The Weight of This Election: Why Silence Isn’t An Option

This election brings me to tears. The idea of a woman becoming president feels like a symbol of progress, resilience, and validation for so many of us. It’s inspiring, a milestone that brings hope. But the possibility of that slipping away? That’s heavy. It’s hard to ignore the fear that a loss could validate voices of hate, racism, and homophobia, voices that leave people vulnerable simply for being who they are.

As a woman, and as someone passionate about building community, I dream of a world where everyone—my neighbors, friends, people of all backgrounds—can live, love, and thrive openly, safely, without fear. I have always been about this vision: creating a space where women connect, express themselves, and feel deeply valued. This election feels like it’s putting our values to the test.

We’re often encouraged to stay quiet about politics, to “keep the peace” or avoid difficult conversations. But I find myself questioning who that silence really protects. Is it shielding the people who choose to support hatred, rather than holding them accountable for the real consequences of their actions? When we’re silent, we protect the status quo, but we also risk becoming complicit in it.

For me, this isn’t abstract. When people demean Kamala Harris, it feels personal because I see myself and every woman in her strength and accomplishments. She’s fought hard to stand where she is, and when people tear her down, it’s as though they’re tearing down all women who have dared to stand tall and challenge what’s expected of us. It’s not just an attack on her; it’s a challenge to each of us who share her spirit, her ambition, her resilience.

At the same time, I know that no matter the outcome, we’re going to have to face each other again as neighbors, colleagues, friends. Unity isn’t about sidestepping difficult truths; it’s about finding compassion, even in our differences, and choosing connection over division. We don’t have to agree on every point, but we do need to respect each other’s humanity and hold onto the belief that there is more that unites us than divides us.

So, for my readers, I’ll say this: let’s engage openly and honestly, but let’s also hold space for each other’s pain and perspectives. Our voices, our actions, and our collective presence in this moment matters more than ever. This election isn’t just about policies or party lines—it’s a reflection of our willingness to engage, to call out harm, and to push for a world that honors and respects each person’s humanity. Silence might feel like an easier path, but engaging—openly, honestly—is where real change begins.

Let’s hold each other accountable to be the voices we wish to hear and the change we wish to see. Let’s keep building a world that’s safe, connected, and grounded in compassion. Together, we can refuse to let hatred have the last word.