I don’t take my civil rights and my right to vote for granted. In this current election cycle, I fear that these precious hard-won rights may be in danger as they teeter precariously on the worst instincts of those who seek power at any cost.
Along with other groups, I have experienced legalized discrimination and I know what it can do to the human spirit.
In the upcoming iteration of democracy in action, it’s not just those of us who are the historic and presumed targets of discrimination who are at risk: It is all of us who are shocked and dismayed by the overt acts of those who want to turn back time in their vision for the nation.
We must not be distracted by the noise created by the theater and drama of the political process. We must keep the goal of an inclusive, multiracial citizenry with hard-won rights in our sights as we vote and encourage others to vote for those with a record of enacting policies that align with our basic human values.
Gwen Dungy 
So true and well said!
Here is the response I wrote when I first read your thoughtful post: As usual, your comments are right on target. I firmly believe that many Americans have no desire to return to the 19th century. In my adopted state of Florida, for example, there are millions of people like me working hard every day to live their values and create the best possible version of themselves, the state, and the country. Yes, it’s an uphill battle; but it is a battle that must be fought—and won!
Here is what I wrote after the recent attempt to kill one of the presidential candidates: My first thought when I heard the news was, “If you’re going to do a job, do it correctly.” Almost immediately, I could hear my dad’s voice warning his 18 year old daughter (me) that the most difficult battles facing her would be the battle to hold on to her principles and the battle to prevent the world from changing her. As I thought about my dad’s warning, I realized that sensible centrists like myself have two tasks in today’s world. Not only do we have to avoid being distracted by the noise and the drama associated with the MAGA campaign and stay on message, but we also have to resist the temptation to adopt the tactics and mindset of the MAGA enthusiasts determined to drag this country back to the Dark Ages—and that may be the biggest challenge of all!
Thank you, Maggie. I also hear your Dad’s message in my head though it’s not easy to “go high when they go low”
Thank you, Deborah for taking the time to read and comment. I believe that we can get through this period of discord.