Like many other Americans, I still find it hard to believe Donald Trump will be our next president. Obviously it’s nearly impossible to eradicate all discrimination, but I thought any racist, sexist, homophobic Americans were the minority. We seemed to be moving in such a progressive direction; we’ve had a black president for the past eight years, gay marriage was legalized nationwide and there was an overall push for more tolerance and equality. But, with every movement, there is a push back.
The silent majority is real and powerful. Trump is concerning, but what’s more concerning is the supporters surfacing and the increases in hate crimes. If the president-elect can slander minorities and make them feel unsafe, why not do the same? Too many people now feel justified in their beliefs based in hatred.
Many Trump supporters now preach the importance of a unified America, but Trump’s ideas are nothing but divisive. If unity means accepting hatred as the new norm, it isn’t worth it. Just because the election is over doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to fight for anymore. I will continue to voice my anger, fear and sadness. Protests matter. Standing up for others matters. Showing we will not give up matters.
I am a woman. I am a rape survivor. My rape will be with me forever, yet my rapist won’t think twice about his actions. If a man can become president with numerous sexual assault allegations and comments admitting assault, it sends a message that rape culture is normal. I’m scared for my own safety and the safety of other women.
I won’t give up on my rights and the rights of all people in America. Trump won, but the fight isn’t over.