Be Purple
On 9/11, we were united. Twenty-four years later, we are divided.
Back then, nobody asked if you were red or blue before they wrapped you in a hug. Nobody cared who you voted for before you lined up to give blood. We were indivisible, even in heartbreak.
Today, we are splintered. Brothers and sisters turned against each other. Neighbors seen as enemies.
The wreckage of authoritarian division is already here. Whether we allow it to collapse into ruins is our choice.
Red and blue must come together. Mixing red and blue creates purple — the only way forward. Purple means dignity, compassion, clean water, safe shelter, and good schools. Purple means neighbors, not enemies.
We don’t get to keep anything tangible in life. In the end, memories are all we get to keep — fragile, priceless, the only thing that endures.
🟦 + ❤️ = 💜
We must choose purple.
Read the full essay on my substack.
https://open.substack.com/pub/jilliank/p/we-dont-get-to-keep-anything-but?r=1sk6r1&utm_medium=ios
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The concept of "choosing purple" on a national scale is a powerful metaphor for healing societal divisions that have deepened over the past two decades. In the wake of tragic events like 9/11, Americans came together regardless of political affiliation, race, or background. However, recent years have seen a fragmentation fueled by polarized politics and social discord. Purple symbolizes the blending of red and blue, encouraging cooperation and mutual respect beyond partisan lines. Choosing purple means more than just color—it is about embracing values such as dignity, compassion, and commitment to essential human needs like clean water, safe shelter, and quality education. It invites citizens to prioritize community over conflict and neighborliness instead of enmity. This mindset can inspire collective action to address pressing social challenges, reminding us that despite differences, we share common aspirations. Furthermore, remembering 9/11 cultivates a sense of shared humanity and resilience. It teaches us that in the face of hardship, unity is our greatest strength. Commemorations on Patriot Day reinforce this ideal, urging us to move beyond division toward peace and understanding. In practical terms, building "purple politics" involves civil discourse, respect for diverse opinions, and rejecting extremes that tear societies apart. It calls for dialogue that bridges gaps, encourages empathy, and cultivates a culture where political disagreements don’t erode relationships but promote growth. Ultimately, the choice to be purple is a deliberate act of hope and healing. It affirms that while we may have tangible losses, such as lives or opportunities, the memories and bonds we forge through compassion and unity endure. By embracing this ethos, communities can transcend division and build a stronger, more inclusive future—one where neighbors stand side by side rather than opposed.
