We voted in near-record numbers.?The votes have been counted. The election results have been announced.
We’d been warned that as much half of the electorate would be deeply disappointed with the outcomes — even feel unwelcomed and endangered in the future they foresee. We just did not know which half it would be.
?
This moment calls for many of us to pause, reflect, and reconnect to friends, family, and community.
?
It also calls on us to double down on our support for and engagement in civil society, for the organizations, associations, and mutual aid networks it comprises are American democracy’s singular asset. Through active engagement in community life, we and those we support each make a difference — a privilege and opportunity in our democracy.
?
The challenge will be to ensure that disappointment does not morph into disaffection. Not now, for we are needed.
?
Civil society organizations provide forums for us to engage in respectful argument, careful listening, and consensus-building: the practice of democratic decision-making. In the process of solving shared problems and stewarding community resources, we contribute to building trust, community, and the capacity to self-govern.
?
This is also a moment to express our deep, collective gratitude to all those leaders who are doing the work of community building and problem solving, be they human rights monitors, poll watchers, members of global service organizations, NGOs with a nationwide reach, community foundations, or the members of Divine 9 sororities, rotary clubs, local PTAs, women’s shelters, Jewish community centers, or the Boys & Girls Club chapter.
?
Whether happy or disappointed by the election results, we and they can make a difference.
That’s the saving grace.
