24 Months

"I now call the House to order on behalf of all of America's children,” said Nancy Pelosi the speaker of the 116th Congress. In that moment, I was overwhelmed with emotion. Not just by the visual of Speaker Pelosi taking the oath while surrounded by children, but by what that very statement means for our children. There is no doubt that the past 24-months have been sad and bitter for our divided country. Try to empathize with the experience of our children during this time. Since Trump took office, 24-months ago, our children have experienced increased anxiety, harassment, sexual and physical assault, and school climates (pre-school through college) have become more negative. Racist, sexist, homophobic and xenophobic attitudes now have new life. As a result, our children are threatened in their home and school communities. Our children are bullied for being themselves. Law enforcement has taken action against our children, based on unsubstantiated 911 calls. Some of our children have been killed. Children whose families seek asylum in the U.S. arrive here only to be separated from their parents and neglected. Recently, two of these children died while in US custody.

What has become of the United States of America and dear God, what type of example is being set for our children? The next generation. Our future.

So my emotion comes from Speaker Pelosi’s sheer acknowledgement of our children. My emotion comes from the hope that perhaps “a change is gonna come.” A change that benefits all of our children. So on behalf of all of America’s children, I thank Speaker Pelosi in advance for acknowledging that our children deserve more. Thank you in advance for speaking on their behalf and representing their best interests. To whom much is given, much is required and over the next 24-months, our children will be counting on you, Speaker Pelosi and the 116th congress, to show-up and show-out!

For more information about advocating for children you can go to my resources page to read more, learn more, act more!