This past weekend, I was able to watch Hacksaw Ridge in theaters. And the movie’s touching and incredible story seemed to be revolving around one phrase: “Conscientious objector”. And while this phrase is only really associated with the military, I thought that this can be easily applied to those rejecting the new president-elect.

Let me explain:

The definition of a conscientious objector is a person who for reasons of conscience objects to serving in the armed forces. But I want to give it a new meaning.

Many people I’ve seen around the country are pretty upset about Donald Trump becoming the president-elect and have been taking a stand against everything that he exhibits in his personality and what he stands for. And I don’t blame them. Protests and riots have become an occurrence that is sweeping the nation.

But, I don’t think riots are the only way to make our voices heard. .

Just recently on my college campus, there was a protest against Trump’s election and the Dakota Access Pipeline. And I was struck by a photo:

After hearing about all of the riots sweeping the nation and the backlash for having them, seeing this photo reminded me that this will not be all bad. In reality all of this is necessary.

I recently saw a headline saying “As Women, We've Mourned — Now It's Time To Take Action”. And just the title alone made me realize that now is our time to mobilize. Some have said that we just need to accept that Trump will be the next president, that there is no reason to worry. But many do, not just because they know someone who would be affected, but because they are affected themselves.

I want to encourage everyone to be a conscientious objector to whatever it is that you are against. There is no need for violence or destruction. By doing these things, you add to the fire that already burns.

I agree with a lot of people who are upset and worried about Trump’s election. But I know that if we move to make our voices heard through petitions, protests and large scale movements that are brought to the forefront of media attention, there is a chance for change.