"When in Doubt Wear Red" - Bill Blass

Let me start by saying, I promise this post has a happy ending.

Anyone that knows me knows that I stay pretty far away from politics. A lot of people think that I am being naive or ignorant by not getting involved. I guess that could be true to an extent, but I think that can be said for everyone. I stay away from politics for various reasons, but not because I haven't formed my opinions on the big issues facing our country (and really the whole planet). I choose not to share my opinions with others because of how toxic and brutal the political culture is.

How often do you get shut down for sharing your ideas and opinions? How many people do you know that sacrifice their friendships and relationships just so that they can hold on to the idea that they HAVE to be right? This isn't Star Wars. You can give up the high ground once in awhile. When is the last time you had a calm conversation about politics where everyone was happy and respected? I'm guessing it doesn't happen very often.

I see far too many people tearing down others so that their opinions seem more important and "right." These are the same people who go out of their way to tell you how much they will respect your opinions and point of view. However, "I respect your ideas" is actually short for "I respect my ideas, and yours by extension, if they are the same as mine." I have been protecting myself by not getting involved in it all. I refuse to give others the sword to slay me with, especially those that I care about. But that's not completely it.I know that as soon as I share my stances on politics, I will instantly be labeled.

Republican.
Democrat.
Liberal.
Conservative.
Feminist.

Society has reached the point where the above labels are as good as insults. People like to say that race, gender, and religion are dividing the country. And I do think that's true (even though people should be able to look past those things), but I believe that political labels separate us even more. Now when someone says "they're a Republican/Democrat/etc." it sounds like an insult. I don't think it's crazy to want to avoid subjecting myself to that. But hell, who knows. Maybe I am nuts. I'm certainly not counting it out (yes, that is a joke).

You're probably sitting there reading this wondering if there is a point to this very long rant-like post. Well I'm just about there. Get ready for a plot twist.

Today I am participating in something political in nature.

"What?? But why?? You're so justified in your opposition though! My heart can't take this sudden betrayal!!" I understand this is what you are thinking right now (clearly), but I have a good reason. As most of you probably know, today is International Women's Day. Today, women across the world are either wearing red, not going to work, shopping at stores owned by women, or all of the above. This is part of the "Day Without Women" movement. Pretty much, we are trying to emphasize the importance of women in society. This is worth giving up my issues with politics for a day.


This is important. In a time where women don't receive equal pay, are body shamed for not looking like a photo shopped picture in a magazine, are made to feel like we are breakable little dolls, can't breastfeed in public without being insulted, and are all around not seen for our full potential it is important. We need to represent our strength. Because...
We are strong.
We are beautiful.
We are not less special than men.
We are important.

So today, don't be afraid to be proud. Because, let's face it ladies, we are awesome.

Look for me. I'll be the one in red.

-Emily