Let me preface by saying I've had the privilege of being born and raised as a U.S. citizen. I do not have the personal experience of navigating school as an immigrant student. Having said that, I am extremely grateful for my first-generation immigrant parents who, at a young age, moved with their families from the Philippines in order to start a better life in this country that promised so much.

The results of this election are shocking, I know. While many people are mourning the loss of probably the most successful woman presidential candidate, there is much more to shed tears for. The results of the results of this election, I've noticed, are simply horrifying for so many people living in this country. It seems as if Donald Trump's victory validated a whole wave of racists, sexists, xenophobics, and straight up terrible and intolerant people to act out.

I just want to tell you that, although it's extremely scary, this won't be the end. The world as it looks like now and has looked like in the past few days will not sustain. We will recover.

Immigrant students. Undocumented students. Students with foreign-born parents. International students. Colored students who do not conform to white American ideals. YOU ARE LOVED.

I can't emphasize enough the extent to which your existence and education really does matter - quite possibly more than it ever has due to current circumstances.

Don't let anyone silence the rhythms of your home-country that sync with the beat of your heart. Or bleach and straighten the features of your body that are prominent in your identity. Your voice matters, and you matter. Stay connected. Stay rooted. Stay strong.

(And to everyone whose identities and lives are not under attack like those to whom this letter is for: please join me in not only fighting for equity but also making sure these students and their families know that their lives are valued. One step at a time.)