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In order to see a world that reflects our hearts, it takes challenging ourselves and others with purpose, embracing moments of reflection and connection, and taking intentional action to bring our communities to an understanding that we are better together than apart.
Vote With Love (vote with love.org) surprised us all. What started in 2016 as a few t-shirts and a message has grown into a philosophy and a way of life. The stakes are high – maybe even the highest they have ever been. Aside from the all-important Presidential election, there are countless other candidates and issues for us to determine. During a time of civil unrest, a global pandemic, an environmental crisis and much more, we know our actions right now will directly impact the next generation. We developed Vote With Love as a nonpartisan effort to grow empathy and help voters prepare to cast their most thoughtful and informed vote yet.
“What’s love got to do with it?” That’s the question we get most often.
Our answer? Everything.
Incorporating empathy and love into our vote may be just the approach we need to see a country that addresses our deepest concerns. In the face of critical issues, the need to take the time to truly understand what we’re voting for is on the forefront. And the truth is, what we’re voting for is everything we are grateful for. Our families. Our homes. Our communities. Our jobs. Our Mother Earth. Our lives. It’s all in there.
So where does gratefulness come in? Well we believe gratitude is at the heart of voting with love. It’s a small drop, a single vote, an honest pledge, a genuine connection that will have rippling effects across the nation and it all starts with us committing to Vote With Love.
Recently our founders traveled to Selma, AL and made the historic walk across the legendary Edmund Pettus Bridge where hundreds of Black southerners marched for their right to vote in 1965. As a diverse collective of women and leaders of color, we know those steps were meant for us. They are the markings of a worn path of sacrifice and hope that paved the way for us to bring this initiative to life. As individuals, we’ve grown in our empathy and passion. As a collective, we’ve strengthened our resolve and are guided by the words of the late Congressman John Lewis – “Your vote is precious, almost sacred. It is the most powerful nonviolent tool we have to create a more perfect union.”
The Vote With Love team.
On the back of our Vote With Love t-shirts, we carefully selected nine shared values to help drive how we will show up to vote this year.
Knowledge
Courage
Respect
Passion
Honor
Wisdom
Empathy
Patience
Kindness
These nine values have become a constant reminder of the possibilities. In order to see a world that reflects our hearts, it takes challenging ourselves and others with purpose, embracing moments of reflection and connection, and taking intentional action to bring our communities to an understanding that we are better together than apart.
Now that we’re less than two months away from #Election2020, we can add a 10th word – Gratitude. This Vote With Love journey has been transformative for all of us and we will be forever grateful to have been a part of something so special.
We are approaching a huge milestone in determining the priorities of our country. We invite you to have some heart and let love play a part. Will you join us?
Join Vote With Love by committing to their pledge, taking one of their challenges, or participating in a Listening Party. Learn more at votewithlove.org.
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I needed this read and “Spiritual advice.” I was ashamed for I had to do a 180 as I reflected on my thoughts surrounding voting—I was GRATEFUL for my ability to vote, but the other 9 — well, I have to say, “they weren’t showing up.” My thoughts surrounding voting were anger, retaliation, hostility—whew! Never a good place. These thoughts of Vote with Love jumped in and I could immediately feel my negativity cease. What “good” would my vote be if not embraced with Love? I’m most grateful for your cleansing my ballot! My heart needed this…
We are thrilled to hear our message has transformed your feelings surrounding voting, Dee! Your comment is the reason for our campaign. We hope you will continue to spread the LOVE with your family, friends, and even strangers who may be also experiencing negative thoughts surrounding voting. Thank you for sharing your story. <3 The Vote With Love Team
Imagine if we all showed up to voting and life in general using love as our yardstick? As possibly woo-woo, happy clapping, this article may appear, I found it incredibly refreshing and directional.
I suggested that my American friends try this approach. I too am trying to find ways to live love in the Melbourne, Australia, incredibly strict lockdown, i.e. giving up my wants temporarily to serve both my and the community’s well being.
Sometimes it’s not easy to chose love, but the alternative is way harder ultimately.
Thank you for creating such a movement and for the timely reminder.
Long live love!
Yes Dusty! It’s not easy incorporating love when dealing with the pandemic. We all have struggled with the lock-down and dealing with isolation, anxiety, and the list goes on. We are grateful for your positive outlook on things and know that with love and compassion, we will get through this!
<3 The Vote With Love Team
Absolutely, this is what we can control, ATTITUDE…and it’s great to be in community where there is a foundation of love and gratitude. We will get through it, and possibly better for it. I keep looking for opportunities within this opportunity of time of stillness.
Thank you for this read!
Thank you for your comment, Steve! Let’s keep the love going!
<3 The Vote With Love Team