The Fatigue of Always Being a Strong Woman

In the aftermath of every election, women are called upon to embody strength. Whether facing defeat or making historic strides, the expectation remains the same: we must be resilient. Recent events have starkly illustrated the troubling reality that a significant portion of the American populace appears to favor men, even those with dubious legal and moral standings, over women leaders. This pervasive misogyny is a troubling undercurrent that continues to challenge our progress.

Baffled by the persistent adversities women face, one cannot help but ask: when will we transcend these unprecedented challenges? Why do marginalized groups, including transgender individuals, maintain lists of safe spaces? The electoral outcomes from this recent cycle hint at deep-rooted biases; while Donald Trump garnered both the popular vote and the electoral college votes in 2020, he’d lost those to a white male contestant just four years earlier. Misogyny and racism are pivotal to understanding the dynamics at play, fueling supporters who uphold the status quo while silencing voices concerned about their rights.

It is disheartening to be constantly reminded that women supposedly have equal opportunities when systemic sexism continues to undermine our ascent to power. Consider Trump’s record: being a convicted felon and an alleged sexual predator were inconsequential to many voters, solely because he is not a woman. If Kamala Harris were a man—not even a white man—it’s reasonable to believe the election results would have been quite different. Instead, the reality of a Black and Indian woman vying for leadership only further highlights the profound inequities written into the fabric of our political landscape.

When Will Someone Else Stand Up for the Vulnerable?

Acknowledging my privilege as a straight white woman, I recognize that while my reproductive rights are securely protected by New York’s Equal Rights Amendment, many suffer. The calls for strength amidst these crises resonate deeply, invoking frustration rather than unity. I commit to standing up for the trans community and the wider LGBTQIA+ groups targeted by Trump and his administration.

Moreover, I will advocate for those marginalized individuals—especially those who lacked a voice in this electoral process because of their age. My support will go to the 48% of white women and over 90% of Black women who voted for Kamala Harris. They deserve my backing, yet I find myself disillusioned when I consider the mindset of those women who fail to support others.

To the 52% of white women who supported Donald Trump, I do not wish suffering upon you, yet I cannot overlook the future ramifications of your choices. The impact of Trump’s agenda, particularly concerning Project 2025, may cause widespread adversity. I hope that those who voted in his favor will come to realize the responsibility of their actions.

This expectation to remain a strong woman while others allow themselves to be misled weighs heavily on me. However, I will persist in my commitment to support those who will undoubtedly encounter harsher realities than my own. Living in New York affords me certain privileges, yet I am deeply aware that the repercussions of a potential second Trump presidency will resonate far beyond my circumstances. To all who feel vulnerable or afraid, I want to assure you that I am here, ready to fight alongside you, and dedicated to being a steadfast ally in these trying times.

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