God Bless America

Going into this election, I didn't think we could have another moment to compare with Grant Park in Chicago four years ago as the election was called for Obama. But tonight brought victory and vindication on so many fronts, reminding ourselves, our fellow citizens, and the world that Americans will not accept government by fanatics and bullies, we will not tolerate their war against women, and we will not continue to deny gay and lesbian couples and their families equal respect and protection.

I was taking a taxi home after congratulating D.C. Council reform candidate David Grosso on his upset victory against ethically challenged incumbent Michael A. Brown, and passed along U Street past Ben's Chili Bowl, the Lincoln Theater, and the Republic Gardens. People were dancing in the street and chanting, "Four more years!" in celebration of President Obama's victory. But this is about so much more than the top of the ticket. What a glorious moment for this country's rich diversity, which has defeated the angry voices of racism, misogyny, xenophobia, and homophobia. Deepest gratitude to every activist and community worker, living and dead, who helped pave the way for this moment.

Update: Mara Keisling wrote on Facebook:

Had it not been for the aggressive and immoral (and effective) redistricting process the Republicans did after the 2010 census, last night would have been more clearly a generational repudiation of the increasingly extreme Republican Party. The Republicans only held the US House because they redrew the maps to solidify their extremism. Everything else went the Dems way. Republicans need to get their adults back in charge and just knock it off.

Amen to that.