I want to write you a note of comfort. I want to give you words of encouragement, of hope, but sadly I’m woefully at a loss. Just like most of you I’m sad, I’m scared, and I’m pissed off. I want to say that last week’s overturning of Roe v. Wade is as bad as it can get, but I fear it isn’t. The morning after the 2016 elections I was drowning my sorrows in mimosas with a group of fellow female business owners. One of my friends asked, “How bad can it be? He’s just one guy. There are checks and balances.” Well, it’s been bad. It’s been unfair. It’s been unjust. My friends, elections have consequences, and we are reeling from them right now.
In between waves of grief, please find ways to take action. I know you’re mad, we are too, so let’s channel that rage toward something good and beautiful. Let’s change people’s minds through constructive discourse. Donate money to support those seeking abortions and those fighting the good fight for us. Spend your time writing letters or canvassing in support of pro-choice, pro-human rights candidates. Check your registration status and make sure your friends and family are registered to vote. Most importantly, get your ass to the voting booth and take a friend with you! Vote in every single local, state, and federal election. They are incredibly important, especially right now.
Change starts at the local level. From school boards to Senators, we must engage in our communities and be vigilant in order to hold all our elected officials accountable. At Penny Post and Red Barn Mercantile, we pledge to use our platform, our profits, and our community to do just that. I hope you’ll join us.