November Gratitude Diaries Post #6: VOTE

11/6/2018

Today is easy. I'm grateful for my right to vote.

Artwork by Anne Bentley bentleyworks.us

I'm extra grateful to live in the state of Oregon, where we vote by mail and don't even have to use a stamp if we want to save that fifty cents (my local ballot box is literally at a McDonald's "drive-thru," which in true Portlander form, I "walked-thru").

This morning, I'm trying to wrap my head around the fact that women have only "been allowed," or "had the right," or... (there is NO good way to say!) that women have been legally participating in this basic part of democracy for less than 100 years. And that it took decades of activism, being voted down, laughed at, dismissed, over and over again.

When everyone “in power” tells you your idea is ridiculous—for decades!—it can be easy to start believing that, too. But sometimes, it can fuel your fire. May we stay hungry for what we know is right—and for what can make our lives extraordinary!

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Half Sky Writing was born from Half Sky Journeys

My name is Ila Asplund. My vision is to increase the impact of organizations advancing gender equity and social justice. I do this through creating in-person and digital engagement experiences, storytelling, and thoughtful communications strategies for my clients. In previous years, I also provided international journeys to give travelers the opportunity to meet and engage with global leaders who are improving life for women.

Since 2020, I have joined the digital marketing team at Mercy Corps — an international aid organization working in 40+ countries to help people survive crises and thrive in the longterm. From time to time, I write web articles and other digital pieces, in addition to my main duties managing the email outreach program. My work keeps me plenty busy, but sometimes I find a moment to draw or write or create and share that on Instagram or here on this website.
You can reach me at ila@halfsky.org.