Let me start by saying if you have not already watched her concession speech, please do so. I'll also start by saying that I identify as a Republican. I am aware the party isn’t perfect and there are things I disagree with but most of my values and beliefs align with the Republican Party. I disagree with many of the things Hillary Clinton stood for but I was greatly inspired by her concession speech.
The presidential campaign was a long road for both candidates and as a nation, we saw a lot of bad sides of both. I honestly think she, for the most part, conducted herself more appropriately and professionally when speaking publicly. I know and understand that having the right words to say does not make you a good person but as someone studying the art of communicating, one’s ability to speak publicly stands out to me whether I agree or disagree. I have some respect for anyone who can speak well publicly.
From the perspective of a girl and woman, yes it was exciting to see a female this close to holding the highest seat in the land. I was not excited because of who she was but because of what her journey stands for. She fought battles that the next woman won’t have to. She took steps that mattered and for that I am grateful. She has gained ground that cannot be taken away.
As a kid, I can remember talking at the lunch table about presidents and why there weren’t women presidents. I remember a little boy saying, “a woman can’t be president because she would cry all the time." I am not saying that it is wrong to cry at all; I think it’s human but because that is the opinion of more than just a naïve little boy I truly thank Hillary Clinton for keeping a strong face. It was important and is important for those stereotypes to be shattered.
In her concession speech with misty eyes and a strong voice, she said, “to all the little girls who are watching this never doubt that you are powerful, valuable, and deserving of every chance and opportunity in the world to pursue and achieve your own dreams”. This message from someone on that stage matters more than hearing it from a lot of other people in a lot of other places. She may not have shattered the glass ceiling that she was hoping for but she gave so many women, young and old, politician or not the belief that it is attainable and for that, I have the most respect and gratitude. In my lifetime I do believe we will see the first woman president.
