What is your first name, occupation, and role (or roles) you most identify with? Darlene, Pre-K Teacher, Wife, Daughter, Sister, and Auntie

What is the most positive thing about being a woman in 2020?
I believe the most positive thing has been the fact that woman are being highly recognized in society and most especially in the government. I've never been big into politics and still tend to shy away but when I noticed how many woman were being appointed into high positions and the fact that we had six woman candidates running for president, it truly opened my eyes that our country (United States) is finally giving women the opportunities they deserve. Another positive thing is seeing so many woman come together and supporting each other through difficult times, the Women's March and Me Too movement has been very empowering.

What is the hardest thing about being a woman in 2020?
Although women have come such a long way they are still not treated equally, women still don't get the same pay as men and are constantly criticized. From  Harvey Weinstein to Bill Cosby and R.Kelly allegations women who have been brave enough to speak up are still being called "Liars" or being accused for being in it for the "money". It's just sad to see and to hear that people, not only men but women as well, be so judgmental. Sexual abuse/harassment and human trafficking is real, and the majority of the victims are women and girls.

When did you first notice that society treated men and women (or boys and girls) differently?
I think I first began to notice in high school, I just remember boys being glorified for having sex and or multiple sex partners while the girls were ridiculed for it. Boys were considered "cool" while the girls were identified as "hoes".

How do you maintain your resiliency in these times?
Just being true to myself, being confident, standing up and speaking up about things that are important to me. Trying my best to keep a positive mindset as well as positive people around me. Working on being a better version of myself everyday.

Why do you think past movements haven't moved the needle for women?
I think they have moved the needle for women and they will continue to as long as women and men can come together to support and accept each other in a positive matter.

Do you think the current movement will be the one to change things for future generations?
Yes, it already has began to change things and there is no turning back. Women in general are resilient in many ways and I know for a fact will continue to move forward and have more and more opportunities to grow together.

What needs to happen for us to move forward?
Continuing the constant movements, education, and overall encouragement of women's rights.

What can women do to make it better for other women? 
Support one another no matter our differences in ethnicity, religion, economic status, etc. Encouraging each other, not comparing or competing & most importantly helping women feel comfortable enough to discuss the "uncomfortable" topics such as, abortions, miscarriages, infertility, STD's, sexual orientation/preference, sexual abuse, marriage/divorce, mental illness, postpartum, without passing judgement.

What can men do to make it better for women? 
Step out of our way! JK. Seriously the same as women in just being supportive, putting their masculinity aside and stepping up to show their support by speaking up, attending the March and other movements. Overall just being a true Ally.

Were there any influences you found growing up that inspired or drove you?
My Mother, Frida Kahlo, Dr. Ruth Westheimer, my sister-in-law Olivia, and one of my closest friends Ashley. "I'm Every Woman," by Chaka Khan, "I will Survive," by Gloria Gaynor and "Run The World,” by Beyonce.

Lastly, can you say why you vote?
I vote because in 2008 when I was finally able to vote, I was ecstatic to see and know my vote was apart of so much more—it made history! I vote because there was a time when women were not able. I vote because I've dealt with family and friends who feel they can try to educate me on politics, when they themselves are not even registered. I vote because taking action means so much more than we think, "actions speak louder than words!" I vote simply because I can.