Page 24 - District 20-K1 Kings & Queens September 2021 E-Newsletter

Highlights

AN UNPRECEDENTED

VIRTUAL INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION

IP Douglas X. Alexander takes the “Oath of Office” IP Doug addresses Lions & Leos of the world (see article below)
DOUGLAS X. ALEXANDER
104th. INTERNATIONAL PRSIDENT
Home Club: Brooklyn Bedford Stuyvesant Lions Club
(Excerpt from The Inaugural Address)

Immediately following his installation and the reading of several congratulatory messages from dignitaries, including The Mayor of New
York City, Honorable Bill de Blasio, and New York State Senator and Majority Leader Charles Schumer, IP Doug presented a heartwarming
inaugural address to the Lions and Leos of the world.
“I am truly excited by this honor and humbled by the incredible service opportunity that you have given to me. And I am deeply grateful
to all of you, especially my family, Lion Shabiki, my partner in service and my two daughters who have taught me to love and live with a
hope that transcends all borders. Love knows no borders and together, we can all draw strength from the same special place, regardless
of language or cultural differences. That special place is deep within your heart where there is a shared passion for service. Together, we
will offer service from the heart I encourage you to put love in your heart! Love is contagious!”
IP Doug promised to serve and lead with dedication and compassion. He emphasized that service to others is a personal choice to
sacrifice self and build others up because it is the right thing to do. When we engage others, we will uncover multiple opportunities to
make a real and tangible difference in their lives, strengthen our community and help to heal the broken parts of our world with kindness
and love.
“Change in the world begins with me”, he challenged “Your act of service is a gift to the world. Let all people feel welcome and valued”,
he advised. “And when we provide adequate space for every voice to be heard, we will benefit from the power of connection and
communication.”
“Lions are part of a family like no other”, he proclaimed , “and with our hearts united in service, we will be able to lift up our various
communities throughout the world. In these times of great need, we must show a greater passion for service. We can make the world a
better place for all people”.
“I have hope for a better tomorrow and my heart is filled with optimism“ IP Doug emphasized. “When we serve together, the pulse of
our heartbeat grows stronger. Our time on earth is a gift! Let us use it to embrace a world of great possibilities and new beginnings!”
IP Doug then administered the Oath of Office and virtually installed the District Governors from around the world, who will serve as
executive officers in LY 2021 - 2022.
In conclusion, he thanked the staff of Lions Clubs International who hosted a truly memorable, unprecedented virtual experience with
style and grace. He also saluted his Home Club, Brooklyn Bedford Stuyvesant Lions Club and all other Lions and Lion leaders who
mentored, encouraged and supported him along his journey of service.
Reported by: Lion Annette Hinkson-Smith