In a time when we often find ourselves divided instead of united,

Be reminded, there is only one force that overcomes fear and hate,

LOVE makes US great!

We are all at risk when the most vulnerable among our communities are attacked. We may think it doesn't apply to us if we're not in that group. Yet exposure to vitriol, hate, and erasure is like invisible poison gas - it permeates our being, creeps into our brain, and slowly infects our soul and spirit. Even more insidious, it may happen so slowly that we don't know it's happening until it is too late.

It has been a tough two weeks for me. I am an ally of the transgender community. I am a woman who believes that individuals are the only ones who can decide what is right for their own bodies. I am the daughter of an immigrant. I am a citizen of the United States of America, and I love my country. It has been hard to keep love in my heart. I will keep working on it. (Re-read week one – self-care).

I once heard that you can see your true priorities by looking at your calendar and bank statement. Where do we really spend our time and dollars? 

One way that we put love into action in our communities is by being intentional about where we spend our time and dollars. This year, I’m focusing my monetary giving to organizations that champion LGBTQ+ rights and women’s bodily autonomy. I’m amping up my giving to The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), The Transgender Law Center, and Planned Parenthood. 

Our communities depend on our support. Whether it’s one dollar or a million, it all matters. You might think that your contribution doesn’t make a difference. It does. It all adds up. 

In addition to national organizations, consider the smaller, local organizations that will benefit from your giving up one grande latte a week. If not dollars, how about donating time or other resources?

Please share the community organizations you are committed to supporting. Tell us a little bit about the positive impact the organization is making in inspiring others to help them as well.

Love requires participation. Love requires sharing. Love requires action. Love requires commitment. What you share is amplified and inspires others.

With gratitude,

Joyce Aiko

(yes, love really is my middle name)