In a world where social media is a mere second language for society, it is nearly impossible to not be surrounded by politics, especially after the 2016 election results. I promise you that I am not writing this article to invigorate any political viewpoint, but to shine some light on a growing phenomenon that is occurring right in front of our eyes.

For an individual who ran on a conservative platform victimizing women, people of color, immigrants, LGBTQ members, disabled individuals, Muslims, and many more, Donald J. Trump has managed to secure the position (starting in January 2017) as the leader of our nation. To some this was celebratory-Congratulations. To many others, this was a disappointment, as demonstrated by the erupting protests all around the country, ranging from small college campuses to large, diverse cities like New York. Within days of the election, this country has generated more hate than I have witnessed in my 20 years of life. From derogatory and racial slurs towards the marginalized and minority groups to un-friending/un-following friends off social media purely for their political stance, we did not even need Trump to be sworn into office for the division to arise, for we have created it amongst ourselves within hours.

Do not get me wrong now- I am all for freedom of speech (for both sides), however when we start attacking Trump supporters, and protesting “F**k Trump,” we are only playing his hate game back, and feeding that fire of ignorance. That said, there have been many peaceful protests all around the country, including my own school, Binghamton University, and I most certainly believe that these protests are providing hope for so many people that reassuring them that they do not stand alone. For one of the first times in our nation’s history, we are seeing men, women, blacks, whites, LGBTQ’s, Hispanics, immigrants, Muslims, Christians, Jews, etc. stand together and protect one another. Yes, it sucks that it took a racist, homophobic, misogynist to come into power and unite us, but we are stronger than we have ever been, and this is all thanks to Mr. Trump. For all the minorities and unprivileged individuals out there- take all the time you need to accept the results of the election. You do not have to accept Mr. Trump himself, but you must accept and respect the fact that he will be the 45^th president of this nation. It is okay to be upset. It is okay to be scared. It is okay to be confused. But it is NOT okay to turn against one another. And for all you women out there, let us not be defined by the objectifications that Trump has made towards us. If you are a lady and voted for Trump, I respect your decision- but I sincerely hope that you are a strong woman and will grab back. And for Madame Hillary Clinton, I am so proud that I lived to see a woman almost become the President of our country. You are not a perfect human being, none of us are, but you are a strong, devoted, and inspirational figure, and you have taught me and several other females the extremely high standards that women should be held up to. Thank you for that.

And for all the Trump supporters out there, I sincerely congratulate you on your win, and I will keep praying that one day Mr. Trump will prove us all wrong. But for now, regardless if you scream red or blue, I urge you to empty the hate out of your hearts. Our states may currently feel divided, but no matter what happens, we will always be the United States of America. Our love, compassion, and kindness are what will truly make this country great again.