Social Exclusion

This was written by my cousin in the USA after the election. The loss of reason, logic and justice cuts deep into our collective consciousness as we begin to go through the stages of grief together. It feels like a death, or a really bad hangover. Like did that really happen last night and when will it end? 

It makes me reflect on the chapter in our text about social inequalities and how they affect effect individuals and groups mental health. People are depressed, angry, hurt, confused, let down and shocked that someone who is so ignorant, sexist, racist and divisive had gained power in a so called democratic country. The sad reality is that this is a country that had done much damage to the world, and has a history of slavery, now it seems like it is imploding on itself. 

I too feel shocked, sad, and uncertain for my family living in the States. I don't know what to do except for hold onto an idealistic belief that light and goodness will always prevail over dark times. I mean this happens in the movies right? The Sith or Dark Lords take over and the Jedi's or wizards in the name of good must join together and fight.

Fighting does not need to be violent though, we can be the positive and peaceful change we wish to see in the world. We can make a difference through ahimsa- non-violence. Maybe it is time for another civil rights march and other forms of civil disobedience. It has worked in the past. Our collective voice can be more powerful than one individual or repressed ideology. I hold onto the hope that this is the tipping point for great change, union and equality for all. 

Heartbroken 

Today, I'm heartbroken, America.

I feel like I don't belong here in my beloved country.

For what it's worth, here's how I feel:

I don't belong because my skin is brown.

I don't belong because my parents are immigrants.

I don't belong because my parents are Muslims.

I don't belong because I'm a secular humanist.

I don't belong because I'm a woman who believes my body is my own business.

I don't belong because I think everyone should have affordable healthcare.

I don't belong because I teach about climate change and evolution.

I don't belong because I believe in marriage equality.

Half of you have spoken loud and clear.

I thought there would be room in the United States for someone like me.

Your vote negates my very being.

Yours truly,

A heartbroken American