In the wake of the 2024 General Election, it feels like the United States is in a hypoxic state, gasping for the empathy that is supposed to fuel our democracy. As a black Muslim woman, mother, and lawyer, living and working in Northeast Ohio, I find myself reflecting deeply on these recent events and what they mean for all of us. Coming to you from the sometimes-blue, often-red Northeast Ohio, I understand the complexities of living in a state that finds itself at the crossroads of political change. The 2024 general election has been a whirlwind, a wild ride full of anticipation and unexpected outcomes. While the outcome was not what I hoped for, I remain relieved that this particular chapter is closed. Yet, I can't help but dissect what this means for us as a nation.
It's easy to stereotype voting patterns by identity—I'm a black Muslim woman, but that doesn't confine my choices. The notion that one would vote solely based on shared race or gender is flawed. My vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz was driven not just by shared identity, but by a vision of competent leadership, one that understands public service’s importance and integrity. Under our previous leadership between 2017-2021, we experienced a circus of incompetence. It's essential to place someone at the helm who respects the civil servants who keep the machinery of government running.
Our democratic principles appear to be teetering. A democracy should not strip away the civil rights and personal freedoms of its people. Yet, here we are fearing such erosions, a regression to times we thought we'd left behind. As Americans, we risk dimming our beacon as the leader of the free world if we continue this path.
Social media voices are loud and varied post-election, often with views I don’t share or understand. However, I believe in everyone's right to feel and express their unique perspective. It's vital for our democracy that everyone is encouraged to engage, to voice their hopes and fears, regardless of where they stand.
Despite Vice President Kamala Harris not prevailing, her campaign for unity, justice, and progress must not be forgotten. Her loss only intensifies the challenges we face, showing us the intricate, often winding path that democracy takes. Our nation's values are under scrutiny, weighed against economic uncertainty and political polarization.
The election is a reminder that significant work remains. We must engage beyond our comfort zones and collaborate toward societal reforms—be it in healthcare, education, or economic policies. This isn't the end, but a new chapter for resilience and hope. Like many black women, I feel the weariness of endless striving, often for those who don't reciprocate the fight for my rights. Yet, I hold onto hope—a trust in God that our struggles lead to greater relief.
Supporting Each Other Through Adversity We must support each other, eschewing anger for empathy and compassion, even when it feels undeserved. Isolation isn’t the answer. Nations thrive on community and cooperation, and it's imperative we look out for one another, especially as we brace for potential economic and social upheavals.
In my faith, no one truly believes until they desire for their brother what they wish for themselves. Let this guide us as we push for a more equitable, compassionate society. Let's work together to ensure a better future for our children, for everyone's children—a world that surpasses ours, not just in dreams but reality. In these trying times, as emotions run high and uncertainties loom, we must hold onto the knowledge that there are still good things worth striving for together. I encourage everyone, especially my fellow black women, not to give up on a world that still holds great promise—we have work to do, and together, we can make it happen. Thank you for joining me in this reflection. Until next time, take care of yourselves and each other.
