Leaders Speak Up After Sad News

Not long ago, in a city called Minneapolis, something very sad happened. Two people were hurt in shootings. This made many people in the city and across the country feel upset and worried.

The leaders of some very big companies decided to talk about it. These leaders are called CEOs. They run companies that make things like cereal, toys, and medicine. For a while, many CEOs had been quiet about big problems. But after the sad news from Minneapolis, some felt they needed to speak up.

Some CEOs wrote a letter together. They said they wanted peace and for people to feel safe. They used careful words. Other CEOs were more direct. They said they were angry about what happened. They talked about it on the computer for everyone to see.

Speaking up can be hard for a CEO. The president of the United States might get upset with them. Some CEOs have gotten in trouble before for saying what they think. But many felt this time was too important to stay quiet.

One CEO who makes red toy wagons said he was worried about the country. He wrote a letter to the people who work for him. They were happy he said something. Another CEO who sells camping gear lives near Minneapolis. He said he spoke up to show he cares about his neighbors. He said, “It would just be cowardice to not have a perspective on this.” That means it would be like being too scared to say what you feel is right.

This happened recently, in the year 2026. It shows that when something sad or unfair happens, even important leaders can use their voices to ask for peace and kindness.

Reading Comprehension Questions

Why did some CEOs start talking about the sad news?
A. They wanted to sell more toys.
B. They were upset about what happened in Minneapolis.
C. They were having a party.
D. They wanted to be on TV.
What is a CEO?
A. A kind of doctor.
B. A person who runs a big company.
C. A police officer.
D. A teacher in a school.
How did some CEOs share their feelings?
A. By singing a song.
B. By writing a letter or talking on the computer.
C. By drawing a picture.
D. By sending a text to their friend.
Why was it hard for some CEOs to speak up?
A. They lost their voice.
B. They were afraid the president might be upset.
C. They didn‘t know any words.
D. They were too busy playing.
The CEO who makes red wagons spoke up because he was worried about…
A. the weather.
B. his country and democracy.
C. what was for lunch.
D. a lost puppy.

Vocabulary Words

Leaders – People who guide or are in charge of a group.
Company – A business that makes or sells things.
Peace – A time when people are not fighting and feel calm and safe.
Direct – Saying exactly what you mean in a clear way.
Community – A group of people who live in the same area or care about each other.