Sorry guys, but I’m about to get political.
I love Texas. I was born and raised in Houston and have lived there my entire life. I lived through the tragedy of Hurricane Harvey with my city. I saw my city rejoice when the Astros won the World Series. There’s a lot of pride that comes with being a Houstonian, but there’s more pride that comes with being a Texan in general. Although Texans like to joke about Texas being it’s own country (because-shameless brag- we were one for several years!), the Texan culture is honestly so unique that sometimes it FEELS like being in a different country.
There’s generally stereotypes that people associate with Texans. Maybe people think of a dramatic Southern accent, complete with “y’all”’s and “howdy”’s. Maybe people think of horses and the rodeo and sweet tea and cowboy boots. Most often, however, people associate Texas with a very specific mindset that is more often seen in the South- a conservative, Republican point-of-view that CAN be racist, homophobic, and generally offensive.
I was lucky to grow up in a household that was very accepting. My parents are the most wonderful people and always taught me to be kind to others no matter what. My mom, a manager at one of the largest hospital systems in Texas, and my father, a civil engineer with the sharpest mind, were awesome examples for me and my sister and constantly encouraged us to shoot for our highest goals. I NEVER grew up with any notion that just because I was a girl, I would never be as strong as a boy. I NEVER looked at the differences between me and other people as things that would prevent a friendship. I learned to operate on a few different rules: be nice, work hard, and be thankful for your blessings.
It’s been difficult to watch the way some people in my state have behaved, especially while Trump has been in the White House. The blatant disrespect some people have shown towards others is appalling. It makes it hard to have the same level of Texan pride. I’ll always love Texas, and it’s because I love my home so much that I want things to be different. We can be better people. These ideals were brought to life when Beto O’Rourke announced his candidacy for the 2018 Texas Senate race.
His candidacy was a DREAM for the newest voting generation. In a state where the large amount conservative ideals can feel stifling for young people, the hope of a Democratic candidate with a large online presence and very charismatic personality made us feel represented. Beto was here for CHANGE. He advocated for a variety of stances on issues: background checks for gun purchases, improving public school systems in low-income areas, legalizing marijuana, mental health services for veterans, and women’s rights (pro-choice). Not only was he beloved by Democrats seeking change across Texas, but people across the country showed overwhelming support for him. He was endorsed by celebrities such as Khalid, Beyonce, Ellen, Travis Scott, and Willie Nelson.
The night of the election, my group chats were going OFF. My friends and I had sent in our ballots from our universities all over the country and waited for the election results. We were refreshing the webpage, sending each other updates, and praying for Beto’s win. Unfortunately, Beto did not win that night. We were all incredibly disappointed. People all over the country were hurting with this news.
However, it is important to remember how amazing this election was. Young voter turnout increased dramatically, and the percentage difference between Beto and Cruz was only a few points. That’s a pretty incredible feat for a state that is so deeply red.
Honestly, I’m proud of my state and proud of the people who will continue to fight for improvement. As young people continue to vote and get involved, I am hopeful that we can make Texas a place we are all proud to live in. We WILL make a change. Beto, thank you for showing us we have a voice. You are amazing.
*literally thousands of people across the United States @ Beto*
Beto O’Rourke for President 2020?