

This harmful mindset has left its mark on our history, from Jim Crow laws to Japanese internment camps to the forced assimilation of Indigenous children. Yet, America’s greatness has often been shaped by marginalized groups who defied exclusion and enriched the nation with their contributions. For example, a recent PBS.org documentary series highlighted the early history of Muslims in America. One story features Mahmoud Yarrow, a former slave who became a symbol of faith and resilience in early America. Another tells of Muhammad Kahn, an Afghan immigrant who fought for the Union Army during the Civil War. Their perseverance demonstrates that inclusion, not exclusion, drives progress. At the same time, the historical examples of discrimination emphasize the importance of taking action to confront injustice in all its forms to build a more inclusive future.

When Leaders Divide, Everyone Loses

Unfortunately, divisive mindsets still jeopardize America’s progress, as seen in the current political landscape. Whether it is an education superintendent mandating religious texts  and prayer in public classrooms, or Donald Trump's nomination of Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense, such actions erode our nation’s solidarity. Hegseth's troubling statements about women in combat and "woke" military leadership undermine the collective strength essential for military success. As a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel who served in Desert Storm, I understand that military readiness depends on embracing diverse talents. For young people entering schools, colleges, and workplaces, this presents a critical lesson:  true leadership unites rather than divides. Success in any endeavor from leading class projects to starting first jobs depends on bringing people together to achieve shared goals.

What Young Leaders Can Do to Build Unity

Lincoln’s closing words, “of the people, by the people, for the people,” call each generation to action. For young leaders, here are three practical steps to promote unity:

1. Promote Inclusion in Your Daily Life: Start small. Speak up when someone is excluded from a study group or project. Create spaces where everyone can contribute their perspectives. These everyday actions build the leadership skills you will need in school and beyond.
2. Learn from Our Full History: Understanding America’s triumphs and struggles give you tools to recognize and challenge exclusion. This awareness will guide better decisions as you take on leadership roles in clubs, internships, and careers.
3. Practice Principled Leadership: Focus on uniting others around shared goals. Even when facing differing viewpoints, choose approaches that foster collaboration and mutual respect.


By taking these steps, you honor Lincoln's vision of a united and inclusive America while building a foundation for your success.

Moving Forward Together

Lincoln’s objective of reconciliation was not just about ending a war; it was about building a better future. America’s institutions, especially its government, can and should advance the fortunes and transformative opportunities of its citizens no matter their race, religion, creed, gender, or socioeconomic status. As you take on roles as students, professionals, and citizens, remember that leadership is not about titles or position. It is about your actions to bring people together, value every voice, and find common ground. Your generation has unprecedented opportunities to shape inclusive communities and workplaces. By rejecting division and embracing resolution, you help ensure that Lincoln's dream of liberty and equality does not just endure, but grows stronger with every new generation.

Valarie R. Austin is the author of The Student’s Comprehensive Guide for College & Other Life Lessons. She has a wealth of knowledge on the subjects of career and college preparation. She also conducts career and college readiness workshops for high school students, parents and transitioning military members. Check out her LinkedIn page at https://www.linkedin/in/valarie-r-austin. Copyright 2024, Vauboix Publishing LLC. (Article 4 of 4, fall 2024)