Gaining Public Trust: A Profile of Civic Engagement

When Norm Rice was elected mayor of Seattle, it was the most divisive, polarized time in the city’s history. African Americans were only 10% of the city’s population and Norm’s election was ground-breaking. It was 1989 and the city was torn apart over the issue of busing to achieve school desegregation. On the same ballot with Norm was an anti- busing initiative. The anti-busing measure passed, Norm was elected and he became the mayor of a city tearing itself apart.

With candor and wisdom, Norm Rice chronicles his journey to leadership and public service, and the lessons he learned about civic engagement through his remarkable success in bringing a divided city together.

Norm’s biggest strength is that he listens to people. -King County Democrat Central Committee

Norm Rice was one of the best mayors Seattle has ever had. Rare is the public leader who manages to be highly effective and well-regarded. Rice has been both. -Seattle Times - December 12, 2013