Dear Lady Voters,
There are 23 days until the election, and if you've tuned out, it's time to tune back in. Even if it's only for the 27 minutes it takes to watch this week's call to action by Michelle Obama.
If you've heard about Michelle's heartfelt speech, but haven't seen it, I'll tell you that once you see and hear Michelle you'll realize why none of us can continue looking the other way while the opposing candidate makes excuses for and jokes about his hideous behavior in the now infamous bus video where he degrades women. Never has there been a more important time for both women and men to say enough is enough. And, Lady Voters, it's up to us to stand up, stand tall, and prove to the entire world that American women, regardless of their political leanings, will unite and demand decency and equality. Because this is not one moment in time for the Republican candidate. This is a deeply embedded character flaw and no one running for President should say, "I'm sorry, but..."
There are no buts about it. Saying it is wrong, laughing about it is wrong, and his on-going degradation of the women coming forward to say it happened to them is not only wrong, but disgusting. Further, by dismissing it as locker room talk, he disrespects men.
So, what do we do?
Well, in this political climate it can feel scary to share your opinion or correct a misguided statement. But Lady Voters, please do not let fear quiet your voices. The most powerful tools we have are our brains, hearts, and voices, and if those are in good working order, we'll be okay. By good working order, I mean that one must be informed with facts (brain), confident in their position (heart), and practiced at graceful delivery (voice). And if you happen to be someone who isn't convinced Hillary deserves your vote, but you want to speak out against the antiquated and oppressive woman-shaming, I encourage you to research Hillary and both the Democratic and Republican parties.
Here's the truth...
Democrats (and Hillary) are for sensible, active government, because sensible, active governments help people prosper. Democrats (and Hillary) are for equality for all, because we may look, sound, love, or worship differently, but we're all human and deserve the same opportunities. Democrats (and Hillary) are also for lifting everyone up, including and especially women, who serve as the majority of caregivers for the aging and caretakers of children, all while adding value to workplaces and propelling the economy in creative ways.
All I can say about the Republican platform is that it contains principles that divide, control, and help only a few. Their ideas are outdated, especially when it comes to women.
And please (please, please) don't fall for the fiction that that Hillary is untrustworthy and has even turned on girls or women. I promise you, I've done the research and in her personal and political history, she hasn't stepped on other women to get ahead. She may dismiss accusations with an air of coolness or ignore allegations, but that's because the claims are nonsense and she is drive to focus on the important things that need to be done for our country. Just remember this, she may play to win, but she isn't corrupt.
And this, I believe, is why Michelle, 17 years younger than Hillary, is driven to defend Hillary's candidacy. In Michelle's generation, our differences began falling away because good ideas mattered more. In Michelle's generation, glass ceilings existed, but women were rising, and fast. And because Michelle's generation lies between Hillary's and that of her daughters, her perspective is unique.
In one direction, she looks back and sees older women putting on armor and assuming a tough or manly persona to achieve success. In the other, she looks forward and sees young women just being themselves to reach their goals. In essence, Michelle's speech thanks the bridge that carried women over. And now, women voters must show their gratitude to past generations too. By discussing the truth, outing the lies, and casting ballots for the most qualified candidate in presidential history. Who happens to be a woman.