Tonight I live-streamed the State of Our Union event. I was deeply impacted by women who spoke about being underpaid; forced into slavery by owners who held their visas/immigration statuses hostage; women who were sandwiched between caring for their children and aging parents; women organizing in rural communities faced with lack of jobs and increase in opioid addictions; and more.
For half a second I was overwhelmed. Then I remembered that I was not alone. Nonprofit workers and supporters across the county are calling for a new day. In fact, most of my women friends and colleagues are NOT watching 45 (AKA the Leader of the Free World)’s speech but instead committing to an alternative experience. For countless years I have taken seriously my obligation to watch, understand, and analyze the policies lifted high by the Commander-in-Chief. Until tonight.
As I pulled into my driveway trying to decide on which channel to watch the State of the Union, my friend reminded me of my options. I considered my friends working for nonprofits, doing critical work for women and girls in local communities across the nation. Who is speaking up for them?!?
After a few minutes of deliberation, I re-committed to the State of Our Union event I RSVP’d to on Facebook. I am more than glad about my decision. I listened to women lift their voices for justice high. Women speaking of racial, economic and gender justice. Time after time.
This is OUR story. This is the state of OUR union. This is the MY story. And the state of the Union I leave for my daughter and granddaughter matters more than I ever imagined.
I invite you to take a look at the speeches from the State of Our Union and let me know how YOU will stand for the women who come after us.
kelli
Leave a Reply