Let’s work together to achieve Clinton’s goals, in spite of the disappointing outcomes of the 2016 presidential election.
Today, Hillary Clinton published a long statement on her Facebook page, taken from her concession speech. Clinton, along with others in her campaign and citizens across the country, appeared to still be reeling from the election. Polls before November 8 predicted a win for Clinton, making Trump’s victory a tremendous upset.
As diplomatic as she was – Clinton said that “I hope will be a successful president for all Americans” – it was clear that she was disappointed. She is hardly alone. Clinton won a larger share of the popular vote, though she failed to gain enough electoral votes to win office.
Still, the content of her speech and published remarks are remarkably poised and inspiring in the face of such shock. “This is painful, and it will be for a long time,” she said. “But I want you to remember this: Our campaign was never about one person or even one election. It was about the country we love—and about building an America that’s hopeful, inclusive, and big-hearted.”
NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 09: Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton speaks during a news conference at the New Yorker Hotel on November 9, 2016 in New York City. Hillary Clinton conceded the U.S. Presidency to Republican challenger Donald Trump. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
She went on to push for increased civic participation at all levels. “This loss hurts. But please, please never stop believing that fighting for what’s right is worth it. It’s always worth it. And we need you keep up these fights now and for the rest of your lives.”
Though many dearly wished to see Clinton elected as the first female President of the United States, it was not to be. However, she held forth on the value of women and girls in both our society and political system. “And to all the little girls watching right now,” she said, “never doubt that you are valuable and powerful and deserving of every chance and opportunity the world.”
If you would like to get more involved in local civic and political efforts, check out this list of organizations that could really use your help right now. If you’re able, donate to groups like Planned Parenthood, the American Civil Liberties Union, or the Southern Poverty Law Center.
When you see or hear evil deeds, speak up. Speak out. Write. Sing. Draw. Tell the children and adults around you – all of them – that they deserve a place at the table. That they are of value. That they deserve to live a life full of happiness and community, devoid of fear or hate. If you are in a place of privilege, acknowledge it and use it as a way to make space for others’ voices.
Now, more than ever, we need each and every person to do their part. Protest, donate, volunteer – whatever you can, it is your duty as an American and as a decent human being to take action. Yes, it’s acceptable and understandable to mourn right now. But don’t let it keep you from the work that needs to be done.
Next: Post-Election, A Letter to My Unborn Son
As Clinton said in her closing words, “My friends, let us have faith in each other. Let us not grow weary. Let us not lose heart. For there are more seasons to come and there is more work to do.”
Let’s keep going. Together.