ourselves in positions of power, purpose, and priority. It was but a moment, but I saw a lifetime. In this brief moment, I knew this election would be different, that we would turn out like never before and use the collective power of our voices. The words shared by Harris reinforced the messages my children hear daily: they are leaders, the critical component of our future, and most importantly, they are worth fighting for, no matter the cost. The brief conversation Harris and I shared, about what America is supposed to be and must become for Black folks, was insightful. Like the embrace, we talked for only a moment, but I again traveled the journey of a lifetime. I saw a pathway back to excellence in leadership, diplomacy, and decency. I had a vivid 1080HD picture of my children’s adult life: a son and daughter whose America is much different than their grandparents or mine. An
America where Dr. King’s dream is actualized. An antiracist America where racial abuse disguised as bias and micro-aggressions is eradicated. The root cause of systematic isms is dealt with, versus merely making excuses for the perpetrators of racist actions. I saw an America where no attempts were made to assassinate the excellence of my Black children. An environment where thriving and equity is the norm. My son isn’t thinking, “Dear police, please don’t shoot me down,” “listen white people, I’m not going to hurt you,” or “white women, please don’t call the police on me for breathing!” Instead, he is living his dream of building the cities of the future as an engineer. My beautiful Black daughter isn’t fighting for the right to be seen or heard. She isn’t experiencing discrimination based on her hair or receiving three to five times less in salary than her white male counterparts while
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carrying the same responsibilities. Nope, she is a boss in every aspect, a CEO leading with substance, savvy, and style. She leads the way with an unmatched work ethic, intellect, creativity, and emotional intelligence, because it’s who she is, not because she has to do that much more to matter or be acknowledged. From these brief interactions, I realize the importance of the moments to come. The “great” America we have written on paper and boast about to other countries can be attained. Senator Kamala Harris’ presence at that moment meant the future I saw is a possibility. Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris’ current status means we can make this future a reality. America can truly be great for the first time. America won’t become great simply because the BidenHarris ticket was successful. The real work starts now. Our collective use of our voices was
the first step. This historical moment has to be followed by unapologetic, radical actions of decency, equity, and justice to ensure that everyone thrives. The country spoke, and we accomplished what many deemed impossible – putting a Black woman on a pathway to the United States presidency. We now have to continue the work. We have to rethink our approach and be intentional about an equitable economy, healthcare system, and an educational system that doesn’t support misogyny, half-truths, and achievement gaps. We have to reevaluate and restructure our justice system and attack systematic racism headon, despite the fragility or privilege of those who believe America’s meritocracy is real. There is work to be done. It’s time to manifest and materialize for everyone the America that creates liberty and justice for all..
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DPP.ORG OR CALL 303-595-4DPP Denver Urban Spectrum — www.denverurbanspectrum.com – December 2020
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