This next term
This next term.
Words do not come easy at a time like this. For all of us hopeful that we would triumph over hatred, for others who were apathetic in the face of a looming great injustice. For those who withheld their vote for rightful criticisms of the democratic party. For the one’s who feel victorious- we will all be subjected to the same administration, though we will feel its consequences differently.
Donald Trump has run on a campaign of bigotry, vitriolic hate, violence, deep rooted misogyny and racism. The Trump administration has promised, in their “concepts of a plan” to dismantle and attack social security, the rights of LGBTQ people, consumer integrity, and access to healthcare (a choice women and other marginalized folks will suffer primarily); their incessant climate denial threatens all of our livelihoods and the viability of our planet. Project 2025 launches a clear and present danger to life, liberty and democracy. It is difficult to face the fact that we are faced with a fight.
To not give into despair, we give into hope, we find “the courage to keep living.”
- Richard Mollica
We must face the fact that conditions will only get harder head on. Notwithstanding the governing body, we have until 2029 to reverse the already devastating effects of climate change; we may not have had the privilege to live even under an administration that campaigned on being the decent option.
White supremacy, patriarchy and racism are deep rooted ghosts that haunt the United States. Young men, first time voters, have voted for Donald Trump at an alarming rate. This, of course, is of no coincidence: alt-right propaganda has been targeting and flooding this demographic for years, even before Donald Trump was first elected. Hence, we cannot in good faith, promise a brighter future without addressing the structural issues deep rooted in society that have propelled candidates such as Donald Trump to win elections and that continue to plague the Democratic party.
Hope lies amongst those who refuse to see this horrific disregard for human dignity in our lifetimes or for future generations. I urge you now to leverage your anger and organize. To hug your sisters tightly, join in the fight against alt-right misogyny, racism, and homophobia, and embark on the long process of unlearning (which is, in its own right, a form of learning itself). In light of an enormous undertaking, as is this fight, there has never been a greater need to practice solidarity.
The truth is- we need each-other. Marginalized and non-marginalized communities alike. We need radical solidarity for and amongst women- we need a network of individuals who are prepared to fight. There is not a world where we can do this alone.
So hear us loud and hear us now. We cannot give into despair, or become complacent. We are not going anywhere, we must unite and act.
I urge you to engage in your communities, with a renowned sense of vitality. Extend a hand, share resources, and be prepared to fight for humanity and democracy every step of the way with grace.
For more resources on organizations fighting against repressive policies check out these links, and be sure to research organizations working in your area:
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of the organization.
Thank you, Ana Sofía, for so clearly expressing what so many of us are feeling right now. Your article is a powerful reminder that we’re not alone and that solidarity and collective action are more needed than ever. It’s inspiring to see such a clear and compassionate call to action. We won’t give up; we’ll keep fighting and supporting each other.