When it comes to politics, women, specifically women of color, have been reduced to a stereotype. She’s too inexperienced, too ambitious, too strong. Instead of focusing on her qualifications and lived experience, headlines focus on the candidate’s personality. And this year’s presidential race is no exception: electability is tainted by racism and sexism.
Today a Black woman, an Indian American woman, and a Californian from a family of immigrants was endorsed as the nominee for President of the United States by Biden. This is a historic moment in a year and campaign already marked by violence, war, racist rhetoric, and extreme attacks on bodily autonomy.
No single election, no single candidate can provide all the solutions. But together we can protect and expand our democracy. Liberation is not a static destination, but a journey that requires work and persistent engagement. Having progressive women of color, and gender expansive people as teachers, mentors, CEOs, and even presidential nominees reminds us there is a place for all of us in our multiracial feminist future.
Our multiracial democracy must be representative. Voting is one of the keys to ensure the feminist future we envision and deserve. With every ballot, we are choosing our values and strengthening our movement. We urge our elected leaders to take bold steps to strengthen our democracy by enacting progressive policies on reproductive justice, gun control, climate change, economic security, access to quality healthcare, education, and care for all.
There is a strong tide pulling us towards justice, with countless people working and organizing every day to advance racial, economic, environmental, and gender justice. As we move towards the world we know is possible, our work ahead is to take care of each other. At Women’s Foundation California, we are ready and committed to this collective vision of our feminist future.
This is an opportunity to redefine and expand American democracy. Collectively, we must ensure change is not only possible, but inevitable and irresistible.
Onwards,
Bia Vieira, she/her/elle
CEO, Women’s Foundation California