The magnitude of issues facing women today is quite overwhelming.  Inequality, economic injustice, attacks on our reproductive rights, harassment and assault….the list goes on and on.   The old adage “The harder I work, the behinder I get”, often seems to apply to those of us who are committed to doing our part in the battle against all of them.

I am suggesting that for the next year we focus all of our effort primarily against two of these issues: the 2019-2020 primaries and elections and the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA).  If we can be successful in these efforts, we will have the real opportunity to be successful in dealing with all the other issues.

Just think about it for a few minutes.

 First, we could elect innumerable feminist women and men to offices in cities, counties, states, Congress, and the White House.  With new power in government we could re-shape our world as we know it today. Envision the possibilities: abortion rights, affordable healthcare, pay equity, $15 minimum wage, environmental protections, gun safety laws, campaign finance legislation.  Dare to dream for these and so many more.

Second, we would finally be guaranteed our equal rights in The Constitution.  That which we do not currently have. The protections this would afford women would be immeasurable. Women could  no longer be denied their rights because of gender.  “Equal” would be the yardstick by which all things would be measured.

We need to do this; if not for ourselves, for our children and generations to come.  We cannot let the likes of Donald Trump continue to control this country.  Like the young environmental marchers have been saying.…”it is time to save the planet”.… and our little part of it.  While they were speaking of the environment, we know that also applies to so much more.

Make yourself a promise.  Promise to get involved whenever and wherever you can.  First, make sure you are registered.  Then make sure you vote in every local, state and national election. If they are needed, give rides to the polls to friends and neighbors. Help to register new voters. Encourage absentee balloting for those who might not be able to go to the polls.  Volunteer for “get out the vote” efforts in your community.  Volunteer for the campaigns of your favorite candidates.  Find out if there are campaigns for ERA ratification in your state; get involved.  Yes, the list is long but, if each of us does whatever she can, we will be successful.  Then think how great you are going to feel next November!