Dear OppNet,
As every vote continues to be counted, as they should, it feels as if we’re all waiting to exhale. Whether you’re glued to the news or giving yourself a break, the looming uncertainty of this election is testing our patience and our democracy.
Yesterday, I held an optional “open space” for OppNet colleagues that wanted to drop in to connect, laugh, and be there for one another. I turned to my colleagues and asked, “With all this uncertainty, what would you tell our community during these anxious times?” I want to share their wisdom with you here:
One thing that I keep telling the Fellows is that yes, things are uncertain right now, and it is completely valid to have anxiety about what you do not know, or may not have any immediate answers to, or are not in direct control of. I would encourage you all to also focus on what you do know and what is constant, which is your own self-agency. OppNet is here for you as a community. We are here to be a constant for you during these uncertain times.
Edsel Batucan, Assistant Director of College Guidance and Transition
Look for the positives and the bright spots. One election doesn’t change who we are or have always been as a nation. Deepen your civic engagement and read up on new regional legislations and the many “firsts” that are winning this election.
Ray Reyes, Managing Director of Programs
Stay the course. No election is ever the end-all, be-all for our country. Remember all the work you’ve done to get us here -- your resistance and advocacy will still be needed tomorrow, no matter the outcome. We’re in this for generational change, which means it will require generation after generation to endure and to keep doing the work.
Carl Jackman, Assistant Director of Wellness Support
While these are just a few highlights, one thing is absolutely certain: leadership is abundant at OppNet. And it is this abundance that will carry us to keep advocating, voting, and driving toward a more equitable world for our communities to thrive.
AiLun Ku
President and CEO
The Opportunity Network
