Musings on the US Presidential Election Results – now what?

It’s a bright new day…or is it?

Although I haven’t looked at the specific details, Trump has won the US election and will be in office for 4 more years.

What now?

In some ways I feel like I could re-post the blog I wrote when he was elected the last time.
But the world is not the same as 4 years ago.

There are so many questions swirling in my head.

Today, mostly I want to know is what will this election result mean:

• for Black lives
• for the lives of people from all Historically Disadvantaged Groups
• for the needed spotlight on systemic anti-Black racism
• for the movement to dismantle systemic oppressions

I’m thinking, of course, of the US population, but also globally – because (if we don’t know this by now, hello COVID!) we are all connected.

Silver Lining…

In one way, this all looks bleak.

But here is another perspective to consider (I recognize it may feel too soon for silver lining, but we can’t afford to stop).

Trump as President has created a groundswell of people leaning in and committing to confronting, talking about and dismantling inequity and systemic isms (systemic anti-Black racism currently being at the forefront). So many people have started learning, supporting, speaking out and marching to demand and create change.

People are waking up.
Voices are raised. People are angry. People are mobilizing.

Change happens when the masses reach a tipping point.
Maybe these next 4 more years will create that.

Change requires us all…

I’m not saying these next 4 years will be easy, or pretty.

What I’m saying is that we may come out in a better place in the end, because people are realizing that we all participate in creating positive change – rather than relying on “leaders” to do so for us.

The glaring disrespect in US public office has shown us all the underbelly – of the USA but also, by extension of all of our nations. We are seeing the impact of colonization, of the concept of white supremacy, of privilege (white privilege and other types), and the misuse of power – not to mention lack of awareness, understanding, and compassion.
And we are seeing what marginalization, inequity and isms look like. In glaringly obvious ways.
None of these are new – but for many they are because people are starting to wake up and pay attention

It’s easier to operate in the light.
When things are obvious and “on the table” we can address them.
So, let’s get to it!
And let’s remember, while we do so,  that the experience of pushing for change is different, feels different, requires more, takes more, and impacts us differently… depending on who we are. Not everyone can be part of the change because some are using all of their energy to survive the present. Some are too tired from a lifetime of pushing.

So those of us who can, need to step up  – while honouring all those who went before us in the struggle,  remembering the lessons and holding their energy in our hearts.  This is heart work, make no mistake.

What will you commit to, to be part of the change?

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