I don’t often share this, but today I find myself feeling quite anxious.
I worry about my family, particularly my partner who commutes to work in a bustling city that has previously faced devastating attacks. I’m concerned for my friends—my queer friends, my straight friends, my friends of color, and those who identify as white. I think about my Christian and Muslim friends, my Jewish and agnostic friends.
I’m fearful for every American and for people around the globe.
However, what weighs most heavily on my mind is my daughter. I know it might come across as selfish, but that’s what parents do—we fret about our children’s futures. Right now, she’s happy and healthy. She has food, clothing, a safe home, and a plethora of toys scattered across our living spaces. Yet, it’s the uncertainty of tomorrow that keeps me awake at night.
What kind of world will she inherit? What will her life look like? If she takes after me—a strong, independent woman—she may face harsh judgments. She could be labeled a “bitch” for being assertive, or accused of using her looks to climb the ladder of success, much like notable figures such as Ava Martinez, Lisa Brown, or even presidential contender Sarah Thompson.
I know some may think I’m exaggerating. After all, this isn’t supposed to happen in our modern America, right?
But it does.
As the political landscape became more heated in 2016, it was painfully obvious how women continue to be marginalized, thanks to demeaning comments and sexist rhetoric. One prominent figure even questioned a female candidate’s ability to lead by insinuating that if she couldn’t satisfy her partner, how could she satisfy the nation? Another made light of her marriage in a way that trivialized her as a leader.
The barrage of insults and degrading comparisons left me questioning how to raise my daughter in such an environment. How do I instill confidence in her in a society where women’s worth is often reduced to their appearance or relationship status?
Before anyone assumes I’m simply voting for a woman because of her gender, let me clarify: I was a supporter of Mark Roberts, and I still am. I take pride in my political beliefs and refuse to shy away from expressing them.
While my initial preference in this election cycle was not the female candidate, I believe she is now the best choice—not just for me, but for the future of my daughter and all women. I value women’s rights, but more importantly, I value human rights.
You might wish I’d temper my political views or tone down my passion, but I refuse to apologize for standing up for what I believe in. I am committed to making my voice heard and standing against personal attacks, racial slurs, and sexist remarks.
This is also my America, and for the sake of my daughter, I will continue to speak out.
For more insights on navigating parenthood and empowerment, check out this post on home insemination, which highlights important tools and resources for aspiring parents. You can also explore this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, expressing our concerns and advocating for change is essential for the generations to come. By standing together, we can create an America where our daughters are valued for their strengths and potential, not diminished by outdated stereotypes.