Daily Maestroism

DM #169

Tuesday, November 8th, 2016

DM #169: I have intentionally refrained from posting anything political during this election, but tonight I’ve got to say something.
As it relates to movement, I don’t post things to change people’s minds, but rather, to show those who already think like me that they’re not alone, and also, to provide some examples, insight, and guidance to those who may be uncertain of things and looking for a little direction. To that end, I’m taking the same approach with this election.
I travel the country pretty extensively and get to teach in some pretty remote places. I have encountered nothing but kind people, people eager to learn, people who have become my friends. But for the first time ever, I’ve begun to grow cautious of the places where I travel to teach, and legitimately begun to fear for my safety. I do not believe that Donald Trump speaks for or represents all Republicans, but his mere existence in this race has emboldened those folks who harbor a sense of hatred that is so unreal that I can’t help but experience a bit of fear when I drive past a house with a Confederate flag waving proudly and Trump signs on the lawn. I don’t want to assume anything, but self-preservation is a real thing.
That notion in mind, perhaps some of you out there are on the fence because you feel that Trump’s racist, misogynistic, homophobic stance doesn’t directly relate to you, or anyone you know. Well, then let me be that person you know. That person who will be directly, severely, and intensely affected. I am African American. I am Puerto Rican. I am female. I am gay. I am everything that Trump speaks against. I am also educated, hard-working, and a human being. I am the person who takes the time to share my knowledge with you day in and day out. The person whose ideas you repost, whose sentiments you like, whose inbox you blow up, and for some of you, a person who you call “friend”. I’d like to think that you believe that I deserve the same rights, freedoms, and safety as you. Because that is how I feel about you. All, almost 14k of you.
So, if you’re out there thinking ‘oh, it won’t be so bad if Trump gets elected.” Please, think about me. It will be that bad. #ImWithHer