Writing for the Public Good

Insights into modern American politics and society from two of Florida's most influential public figures



Writing for the Public Good

presents a selection of over 100 important opinion pieces from David R.

Colburn (1942-2019) and Senator Bob Graham, two of the most influential

public figures in recent Florida history. Spanning 30 years and

addressing a wide variety of topics that continue to be relevant today,

these essays show the key role of Florida in modern American life and

politics and illustrate the power of civic engagement in tackling issues

facing the nation.



Exemplifying public

writing that connects with and informs readers everywhere, these pieces

appeared as op-eds in outlets including the Miami Herald, the Tampa Bay Times, the Tampa Tribune, the Orlando Sentinel, the New York Times, the Washington Post, Politico, and Time.

With style, intelligence, and thoughtfulness, Colburn and Graham

examine subjects including the economy, race relations, public

education, the environment, national intelligence, and international

affairs. They look to history to give context to the social problems of

today, and they point forward to constructive solutions that center on

the role of citizen activism.



Together, these essays

chart the history of modern Florida, reflecting the state's rise to a

Sunbelt powerhouse that is often at the center of national

conversations. Colburn and Graham challenge readers to consider and

discuss different perspectives on current issues and, above all, to

respond. Readers will come away with renewed hope that their actions can

make a difference to improve society and will be inspired to work for a

better tomorrow.