Dear Friend,

As I sit and type this message, I am still processing the images from Washington DC, in shock at what was a domestic terror attack on the U.S. Capitol.

President Trump incited this violence and many Republican members of Congress — through their attempts to overturn the Presidential election — were complicit to today’s terror attack.

I remember learning in my public high school that one of the most remarkable aspects of American democracy was the peaceful transition of power. The assurance that, despite disagreement, differences, and debate, our nation and its leaders respected the sanctity of our elections and would uphold the tenets of our Democracy. Never in my 30 short years of existence did I think we would witness what we saw today. 

And yet — despite the shock — I remain hopeful.

Hopeful because in just 14 more days we will have a new President of the United States. Hopeful because Georgia flipped and elected not one but two Democratic US Senators. Hopeful because, here in Florida, we’re building a multi-racial, multi-class coalition that rejects polarization, embraces collaboration, and cares about the needs of everyday people.

Hopeful because we’re in this together — and my love for humanity far exceeds the rage I hold towards the actions that took place today. 

Stay strong, and stay safe.

Anna