Tuesday’s election results may not have come as a shock to many of us - we see the violence of racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, and white supremacy every day.
But that fact doesn’t diminish the impact of those results. The election of Donald Trump serves as a stark reminder that even as we make daily strides forward in our organizing and our grassroots campaigns, the reality of settler colonialism, anti-blackness, xenophobia, and hatred of queers and women remains pervasive. The everyday victories have become increasingly important, but the status quo is still one of violence and oppression.
These days are dark and difficult ones for the workers at Red Emma’s and our communities. As black and brown individuals, as queer and trans individuals, as those at risk of sexual assault and loss of reproductive rights, as fierce allies and accomplices, and as fellow workers, many of us feel deeply unsafe, angry, and frightened. But this is a moment for us to work together, to support one another, and to begin building and strengthening the alliances and counter-institutions that will support us in the battle that lies ahead. We ask you to be patient with us as we process, but encourage you to tell us what we can do to provide that support, to be a resource our communities can draw on, and to create a space that is safe and welcoming - a necessary oasis in an otherwise hostile and terrifying world.
The safety of our friends, family, and comrades requires tangible action, and we remain committed to making and holding that place. Our hearts are out to our various communities right now, wishing you safety, security, and righteous anger. We are here as comrades, supporters, allies, and organizers; don’t hesitate to get in contact if there are ways that we can help, whether it be amplifying calls for action, hosting events, helping with facilitation and planning, providing space for organizing meetings and support groups, or building book lists to inform us for the fight ahead.
We'll see you in the store, and in the streets.
In solidarity,
The Red Emma's Collective
