Regardless of who clinches the presidency in 2020, it will take our nation a very long time to heal from the extreme polarization that has shot to the forefront of all discussion over the past four years. Things may die down, and we might eventually return to a more conventional presidency, but the cracks in our country may never quite mend.

Our tasks must be meaningful no matter the outcome. But unfortunately, we can’t distract ourselves from the moment. We have to live through these times and ensure other people do, too.

The people, a collective force, are the ones who create change. We come together to protest, strike and vote for progressive action. If we cannot join forces across the spectrum of political ideologies, then this intolerance will only hamper our nation’s growth. We can have no progress without conversation.