The upcoming election is a significant source of anxiety for me, and I know I’m not alone in feeling this way. As a Black, queer woman, I understand the implications of a second Trump presidency; my life would become even more challenging. However, I also recognize that if Biden wins, many of my concerns won’t simply disappear. Regardless of the outcome, I fear retaliation from those on the right, who have much to gain or lose, depending on who takes office.
Racism won’t vanish overnight, and a single election cannot address centuries of systemic issues. I fully acknowledge that, but I am hopeful that things could improve slightly or worsen significantly. Biden may not be the perfect candidate when addressing systemic racism, but he has proposed policies that could help. Conversely, Trump dismisses the existence of these problems entirely and offers no solutions.
No matter the election results, I will continue to fear for my safety as a Black individual. The past four years have emboldened many to express their racism more openly than ever before. When the president equates Black Lives Matter with “Antifa,” he gives permission for others to act on their prejudices. The fear of increased hostility if Trump wins again looms large; I worry that white individuals will become even more brazen in their racism and violence. Conversely, if Biden is elected, those same individuals will not simply disappear; they will remain, lurking with their animosity.
The intense hatred that has surfaced in the last four years is daunting. Even if Biden wins, the anger from those who feel their way of life is threatened will likely lead to unrest. Will they form militias and patrol neighborhoods? The potential for violence is frightening.
Living in a diverse community, I currently feel safe, but I worry about the possibility of violent individuals trying to invade our space. My family could become targets, especially since my partner is a white woman who presents in a masculine way. My son, although mixed-race and appearing white, is clearly my child. What if something were to happen while we’re out together?
My partner and I are planning to get married next year, but with the Supreme Court now leaning conservative, we worry that we may miss our chance. Justices who wish to dismantle marriage equality are in power, and with the recent appointment of Amy Coney Barrett, our rights feel precarious. Our future now hinges on those who oppose our love.
Additionally, we are still grappling with the ongoing pandemic. We are taking precautions, but many people around us refuse to wear masks or acknowledge COVID-19’s severity. The election outcome will greatly influence how the nation responds to this crisis. If Trump is reelected, he may downplay the pandemic and push for a return to “normal,” regardless of the consequences. Cases would likely rise, jobs would be lost, and our healthcare system would become even more strained.
As a healthy individual, I know I still face risks from this virus. As the main provider for my family, the thought of becoming too ill to work is terrifying. My elderly parents live far away, and if everything reopens prematurely, I fear they could become ill while I can’t travel to help them. If Biden wins, I hope he will prioritize science in his COVID response, but I’m still concerned about those who dismiss the pandemic as a hoax. Will they follow guidelines, or will their defiance put everyone at risk?
None of this feels normal. We are all navigating this strange space filled with anxiety, fear, and a glimmer of hope. For many marginalized individuals, this fear is constant and won’t simply vanish if Biden is elected, but it does offer a slight hope for improvement.
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Summary:
The election is a source of significant anxiety, particularly for marginalized individuals. Regardless of whether Trump or Biden wins, concerns about racism, violence, and the ongoing pandemic persist. The fear of increased hostility and the uncertainty surrounding future rights and safety weighs heavily on many. While a Biden victory may offer some hope, the underlying issues of hate and division remain a pressing concern.
Keyphrase: election anxiety and marginalized communities
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