In Ghana, there's a concept known as "Sankofa." Loosely translated, it means that it's okay to go back and gather knowledge from the past to shape our future. As I turned in my ballot today, I was surprised by the surge of emotion I felt.
As I sit awaiting with the rest of the world for the results, I realize that not only am I anxious about the future, I am fearful. The reluctance of some to consider objective facts, preferring instead to judge leaders on superficial qualities like someone’s laugh, is concerning. How is it that we can all be listening to the same words, watching the same actions, yet arrive at wildly different conclusions? This dissonance, I believe, is a symptom of the deeper societal issues rooted in America’s "isms" — racism, sexism, classism, you know the things we use to divide us.
The United States is built on these "isms." To deny this is to overlook the entire foundation of our country. When we refuse to acknowledge and critically examine this past, we are doomed to repeat it. This cycle of ignoring inconvenient truths keeps us trapped in the same societal pitfalls. We often avoid examining the reality of our history. Part of the challenge here is our reluctance to face the hard truths, not to glorify or vilify, but to understand and learn. True progress requires an honest look at who we were, what we’ve done, and who we hope to become.
Who I am is shaped by the legacy of my family. My Grannie was the first in our family born outside of bondage. Growing up, I only saw her read 3 things, the Bible, the newspaper, and the election voter information guide. She studied each candidate and initiative from cover to cover, valuing her right to vote with a seriousness that acknowledged how hard-fought it had been. She would tell me, “baby, when I was coming up Coloreds and Women Folk couldn’t vote.” I am shaped by my father who proudly served in the US Air Force. A service that ultimately led to his death from a service related cancer caused by the chemicals used during the Vietnam War. He never missed an election and would tell be, "baby, your vote is the most important thing you have. If you don't vote, you have no right to complain about things that the government does. I am shaped by my great grandfather who was 16 years old when he was emancipated from the brutal institution of enslavement. His life was shaped by brutality, Jim Crow, and terror.
The United States has always been dependent on divisiveness. It used to be (and in some areas continues) "At least you’re not Black." Today, we've expanded to say things like "at least you’re not the ‘liberal elite’ an immigrant, or some other manufactured other. This toxic rhetoric feeds anxiety and fear, especially when those in power wield it on an endless loop, belittling and scapegoating groups with no regard for truth or empathy. We’ve seen it repeatedly with the mocking of individuals with disabilities or denigrating entire communities based on their nationality.
We are at the precipice of the 22nd century. My grandchildren’s grandchildren will be the leaders of that era. The legacy we leave them matters. When they sit and talk about me, their "Grandma Addie," I want them to speak of the values passed down from my Grannie Addie, my father and my great grandfather, values rooted in truth, compassion, and critical thinking. I do not have the luxury to sit complacent. I vote because it honors the sacrifices of my ancestors. I vote because it honors my descendants. I vote because I demand leaders respect the past and use it to guide the future.
For those who have yet to vote, I implore you to consider the broader impact of your choice. Beyond party lines and personal preferences, think of the values you want to see reflected in our nation’s future. Yes, disagreements will persist. I myself have concerns with aspects of current policy, from our diplomatic approach in international conflicts to domestic issues like homelessness and poverty. But I’d rather engage with leaders who reason, adapt, and look at multiple perspectives, than place my hopes in individuals who rely on divisive narratives. Dr. King stated, "The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice." But it only bends if we actively pull it in that direction — through our votes, our actions, and our commitment to truth.
As we endure another election, may we draw from the principles of Sankofa to pave the way towards a desired future where we all win.
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