This comment is from Thomas West of Manchester. He is a father of four, an openly gay Army veteran and co-author of “A Kids Book About Gay Parents,” which he wrote with his husband to celebrate the diversity of family structures. He serves on the Manchester Planning Commission and was recently elected a Justice of the Peace.

Election season is over and far too many of us are struggling with a complex mix of emotions: relief, disappointment, hope, fear, anger and uncertainty. As I reflect on the results, I cannot help but personally feel a deep sense of fear and disappointment. Fear for the well-being of minorities and historically marginalized communities whose lives are profoundly affected by the results of this election. And the disappointment of how oblivious our nation can be to the real impact of political choices on our neighbors, our friends, and even our own families.

This election was more than just another moment in our nation’s history; this has immediate and personal consequences for many of us. This seemed like a setback for the hard-working women, children, and countless immigrants who contribute so much to our country. I know people who are seeking emergency court orders to change their names, scrambling to update their identification documents, and even discussing international or clandestine methods of accessing essential medical care. Some are exploring job opportunities abroad, uncertain about their future in their home country. These are not abstract fears; these are real actions taken by real people in our own communities in response to policies threatening their basic rights and safety.

The dangerous rhetoric we hear is not only divisive; it opens the door to those who wish to do us harm – not only nationally but right here in Vermont. At my house, we are actively discussing what we call a “red line,” a point at which we must make difficult decisions to protect our children. While we hope this never happens, I strongly encourage everyone to have similar conversations with your loved ones. Now is the time to be vigilant, to engage with your neighbors and to collectively safeguard our community and our values.

It is also disheartening that many are unaware or indifferent to the struggles faced by the most vulnerable among us. The election results made it clear that there is a disconnect between the ideals we teach and the actions we take as a society. We can agree or disagree about the steps we need to take to achieve our goals and aspirations, but we must set limits when those steps violate anyone’s basic human rights. This border should unite us all, regardless of our political affiliations.

Our children also watch and feel the weight of this time. The day after the election, my two nine-year-olds woke up heartbroken and, frankly, scared. They asked me if their fathers would still be allowed to stay married and worried if they would be estranged from the family they know and love. These are their exact words as we ate breakfast together the next day, along with real-life examples I’ve heard from families in my own circle right here in Vermont.

As a parent, it was heartbreaking to see their fear – a stark reminder of how political decisions reverberate in the hearts of our youngest. But – and this is extremely important – it also strengthened my resolve to move forward with hope and work towards a community where every child feels safe, seen and loved.

Now more than ever, it is important for all of us to get more involved. So join something that connects you to others – it doesn’t matter what it is, as long as it helps you stay connected to your neighbors. Being part of a community strengthens our bonds and reinforces the democratic values ​​we all cherish here in Vermont.

I think the most important thing we can do as a community to combat outside forces is to focus on the different organizations and groups that make up the fabric of our society. These are the places many of us are engaged in: our children’s schools, nonprofit organizations, or places of worship.

I urge each of you to stand up and take action. Let’s stay connected with our neighbors, engage in difficult conversations, and work together to defend and uphold our shared values. Now is the time to be proactive, organize and make our voices heard.

Together, we can turn our frustration into fuel for real, positive change, ensuring our community is one where everyone feels seen and valued.