The new world: Post-election reflections
Confusion, anger and sadness. So many emotions that can be summed up in one word…despair.
Many watched the election last night, struggling to make sense of the historical events that unfolded before their eyes. Many woke up this morning, hoping it was all a nightmare. Many wept this morning when the nightmare was a reality. Welcome to the new world.
As a Canadian, a woman, and a minority, I hoped Americans could make change happen and not give into old fears and habits. I hoped they would realise their political system is not reality TV or merely entertainment. I hoped they wouldn’t give this racist, sexist, bigot an actual platform to spew nothing but hate and division.
I still hold onto hope, and I believe Lincoln said it best about his beloved country…
America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.
Don’t destroy yourself, America. The world’s eyes are on you, watching to see how you respond. These are scary days for women and every form of minority. So, respond with strength, understanding and love. There are those that need your voice to give strength to their own. Despite what naysayers may say, they have every reason to feel unsafe.
I realise the onus doesn’t fall entirely on Americans. So, in the wake of this new world, I hope we can pull ourselves out of this despair. I hope we don’t lose our fighting spirits because there’s still much work to be done. I hope we continue to stick up for what’s right and for those who cannot defend themselves. I hope Hillary Clinton’s campaign continues to inspire young girls to shoot for more. I hope the movement to empower women does not slow down, instead, it speeds up. I hope Donald Trump proves us all wrong. If he doesn’t, I hope America TRULY chooses to be great again and not concede to his hateful messages.
These are the days that test everyone, these are the days that count the most. Do not give into apathy, do not lose hope, and do not forget each other. Let’s stick together, unite under stronger messages of love and inclusion, and stand up for all that is right. Together, we can still make this new world a better one.
