CASSANDRA
CHANDLER TALKS ABOUT TODAY'S FBI
The Inside Story
04/26/04
What
does an FBI Executive say to a conference full of former FBI Agents who want to
know the inside scoop on today's operations?
She
says a lot--and she says it straight from the heart.
On
April 23, Public Affairs executive Cassandra Chandler addressed members of the
J. Edgar Hoover Foundation, who were in town to inaugurate a Research Center for
Law Enforcement. She pulled no punches on subjects as diverse as fingerpointing,
negative reports on FBI capabilities, FBI operations, media coverage of the FBI,
and FBI culture. She talked about cases and statistics. About intelligence reports
and "Fly Teams." About the extraordinary transformation of the FBI to
address complex, interrelated global threats in a post 9-11 world.
"We
have made great progress in the war against terrorism, while continuing to significantly
impact transnational organized crime, corporate fraud and more. But, we have not
made similar progress in getting the message out to the public. The American people
need to understand the changes we have made, the work we are doing, and the dangers
we still face."
What's her take on FBI "culture"?
"Every
time I read quotes or hear comments that the FBI's "culture must change"
or "can the culture change?" I cringe. Do you know that the first definition
of "culture" is in the Webster dictionary? Culture is defined as "the
quality in a person that arises from a concern for what is regarded as excellence
in manners and other qualities." The culture of the FBI is a commitment to
fidelity, bravery and integrity. The culture of the FBI is now and has always
been one of hard work and a dedication to protecting this country. There is no
need to change that."
What's
her take on disclosure to the American people?
"We
must work with the media to get more information out. Whether it is a message
about suspected terrorists, potential threats, or about the changes we have made
to keep America safe. We have an obligation to inform the public." ...Only
an informed public can make rational judgments as to whether the FBI is up to
the task. Only an informed public will be secure in their confidence in the FBI's
ability to get the job done."
What
about FBI employees--are they up to the task?
"They
are extraordinary men and extraordinary women who, despite the fires of adversity,
still achieve extraordinary goals and conquer extraordinary obstacles."
And
believe us, as Assistant Director for FBI Public Affairs, she should know.
Links:
Read the complete speech.
