With nearly a week of early voting behind us in Howard County, the photos and social media posts from local candidates and their supporters are showing us how to inspire others when things feel bleak.
There is plenty to fill the doldrums of 2020, between the COVID-19 pandemic and our abuser-in-chief doing everything he can to destroy democracy and escalate his depraved cruelty. But there is a discernible energy taking shape, one of hope, optimism, and progress. The American people are turning out in record numbers for early voting, showing us that they are ready to exercise their democratic power and make their voices heard in who leads in our government. A win for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris would send a clear message that America has had enough of Donald Trump and his army of sycophants, and that the American people have the power to put their country back on the path of progress, civil rights, and human dignity.
It is no different at the local level. At a time when the nation is feeling hopeful that better days are coming, that the pandemic will come to an end, and that racial justice and equity is gaining ground, local down-ballot progressive candidates here in Howard County, and their supporters, are bringing that feeling of hope directly to the polls to inspire voters. Costumes, singing, chants, sparkly lights, and dancing have brought a smile to my own face and to voters as electioneers celebrate both their candidates and the voters exercising their constitutional power.
District 1’s Matthew Molyett shining brightly for Halloween (photo courtesy Melissa Molyett) 
District 2’s Antonia “Wonder Woman” Watts showing her strength (photo courtesy Ainy Haider-Shah) 
Sparkly lights to help District 3’s Jolene Mosley stand out after dusk (photo courtesy Khaleda Hasan) 
District 4’s Jen Mallo dressed up and showing her progressive values (photo courtesy Jen Mallo) 
Sharks for District 1’s Matthew Molyett! (photo courtesy Melissa Molyett) 
Me (right) and the venerable Lena Kennedy supporting Jen Mallo (photo courtesy Lena Kennedy)
This creativity, positive energy, and celebration of democracy is representative of the hope many of us feel here in Howard County. We are optimistic that Howard County will continue to be a model of progressive values, especially in our revered public school system.
I leave you with this, a picture of my own front yard, bringing my own bit of brightness and hope to my neighborhood. Stay well, friends, and VOTE.
