Aria,
While watching the election with you, your cousin Graciee, and your aunt Brittanee, I was filled with excitement and optimism that we were about to share a extraordinary moment in our country’s history - the election of our countries first female president.Unfortunately, that wasn't meant to be. Instead, millions of Americans voted for a man who has been caught on camera gloating about sexual harassment, and who has engaged in racial discrimination, bigotry, and hate speech. This same man believes that all Mexicans are rapists or murderers and thinks that a wall built by us and paid for by Mexico will make that happen. He wants to keep the refugees who are fleeing the war in the middle east from entering our country because he believes that they are terrorists and have nothing to contribute to our nation. The election of Donald Trump, as well as the hate crimes that have occurred since the election, are a reminder that despite all of the progress we have made, we are still a very long way from true equality.
It wasn't too long ago that the abuse of black men and women of all colors was often ignored or even actively encouraged by our leaders and their laws. It took me a long time to accept the truth that black men and women are still treated differently under our laws and in our communities, but after studying American history, cultural communications, and anthropology I have become very aware of the privileges I have been born with solely because of the color of my skin. Because you have the same color of skin, when you grow up, you will find that it will be easier for you to get into college,and get a job than it will be for your black friends. It's not because you will have earned or deserved it more, but because our society thinks less of people who aren't white. At the same time, you will be less likely to be harassed in stores, stopped by police, or shot and killed based on nothing but the criminal stereotype that is attached to having dark skin.
When I look at you I see a strong-willed, confident, and nurturing spirit. So I know that as you go to school and progress in your chosen career, you won't let people question your abilities, simply because you’re a woman. When you are judged by how thin you are, the clothes you wear, whether you’re in a relationship,who you are in a relationship with, whether you have children, what kind of birth control you use, and so many other things that have nothing to do with who you are as a person, you will know that you have the power to choose. And I hope that you will choose whatever path will make you happy and is best for you and your family-whether you're CEO or a stay-at-home mom (or both!). Both are something to be proud of, both are important, and both are available to you because of powerful feminists throughout history. I hope that you are brave enough to think for yourself and to stand up for what you believe in. And I hope that you will find a partner who believes in you as much as you believe in yourself and encourages you the way that your father does with me. He is a the perfect example of a man who understands an equal partnership.
On this day, I promise that I will fight for a world that you and all children deserve.I will support and encourage the women around me. I will be an example of compassion, empathy and service towards all people no matter their gender, sexual orientation, or race.You are surrounded by women that you can look up to and be proud of - your grandmother, who is confident, independent, and raised an incredible man that I am so happy to call my husband. Adriana, who is able to balance working as a Head Chef, being a wife, and being a mother of two toddlers like a rock star. And your aunt Brittanee who selflessly carried twin babies so that a deserving gay couple could start a family of their own. I also have faith in your peers. Bernie Sanders campaign showed us that younger generations are more aware and more educated than ever before, and although times seem uncertain right now, the future looks bright for our future generations who value science, freedom of speech, protecting and preserving our planet and resources, and equality for all.
So now, on the Eve of the Inauguration and two days before I march alongside thousands of women who stand for women's rights, human rights, immigrant rights, and equality for all, I am filled with hope for the future. I am writing this letter to you, my daughter, because it's important to me that you see me standing up and saying that I won't stand for hate and inequality. I want you to know that when something horrible happens, you can choose move forward, be brave, and believe that you can make a change. I believe in what Obama said in his farewell address- "If you're tired of arguing with strangers on the internet, try to talk to one in real life. If something needs fixing, lace up your shoes and do some organizing. The long sweep of America has been defined by forward motion, a constant widening to embrace all, and not just some."
And most of all, know that whatever you choose in life, your father and I will always be there supporting you.
Love, mom
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