Trump takes office again on January 20. For those of us working to advance gender equality and intersecting issues, where do we collectively go from here? How do we make progress?
Every breakdown can lead to a breakthrough. Make no mistake: the election of an anti-equality president is a crisis, but it is also a catalyst for change. LGBTQ leaders and our allies across movements are working closer together than ever before. We know the extremist playbook, they even published a handy PDF for all to see. We understand where this incoming administration aims to attempt to dismantle our rights, erase us from public life, pit us against each other and send us into chaos with confusion and degrading legislation and language. We are prepared, and we will come out of this administration stronger than ever.
I will tell you this: we are not afraid. We are organized. We are passionate. We are strong. We continue to be joyful and thrive. And we are ready to defend ourselves, our families and our neighbors against baseless attacks, hateful rhetoric and whatever is to come. We are more resolute in our mission for equality than we ever have been. We refuse to take the bait or cower in the face of intimidation and injustice. And we are certain that even more Americans will see the light and join us in the coming weeks and months.
What is your call to action on the issues you are most passionate about?
Now more than ever, we all must realize our power—as individuals and as a united community for progress. Each of us has the power to change hearts and minds, to use your voice, talents and platforms. Have you spoken to your family about how important it is to support transgender youth? Now’s the time. Have you spoken up in meetings at work about the importance of inclusion and diversity? Now’s the time. Have you checked in on your friends who are LGBTQ people, immigrants, and people of color? Now is the time to ask them how they are doing, let them know they have your support.
Each of us has the power to influence leaders. Have you written to your congressmember about the importance of protecting transgender women from violence, which they face at disproportionate rates? Do that now. Have you met with your local city councilperson and school board members to explain your support for inclusive books in schools and libraries? Do that now. And for those who can, donating your time and resources is more important today than it was yesterday. Find local organizations that share your values, sign up, pitch in what you can.
The U.S. once again failed to elect our first woman president. What can we do to make sure that doesn’t deter the advancement of women in political leadership and all sectors?
While the Presidential election was certainly a disappointment, I want to make sure that we aren't viewing November as simply about one race. Women and LGBTQ people, including transgender and nonbinary people, were elected to office easily: Congressmember Sarah McBride, Montana’s Zooey Zephyr, Illinois’ Precious Brady-Davis. Rep. Emily Randall of Washington is the first out Latina elected to Congress and went to work on behalf of her trans colleagues, staff and constituents, opening up her office restroom to all genders. There is a lot still to be hopeful about—a world where not just women, but out trans women and out trans women of color, win elections and are at the tables of power. Voters across the country supported abortion rights and marriage equality: that’s a world with hope. Progress is never quick or easy, but I am confident that fair-minded Americans will come together now more than ever to stand in our power, to support each other and to build a better future for ourselves and for our children.
What gives you hope? For those feeling disheartened by this setback or overwhelmed by the work ahead, what words of encouragement would you offer?
The LGBTQ community and our allies give me hope. We are strong, creative, resilient, brilliant, beautiful, and we know how to take care of each other. I’ll tell you what I tell my team and what I say every time I am in community: first, take care of yourself. Take care of your family, including chosen family. It is so important we have all the strength we can muster as we prepare for the attacks ahead. The months and years ahead will not be easy, but I know for a fact that we will not just survive, but thrive. We always have, and we always will.
Are there any other thoughts you would like to share?
GLAAD will be keeping our community and allies updated on important news and actions to take: glaad.org and @glaad on social media.
Portions of this interview appeared at ForbesWomen and Women’s Media Center.