Yes, I did!!!

I grew up in a democratic family. That is what I knew; so that is what I was. I walked around and proudly proclaimed myself to be a democrat before I knew how to spell the word. That's what my parents were and their beliefs were mine.

Each time I cast my political vote, I did it as a democrat and for democrats. I cannot tell you how many times I've participated in presidential elections. My age would reveal that it could not have been that many. The fact that I can't tell you how many votes I've cast combined with the fact that it could not have been that many tells a story. It tells a story of a young woman that ventured to the polls to make a hollow voice heard. I did not follow the elections nor the candidates, I did no research, hell I barely knew who was on the ballot. All I knew was that I was a democrat and if their name had "democrat" next to it, they were my choice.

Although I still call myself democratic, for the first time, I am proud to say that I voted as an "independent". I voted as an independent woman. I voted independent from the beliefs that I had to support a candidate because he was black. I also abandoned the belief that I had to remain loyal to democrats for democratic sakes. I walked into my polling area empowered with the knowledge that I have gained using a filter that I developed via research, observation and numerous debates.

I am overwhelmed with the outcome and the numerous things it represents. I am proud of the vast movement of people that fought through long lines, rain, broken equipment, and intimidation to cast their vote for change. I am proud of my vote and what it represents for me.

When I "spoke" at the polls, my voice was no longer hollow.


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I would like to thank the women that run the blogs listed in the sidebar. They may not be aware of the impact their words and work have on many; but I hope and pray that they continue.