I’ve been wrestling with what to say to you all, understanding how utterly crushed you must feel today. While I may not have the perfect words yet, I wanted to reach out before the day ends.
Right now, the part of me that has tirelessly advocated for women’s rights feels like a grumpy troll. This troll thinks that, once again, everything crumbles in the face of misogyny. It doesn’t matter that one candidate was sharper, more qualified, or more capable. It doesn’t even matter that her mistakes were minor compared to those of her opponent. What truly mattered was that she was a woman who dared to be knowledgeable. That alone made her a target; she had to be put firmly in her place.
Many will argue that her defeat was about more than just sexism. However, I believe that if she had been a man with the same history, he would have won by a landslide. And I can’t help but think of one reason for that.
So here I am, that bitter little troll feeling unhappy and resentful.
This is what being a feminist often feels like today, especially in the wake of this setback. Many of us are overwhelmed with disappointment and fear. But as someone who has been in this fight for a long time, I know we have to keep moving forward. There’s really no other option.
When faced with setbacks — and trust me, there will be many ahead — it’s important to let the troll express its frustration for a moment, and then press on.
I’m not sure what that looks like for you. Maybe it means continuing to educate and inspire your peers. Perhaps it’s about supporting women candidates at local levels or attending rallies (and I see many of those on the horizon). In the short term, it’s about putting one foot in front of the other and not letting pain hold you back. Listening to Trump supporters will be tough at first. Staying gracious amid such grim circumstances is no small feat. But I assure you, it gets easier. Your life will reclaim its rhythm, and that troll will gradually loosen its grip on your spirit.
These next few years won’t be easy. I don’t have a concrete plan yet to navigate the storm ahead, but I refuse to sink, and I know you won’t either. I managed to stay afloat during the Nixon and Reagan eras — it is achievable.
I understand how heartbreaking those initial days and weeks can be. I just want you to know that things will improve. You young women represent the future. Ultimately, nothing will be able to hold you back. Take in the blow, and trust that your moment will come. That’s what us older women are counting on.
For more insights on navigating this journey, you might find helpful resources like this one and this one, which provides solid information on fertility and pregnancy, a topic that is central to many of our discussions.
Summary:
In the aftermath of political setbacks, this piece offers solidarity and encouragement to the new generation of feminists. It acknowledges feelings of disappointment and frustration while emphasizing the importance of moving forward and staying engaged in advocacy. The author draws upon personal experiences, highlighting that setbacks are a part of the journey, and reassures young feminists that their time will come.