Why I Will Vote: Election Day 2016 Reflections From a Mother, Educator & American by Ann Marie G. Halstead

Everyone has a special “Election Day outfit,” right? I guess I take this pretty seriously. Today...

• I will vote with gratitude, with the knowledge that women were beaten, tortured and killed fighting for my right to do so.

• I will vote as a parent who lives in fear of the next school shooting.

• I will vote as a mother who can’t begin to imagine the thought of my baby being ripped from my arms as I entered the country that represented a better life for him.

• I will vote as an educator who is blessed to teach at a university rich with diverse and brilliant students, including Dreamers.

• I will vote as a fierce ally of the LGBTQ community.

• I will vote as a patient who couldn’t possibly afford the medications and surgeries she’s needed over the years without health insurance, and who wants affordable health care for everyone.

• I will vote as a descendant of immigrants (aren’t we all?).

• I will vote as a woman who believes that women’s rights are human rights.

• I will vote as a human being who believes that as humans we all deserve basic human rights and compassion.

• I will vote out those who stand for hatred and bigotry, and vote in those who stand for unity, inclusion and equity.

I hope you’ll join me in making a difference in this historic election. I know that when my kids and grandkids ask me how I voted, I will want to feel good about my vote, and I will want them to feel good about my vote.

What did you vote for today?