FALLATHON

Today, I’m reflecting on the women in this country who might just save our democracy, our rights, and our futures, as well as making history by electing the first black and south-aisian woman to the presidency. It brings to mind my mother, my grandmother, my sister, my aunts, my cousins, my friends and all of the power that i see in their strength, intelligence, and compassion.

I think of all of the women who contributed to my upbringing. My mom who taught me not to accept inequitable norms that many people never challenge or even consider. Grandma and Rosie whose generosity and unwavering care for others showed me the importance of kindness and community. Beth and Shannon who were exceptional examples of smart and capable women who did not hide or limit their capacities, but strove for excellence and achievement. There is so much more than this too, and all of it shaped me.

It’s also shaped the women I’ve come of age with. My sister, whose passion is evident in everything she does. My friends who have not and never will give up despite an uncertain future. 

All of this will also impact the young women and girls who are growing up today, like June, who just filled in the bubble for Kamala Harris on her mom’s ballot this morning. 

These women move and inspire me in ways I can’t describe, I’m so grateful for all of them. 

I’m also grateful for the men in my life. When there is so much negativity, hatred, and misogyny coming from many men across the nation, I feel so lucky to have been surrounded by so many of the good ones. My dad whose love for his children is paramount and ever present. My brother, who organizes for equity, justice, and the change he wants to see in the world. Jesse, who made sure to register and vote in the midst of a hectic move because he knew how important it was to me. Josh and Tyler, who will vote in their first presidential election. Andy, who so deeply loves Beth and June. Nathan who consistently shows up to make calls to elect women up and down the ballot. Peter, who can’t vote, but got on the phones for Teresa. Of course, my heart also aches for Don, whose character and convictions were shown in everything he did. Really, I think of all of the men who won’t cancel out the votes of their mothers, partners, and daughters, the men who love us, see us, respect us, celebrate us, and vote with us. 

We are lucky to have them in our lives, and when I think about the women who have to lie to their families about who they’re voting for, my gratitude deepens further. 

We don’t know what lies ahead of us now, and that’s not an easy place to be, but my message to all of you right now, whether we’re celebrating or mourning together tonight, tomorrow, or whenever the race is called (I think we’ll be celebrating), I wouldn’t want to face this election with anyone else. I love you all, we can do this.