This election didn’t turn out the way many of us had hoped, and I know the weight of that disappointment feels heavy. It’s hard not to feel discouraged. Yet, in moments like these, I find myself looking to the voices around me that keep me grounded, keep me hopeful, and remind me that the work we’re doing matters deeply.

My daughter Rue, a first-time voter, recently shared some thoughts that truly struck a chord with me. She and her friend were thrilled to vote early, joined by my husband (pictured below).

In Rue’s words:
“Regardless of the outcome of the U.S. presidential election, this moment is an opportunity to reflect on our resilience, unity, and journey ahead. Losing an election is disheartening, but it also brings a louder call to stay committed, to keep hope alive, and to continue the hard work for progress and change. Every challenge has a setback and a new opportunity to grow, connect, and push forward. Let us continue to uplift one another, stay engaged, and hold on to the belief that every voice matters in building the future we imagine.”

She went on to share a text message that my husband sent to our whole family that inspired her:

“There’s going to be a force of resistance millions strong, with students, lawyers, activists, organizers, donors, protesters, legislators, tech experts, journalists, and more. We’ll prevail in the long run, because morality, logic, love, and justice are with us.”

I know these words don’t erase the hurt or the frustration. But they remind us of the power we still hold together. This is just one chapter in a much larger story, one that we’re writing day by day. Our voices still matter. Our work still matters. And despite today’s disappointment, we will keep going. Because in the long run, our dedication to justice will be what truly shapes the future.