The Times call for Intentional Action-but are Americans Ready?

Some decades ago, Martin Luther King said, 

"Now is the time to lift our nation from the quick sands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God's children…The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges."

This quote reminds me of today and the times we just lived during the 2016 election season, which by the way seemed never-ending. The very long awaited and debated election 2016 marked by; painful, unfocused debates, violent rallies, racist inappropriate remarks, investigations and lawsuits, attack ads, questionable emails, gender analytics, sexism, tweeter messaging and more is now over. Or is it? Will we Americans stay engaged? Are we ready for the times ahead? Will our actions follow our words for taking intentional actions when necessary? 

As we approach the change of power, all messaging indicates most of the country is perplexed, concerned for the future and many are scarred by the 2016 election outcome. One thing remains critical, our responsibility as citizens of this nation to stay vigilant, to hold congress and the new president accountable; to make it our business to ensure inclusivity for All; to stay engaged researching the issues and standing up when policy positions threaten the fabric of our democracy and the core principles we are proud of as a nation. 

Regardless of party affiliation, this is a time to make a personal commitment to continue the fight for: access to quality education from cradle to grave, affordable health care, protection of the environment, effective domestic family policies, sound foreign relations, quality immigration reform and an economy that includes everyone with equitable taxes, jobs, etc. It is a time to not only remain watchful but to raise our voices when congress and the new president deviate from implementing inclusive, fair, and equitable laws and policies that take into account ALL of America. 

Reflecting on all the debates, media coverage, current confirmation hearings and last night’s farewell address by our 44th President, Barrack Obama, I am certain that there are tumultuous times ahead. Stay vigilant, informed, engaged, and above all let your voice be heard. 

Only time will tell; but think deeply about what America you want to see at the end of four years?