When I finished law school and took my first job as an associate at a prestigious law firm, I was excited about the opportunity. The work, while often tedious and demanding, was made bearable by the people around me. There was one partner, however, who threw me off balance. I didn’t know her well, but she struck me as distant, unapproachable, and a bit intimidating. Despite her fairness and professionalism, something about her just didn’t sit right with me. I allowed my gut instinct to cloud my judgment and decided that I shouldn’t like her.
This instinct mirrored my feelings toward Hillary Clinton. As a Democrat, I had no substantial political opposition to her; still, I felt an inexplicable aversion. I perceived her as overly ambitious, aggressive, and unfriendly. Instead of investigating her policies or track record, I let sensationalized media portrayals and hearsay influence my opinion. My perception was baseless, yet my gut told me that I shouldn’t like her either.
Over time, I came to a significant realization: my initial instincts were misled. It wasn’t a striking epiphany but rather a gradual awakening—like emerging from a cozy slumber before dawn. I began to question how, as a liberal and ambitious woman, I could be influenced by the very sexism I thought I was immune to.
We are all products of the environments we inhabit, and just as a non-smoker can carry the scent of cigarettes after time spent with a smoker, we too absorb the biases of a sexist culture. To deny this influence is akin to insisting that we don’t smell while pinching our noses.
It became apparent that I had internalized messages from a world that demands women be cute but not too cute, emotional but not too emotional. I was raised in an era where the struggles of women before me—their scars and triumphs—were either overlooked or minimized. This awareness began to reshape my views about women like Hillary Clinton and that partner at my law firm. The issue wasn’t with them; it was within me.
I frequently hear people express their dislike for Hillary, yet when asked for reasons, they often stumble or revert to outdated talking points about emails or Benghazi—issues that have long been settled. Hillary has consistently demonstrated her capabilities and dedication to public service. She played a pivotal role in establishing the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which provides essential health coverage for children in need. As a U.S. Senator, she secured vital funding for the redevelopment of the World Trade Center site and advocated for the healthcare of first responders. During her tenure as Secretary of State, she visited 112 countries and championed global economic initiatives.
Yet, the conversation often revolves around her wardrobe choices and whether she smiles sufficiently. This is absurd.
In recent months, my feelings toward Hillary have evolved from mere acceptance to genuine admiration. Listening to her at a recent event solidified my belief that she is the right person to guide our country. Yes, she has her share of imperfections and controversies, but show me a public figure who doesn’t have their baggage. After years of public service, it’s nearly impossible to emerge unscathed.
Hillary is a unifier, a representative for those without a voice, and a champion for the underprivileged. She is authentic, relatable, and inspiring. If she were a man or had a different surname, she would likely be celebrated rather than scrutinized. This disconnect isn’t her failing; it’s ours.
We grapple with issues of sexism, idolization of celebrities, and fear masquerading as dislike. Until we confront these problems collectively—both as individuals and as a society—we will continue to navigate a suffocating atmosphere, pretending it’s not there.
If your feelings toward Hillary are simply “I just don’t like her,” I urge you to reflect. Dig deeper. Conduct research. Explore within yourself to understand the roots of your discomfort, and then let’s talk.
Women, including Hillary, face an impossible double standard. We’re criticized for being too serious or labeled as “bitchy” while simultaneously being chastised for showing too much emotion. Our ambition can lead to accusations of neglecting family, yet taking time off for family commitments can result in being labeled as “on the mommy track.”
It’s a no-win scenario, and we must recognize that men aren’t solely to blame for these sexist standards. This is a societal issue, one that affects all of us and requires collective effort for change.
While I may disagree with Hillary on certain policy matters, she remains the most qualified candidate in this election. We don’t need to agree with every aspect of a leader; they aren’t our friends or drinking buddies. They are our president, and while we may not resonate with every part of their persona, we can often find common ground.
I might have preferred another candidate, but my support for Hillary now is unwavering. We must choose the candidate who best aligns with our values, particularly when the stakes are so high. If you’re not on board with Hillary, that’s not her failing; it’s yours. If the alternative candidate, with his divisive rhetoric, takes the presidency because you let your biases cloud your judgment, the consequences will fall on all of us.
In summary, let’s recognize our biases and confront them head-on, especially as we navigate our political landscape. If you’re still hesitant about supporting Hillary, take a moment to reevaluate.
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