I logged into social media today and found myself feeling a bit disheartened. Again.
The “Memories” feature reminded me of joyful interactions with friends who have since faded from my feed—and from my life. As I reflected on those lighthearted moments and snapshots of happier times, the weight of those lost connections felt heavy.
I understand why these friendships have dwindled. The turning point was the last election cycle. While we had previously navigated political discussions with some playful banter, the atmosphere shifted dramatically in 2016.
As Election Day approached, many people I cared about surprised me by staunchly supporting a candidate with a troubling history, including allegations of sexual misconduct. They dismissed it as mere “locker-room talk.” As someone who has experienced sexual assault, I found this incomprehensible. How could those I thought I knew be okay with such behavior? They didn’t just overlook it—they endorsed it.
This felt like a betrayal, and it marked a pivotal moment for me.
I used to be a carefree individual, and my online presence reflected that—a joyful person who enjoyed sharing cat videos. Who doesn’t love a good cat video?
But now, it’s challenging to appreciate those light moments. With news dominated by nuclear threats, discriminatory legislation, and mass violence, I’ve awakened to a reality that fills me with anger.
This awakening has cost me relationships. Friends from childhood, those who roller-skated at my birthday parties, and college buddies I bonded with over late-night snacks and shared TV shows are now absent from my life. They loved me until my outrage became too much for them to handle.
Some suggest that I should tone down my political stance, urging me to return to lighter topics, like cat videos. Trust me, the idea of reverting to that simpler time is enticing. I miss when politics didn’t invade my social media presence, when I didn’t feel a surge of anger with every news update. I long for the days when life felt less burdensome.
But then I think of my friends who identify as LGBTQ+, those who are immigrants, my friends of color, and my Muslim friends. I ponder whether they ever experienced that lightness I once took for granted. The truth is, they haven’t, and it dawns on me how privileged I was to have enjoyed such carefree moments.
So, no, I can’t retreat to cat videos. Regardless of the cost, I can’t silence my voice. I’ve witnessed the darker sides of our society, and that knowledge has transformed me. I refuse to become apolitical just to maintain comfort for myself or others—not until everyone feels that comfort.
And I eagerly await the day when that is a reality.
In the meantime, I will continue to advocate for what I believe is just. I intend to confront injustices wherever they arise. I do this because I believe I’m aligned with the right side of history. If this results in the loss of some relationships, it’s unfortunate—but I’m at peace with it.
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In summary, my political beliefs have led to the loss of relationships, but I recognize the importance of speaking out. I cannot return to a place of ignorance while advocating for justice and equity.