Nothing Will Break America’s Progressive Stride
“. . . that even as we grieved, we grew, even as we hurt, we hoped, that even as we tired, we tried, that we’ll forever be tied together victorious, not because we will never again know defeat but because we will never again sow division.”
When I think about what paths America will take in the 21st century, I see only one bet to make—I’m doubling down on a new progressive era sweeping America in the coming years. Its the natural response after absorbing the traumatic January 6th attack and the rhetoric that lead to that day.
My experiences as a tour guide to DC brought me to the Capital each year for 12 years, where the specialness of the structure and its purpose never wore off on me. After witnessing the attack on television, I had trouble sleeping, felt anxious and ignored social media, only logging on to delete hateful comments left in response to an emotional lament I made about the Capital. All the signs of trauma for me personally were there. Like I felt tremendous distrust in our institutions in the days after. A deep betrayal had occurred, clearly, and the perps had simply walked away and pointed fingers elsewhere.
Relief only began on Inauguration Day and the reading of the most beautiful poem I could possibly hear. Amanda Gorman’s stirring words reminded me that the future is for the young, and their courage and insight will drive a new progressive era in America. The seeds have sprouted, I thought as I watched from home. And we need to make room in this garden of democracy for the next generations. In them, I sense a resolve to pursue justice, and a purpose to improve the lives of others that is about to be deployed in strength. —Joe