The world went dark this past November for millions across the U.S. and even the world when the election results announced Donald Trump as president-elect. As shock, anger, fear, and sadness coursed through those who were disgusted and hurt by his campaign, citizens reacted in the most patriotic way they knew. They took up signs and began marching through the streets.
Protests erupted across the U.S. in response to the news, revealing an even more divided nation than everyone previously thought. These protests and the most recent Women’s March on Washington have become powerful demonstrations of resistance and solidarity. They have also raised many questions about the purpose of protesting the unchanging results of democracy.
Anyone with a basic understanding of the U.S. government knows that laws don’t change in one day and that Trump won’t resign because people are picketing outside. This movement is not just about changing who gets to be the 45th president. His volatile campaign and subsequent election was merely the needle that burst an already too large bubble. If it wasn’t clear in November why taking action is necessary, it should be after only one extremely troubling week into his presidency.
People are frustrated by a political system that claims to be democratic, but still enforces an electoral college. We’re scared of the racists, misogynists, nationalists, and bigots who feel emboldened by the person who’s been put into power. Children of immigrants live in fear of their families getting torn apart everyday. Women are being stripped of their abilities to make decisions for themselves. Foreigners and refugees are left stranded because of their religions and races. A large part of the nation feels attacked, isolated, and helpless.
Protesting, for many, has been a way to unite in the face of terror. These protesters are shouting for the voices that have been silenced by a destructive political agenda. Those who fear for their safety and rights can find support within the community formed on the streets. It’s a way for people to take action and to regain some form of control. Those who voted for Trump are now forced to face the lives they’ve disregarded in trying to secure their own prosperity. No one can turn a blind eye to something this big and widespread.
This election process has dragged politics to a low that may be past the point of return, but we can find comfort in knowing that the world is watching and fighting back. Average citizens are ready to hold high ranking officials accountable like never before.
History has shown how effective protesting can be. The real question is how long people will be able to tirelessly sustain these protests going forward. There’s no doubt that, with enough pressure and disapproval, change can begin to steer in the right direction once again.
