Even though it's only been nine days, many of the people that I know are already deeply disappointed, upset, and even disturbed by President Trump's actions. Across the nation and the world, people are making their voices heard and emphasizing the importance of having others do the same. Speaking your mind and standing up for what you believe in are important and do need to be done, especially during the period of unrest and division our country is entering. But if you're like me - kinda quiet, pretty reserved, never felt this politically charged or upset before - then you might not have any idea how to make your voice heard. So, I've compiled a list of some pretty easy ways to voice your opinion.
1. Write to/Call Your Senators/Representatives
This is probably the most helpful thing you can do. While some Congressmen and women are in it for the money and power, others genuinely have an interest in representing their constituents. Even if they don't, if they receive an overwhelming number of calls and emails from people asking them to vote a certain way, it can be pretty hard to ignore them, lest they fall out of favor with potential voters. (That's screwed up, I know, but it's how the game is played. And yes, politics is a game.). Make sure you know who your federal and state representatives are. You can find out who represents you and how to contact them by clicking here. In addition to writing and calling, there are also ways to communicate with them online if that's easier for you to do. Reach out to them with any concerns that you have, appeal to them to vote yes or no on an upcoming bill, and be sure to thank them when you feel they deserve it (they are people, too!).
2. Attend a Protest
People and organizations across the country (and the world) are planning marches and protests. The information is readily available online and via social media. Do a little bit of research, make a poster, and get out there, even if it's just for an hour or two.
3. Write a Letter to the Editor
The media, although it has come under somewhat unnecessary fire recently, is one of the best ways to spread your message. Writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper is a great way to share your thoughts with your community. It starts a conversation, if nothing else, and could potentially put you in contact with other individuals with a similar belief.
4. Join a Coalition/Foundation
There are hundreds of thousands of organizations on the local, state, and federal levels that support a variety of different causes. Do some research and find one that aligns with your beliefs. They will have more information on how to get involved and voice your opinion.
5. Stay Updated and Informed
This is SUPER important. Get your news from a variety of different CREDIBLE sources to try and eliminate bias as much as possible. (Try looking into BBC or Canada news sources to get an outside, less biased perspective.) Follow your representatives/senators, the president, vice president, governor, etc., on social media so you know where they stand on various issues and what they are doing/focusing on. Don't blindly believe everything that your friends post. Spend a little bit of extra time researching the issues that are important to you and the goings on in the world related to them. A well-informed citizen is a powerful one.
6. Vote in November of 2018
This one is arguably the most important. Come 2018, 33 of the 100 seats in the Senate and every seat (that's 435!) in the House come up for election. If you are not pleased with how your current representatives/senators are doing, this is your chance to do something about it. Research the candidates. Cast your ballot. Change the majority of the House and Senate, put someone in that seat that you believe will do the best job possible for his/her constituents and for the country. Just because the President, governor, etc. isn't up for election doesn't mean that you shouldn't vote.
As Americans, we have the right to free speech and peaceful protest. Do your part to help protect and change this country in any way that you can if you feel so inclined.
