Chapter 1: Reflections on 2016

Do you recall the events of 2016? The political atmosphere was charged, with excitement building for a potential first female president, despite mixed feelings about Hillary Clinton. Many of us, myself included, were convinced that Donald Trump would never take the presidency.

As Kamala Harris rises to lead the Democratic Party, I aim to avoid the painful memories from that tumultuous election cycle. The fallout left some family relationships strained, and as the lone liberal in a sea of conservative relatives, I have no desire to relive that experience.

I’m charting a new path—one where I refrain from labeling my family as adversaries or excessively praising my friends. Instead, I’m focusing on listening more intently and reacting less impulsively. I intend to support Kamala Harris, but this time, I’ll do so with a quieter presence.

The irony of my situation is not lost on me. Here I am, writing about my choice to remain silent during this election season, while simultaneously making my thoughts known through an article.

Three weeks ago, my family and I stepped outside our liberal enclave in Austin for a visit to the Jersey Shore—my hometown. New Jersey may lean blue, but the Shore has its own mix of political colors. It’s home to hardworking families like mine, as well as wealthy residents proudly displaying their Trump flags alongside American ones. Among them are my childhood friends, who are committed to advocating for a more just future through their work in global climate initiatives.

During our visit, we witnessed significant political events, including an assassination attempt on Trump and Biden's withdrawal from the race, followed by Kamala's swift rise as the frontrunner. In the past, I might have confronted my family during such politically charged conversations; however, I chose to listen instead. I laughed when appropriate and silently celebrated Kamala’s nomination.

Eight years ago, we were led to believe that activism meant confronting family members with opposing views. The mantra was to "call in" instead of "call out"—to invite friends and family to consider more progressive perspectives.

How has that approach worked out?

It certainly did not shift the views of my conservative relatives; rather, it seemed to strengthen their resolve. I’ve accepted that I cannot change their minds.

My activism does not lie in persuading my family.

At the age of 14, I fell in love with The Beatles. I abandoned my Blink-182 posters and delved into the world of Beatlemania, consuming every piece of their music and history. While my peers were listening to pop-punk, I was captivated by John and Yoko's bed-in for peace.

Ironically, it was my most conservative relatives who introduced me to The Beatles, a pivotal moment that likely influenced my progressive shift. Yet, I choose to remain silent.

The Beatles' legacy is rich and filled with activism, leading me to other iconic figures of the 1960s like Bob Dylan and Joan Baez—a fascinating education not covered in my eighth-grade history class.

Like any belief system, my liberalism was cultivated over time. Moving to New York City, attending art school, and interacting with diverse perspectives broadened my understanding beyond my hometown. My first vote was cast for Barack Obama, marking my transformation into a voting liberal.

My ideology evolved gradually, shaped by interconnected experiences that drove me to advocate for equitable wealth distribution and women's healthcare.

The same can be said for those on the opposite side of the political spectrum; they too possess a foundation of experiences that shape their beliefs, which cannot be dismantled through hostility or insults. Have we not learned this lesson?

Spending a month at the Jersey Shore with my family reminded me that our fears differ significantly. Their concerns are not mine, and mine are not theirs—a complex disconnect that often feels insurmountable. Yet, I refuse to let fear drive a wedge between us.

Thus, my activism will not involve yelling at those whose opinions are unlikely to shift. We live in a vast country where influencing everyone’s views is impractical. Instead, I will focus on my children, serve on nonprofit boards to empower young voices through art, and dedicate my career to meaningful work. I will embody my liberal values while cherishing my conservative family.

Chapter 2: The Political Landscape

In the first video, "Why Liberalism Won't Solve Anything," the speaker discusses the limitations of liberal ideologies in addressing systemic issues. It challenges the notion that liberal solutions can effectively resolve deep-rooted problems.

The second video, "President Trump Delivers Remarks at the Conservative Political Action Conference," features Trump discussing key conservative principles and rallying supporters, offering insight into the mindset of his base.