On December 7th, 2016, TIME magazine announced their Person of the Year for 2016: Donald J. Trump. Honorable mentions included Hillary Clinton, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey, and Beyoncé. TIME makes their choice based on who had the most influence on the events of the year, for better or worse. In the world we live in today, positivity is what keeps us going. That’s why I believe we should celebrate positive role models and people who make this world a brighter place. Here are five people I would rather see as Person of the Year.
1. Hillary Clinton
2. Simone Biles
At only 19 years old, Simone Biles became the most decorated American gymnast winning 19 medals. She, along with Gabby Douglas, also is one of the first African-American to win both the individual all-around gold and team gold at the same Olympic Games.
3. James Charles
For over 50 years, Covergirl Cosmetics has only used female models. All that changed this year with James Charles. Through his YouTube and Instagram accounts, Charles was making waves in the fight for equality long before Covergirl.
4. Bernie Sanders
Bernie Sanders opened up many new avenues in the political world. He lit a fire amongst the voters in America and within the political system. Even though he didn’t receive the nomination, Sanders still won the hearts of many Americans with his political views of free tuition, single-payer healthcare, and getting corporate out of politics.
5. Michelle Obama
More than just a first lady, Michelle Obama has such a large influence in the world. Elegant, graceful, and highly intelligent, she has kept her head held high even through all the ridicule she has received. Raising two beautiful girls, being a kind voice in a world of hate, and probably keeping the President in line, I can think of no better role model.
There you have it: my preferred list of influential People of the Year. In the next year remember that we choose who influences us. Make them good people.
