If you’re like me, this week’s election may be giving you a ton of unnecessary stress. With the current political climate, it seems like a lot of crucial aspects of everyday life are in the hands of two elderly white men…not ideal.
Tuesday November 3rd will determine many big decisions for this country. Climate change action, the coronavirus pandemic, planned parenthood funding, etc. are being threatened. Because so many everyday Americans are looking at the election as life or death there are many reasons to feel hopeless if the results are not what we were anticipating. Staying encouraged is going to be difficult for those of us who already feel discouraged by the current state of our democracy, but these are some things you can remind yourself of to calm your nerves.
1. Our current representation does not represent America as a whole.
I know that this statement may seem contradicting in some ways, but it is essential for staying hopeful. Knowing that there are people around me that want to see our current system change for the better is what keeps me sane.
Although the leaders in office are supposed to be the general public’s representation, we should continue to remind ourselves that since the element of “big money” is heavily involved in our political system, these people do not represent the public’s ideals whatsoever. The most heartwarming thing we can do for eachother is remind others and ourselves that no one wants to see the state of the world go backwards. As human beings we’re constantly looking for ways to advance or progress and that does not exclude our politics. If we do not see the progression now, it will come.
2. The power belongs to the people.
America is a country built around the ideas of democracy. We pride ourselves on how influential everyday people like you and me are. This is especially evident in our ability to vote for those in office. That is why it is crucial that you exercise your right to vote November 3rd. Some people that are not able to vote depend upon it and some aspects of your life depend upon it. Your vote is the most impactful thing you can do within this democracy.
When people gather together to prepare for a better and brighter future, we can make change. The giants that we face work for us not against us. This is the democratic system that we expect, deserve, and love.
3. There are organizations ready to prevent this from happening again.
When we all anxiously await the results of the election, we have to acknowledge that this is not the only way elections can be run. Organizations like Brand New Congress are working to put everyday people into office, helping to get rid of the blight of “big money” in our government. Representatives like Alexandria Ocassio-Cortez were able to campaign as insurgents and challenge long standing businessmen in office through Brand New Congress. If you would like to see people in office that actually represent you and the problems you face, check out Brand New Congress and their website here.