Unavoidable politics.

What I’m about to say I’ve already said on various social media platforms, but I’ll repeat it (and slightly expand upon it) here for your convenience if you don’t follow me on Facebook, Twitter, or even Instagram.

It looks like my intention to stay barely political on the internet has been pushed aside.  I’ve been voicing my political opinions (a.k.a. disappointment and outrage) since our new president took office.  Even if you don’t live here in the United States, the last week of our politics has been hard to ignore.  I disagree with almost all of it.  It makes me mad.  In an age where we are more connected than we have ever been, where our voices are broadcast around the world and you never know which statement is going to go viral or even affect just one person, I cannot keep silent.  So be advised that, in the coming weeks and months, you may be seeing a lot more political blogs from me.

That said, I want to make a few promises and set a few guidelines for myself:

I hope to back up my words with actions, and donations when I can afford it.  I’ve already budgeted a donation to the ACLU.  I meant to participate in the two protests Boston has held in the last two weekends (the Women’s March and the immigration ban protest in Copley Square), but parental responsibilities kept me from making the long trek into the city.  Damn toddlers and their need for naptime.

I will back up my opinions with facts from reputable sources, not opinion pieces with one-sided leanings.  As satisfying as it is to read scathing take-downs from whatever website or blogger agrees with your politics, I consider that more entertainment than news.  If I’m going to go on a rant about something, I want to provide facts from honest journalism.  I get most of my news from the BBC, NPR, and (locally) the Boston Globe.  They’ve done well for me in the past, and will hopefully serve us all well in the coming days.

There’s an old proverb that says, “May you live in interesting times.”  Times are certainly interesting, and in a time where our voices can be heard around the world I refuse to stay silent.  I hope you choose to raise your voice, too.