When is a chicken sandwich a poison pill?

And when will white women embrace the power of their privilege?

I have a number of fabulous, accomplished white women friends who have made major positive marks on the world. They’ve done this without giving a second thought to politics — they tell me — because they were busy focused elsewhere… becoming doctors, lawyers, corporate chiefs…moms. Their fabulous accomplishments were made possible by hard work, to be sure, and privilege. Because let’s be real — you can only ignore politics if you’re not marginalized. When you’re marginalized, you just can’t.

I call this the Chick Fil A effect. It’s a tasty fast food that the kids love and grown-ups enjoy, it’s easy and ubiquitous, and the fact that it’s closed on Sunday sends the message that it’s Godly, too.

But it’s not. Ask any LGBTQ+ person over 40. CFA gave millions and millions of dollars of your money, traded for waffle fries and whatnot, to countries and organizations that fought against LGBTQ+ equality — and not just those who don’t want us married, but those who want us dead.

But they’ve changed, you say. Have they? Have they really? Where’s the apology? Where’s the mea culpa? Where’s the compensatory donation to HRC?

This is the peril of good people turning a blind eye — or losing consciousness — to the behind-the-scenes machinations of those we elect or give our money to, especially the women who let their men guide their votes all this time. Even the accomplished and powerful in their fields. Look where that got us.

Professional women: You’ve done amazing work. It’s time to vote with your own fabulous brains and well-meaning hearts, and bring your friends. We need you. You can and will make the ultimate difference. ☮️