​
On Tuesday, November 8th, Donald J. Trump won the Presidential Election of 2016 and became the 45th President- Elect of the United States.
For some, his win was a success. It would cause change. It would help the economy. It would benefit all people.
But for others, his win signified the frightening reality of America. In the aftermath of the election results, the country feels more divided than ever. It seems that you either fully support Trump’s presidency or would do anything to get him away from the White House.
Despite your views, however, every person in the United States deserves a choice, a voice, and a way to be heard. All civilians deserve to be accepted, valued, and respected.
Although we, the American people, like to say that every citizen is given those things, we are not.
Minorities now have a leader who is endorsed by a KKK member, who has threatened to ban all Muslims from the U.S, and who has called Mexican immigrants rapists and murderers.
Women now have a leader who has openly bragged about sexually assaulting other females, and currently has over a dozen women accusing him of sexual harassment.
People of the LGBT community now have a leader who has the power to appoint conservative Supreme Court Justices, who can possibly repeal the same-sex marriage act, and a Vice President who believes in conversion therapy.
To most of the United States’ population, Trump’s plan for the country does not seem to be one that will “Make America Great Again.” Instead, it seems to be appropriating racist, sexist, xenophobic and homophobic thoughts instead of battling those outdated and shameful ideas.
But the election is over, and Donald Trump will soon be leading this country, whether we like it or not.
Maybe his stance on some issues will shift, and maybe they won’t, but all we now know is that the majority of America does not believe in equality for all. The people have spoken, and they have said loud and clear that certain people in the U.S should not be heard, should not be given equal rights, and should not be allowed the same opportunities as others.
In January, when Trump is sworn into office, do not let him and the Senate, Congress, and other government officials discriminate against the people of this country.
This election has taken away the voices of so many people in America. Instead of being discouraged about the results, instead of leaving the fate of this country in the hands of Trump, speak up against the prejudice flooding our home.
Help your community by raising awareness for climate change, volunteer at a children’s hospital, or simply show your support for those afraid to practice their religion freely.
Join a club that stands up to bullies at schools, bullies online and bullies in the White House.
If you are lucky enough to have a loud enough voice in this country, use it.
Some donation and volunteering opportunities include:
Health and Wellness Organizations
The American Foundation for AIDS Research
World Health Organization
Disability Organizations
Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation
https://www.christopherreeve.org
Autism Speaks
Women’s Rights/Reproductive Rights Charities and Organizations
Planned Parenthood