Dear Daughters,
I realize that our trip to the cemetery on Tuesday wasn’t exactly what you envisioned for your morning. You were hungry (we really should have grabbed some snacks beforehand instead of afterwards; my apologies). You were feeling the pressure of missed classes, and the wait was certainly longer than anticipated.
Nonetheless, I appreciate your willingness to accompany me. While you may not grasp the importance of voting fully yet — and honestly, there are times when I find it overwhelming too — I hope someday it will resonate with you. The right to vote is still a privilege denied to many around the globe, and it’s easy to take it for granted.
As you mature and broaden your horizons, I believe you’ll encounter the realities of societal inequality. You’ll witness how individuals of different races are treated unfairly, especially since you are biracial and may face these challenges yourself. You will see the discrimination faced by the LGBTQ community and how those with disabilities are often marginalized. These injustices will shock you and may even break your heart.
Your father and I are committed to providing you with a foundation of understanding, whether it be through volunteering at shelters, participating in Pride events, or discussing race and equality in our daily conversations. I didn’t begin to comprehend these issues until much later in life, and I aspire to give you a wider lens from the start. Perhaps you will reminisce about these moments with a mix of annoyance and, hopefully, some appreciation for their significance.
Now, regarding our visit to vote and the subsequent journey to see the gravestone of Susan B. Anthony on election day: I understand your reluctance, but I felt it was essential. I have no doubt that you will face challenges simply because you are women. You will likely encounter harassment, condescension, or be underestimated throughout your lives.
When those moments arise, I want you to remember that day. I want you to recall your excitement about wearing a pantsuit in honor of a groundbreaking female candidate and how eager you were to wear those blazers I found at the thrift store. I want you to remember how we exchanged knowing smiles with other women in pantsuits at the polling station, feeling like part of a special community.
I hope you’ll recall the woman who lightened the mood while we waited in line, calling out “High fives, everyone!” and how we all joined in the laughter. I want you to remember the stunning autumn day, the vibrant leaves, and the palpable sense of excitement in the air.
Let’s not forget the kindness we showed when we allowed a woman using a walker to pass ahead of us in line, despite our own wait. This is what women do for one another — we uplift each other, support one another, and cheer each other on.
You’ll remember the woman in front of us who carried a bouquet of flowers and generously shared them with those around her, including you and me. I want you to carry that spirit of generosity and solidarity with you.
Even as we walked away from Susan’s grave, I hope you reflect on how far we’ve come and the possibilities that lie ahead. It is because of trailblazers like Susan B. Anthony that women today can even aspire to the highest offices.
Ultimately, I brought you to the cemetery not just to honor the women who paved the way for you, but to instill in you a belief in yourselves. Not just in the context of a potential presidency, but as strong, capable women who deserve a voice.
Although Hillary didn’t win the presidency, her journey was remarkable and serves as a testament to what women can achieve. We must continue to strive for a world where gender does not limit one’s aspirations. If not this year, there will be future opportunities, and together, we will fight to make them happen.
I took you to the cemetery to remind you that one woman can change the world. Her name was Susan. Her name is Hillary. And her name is yours.
With all my love,
Mom
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Summary:
In this reflective piece, a mother shares her experience of taking her daughters to Susan B. Anthony’s grave on election day, emphasizing the importance of understanding women’s rights and the struggles faced by women throughout history. The trip served as a lesson in empowerment and solidarity, reinforcing the idea that women can achieve great things together. The author hopes her daughters will carry these lessons into their future, recognizing the strength and potential they possess.
Keyphrase: Feminism and Empowerment
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