What I want for America

The conventions have come and gone, and we got the same message from both parties: Fear. We define ourselves by what we don’t want, but no one is saying what we do want. What do we want to look like when we get through these current problems? What are our hopes for the future? What do we value and how do we express those values? What type of world do we want to leave for our children? What is our vision for the United States?

Here are a list of things I want for America. As I put this list together, I thought about positive, actionable items. I sought to avoid partisanship and looked at what I feel is best for all of us as Americans. For my international readers, you may find things that you want for your country.

1. To get through this pandemic, I want us to pull together as a nation and follow the best advice of scientists, doctors, and medical professionals. During World War II, my parents rationed, held recycling drives, and bought war bonds and stamps so our nation can survive. Certainly, we can put up with wearing masks and let our hair grow out to save our neighbors and family.
2. I want people to have equal opportunity, no matter who they are. But to give them that opportunity, we must confront and fix the systematic roadblocks that have held them back. I recognize that I have had advantages that others have been denied. I want them to have those…