The U.S election season is often a cause of stress, not just for Americans, but for the entire world. As a major imperial country with incredible global influence, the outcome of the presidential elections impacts billions of lives. And this year, like so many previous elections, feels incredibly discouraging and demoralizing.

With both primary candidates expressing staunch support for Israel's genocide of Palestine, and Harris' repeated commitment to working collaboratively with conservatives, it is hard to feel that a vote for her would bring about any meaningful and positive change domestically or globally. 

Having recently moved from the U.S. to Canada, I’ve been adjusting to Canada’s political landscape. Admittedly, I still have a lot to learn about Canadian politics and governance, but I’ve already noticed some grim issues are brewing. From failing to fund the health sector expansion in hospitals and long-term care, to Canada’s silence on Israel's aggression, it’s clear that Canada, much like the U.S, struggles with domestic and international policy issues.

The game of winning or losing elections completely overshadows the real issues that affect people’s daily lives. None of the parties that have the most power and influence propose or implement policies that people desperately need, like affordable housing and accessible healthcare.

Moving to the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), I am really feeling the absence of the community that I used to have back in the States. It’s been jarring. Yes, mental health support and therapy is incredibly helpful and meaningful, but sometimes people just need tangible support like food, money, and help with everyday tasks.

The past few years have driven home one consistent message for me: no one is an island. Our connections to each other are so deeply intertwined in ways we can’t even fathom. Cultivating these connections will ultimately help us survive in political and social uncertainty.

It might look like:

• Making dinner for each other

• Sharing resources, such as cars or household items

• Splitting groceries so nothing goes to waste

• Helping with moves or picking each other up from the airport

• Learning basic medical skills to assist each other

• Doing each other’s dishes

Resource Alert! The Bay Area Transformative Justice Collective created a useful and straightforward tool you can use to  identify folks in your circle who can help support you and hold you accountable. Check out their Pod-Mapping Worksheet to help you identify who is in your corner. 

In times like these, it’s crucial to lean on the people around us. We need to be able to rely on each other because we sure as hell can’t rely on elections.