What now?

Dear friends,

As we reflect on the results of this historic election, I want to recognize what it means for all of us who believe in the transformative power of democracy and the leadership of women of color. Despite the outcome, we are here, undeterred in our purpose, and more committed than ever.

Today, as we face one of the most critical moments in recent history, She the People with Aimee Allison stands as a testament to the power, resilience, and wisdom of Black, Latina, Asian American, and Native women leaders — leaders like podcast guests Danielle Atkinson, Moya Bailey, Dr. Christina Bejarano, Genny Castillo, Crystal Echo Hawk, Saru Jayaraman, Barbara Lee, L’Oreal Thompson Payton, Dr. Wendy Smooth, and Maya Wiley.

This project was born from the knowledge that true belonging, equity, and justice can only be achieved when the voices and experiences of women of color are central to the conversation. We know this change is not only possible but essential for creating a nation that truly serves all of its people.

“We have to recognize that women are out here deciding to run regardless of how they think that they may or may not win, or the fact that it could be scary. That’s where the joy comes in — women are coming through. And I think it’s so critical to the work that we do to continue that. … We’ve been doing it really continuingly because we believe in hope, right? In that hope of something to change. … That’s what keeps us going.”

— Genny Castillo, principal of Estrella South Consulting and political organizer, on She the People with Aimee Allison

As you listen to all five episodes of She the People with Aimee Allison, available now, you’ll hear from extraordinary women who are reshaping democracy in ways that are both urgent and timeless. These are leaders who face difficult questions daily — and who keep going, no matter the obstacles. We talk about everything from coalition-building to breaking through systems designed to exclude us. We dig into questions like:

• How do we honor complex identities in our movement for equity?
• How can we return dignity and humanity to those who’ve suffered under these systems?
• What does real, inclusive leadership look like?

And importantly, what now?

Let’s start by continuing to do the work we know is in front of us.

This election has reaffirmed for us that change isn’t always linear, and progress often meets resistance. But we continue to build on the work of the generations who came before us and those fighting alongside us today. We will honor our communities, our ancestors, and the struggles we’ve shared by pressing forward, lifting one another up, and creating spaces that remind us of what is possible.

Speaking of creating space, collaborating with Aimee Allison came with a masterclass in elevating women of color as the architects of our democracy. Her partnership and vision were essential in bringing this podcast to life.

We are also deeply grateful to Ruth Ann Harnisch, Susan McPherson, Susan Sawyers, and Jonathan Speed for providing critical funding or other resources. We are just as grateful to David Kyuman Kim, Alvin B. Tillery Jr., Bernicestine McLeod, Kevin Bethune, and the entire Design Observer and She the People community for their vision, feedback, and support.

This is where you come in. Whether you are an advocate, activist, or ally, your presence is crucial in this moment. She the People with Aimee Allison is a reminder that our work is ongoing and vital, and I invite you to listen, reflect, and find joy and strength in the stories of these remarkable women. Together, we will build a future where all of us belong.

With gratitude and hope,
Sheena

Sheena Medina
Managing Editor, Design Observer
[email protected]
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