There is nothing more upsetting than reading up on the news these days. Imagine my anger when I learned about the outrageous law that will be put into place to prevent transgender people from defending their country and the harsh truth that five teenagers from Florida watched a man drown and instead of offering or asking for help they stood there and recorded the tragedy with their phones as they laughed. Those were the last two news stories I read, and I just can’t express my disappointment. Why is it so difficult to choose human lives? Why can’t people realize that the most satisfying thing one can do is help and love another? I frankly can’t put into words my disdain towards the man who calls himself “president” as he is the prime instigator of hatred and discrimination; only he would think that America was great when there was oppression.
I hate when people say that we have advanced so much and how everyone is more accepting when we all know about the horrific Orlando shooting at club Pulse. How can people be so ignorant to say that times have changed when the LGBT community continues to be attacked to this day? And what about Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Eric Garner and all of the other innocent unarmed black people who have lost their lives due to police brutality? I cannot fathom how people can turn a blind eye and say that we are living in better times. The truth is that today is no different than yesterday, but some prefer to focus on their privilege rather than offer their help to actually make a change.
It is heartbreaking to witness how some cling to old fashioned ideals that only lead to hate and division. Growing up I always fantasized about the future and what my life would be like and this is not quite what I envisioned. However, there have been steps in the right direction. It is very comforting to see how there is always a person who stands up for others and fights for what is right. I am delighted to know that I can count on someone to bring awareness about all issues affecting mankind whether they be political, social, or environmental. I find satisfaction in knowing that there will always be people who are willing to educate others and fight back when needed.
Every time I find myself feeling down and hopeless due to the unfortunate events that take place in this world I remind myself to speak up, it is crucial to never give up or give in and we must never accept anything less than the humane treatment and respect we all deserve. It is because of those who haven’t been afraid to speak up that many can count their blessings today, and so it is up to us now to carry on their bravery and speak up.
I believe we all have the power to invoke change and so I leave you with the words of Patricia Hill Collins “Most activism is brought by us ordinary people.”
