The Moment To Be Rather Than Seem

“Esse Quam Videri” – the official state motto of North Carolina – was adopted on February 21, 1893. The Latin phrase, which translates to “to be rather than to seem,” originates from De Amicitia, an essay on friendship written by Cicero, the Roman author and politician, around 44 B.C. In that essay, Cicero contrasts the true character and virtue of friendship with the mere appearance of such qualities. He argued that authentic friendship requires demonstrated moral character through honest, loyal, and sincere actions – not actions driven by public recognition, reputation, or image. This principle captures the ideals of authentic, principled, and trustworthy leadership and relationships. Today, that motto calls on our institutions and leaders to uphold the dignity, safety, and due process rights of every person who calls this state home.

Over the past 72 hours, North Carolina has experienced a surge of law enforcement activity that has created fear and heightened anxiety across immigrant communities. These are not abstract concerns. They are lived realities for thousands of residents who contribute to the cultural, economic, and social fabric of our state. Families should not wake up afraid. Children should not fear their parents will not come home. Neighbors should not feel unsafe seeking essential services or reporting emergencies.

This moment is about people, not politics. Our communities and states are stronger when residents feel safe, respected, and able to fully participate in civic life. When fear takes root, it erodes trust in public institutions, discourages cooperation with law enforcement, and undermines public safety for everyone. It also threatens the values we claim to hold dear: fairness, justice, and compassion.

As leaders in North Carolina, we must meet this moment with clarity, courage, and a commitment to the principles we profess: to be, rather than to seem. That means ensuring transparency in enforcement actions, safeguarding due process, and prioritizing the well-being of families and children. It means engaging with community organizations, faith leaders, and local governments to provide accurate information and resources. And it means rejecting rhetoric that dehumanizes or divides but choosing instead to affirm the inherent worth of every individual.

North Carolina’s strength lies in its diversity and in the shared belief that every person deserves dignity and opportunity. Let us act in ways that reflect that truth – not for appearances, but because it is right. In doing so, we honor our state’s motto and demonstrate that leadership is not about seeming virtuous, but about being steadfast in the pursuit of justice and humanity.