Shot by Police: Leon Ford’s Journey to Radical Courage
How It Changed My Life
Today we’re unveiling the second video in our new series, Radical Heroes, about extraordinary leaders living with curiosity, compassion, and courage. The video features one of our Founding Partners, Leon Ford, who was shot by police and paralyzed when mistaken for another man in 2012. After years of reflection, self-discovery, and healing, Leon found the courage to not only forgive the officer who shot him, but also create positive change in his hometown of Pittsburgh.
Shot by Police: Leon Ford’s Journey to Radical Courage
Yesterday, Leon took his courageous collaboration to a new level. In partnership with Pittsburgh Police Chief Scott Schubert, he launched The Hear Foundation, the first and only nonprofit focused exclusively on convening, implementing, and funding initiatives that break down barriers and build relationships between police and the community.
United in their love of their hometown, Leon and Chief Schubert formed an unlikely alliance to create a safer, thriving Pittsburgh. Watching them find connection and common ground can serve as inspiration for us all.
Leon shared the following tips for entering into a conversation with someone across a line of difference:
Do the interior work required to heal. In the process, you’ll grow your self-awareness — which can make for a more productive and less contentious exchange.
Meet people where they are, and do your best to look through their lens. Listening to their perspective can help you understand where they are coming from even if you don’t agree.
Did Leon’s story make you think about someone in your life who has hurt you? What might a path to forgiveness look like?
We’re starting with us. We hope you are, too.
The Starts With Us Team