Dear MOVE girls...

Dear MOVE girls,

As always, my heart aches for you...I have been thinking about you guys throughout this entire election, and I cringe every time a candidate says something or acts in a way that is filled with hate and disrespect. It makes me sad knowing that you are growing up watching and hearing and being affected by the awful things that have been said.

Honestly, I just want to give you all a hug and protect you from sadness and scariness that some of you are probably feeling right now. Unfortunately though, we’re all in different places and we will have to save that big group hug until workshops start up in January. Until then, I want you to know a few things:

1. I am so sorry, my friends. I can not believe that this is the world you are growing up in. You all deserve so much better...every single one of you deserves the absolute best. For what it’s worth, I want you to know that I won’t EVER give up fighting for you. Literally nothing in this entire world could stop me from believing in and loving you all.
2. We really are stronger together. There is no doubt about it - look at our MOVE community...it is special, collaborative, and I’m proud to be a part of something so supportive. NEVER forget the power that there is when we are united.
3. Right now, as a female leader, I can’t help but feel unbelievably discouraged and somewhat hopeless. I feel awful. But despite feeling this way, I KNOW with ALL of my heart that we MOVE girls are leaders who don’t give up and who use their voices to make a positive difference in the world NO MATTER WHAT. And I want you to know that too.
4. Girls, you are all extraordinary. Especially the LGBTQ+ MOVE girls, the Muslim MOVE girls, and the Hispanic MOVE girls - anyone who says otherwise is blatantly wrong. I want you to know that I believe in your power and potential with all of my heart and then some. I really, really do. As your squad leader Emma said earlier today, “You are all examples of strong leaders and what this country needs to thrive. Don't get discouraged, don't lose your voice, and remember that love will always trump hate”. The world needs you, and what you bring to the table. Don’t forget your capability.
5. I want you to know that I am thinking about you today - as quite frankly I do every day - and that I am here for you, as always. Let me know what you need. And remember what Lexie said: “For every one person against you, know that you have 80 girls standing behind you”.

With love always,

Ashley