Like so many of you, I am gutted by the results of yesterday’s elections. Many are wondering if perhaps this is who we are as a country.  Some note how they do not feel heard by the Biden/Harris administration and that they feel silenced or ignored.  Yet others fear for their future as women and their lives as LGBTQ people-especially our transgender family and friends.  We don’t know what will happen to those who have come here desperate for a better future for their families or if gains for racial justice will be wiped out by a Sharpie.

Like you, I long for a day where hate is eradicated and the divisions that push so many in our country down so the few can rise are diminished.  I long for the day when everyone, regardless of race, skin color, religion, or sexual orientation, has equality and equity.  I was waiting for the moment when little girls could see that a Kamala Harris victory was proof that they too can achieve whatever they desire.  I am angry, hurt, and scared of what the future of our democracy will be.

You all have done so much to encourage a vote for the first woman President, a woman of color, who we know would move our country to where it is kinder and more welcoming for all.  I don’t want you to feel disheartened that you might not have done enough.  I believe you did.

I want you to remember, WE are the scrappy rabble rousers who don’t fear pushing for a more civil and open world.  We may not have the strength to find the answers to how we got here right now.  That’s ok.  Rest today so we have the strength tomorrow to show that this, my IL NOW friends, is who WE are.    

Together we rise-

Laura