Choosing Compassion, Rutland Leader Gale Waller Shares Vision for 2026

Choosing Compassion, Rutland Leader Gale Waller Shares Vision for 2026

In her latest column for the Rutland Times, Rutland County Council Leader Gale Waller (Lib Dem) has issued a poignant New Year’s message, calling for a transition from global "darkness" toward a local culture of compassion and shared humanity.

Reflecting on a year marked by international conflict and rising domestic tensions, Cllr Gale Waller urged residents to look beyond their differences as they enter 2026.

While the New Year is traditionally a time of celebration, Gale Waller’s message opened with a sobering reflection on the state of the world. She highlighted the ongoing war in Ukraine and the dire situation in Gaza as shadows over the global landscape.

Closer to home, she noted a troubling rise in Antisemitism and anti-immigration sentiment. Abuse directed at local politicians, both online and in person.

By acknowledging these "dark" realities, Gale Waller framed her message not just as a seasonal greeting, but as a call to action for civic decency.

Drawing on the diverse fabric of faith and tradition, Gale Waller noted that the "celebration of light" is a thread that connects almost every major world religion and philosophy during the winter months.

From the Christian celebration of the birth of Christ and the Jewish festival of Hanukkah to the Hindu, Sikh, and Jain traditions of Diwali and the pagan observance of the winter solstice, she argued that the desire for "light entering the world" is a universal human instinct.

"It is not just the physical light of the sun in these dark winter days that we need to celebrate, but the light of compassion, understanding and common humanity," Gale Waller wrote.

The core of the Leader’s message was a plea for empathy. She reminded residents that despite differences in food, clothing, or customs, the fundamental human desires—family, food, and a secure home—remain the same for everyone.

She encouraged the community to Step into the shoes of others rather than turning away from those who are different. Increase charitable giving and support for the less fortunate. Visit lonely neighbours to combat isolation.

As Rutland families gathered to relax and party, Gale Waller also took a moment to recognise those who do not have the luxury of a holiday break. She expressed "genuine sympathy and admiration" for the emergency services and essential staff who work through the festive period to keep the county running.

Gale Waller concluded her column with a hopeful outlook, wishing the people of Rutland a "profitable, joyous and kind 2026." Her message serves as a reminder that while local government manages the "bricks and mortar" of the county, the strength of Rutland lies in the kindness and resilience of its people.