My community, I’m proud of you. USA, I’m proud of us.

Today, millions of Americans rose up in cities large and small across the country—and around the world. We took a stand. We made a statement. We showed that we the people still have a voice, and today, we used it.

Whether this movement changes the course of our country remains to be seen, but today changed something else: momentum. Energy. Hope. For many, this was the first time they felt seen. The first time they didn’t feel alone. The first time they believed that maybe, just maybe, we can rise above the fear and division.

This was my first protest. And I’m proud of myself for getting out of my comfort zone. I know I helped give someone hope today, maybe more than one person. Just by simply showing up. But I walked away with just as much in return. I walked away feeling hopeful. I walked away feeling seen. I walked away knowing that there really are so many others fighting for something better.

And yet, while I stood shoulder to shoulder with strangers who felt like family, I also thought of my family and friends. Of the people I love who’ve supported what’s happening in this country or chosen to stay silent. People I’ve loved who’ve chosen comfort over courage, silence over resistance. That part hurts. And it always will.

But I stood today for all of us anyway. Even for them.

Because I believe in something better. And I believe that change begins with the people willing to show up in whatever capacity they can—especially when it’s hard.

To every single person who stood in peace and purpose today: thank you. You made a difference. And I hope someone else walked away today feeling the same way.