Courageous Leadership comes in all forms and Zeek Arkham shows that despite rank, everyone has a role to play when it comes to leadership. A few years ago, Zeek was tired of the false narratives around policing and decided to speak up. I noticed his bold stances on Twitter (X) and decided to have a conversation with him about the culture, media, politics and many other things.
While it’s the political season, Zeek Arkham is about so much more including courage, truth, and the power of standing up for what you believe in.
Zeek Arkham
Zeek Arkham is not just a name; he represents a movement. As a police officer and a family man, he has transformed his personal experiences into a platform for discussing critical social issues. His journey from law enforcement to social media influencer is a testament to the power of one person and the influence they can have. He recalls how he started by voicing his opinions on social media, initially to his friends and family, which quickly evolved into a larger audience.
“I kept hearing that I should take my views to a bigger stage just because I had a lot to say,” Zeek explains. He recognized a gap in representation, particularly in the Northeast, where he felt his perspective was missing. As he began to share his experiences as a police officer, he found a growing audience that resonated with his views on law enforcement and societal issues.
The Courage to Speak Out
Speaking out in today’s world requires courage. Zeek acknowledges the risks involved, including verbal attacks and criticism. Yet, he believes it’s essential to challenge the prevailing narratives that often misrepresent the realities of policing. “There are a lot of lies and misconceptions about policing,” he says, emphasizing the need to present the truth.
He points out that many in the black community feel pressured to conform to a particular narrative, which can stifle individual expression. “There’s sort of an unspoken social order where you’re not supposed to put your grievances out there,” he explains. Zeek strives to break this mold by encouraging people to voice their opinions freely, regardless of societal expectations.
Challenging the Victimhood Narrative
One of Zeek’s core beliefs is the rejection of the victimhood narrative that often permeates discussions about race and identity. He argues that holding onto historical grievances can hinder progress. “I don’t carry that chip on my shoulder,” he states, advocating for a more proactive approach to life.
His perspective resonates with many who feel similarly trapped by societal expectations. He encourages individuals to take ownership of their lives and decisions, regardless of their background. “You go out there, you do whatever you have to do,” he advises, emphasizing personal agency over victimization.
The Role of the Media
The media's influence cannot be understated. Zeek expresses frustration with how narratives are shaped and presented. “When a white cop happens to shoot a black person, the media highlights the race of the cop but often omits crucial context,” he points out. He believes that this selective reporting fuels misconceptions and further divides communities.
It is crucial for individuals to seek out diverse sources of information. “Don’t trust one source. Look at different views,” Zeek advises. This approach allows people to form their own opinions based on facts rather than sensationalized narratives.
Truth Over Emotion
Throughout the conversation, the theme of truth emerges as a guiding principle. He emphasizes that decisions should be based on facts rather than emotions. “The truth is always the truth, regardless of race or occupation,” he asserts, challenging the notion of subjective truths that dominate contemporary discourse.
He shares a poignant memory of a conversation with his great-grandfather, who experienced real racism. “Always be the last person in the room to call something racist,” his grandfather advised. This wisdom resonated deeply with Zeek, who believes that accusations of racism should be reserved for situations that genuinely warrant them.
The Importance of Courageous Leadership
Zeek Arkham embodies the spirit of courageous leadership. His willingness to speak out against prevailing narratives and advocate for truth serves as an inspiration to many.
The message is clear: the truth is powerful, and standing up for it, despite the consequences, is essential for progress. In a time where narratives are often twisted, having individuals like Zeek Arkham who are willing to speak boldly is crucial for fostering understanding and unity.
You can follow Zeek on X (@ZeekArkham) and Instagram. You can watch my full interview with Zeek below or subscribe to our weekly podcast on your favorite platform.
Dr. Travis Yates retired as a commander with a large municipal police department after 30 years of service. He is the author of “The Courageous Police Leader: A Survival Guide for Combating Cowards, Chaos & Lies.” His risk management and leadership seminars have been taught to thousands of professionals across the world. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy with a Doctorate Degree in Strategic Leadership and the CEO of the Courageous Police Leadership Alliance.
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