In the wake of this unpredictable election, I find myself wondering where we go from here.
This election awakened a beast in America. The election of Donald Trump to the highest position in American government validated for many people that racist, sexist, homophobic and xenophobic beliefs are okay to have. His election was the seal of approval that normalized hatred towards other people for their sex, race or sexuality. And that's terrifying. He ran a campaign for president that was based on hatred, anger and white supremacy, and the majority of America actually liked it.
How can this deeply divided country heal again? Because people are hurting, no one can deny that. Many women, minorities, immigrants and LGBTQ people are truly afraid for what the next four years may hold. And rightfully so. Women who depend on Planned Parenthood worry that they may not be able to receive birth control anymore, and LGBTQ people fear that they may not be able to marry their partner once Trump takes office. Immigrants fear being deported and stigmatized, and minorities fear the racism that his presidency may validates. When the news that Donald Trump won the presidency rolled in at about 2:30 a.m. on the morning of November 9, they shed tears, called family and friends and worried about their futures. These are not the feelings that a president should make people feel. A presidential election should not make people fear for their lives. No one should have to be afraid of their government because of their sex, race or sexuality. This is America, where generations of people have worked, giving all their blood, sweat and tears so that everyone can enjoy equal rights under the Constitution.
In the wake of this election, it's certainly a dark time for America. However, I think it's important to remember that hate only breeds more hate. I have hope for the future of this country because I still believe in the inherent goodness of people, despite all the hatred and anger that this election has cultivated. The fight for love and equality cannot stop simply because we have lost this time. There is more work to be done than ever.
I have faith that love will always trump fear. Donald Trump, or any other president for that matter, is not what makes America great. The strength and resilience of this country's people is what makes America great. We will not cower in the face of fear, but rather fight for what we believe in with grace and power. And no president or government can take that away.
