Onward, Upward.

Moving Forward with Strength and Hope: A Call to Action for Progress

As we take in the results of this presidential election, it’s natural to feel a wave of emotions—disappointment, sadness, frustration. For many of us, it’s not the outcome we had hoped for. For many of us, we just don’t understand - HOW? We’ve all been through a challenging journey, and we owe a heartfelt thanks to the Harris/Walz team, who fought courageously for 108 days until the end during this campaign. Their dedication reminded us of our shared vision for a more inclusive, fair, and compassionate country. And while the outcome wasn’t what we wanted, we now have a clear path forward and a renewed purpose: the fight for a better tomorrow continues.

Our nation faces pressing issues that need our voices and action more than ever—issues that impact each of us deeply, from women’s rights and reproductive freedom to economic fairness, environmental sustainability, and accessible healthcare. Although we may feel disheartened, it’s crucial that we harness these feelings and turn them into constructive action. This moment asks us to stand strong, to keep talking about the issues that matter, and to continue advocating for the future we believe in. Here’s a plan to help us do just that.

1. Embrace and Channel Our Emotions

Let’s first acknowledge how many of us feel. Whether it’s sadness, anger, or frustration, these feelings are not just valid—they’re a sign of how deeply we care. Emotions fuel change, and they’ll guide us through what’s to come. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, attend virtual support circles, or express yourself in ways that remind you that you’re not alone. Talking openly about our feelings strengthens our communities and unites us in purpose.

While it’s normal to experience these emotions, they can also serve as powerful reminders of why we’re dedicated to this work. As we move forward, let’s carry these feelings with us, transforming them into action.

2. Keep Fighting for Core Issues

This election highlighted the need to double down on conversations around key issues that matter to millions of Americans. These topics aren’t going away, and we must stay engaged and vocal about them. Here’s where our energy is needed most:

• Reproductive Rights: The fight for reproductive freedom is far from over. We must continue advocating for accessible, safe, and legal abortion services across the country. Every individual deserves control over their own body, and this fight remains essential.

• Women’s Rights: The push for gender equality extends far beyond reproductive rights. Equal pay, paid family leave, and workplace protections are vital steps toward ensuring women have the opportunities and support they deserve.

• Healthcare: Millions of Americans continue to face barriers to affordable healthcare. We must push for universal healthcare and policies that reduce costs and ensure every citizen has access to the medical care they need.

• Economic Justice and Fair Taxation: Wealth inequality is one of the most significant challenges facing our country. We need tax policies that ensure corporations and the wealthiest individuals pay their fair share. Supporting legislation that prioritizes middle- and low-income families will help us move toward a more just economy.

• Price Gouging and Consumer Protections: From housing to essential goods, rising costs are hitting Americans hard. Combatting price gouging, ensuring affordable housing, and implementing consumer protections are crucial steps toward economic stability for all.

• Sustainability and Climate Action: The climate crisis remains one of our most urgent issues. We need policies that promote renewable energy, protect our natural resources, and support sustainable practices that create a healthier planet for future generations.

• Gun Violence Prevention: The rise in gun violence continues to affect communities nationwide. It’s crucial to advocate for common-sense gun reforms that protect lives while respecting rights. Our schools, neighborhoods, and public spaces must be safe for all.

• Immigrant Rights: Protecting our immigrants is essential to building an equitable society. Immigrants contribute enormously to our economy, culture, and communities. Advocating for fair and humane immigration policies, support systems, and pathways to citizenship for those who need it is key to creating an inclusive America.

And these issues are just the beginning—there are more issues that demand our attention, from criminal justice reform to racial equity. Our work must address them all if we’re to build a truly inclusive and forward-looking society.

3. Support and Amplify Progressive Leaders

While we didn’t achieve our goal at the highest level, many progressive leaders are still championing these issues at the local, state, and national levels. Supporting these leaders is one of the best ways to keep momentum on our side. We can amplify their voices by sharing their messages, donating to their campaigns, and getting involved with their grassroots movements.

Engaging with these officials keeps pressure on issues that impact us all. When we support our allies in government, we strengthen their ability to make meaningful change. And let’s remember that the next generation of leaders is watching—they’re learning from our resilience, and they’ll carry our legacy forward.

4. Focus on Local Change and Grassroots Action

Change often starts at the local level, and community initiatives can have a huge impact. Find local organizations that align with your values—whether they’re focused on reproductive rights, racial justice, or economic reform—and get involved. Small, local efforts build momentum that can lead to substantial national changes.

Consider volunteering, attending town halls, or engaging in local campaigns. These actions not only make a difference in our communities, but they also remind us of the power we hold. Change can feel slow on a national scale, but every small victory at the local level is a step toward the world we envision.

5. Practice Self-Care and Resilience

Advocacy can be exhausting, especially after a challenging election season. It’s essential to prioritize self-care to sustain our efforts over the long haul. Burnout serves no one, and a healthy mind and body are vital for the ongoing work that lies ahead.

Taking time to recharge, whether through meditation, exercise, connecting with friends, or unplugging from social media, is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Self-care enables us to return to the fight with renewed energy and determination.

6. Keep Talking About the Issues

One of the most effective ways to maintain momentum is through conversation. By openly discussing our goals, we create a ripple effect. Talk with family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers about the issues we care about. We don’t all have to agree, but sharing perspectives and staying informed is how we build understanding.

Keeping these issues front and center means they remain part of our collective consciousness. Through small conversations, we inspire others, spread awareness, and ensure our values continue to gain visibility. These discussions may seem minor, but they’re crucial in creating a culture that values progress and fairness.

7. Plan for the Future and Be Ready to Act

It may feel like the fight for progress takes place only during election seasons, but true change happens every day. We need to remain committed, not just in years when our voices are amplified at the ballot box but also in the quieter moments when we’re building up our communities. The work we do today sets the stage for future victories.

As we look toward the next four years, we must also look beyond them. This election cycle was one chapter; the story is far from over. Let’s remain engaged, continue to vote in every election, and hold ourselves accountable for the world we want to create.

Together Toward a Better Future

We thank the Harris/Walz team for reminding us of the power of hope, resilience, and compassion. While this election’s outcome may not be what we wanted, we cannot let disappointment discourage us. We are the ones who can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most, and our collective action is more powerful than any election result.

AND YES, we recognize some reading this may not agree. That’s ok. But as this post is - we want to voice our opinion. The end goal is to bring us together as equals.

Let’s move forward together, holding onto the issues that matter, lifting each other up, and committing to the fight for a fairer, more compassionate America. We’re in this for the long haul, and every action we take will pave the way toward the future we know is possible. Together, we can and will create a brighter tomorrow.