At the reversal of Roe vs. Wade, I feared that my country was rapidly returning to primitive times. Then, last month, the most energizing thing happened, the Democratic presidential candidate made the ultimate, patriotic, political sacrifice and withdrew his name from the race and endorsed his Vice President, who was already the first woman of color to hold that position, now poised to become the first woman of color to have a realistic opportunity of becoming POTUS.
Political endorsements, donations, and sheer excited energy poured in. The optimistic momentum continued when the Democratic VP was picked. Some sheepishly stated in a hushed tone that the candidate had to be a white man. Why be shy at being realistic? When lies from political opponents are confidently shouted, pragmatic statements should be asserted with the same boldness.
The burden/worry that I had not realized I’d been carrying had been lifted. With waves of renewed optimism and positive developments, I attended my usual Sunday morning hot yoga class. As a fluke of fate, we were a crowded room of women. When our yoga instructor realized the all-women’s attendance, she knew exactly which playlist to use: all-female artists.
When Beyonce’s “Run the World (Girls)” came on, I knew that was the theme song of the class. I couldn’t help but believe that the song should feature in the upcoming Democratic National Convention as well.
I normally don’t watch the DNC because at this point in the election season, I already know who I’m voting for. I didn’t bother to watch the first day, but of course, I saw clips. The second day, however, I tuned in to watch the Obamas. Those political rockstars never fail to inspire and entertain. Michelle Obama brought the house down in such a way that even President Obama admitted that he was the only fool who’d dare follow her.
In reality, they had helped one another with their speeches, so he knew full well that he was setting up Michelle with a speech full of zingers. My favorite one dealt with who was going to tell the Republican presidential candidate that the job he’s working so hard to get, is a Black job. My sister and I screamed and threw our hands in the air.
I’m so proud of the fact that high-profile, successful Black people are turning that racist suggestion that undocumented immigrants are taking Black jobs on its ear. Black people define what jobs are for us. Not someone who had never been Black a day in his life and who consistently demonstrates the “soft bigotry of low expectations.”
As much as the opposition have derided the newly chosen Democratic presidential candidate being a mere diversity hire, as I looked at the enormous crowd that gathered to cheer her on, I saw a reflection of the richness of America. EVERYONE was there. Even lifelong Republicans who believed that their party had been hijacked by a(n) (insert your own label) .
Both the Democratic presidential and vice presidential candidates came from hard-working families and had not inherited political and economic power from their family. In other words, they are both relatable to the masses and living proof that the American dream can be attained.
Many were pressing the new Democratic presidential candidate for policy details. For now, I’m inspired that her campaign is bringing the joy. I’m not just ready for a generational change, but also a change from hatred and fear mongering. Bring on the joy!