As we reflect on the past year, it’s hard to ignore the collective sense of despair many of us are feeling. With a seemingly endless stream of tragedies and challenges, emotions like anger, sadness, and frustration can weigh heavily on our hearts. While we might wish for a way to escape these feelings, true change requires action rather than avoidance. It may sound like a cliché, but transformation occurs step by step and person by person. Even amidst the disappointments of the recent election, there remains a flicker of hope.
A beacon of this hope can be found in the special election currently taking place in Virginia. While many of us indulge in holiday treats, candidate Lila Bennett is out in the community, striving for meaningful change in the race for an open seat in the Virginia House of Delegates. With years of experience as an educator and a strong commitment to local governance, Bennett recognized the opportunity created by the recent legislative vacancy when her predecessor was elected to Congress.
In a competitive district within a pivotal state, Bennett represents the fresh perspective we need, especially in advocating for children and women’s rights. Her dedication to public education is evident in her push for reducing mandated testing to enhance instructional time and her vision for full-day public kindergarten for every child. Furthermore, she is committed to healthcare accessibility for all families and advocating for a minimum wage that reflects a true living wage.
As a mother of two adult daughters, Bennett is also a staunch supporter of women’s empowerment. “Together, we as women must uplift one another,” she emphasizes.
However, uplifting one another goes beyond mere words; it requires concrete actions. To embody this philosophy, Bennett and her friends established the Sisterhood Initiative, designed to encourage women to reach out to those in need. For example, after complimenting a convenience store clerk on her beautiful scarf, Bennett returned days later to gift it to her, believing she could use it more. Additionally, when they learned of a local mother facing homelessness, Bennett’s friend invited her family to celebrate Christmas dinner together.
“Women must understand the importance of community among us,” Bennett stated. “Educating a woman means educating an entire family.”
In a time when many feel powerless and unheard, Bennett reminds us that positive change is attainable, one small action at a time. She is ready to roll up her sleeves and commit to the hard work required to be an agent for change. When asked for advice for those looking to become more socially and politically engaged, she said, “Start local and discover your passion.” Using your interests as a guide can naturally lead to opportunities for involvement in causes you believe in. “Every voice matters,” she added. “We must persist in speaking out.”
Bennett has witnessed the surge of activism following the recent election. She has seen an influx of support from across the nation, indicating a growing grassroots movement. “This is just the beginning,” she shared. “There’s a powerful energy fueling this campaign as people channel their frustrations into support for a candidate who represents their interests.”
You might be wondering how you can contribute. If you reside in Virginia, make sure to cast your vote in the Special Election on January 10. If you live elsewhere, consider supporting Bennett by donating to her campaign, reaching out to voters in Virginia’s 85th district, and sharing information about this crucial election. Given that redistricting is expected in 2020, staying engaged with local political races is more important than ever.
But beyond just voting or donating, it’s essential to get involved. Share this article, spread the word about Lila Bennett and other local elections, and engage with causes that resonate with you. Donate to organizations that align with your values. Every little effort counts, because while comfort food can be nice, it won’t change the world.
“This is about fostering hope and mobilizing energy,” Bennett stated. “It’s our message to the current administration: we are here, and we will fight for change, one step at a time.”
Let’s make a difference together.