Community As A Means Of Healing & Understanding
By Rayan Abdulkadir
November 5th, 2024, is a momentous moment for many of us college students who may be voting for the first time or for anyone who is learning more about being an informed and politically engaged citizen. I am a newly admitted voter and had not expected such a tumultuous experience. I have spent months making voter resources and reminding my peers how important it is to vote, but as election day came closer, I was met with anger, judgment, and frustration. The divide amongst voters is not one I am interested in dissecting here, but I am interested in engaging in mutual support.
In order to engage in meaningful change, regardless of election results, it is crucial that we acknowledge that this is an unpredictable and critical time. Stay present and engage even when it feels impossible.
I spent endless hours scrolling mindlessly and googling election results. I was quickly swallowed whole by social media. I lost years of my life to looking at Instagram stories negating my identity and watching people argue on TikTok live. As a young Black, Muslim and Somali woman learning to navigate the nuances of the political sector, I am glad that I have a community that encourages mutual support. I encourage you all to utilize community spaces, like the Center for Women, the Center for Intercultural Development, or the Office of Scholarly Engagement Collaborative Space.
These offices exist to serve students, especially in times of stress. I implore you to engage in honest and educational discourse surrounding the election season. All of these offices are located on the 2nd floor of the CDC. The Center for Women and Center for Intercultural Development are next to the campus coffee shop, and the Office of Scholarship Engagement is located to the left of the information desk. Both of these spaces offer a comfortable setting, staffed 9-5 Monday through Friday to connect and support the needs of students.
I'd like to make a point that, although the presidential election is a large part of our lives, engaging in mutual aid and community conversations are just as crucial as voting. We get caught up in results and forget that we barely engage with those outside of our personal circles. I encourage you to ask yourself how you engage in politics outside of voting. I will remind you to get to know yourself, your neighbors and even those you may not call your friends. I encourage you to remain kind and loving, especially to those in need. I implore you to write, laugh, cry and scream. I will encourage you to stay authentic, as that is what creates true change.
