One of the most overlooked populations during election season is our children. While they can’t yet cast a vote, they’re often in the room, listening to candidate speeches and absorbing public opinion. They might not fully understand politics or the issues on the ballot, but they are watching, and we can’t discount the conditioning that has on them.
Elections shape more than the issues at hand; they write narratives for children nationwide who dream about what they want to be when they grow up. No matter where you stand, it’s undeniable that this election was transformative for young girls and children of color. Seeing a woman of color run for president helps expand the future they imagine for themselves. As far as they are concerned, history was written, and it’s important to understand what value that has on them.
Dreams are closer to reality for children of color, predominantly Black and Asian girls who have yet to see someone who looks like them at the presidential podium. As Marian Wright Edelman, Founder and President of the Children’s Defense Fund, once famously said, “You can’t be what you can’t see.” That’s the conditioning power of representation; seeing it at our country’s highest leadership level paints a new picture for children watching. It’s a big deal.
Stereotypes of race and gender—such as the portrayal of Black women as aggressive and Asian women as submissive—can significantly shape how these individuals are perceived in society. Such stereotypes not only affect the opportunities available to women of color but also influence the self-perception of young girls who internalize these narratives. By challenging these stereotypes, women of color in leadership positions can redefine the conversation around race and gender, fostering a more inclusive environment where diverse identities are recognized and valued.
Moreover, women of color have been critical in advocating for marginalized communities, championing policies that address systemic inequities, and promoting practices that empower others. For instance, the creator of GPS was a woman of color, highlighting how contributions from diverse backgrounds drive innovation and progress. These examples are powerful reminders that representation in technology, politics, and other fields can inspire the next generation to pursue their passions and challenge the status quo.
As we reflect on the importance of representation, we must also consider how to dismantle oppressive rhetoric and systems. This can be achieved through mentorship, sponsorship, policy change, cultural shifts, and advocacy. When established leaders engage with and support young people, it creates pathways for growth and opportunity, empowering the next generation to take on leadership roles.
Progress is not linear; it’s multidimensional. This perspective helps us stay strong on the path of growth and celebrate our pockets of progress. No matter where you stand, having a woman of color run for president was an opportunity for children in communities of color to imagine themselves as leaders of our country. It’s up to us to continue to serve as role models in every space we occupy, guiding and inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.
Written by Farah Fayz and Brooke Lindley