In the early 2000s, I had a series of part-time gigs as a proofreader in the pharma industry, largely tasked with editing things like print ads, brochures and, occasionally, drug labels.
It was almost 20 years ago, but I’ll never forget the jolt I got from an estrogen replacement therapy prescribed for menopause whose warnings were being edited to add a single phrase:
“Do not take if you have, or have had, issues with rage.”
I don’t know a single woman who could take that drug today.
Because rage is all we have left. It’s all we are. We are walking pillars of rage. Rage so intense it obliterates the grief and horror underneath. Rage so primal it feels like only screaming will relieve it. It is beyond words. It is beyond belief.
We’ve felt this rage before, of course, and much of my life has been marked by a constant low simmer of verge-of-tears WTAF?
But what do we do with all of the current “don’t-take-this-drug” rage?
I have some ideas. I’d love to hear yours, too.
These are categorized under the general headings of taking care of yourself and taking care of society. Rage on, Rebelles. I see you, I feel you, I am you. I also want to burn this MF down and start over, but until then, let’s try these.
Make a list of what you need to feel better
Turn off the TV, radio, computer, phone, tablet, Alexa, Siri and Google. Sit with yourself for 90 seconds, two minutes, five minutes, breathe and concentrate on what you need and can get yourself right now. Water? Food? A walk around the block? To hide in a bathroom stall and freak TF out in peace?
Make a short list and go for it.
Primal scream therapy
A friend has suggested that all of us walk into the streets at the same time and scream. In my imagination, this is a glorious, heart-wrenching, ear-splitting catharsis that makes dogs howl in solidarity and men scurry in panic. Who’s in?
March to the polls
Women’s March Chicago is holding a second March to the Polls on Saturday, Oct. 13, with a special focus on first-time voters.
Vote early and often
Just kidding about the often part (mostly), but starting as early as Oct. 11, you can cast a ballot in Cook County. Get more details about early voting in Cook County.
Support women candidates who support women
We’ve compiled a list of women running for office in the Chicago area in 2018, and we’ll do it again for the municipal elections in February. We do realize that not all women candidates actively give a damn about women’s issues or have feminist values. We strongly recommend researching the candidates before you vote so you understand what they stand for – and what they don’t.
Dispel the feeling of helplessness by helping
Countless non-profit organizations, groups and businesses in the Chicago area have missions to serve women, girls, the marginalized and underrepresented.
Find them and opportunities to get involved by checking out:
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