My thoughts: Jamie Fingal

This post was written by Jamie Fingal. It is one in a series of posts by members of The Artist Circle, explaining why we organized the Threads of Resistance exhibition, and our feelings about the role of art and artists in our democracy. Opinions expressed are solely those of the writer. 

I have to admit that I have never been a political person. I was raised in a staunch republican family. We even had one of those Richard Nixon posters - now more than ever! on a wall in our house. I changed parties because I wanted to fight for women’s rights. My body, my choice and voted for Barbara Boxer. You see I believe that every woman should be in charge of their own bodies. Government has no say about my body or anyone else’s for that matter. I support Planned Parenthood and all that they provide to women. Abortions are a small part of what they do. Don't like abortion? Don't have one.

I am a believer in God and the teachings of Jesus. He was a dark skinned middle eastern Jewish man. And He was friends with everyone, no matter their color, origin, station, period. He was kind, loving, compassionate, caring, gracious, generous and grateful. This is who I follow. I consider myself to be spiritual, and not religious.

Before the election and after, I have become even more aware of what is happening around me. I have educated myself in ways that I didn’t think were possible. I am a sponge who wants to read everything about the men in power of our amazing country. All of my “free reads” on Facebook with the news media have expired. I finally broke down and subscribed to the New York Times. I am just devastated where we are right now. There is so much hate, violence and a great division between people who follow 45 without question, and the rest of us who have a million questions as to why this is happening. Make American Fear Again is what is being sold to us right now.

What better way to express my feelings and passions, than through my art. I did not participate in the march, for physical reasons, but I may take the risk of my health to walk in whatever march comes next. This is too important to pass up, in my humble opinion. My sketchbooks have always expressed my deepest emotions. That is no secret. I am thankful that I can draw to show how I am feeling. Our current administration’s plan is to take our country down to the studs, and frankly take away many things that I hold dear. The women’s right to choose, equality, public education, clean water, clean air, our constitutional rights, LGBT, medical care, pre-existing conditions, medicare and social security. We the People have a voice!  

Online registration is open through May 1, 2017 here: http://threadsofresistanceentry.com