Carving Out Space for Change in a Chaotic Political Climate
History has shown us the importance of recognizing our differences - both as individuals and as a society - and engaging in conversations to resolve or compromise. But what happens when the stakes are much higher? When the issue at hand is not just about political disagreement, but about fundamental fairness, equality, and justice? When individual rights are on the line and at risk of being stripped away, the conversation goes beyond who has the best argument. It becomes a matter of protecting people’s lives, freedoms, and dignity.
Navigate the noise and find your voice in today’s divisive political climate: Ideas from a Maryland Anxiety Therapist
Anxiety is a natural response to threat. And many Americans are currently being actively threatened and attacked. This includes the LGBTQIA+ community, immigrant families, Jewish families, neurodivergent people, and so many more. Mentally healthy people should be feeling anxious about this. You may find yourself wanting to bury your head under a pillow and pretend it isn’t happening. Taking a break from seeing the news is ok, but we can’t just look away for the long term. So now what?
The Stakes Are High: Why We Can’t Just Ignore Threats To Our Rights
Rights are inherent - they aren’t “trends” that come and go. The right to live a life that supports you and your family, with safety, stability, and opportunities needed to thrive. These are rights that belong to us as human beings. They are the rights that help lift us up, both as individuals and as a society, for the betterment of all.
When people’s basic rights are respected and protected, they are able to live with dignity and contribute to the collective well-being. (This is why neurodiversity affirming therapy works!)
The easiest way to understand why human rights are important is by reflecting on our own lives and the privileges we have (or lack).
Is it safe for me to walk alone after dark? Do I have access to quality healthcare, regardless of my income or background? Can I express my thoughts freely, or am I afraid of retaliation? Can I send my children to school without worrying about them being separated from me due to immigration status? Can I trust that the school understands how to educate my particular child? Is my right to marry or have a family recognized, regardless of my sexual orientation or gender identity?
These questions underline the fundamental rights that many of us take for granted, but for others, these basic freedoms can be out of reach.
Channelling Passion Into Productive Conversations
Having conversations with people who may have voted in a way that goes against your best interests can be challenging. Sometimes, a vote is cast based on a single issue, and our life experiences shape those decisions in a way that might limit our ability to see beyond that one issue. In other cases, a person may be so far on the opposite side that everything you believe in feels completely contrary to their views. However, more often than not, the disconnect lies somewhere in the middle.
Our life experiences deeply influence the way we vote, and privilege can make certain issues seem less urgent or important. Acknowledging this is important when navigating conversation with someone who may have voted against your rights. Education is a powerful tool that can help those who come from a place of privilege understand the significant of the initiatives being undertaken right now. However, it’s equally important to recognize when a conversation isn’t going anywhere and choose to walk away. Channel that frustration into meaningful action.
Ending On A Call To Action: Speak Up, Act, and Defend Rights
There are several things we can do to protect our rights and the rights of others, from supporting relevant organizations to amplifying marginalized voices. We can’t control the beliefs and actions of others, but we can certainly control our response.
Emphasize the importance of setting realistic expectations, and work to gain support through grassroots efforts and community involvement. There are many organizations dedicated to fighting for the rights of marginalized groups. These organization have been on the front lines for decades, working tirelessly for change. Donating or volunteering is one way you can support their ongoing fight for equality.
Promoting inclusion and equality in our daily lives is a simple yet powerful way to create a change. Changes starts from within, and to make a broader impact, we must live in alignment with the experiences of those affected by discrimination.
Challenge discrimination whenever you encounter it. Stand up for what is right, and educate those who may not be aware of the injustices around them. Attend peaceful protests, and write letters to your elected officials urging them to make decisions that benefit our community, not harm it. Create space for difficult conversations, and most importantly, prioritize self-care.
Ideas for Allyship During PRIDE Month and Beyond
June is LGBTQIA+ PRIDE month, which presents additional opportunities for allyship Not sure what it means to be an ally? Check out this post. So far in 2025 the DC LGBTQIA+ community has had to fight for the right to celebrate in Dupont Circle Park, and celebrations across the country are facing additional threats of violence. This makes it more important than ever to show up in solidarity with LBGTQIA+ families. Find lists of local PRIDE events here, and we’ll see you there!
