A Way Forward After a Divisive Election
This was originally published as a newsletter to clients in the wake of the 2016 election
It may be strange…
…to get a letter from your web developer about politics. Sorry. But I have struggled over the past week to find the words to express the feelings I have had from such a hate-filled and overwhelmingly negative campaign, and perhaps so have you.
I am writing because I have been spending a lot of time considering how to support those around me in any way that I can, and my thoughts keep returning to my work. Design and development is not an inherently political profession, but that does not mean my work is without broader social impact.
I have worked with and for people of all political persuasions, usually on projects near and dear to their hearts, and have learned that nobody can be put into a box and judged. People are complicated, passionate, and can never be reduced to just one thing. However, I’m proud to say that one trait my clients share is a desire to make the world a better place. They help people heal and stay healthy, feel beautiful and valuable, share wisdom and celebrate life. I’m proud to say that most of the businesses I support as a web developer are women-owned, and many of them are also minority-owned. Most importantly, however, all of the businesses I support – your businesses – are inclusive, empathetic, and kind.
You have taught me that there are so many ways to support our communities beyond the ballot box. If you’re hurting, if you’re scared, or if you are optimistic about the outcome of this election, one thing has remained the same: it is still up to us. It has always been up to us to support each other, protect each other, and build the world we want to live in. I’ve never been more determined to take on that work, your work, which is needed now more than ever.
So whatever you are feeling right now, I’d love to hear about it. If you have a plan for the future, I want to help. And, especially, if you have a goal to achieve, I want to do my part to lift you up. Reach out.
Love,
A