So, Why Did You Vote?

'Count Every Vote' Protesters gather in Mcpherson Square on day 2 of the Presidential Election.

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On Wednesday, November 4, 2020, day 2 of the Presidential Election, my family and I attended a protest in Washington, D.C. People were dancing in the street to Go-Go music, celebrating, and watching the counts continue. However, amid all the excitement, I couldn't help but think about how much anxiety, hurt, and uncertainty this year has brought. I couldn't help but think about why we were there, the reasons why I voted, why we all voted.

I voted because I am a first-generation American. I voted because my Abuela brought my mom and her siblings from El Salvador to this country to give them a better, equal opportunity so that someday themselves and their children would make it. I voted for the immigrants whose sacrifices go unnoticed and whose families are torn apart. I voted for those who cannot vote because this system has failed them. I voted for racial justice, for the Black Brothers and Sisters, who are the backbone of this country. I voted for the little girls and little boys who don't see themselves represented. I voted for Native Americans, my grandmother's ancestors, to who this land belongs to. I voted for the prospect of a hopeful future. I voted for democracy.

This country is still a nation divided and must begin the work to heal, but for now, I breathe a sigh of relief because brighter days are coming. We are the voice of change and, I hope that despite a win for democracy, the momentum doesn't stop, and we continue to fight for justice, peace, and equality. So, with that, I ask, why did you vote?