It has been a little over a week since the announcement of Donald J. Trump becoming the 45th President of the United States and already our once humane country has faced some dreadful changes. We knew our country would take multiple steps backward if this corrupted man were elected, and we were right. Since then, multiple people of color, religion, gender, and sexuality have experienced acts of absolute bigotry. This is still America and it needs your help now more than ever.
Now, I know you may be thinking there's nothing you can do to change the outcome of this election, and that is somewhat true. Donald Trump will indeed be the next president of the United States, but that does not mean we should let innocent people be marginalized and attacked simply because of their race, religion, gender or sexuality. We must fight against the spewing hatred occurring in this country.
Here are a few ways we can spread love and positivity:
1. Stay up to date with elections and VOTE.
Do not wait 4 years, when Donald Trump is up for re-election, to get involved in the voting process again. You can make a difference now by constantly monoriting the legislation through Congress, and reminding yourself and others to VOTE when your legislators come up for re-election in 2 years. We have the chance to recover the rights of all Americans, and together, we can chose love over hate.
2. Volunteer. Volunteer. Volunteer.
What better way to handle your emotions of sadness and despair than giving back to the community? There are multiple organizations that support those affected by the outcome of this election.
The Trevor Project- Support the LGBTQ community by answering calls and messages from those who feel suicidal and/or alone.
RAINN- Get involved with the Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network by working the online hotline at your local sexual assault service provider.
She Should Run- Join the movement in encouraging women to run for office by providing them with assistance and guidance for potential future elections.
Soup Kitchen- Spend a few days serving meals to the less fortunate. I promise there's nothing more rewarding than giving back to those who need it the most.
Assistant Living Home- Show your affectionate side by playing a few games or simply just giving them someone to talk to. Learn to appreciate their wisdom and generosity.
Poll Worker- Get involved with the next political election and work the polls when your legislators come up for re-election. I promise, a simple task goes a long way.
3. Spread love and awareness.
Truthfully, any act of kindness can benefit our country in this time of despair. Whether you write a positive message on a public sidewalk, lend an ear to someone who needs to be heard, or gather peers for a peaceful protest, you can accomplish anything through spreading love. We must remind each other that we will be okay as long as we stand together, and we can remind America of how great it once was.
4. Take care of yourself.
If you find yourself feeling deprecated in any way, please remember that you are not alone. There is help available to those who need reminded of their worth and importance in this world. Please, don't be afraid to call if needed.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline- 1-800-273-8255
Trans Lifeline- (877)-565-8860
Trevor Project- (866)-488-7386
5. Donate to supporting organizations
If you are financially able to make a donation to any of these organizations, your money surely will not go to waste. Each of these associations benefit different groups of people who are directly impacted by the outcome of this election.
Planned Parenthood- Fight for the right of reproductive health care services for women.
Border Angels- Provide water on the crossing routes for migrants through the US-Mexico border.
NextGen Climate- Help prevent climate change by bringing awareness to this devastating issue.
National Coalition Against Domestic Violence- Support victims and survivors of domestic violence with the efforts to educate others.
The Future Project- Give our youth the motivation to build the skills needed to better this country in the years to come.
In the wise words of HRC, we truly are stronger together. And together, we can make a difference.