Protection, Warnings, Help

Last night’s stunning upset was a tough blow to bear, but it serves as a wake-up call for how much work lies ahead to build a “more perfect union.” It’s disheartening to realize that over 67 million people cast their votes for a candidate with a disturbing record of criminal convictions, accusations of sexual assault, fraud, and open bigotry. This outcome speaks volumes about the divides that persist in America, highlighting the desperate need to bridge those gaps if we hope to foster a future rooted in equity and justice. Although we may have lost this particular race, it’s clear that the fight is far from over.

So where do we go from here? We’re at a crossroads, a precarious moment in our nation’s history. Many Americans fear that our society is inching closer to the dystopian world depicted in *The Handmaid’s Tale*, where authoritarian rule slowly strips away freedoms and human rights. Though we may not yet be living in Gilead, the trajectory we’re on serves as a warning. The failure to heed these signs could lead to a future where freedoms are systematically dismantled in ways both overt and insidious. This is the time to act with vigilance, recognizing these patterns as they emerge.

Resistance, however, is not just about protest or opposition. First and foremost, it’s about protecting ourselves and those we love. Building resilient communities and safe spaces can help us safeguard our rights, our well-being, and the ideals we hold dear. This means organizing locally, creating support networks, and standing by those most vulnerable to injustice. It’s about finding small ways to push back against forces that threaten our shared humanity, even if the road ahead feels long and uncertain. Through unity, empathy, and mutual support, we can foster a culture of resistance rooted in compassion.

Though last night’s results are discouraging, they also ignite a resolve to fight even harder for the future we believe in. We are reminded that progress isn’t always linear, and setbacks are part of the journey. The path forward may be steep, but each of us has a role in ensuring it bends toward justice. The work continues—within our communities, in our institutions, and within ourselves—to counter fear and hatred with resilience and hope. As daunting as this moment may feel, it’s also a call to action, a reminder that together, we can create lasting change.