The older I get, the more I find myself and my friends gossiping less and talking more about the world around us. Along with this, my friends and I start to learn more about each other’s political beliefs and they become much more of a focal point in our friendship.

I am a Democrat and a pretty proud one at that. Politically, I am actively involved on my college campus and have been to several rallies, even one where former President Bill Clinton spoke. My political affiliation has given me so many amazing opportunities to branch out and really discover what I love to do. My passion for politics is fueling the fire for my post-undergrad career, but it comes at a cost.

When people hear me say “I’m a Democrat”, especially in my conservative Pennsylvania hometown, I also immediately get labeled as the “gun-hating, Godless, feminazi, crazy left-wing liberal”. Well no, I am actually none of those things, and here is why.

"I hate guns."

Democrats are widely known for their advocacy for better gun control laws, but that does not mean that we hate them. We just want people to be smart about who they sell them to and we just want people to feel safe.

"I think women are better than men."

Seriously? No. I am a feminist, yes. If you look up the definition of that word, it means I think men and women are equally human. That’s it. That’s all. Just treat me the same as you would a man. It isn’t that hard.

"I don’t believe in God and I hate religion."

I was raised going to church. I believe in God, even though I don’t really attend church. I do not care what your religion is, you’re free to practice it as long as you don’t push your religion on me.

"I am completely left-wing."

No. I have different opinions on different issues. Sometimes I agree with Democrats, sometimes I agree with Republicans, sometimes I’m a moderate on issues. I am a Democrat because it is the party I side with the most, so it makes the most sense.

"I am a Democrat – I associate with a specific party, but that does NOT mean I agree with everything."

When did every Democrat become this thing to hate unless you carry the same title? I vote for who I think will help those who need to be helped, and that just means I think the Democratic Party focuses on the issues I most believe in.

These are all thing Democrats are tired of hearing, and not just Democrats but Republicans too. Don’t make assumptions based on the way a person votes, base it on their character and kindness towards others.

If you aren’t sure who you side with the most check out https://www.isidewith.com/