The election and its aftermath are currently my biggest sources of anxiety, and I know I’m not alone in feeling this way. As a Black, queer woman, I’m acutely aware of the stakes. If the current president secures another term, my life will undoubtedly become much more challenging. However, I also recognize that a victory for the other candidate won’t eliminate my worries either. Regardless of the outcome, I’m concerned about potential backlash from the right. They have the most to gain or lose, depending on how this unfolds.
Racial issues won’t vanish overnight, no matter who emerges victorious. It’s impossible to resolve a systemic problem that has persisted for over 400 years with just one election. I understand that clearly. However, I also know that circumstances can either improve slightly or deteriorate significantly. While the other candidate isn’t flawless in addressing systemic racism, he does propose some policies that could help mitigate inequity. Yet, his approach to police brutality leaves much to be desired. This isn’t a challenge that can be solved by one leader, but at least he has a plan, even if it’s not ideal. In contrast, the current president dismisses the very existence of the problem, offering no solutions.
No matter the election results, I’ll continue to fear for my safety as a Black individual. The past four years have emboldened many to express their racism more openly than ever before. This issue has always existed, but when the president openly discriminates, it gives others the impression that they can do the same without consequences. When he labels Black Lives Matter as “Antifa” (a term that doesn’t even apply here), it creates a dangerous environment for Black individuals. I’ve seen people label BLM as a “terrorist organization,” when in reality, it’s fighting against the real threats in our society.
If the incumbent wins again, I fear that white individuals will become even more brazen in their racism and violence. They are already bold, but who will stop them if he remains in power? He would encourage their behavior. My greatest fear is being in the wrong place at the wrong time, or that a member of my family will be targeted, leading to devastating news about a loved one. Even if the other candidate wins, I’m anxious that those same racists will still be lurking nearby. The same prejudiced officers will continue to patrol our streets. I worry that peace will remain elusive due to the resentment among certain groups.
The hatred surrounding the election outcome is my primary concern. Over the past four years, so much animosity has surfaced. Even if the other candidate wins, it won’t just disappear. Those with such views won’t quietly fade away as if this administration never existed. They will likely be enraged that their way of life is once again being challenged, and it’s hard to predict how that will manifest in public. Will they form militias and patrol neighborhoods? The potential for violence is unfathomable.
I reside in a community comprised largely of minorities, and for now, it feels safe. But who’s to say these angry individuals won’t attempt to infiltrate our area to spread their hate? My family is definitely a target. My partner is a white woman with a masculine style, and while my son appears white, he is of mixed race. It’s obvious that I’m his mother. What might happen if we find ourselves in a dangerous situation?
My partner and I are planning to marry next year. With the Supreme Court now leaning conservative, this situation feels precarious. We genuinely worry that if we don’t act quickly, we may lose the chance to marry. Justices Thomas and Alito have already expressed their intention to challenge marriage equality, and with Amy Coney Barrett’s appointment, this is now a real possibility. Our future is in the hands of those who believe we don’t deserve basic rights. The fact that some people oppose our love as two women is simply deplorable.
Adding to our worries, we’re still navigating a global pandemic. We’re doing our best to remain cautious without going into total lockdown. Yet, many continue to ignore safety measures, acting as if COVID-19 is a hoax. The election results will undoubtedly influence how the pandemic is managed going forward. If the current president wins, I fear he might downplay the situation and push for a return to normalcy. This could lead to surging cases, continued unemployment, lack of financial assistance, and overwhelmed healthcare workers.
Black individuals are suffering and dying at disproportionate rates due to this virus. I consider myself healthy, but that doesn’t guarantee immunity. As the primary provider for my family, what would happen if I fell ill? To complicate matters, my family and friends live on the east coast, and my elderly parents are in declining health. If everything reopens prematurely, I worry they could become sick, and I might not be able to reach them safely. If the other candidate wins, I hope he will prioritize scientific guidance, allowing us a better chance to overcome this crisis.
Still, I worry about those who dismiss the pandemic as a joke. If people refuse to follow CDC guidelines, there’s only so much that can be done. Will they adhere to safety protocols? Or will those who resist continue to endanger our communities?
Nothing about this election is routine. We find ourselves in a state of anxiety, fear, and a glimmer of hope. But for many, especially those of us who are marginalized, this fear is a constant presence. Even if the other candidate wins, it won’t erase our worries, but it may offer a sliver of optimism.
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Summary
The anxiety surrounding the election is palpable, particularly for marginalized individuals. As a Black, queer woman, the potential outcomes are equally frightening, whether it results in further discrimination or ongoing societal issues. Regardless of the election’s outcome, fears about safety, rights, and the ongoing pandemic remain. The effects of the election will ripple through various aspects of life, and the uncertainty creates a heavy burden for many.