I am devastated each day as I read the news. I am at a loss to explain how national leaders are acting, or, often, not acting. I have personally and professionally directly benefited from many of the areas being slashed. But, more importantly, I grieve for those who don't have the resources to recover, resist, or wait. I feel helpless and hopeless.
In the past I've sometimes felt that my contributions to the world were too small. This was especially true when I saw colleagues and friends spearhead major public health initiatives, start NGOs, or hold government office. In those times, I reassured myself that we each have a role to play, a corner of the world were we do have impact. During these tumultuous times I've tried to remind myself of that thought. A few days ago I reached out to several younger scholars who work in areas particularly targeted. All of these friends are members of the LGBTQ community. Some are former students, some past or present colleagues. I wanted to let them know that I was thinking of them and working, in the small ways that I can, to protest. Each responded with gratitude, but also with fortitude. They are not giving up, they are not abandoning their work. Their responses gave me a small glimmer of hope.
I've been talking about some of my concerns with my sons. One has recently started his own blog and sent me the link to his latest post. Maybe some of you would like to read his thoughts, too.
https://larfenwrites.blogspot.com/
