A few weeks ago, I took my 9-year-old son to the movies to see Ghostbusters. We settled into the back row, just the two of us, munching on Sour Patch Kids. To him, it was simply a chance to have some fun and share a laugh over a ghostly adventure.
However, I knew there was much more to it.
Just last week, I watched Hillary Clinton make history by accepting the Democratic Party’s nomination for president. My boys were already tucked in bed, but I couldn’t help but share my excitement about her speech, and they know I’m firmly in her corner. They see Hillary as a strong candidate, a refreshing alternative to Trump, but I recognize there’s a deeper significance.
The summer of 2016 is likely to be remembered as one of the most intense and emotional periods in recent memory. It’s tough to watch the news without feeling overwhelmed by tears or anger. There are days when it feels like someone has opened a portal to chaos, much like in Ghostbusters, leaving us to navigate a storm of negativity. The divisive conversations around walls and the disturbing misogyny in public discourse make it seem like we’re regressing as a society.
But I understand there’s more to it than that.
The essence is this: Our children are growing up in a world where women can be both president and ghostbusters. These realities, once mere dreams of my childhood, are now part of their everyday life. My son doesn’t think the female leads in Ghostbusters are funny “for girls”; he just finds them hilarious. He views Hillary not as a good candidate “for a woman,” but simply as the best choice available.
During the Democratic National Convention, Hillary inspired many when she said, “If there are any little girls out there who stayed up late to watch, let me just say, I may become the first woman president, but one of you is next.” Parents of daughters cheered, but so did parents of sons. This shift is monumental not just for our daughters, but for our sons as well.
Recently, my son asked me what would happen if I were president—not my husband, but me. That question struck me. He will grow up in a world where such aspirations are not only conceivable but expected. While my generation debates the merits of the new Ghostbusters versus the original and celebrates a female presidential candidate, my boys see these milestones as standard.
We need to show our sons what equality means, just as much as we show our daughters what empowerment looks like. While we’ve made progress, challenges like racism and sexism still linger. Conversations about whether the new Ghostbusters can measure up to the classic, the unwarranted attacks on Leslie Jones, and the scrutiny of Hillary’s wardrobe all reveal that we have much work ahead.
Nevertheless, my sons will grow up in a world where women are recognized for their capabilities without any “for a girl” disclaimers. They won’t be boxed into roles as protectors or providers solely because of their gender. Instead, they’ll witness women breaking barriers and leading in every aspect of life. The glass ceilings are shattering, and we’re all feeling the effects.
Sure, the road ahead is still fraught with obstacles. Sexism and inequality are still prevalent, and there are more ceilings to break. While it often feels like the world is spiraling downwards—thanks in part to a certain individual known as “the walking Cheeto”—I remind myself that there’s more to this narrative.
A transformation is happening. Possibilities are expanding, and the way we think and feel is evolving. Change often comes with discomfort and upheaval, and we can’t hope to shift perceptions about living as a woman or a minority in this country without some tough conversations.
Our children are growing up in an environment where they see women in leadership roles. They see women who are capable, strong, and in charge. They’re witnessing a world where women can both bust ghosts and hold the highest office in the land. These are not just dreams but the new normal.
So, even when the outlook appears grim, there’s a wealth of potential on the horizon.
In summary, the intersection of Hillary Clinton’s candidacy and the world of Ghostbusters symbolizes a significant shift in societal expectations for both boys and girls. As we navigate through challenges, we must recognize the power of representation and the importance of equality in shaping a brighter future for our children.