Women, it’s time we rise up, speak up and stand together for our future. America’s presidential race – as crazy and nonsensical as it has become – has brought to the forefront many areas where the rights, perceptions and opportunities of women are in desperate need of our attention. All of us must get involved and be aware.
Now let me get this out of the way up front – I am not here to tell you how to vote. I am convinced that when we use our God-given sound mind to see past our fears we are completely capable of choosing wisely. Furthermore, it’s our right. Anyone who tries to tell us who to vote for should be told no thank you and have a seat.
I will, however, ask us to consider making a choice that is in the best interest of women, now and in the future. We are 50% of the US population, and should be afforded all of the rights, opportunities and respect the other half enjoys. But sadly today, in 2016, we are not. This is why I decided to write.
In the last 12 months I have been horrified by what I’ve seen in the news. Rape victims have been denied justice, and then told by the judge to keep their legs closed. Our young girls have been stalked on the internet, and then blamed for it because of the pictures they post. We’ve been unfairly paid, body shamed and bullied, and the worst is at times it’s been from other women. Is this the world we want to live in? Can this possibly be what we want for our daughters, nieces, sisters and friends? I think not.
Rise up women! We have work to do. Let’s band together to bring about the changes we want to see. It’s time to stand up and be heard. From our local city councilman to the President, we must vote for the candidates who are willing to make our issues American issues.
There are so many challenges facing women today, but I believe there are a few critical ones that will shape our future for many years to come. Here are five questions we can ask our candidates to determine which will act in our best interest.
- How will your economic plan ignite a more rapid closing of the wage gap between men and women?
- What is your perspective on the alarming culture of rape in America and how will you stiffen penalties for convicted offenders?
- What are your plans for making women a core part of your administration?
- How will you crack down on the ever-growing problem of online harassment, most especially the stalking, body shaming and cyber bullying of our young girls?
- What is your stance on reproductive rights?
Ladies these are real issues that affect not only women, but I would dare say all of America. Despite our incredible advancements violence against women still remains endemic in America. According to the CDC nearly 1 in 5 women have been raped at some point in their lives. Another recent survey reports that nearly a 1/3 of women in the US have experienced domestic violence. When our very lives are at stake and our economic opportunities are limited, how can we ever be all of who God created us to be?
Rise up women! Let’s be awake, aware, and committed to supporting those who support us. We are here for such a time as this, to be sure that our America is one where men and women are afforded equal opportunity, access and security.
Join me in making informed choices this election season – for our country, and our children. Be aware of how your vote will affect the lives of women for years to come, and unapologetically stand strong against those who oppose us.
We are powerful, we are strong, and when we band together in passionate purpose there is nothing we can’t do! Hugs and Love ♥
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