THE QUEST AND STRUGGLE FOR EQUALITY IN GOVERNMENT

Editor’s Note: The following is an opinion-editorial. The views expressed in this article do not reflect the views of the Colt Chronicle staff, Kinnelon High School or the Kinnelon community.

Just recently, a contentious political election finished, one where there were many breakthroughs for gender equality.

In Virginia, Danica Roem, the first openly transgender candidate, won a seat in the Virginia House of Delegates. This is a breakthrough because, through all of the questions and concerns about transgender inequality, a transgender government official pushed through and won the election, making progress towards equality.

Only nine years ago, U.S. citizens elected the first African American president, further evidence of progress toward equality in government. Barack Obama was elected for not one term, but two, and only last year, Hillary Clinton was the first woman presidential candidate.

No longer is the government predominantly controlled by white males;

However, despite the progress for equality in the government, there remains a large population that still wants to stick to traditional demographics.

In an article written by the Washington Post about the victory of Roem, the comment section had many people oppose the ideas that she stands for. One person said, “A confused candidate was elected by a confused electorate in a state that used to have common sense and moral turpitude. R.I.P., Virginia, I’m glad I no longer live in the state where I was born and grew up.”

What does this mean? Is one side right? Do traditional politics have advantages over “next gen” politics?

Over the years, political unification has been increasingly difficult to find. Many people fail to work together for a common goal because each person has his or her idea of how the U.S. should be governed.

Despite conflicting political views, though, the U.S. has been adopting a policy of diversity and equality within the federal government, the core principles of the nation. If people still have doubt, they should at least give it a try. There is no evidence to back up that transgender candidates cannot do an excellent job. If casting judgment is what many people want to do, then wait until this term is finished. Give her a chance.