Why the crying?

I hate politics. I HATE THEM. In fact, I apparently yelled at Chad one morning because his podcast was on and annoying me in my sleep. He asked me what was wrong, and I said, “….POLITICS.” Needless to say, this whole election has been awful for someone who can’t stand to listen to this. But you know what is worse? Seeing the hateful messages from some Trump supporters belittling those that are openly upset by this. I am not going to tell anyone my political views because that shouldn’t be a factor in my business (heads up – I love everyone, and do not have a specific party unless it’s a cocktail party), but I wanted to share some insight into the why factor. My mom said it best when she was discussing our differences – “You are part of a group that I’m not.” She’s referring to me being an ally of the LGBTQ+ folks. I’m straight, but I fully support these wonderful individuals, and because of that, they’ve let me into their lives. They have shown me what the majority of the public doesn’t see. That’s just one part, though. I’m also in support of refugees, adoptions, and accept all races.

So, what does that have to do with this whole Trump thing? I mean, they are just taking the news of Hillary not winning hard, right? WRONG. With a man that has said some of the most crude things I’ve ever heard someone say on live television, let alone a presidential candidate at the time, everyone knows someone that is worried and fearful of the coming days.

In just the past day, I’ve seen hundreds of posts from people, some friends even, getting hurt, harassed, assaulted, threatening notes being left on their cars or doors, and all because they are 1) not white, 2) not straight, or 3) not Christian. These threats are popping up everywhere, and messages are being left drawn on buildings – “Make America White Again”… This is not my America. And I shouldn’t have to worry about if I’ll even be harassed or assaulted while trying to photograph the love between two people that may or may not be of the same race/gender. But I’m prepared. And I will defend my couples, my friends, and my family always.

These people that fall into these categories are fearful for their rights as citizens. Did you know there is a list going around for those that may be affected by this that tells them what to try to take care of before Trump becomes official? A check list to ensure their safety. This is absurd. This shouldn’t be a reality. Families of color are worried they could be deported despite being a citizen, they worry their own families in their home countries may not be able to visit, and what if they go to visit them and can’t get back into the country? The LGBTQ+ community worries about their rights that we’ve fought so hard for will be stripped away once again, and I even have my own clients contemplating getting their marriage licenses in these coming weeks just to be official before any changes to our system can be made. Children that have best friends or even siblings that are adopted now worry about having to say goodbye to those they adore. These stories are everywhere, and the fear it very very real. This is why they are calling in grief counselors to the schools, because children and students here on a visa are terrified of  all this. Can you imagine being in your senior year, planning to graduate in the spring or next fall, and not knowing if you will be allowed? After all that hard work and dedication? After having to give up your home to come here for a better education?

I am not going to tell you who to vote for or who should/should not be president (we ALL have the right to vote for the candidate we feel is best), but I will say that there are serious concerns for those that aren’t straight and white. They aren’t being whiny. They aren’t being sore losers. They are being humans that are uncertain of what is coming, especially after things that have been said thus far, and actions that have been taken.

For those celebrating this victory for your candidate, congratulations! I know you are excited. I sincerely mean that. But please understand that there’s a good bit more to this than many realize. Show love, and don’t be afraid to protect those that need it. To make America great again is to show love and compassion, and if you want to bring God back into this country, that is exactly what needs to be done. We are called to love.