In this solo episode, I delve into politics, and my feelings about the Presidential election. Whatever the outcome, my hope is the same: That we will stop arming the IDF, and end our involvement in the Middle East conflict, unless to protect and serve the most vulnerable; that our country as a whole can move through the coming years with consideration for our differences; and that we will unify in our efforts to dismantle the corruption that plagues the many facets of the current system. I pray that protections for women’s reproductive health and freedom will be restored, and that both parties will work together to repair the divide to make our country safer, stronger, and healthier.
I’ve tried to evaluate all points of view with a critical eye, as well as compassion and understanding. I’m trying to not allow myself to be triggered by headlines and blanket labels like “fascism” and “communist” as I feel they are used to dehumanize people. Even though I have, in the past, felt Trump is a menace, and a real danger to society. If I’ve learned anything the past year, it’s that the media always stands to profit from our ignorance, anger, and fear. Propaganda can come from any avenue, and it’s important to stay aware. The media and social media will use any talking point they can to drive engagement, because they have ads to sell, and interests to serve.
So I keep coming back to what is factual and what is true? What are the patterns? Who in the past has voted for what? What is common among all people regardless of political party? What is true for most American people? What issues affect the majority, who is talking about them, and how are they planning to address them? Who is pro-union and workers’ rights? Who votes to protect the environment? Who is voiceless?
While the arguments for healthcare freedom, and dismantling big corp and big Pharma on the right are valid and important, the fact at the end of the day is that Republicans have consistently voted against policy that protects women, the environment, the LGBTQ community, hurricane victims, the border in Mexico, among many other things. My issue is with those representatives and Trump. Trump has and continues to speak in ways that feel patronizing, disrespectful, and divisive at a time where the country desperately needs to be unified. He’s said so many things that are out-of-pocket, and whether or not he was just saying them to rouse his opponents shouldn’t matter because neither should be fodder for a President. He’s trying to outrun being held accountable by the law. If he is elected, his base and the political figures surrounding him should not turn a blind eye. He must be held accountable, every step, every moment of the way. And he must not be allowed to do whatever he pleases just because he is President. A President is not a dictator.
For my liberal friends, I am with you this season. Regardless of my disappointment in the Biden administration, I still feel safer with Kamala at the helm than Trump. But should he win, our task will be to step up our game, act with integrity, and vote him out in four years.
There have been moments where I have felt completely under the waves, constricted and paralyzed by being a woman living in these times. And moments where I’ve felt inspired and excited by this election cycle. As Marianne Williamson says, “Politics should feel exciting!” It feels good to see people care so much, and to feel that both parties have brought up important topics for discussion. This is the fight for survival. And look how much time and grace and space we’ve been given to carry on this frightful play that is the human experience! If only we could get it right. Here’s to trying.
ciao for now,
allie
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