Through all of the fiery remarks, attacks, protests and undying controversies, Donald Trump has not only continued to remain incredibly relevant, but has also claimed a leading number of primaries and caucuses. The fact that Donald Trump, for better or worse, is popular is not unknown. What isn’t completely certain is the reason (or reasons) so many Americans are so passionately supporting such a controversial candidate.
While pretty much all Americans are concerned about our country’s greatness, it’s clear that the message Trump has pushed across the country, and world, is more multi-faceted. Some resonate specifically with Trump’s stance on illegal immigration. Others may appreciate his inexperience with politics or Washington D.C. While many are shocked and amazed at some of the things he has said, Trump supporters enjoy his undoubtedly bold, unapologetic nature, especially in a world of increased attention to and acknowledge of political correctness.
To me, political correctness is necessary. One of America’s greatest qualities is the wide-ranging ethnicities, races, backgrounds and cultures that constitute the country. It’s important to treat others with respect and dignity, and if using certain words (or more so, not using), or acknowledging different lifestyles can create a more inclusive or welcoming environment, I believe we should be accepting. However, when simple jokes, or a tiny verbal slip-ups result in someone or a group of people being offended, a healthy culture based in respect becomes somewhat of an annoying, censored one. A strong sect of Trump’s fan base believes America has become overtly sensitive, using examples like the recent incident at Emory University to back up their beliefs.
Last week, media outlets began reporting the student response to multiple messages scrawled on sidewalks around Emory's campus. Phrases like "Trump 2016" and "Build a Wall!" were found chalked in almost 100 different places. Immediately, students reacted negatively. Within hours, school officials were met with heated student demonstrations in opposition of the messages. Students voiced disappoint, concern, and even fear, claiming they feel unsafe and even threatened by the chalked support.
Photo Credit: Atlanta Journal Constitution
Herein lies one concrete reason for Trump's loyal support, and a growing societal issue: in some regards, our generation specifically has slowly morphed into a overly delicate or sensitive one. No one should feel afraid to speak out against what or who they believe is wrong. Similarly, those who support a certain value or belief shouldn't be afraid to express their position.
Frankly, the response from some of these Emory students is overblown and borderline ridiculous. The world is, and never will be, perfect. Donald Trump has said a lot of things that many Americans believe to be offensive and inappropriate. Personally, I feel like Donald Trump is divisive, unpolished and absolutely unprepared for the job. But to feel fearful or scared over chalk messages is not just absurd, but undermines opportunities where real dissent is appropriate.
If we as a generation can't handle simply seeing a message endorsing a political candidate, how will we face real issues facing this country, or even a politically different co-worker or boss? All American citizens are granted the rights to assemble and free speech and should exercise them, especially in a situation perceived as wrong or targeting. However, reacting so strongly to situations like the one experienced at Emory saps the power of responses to real issues and undoubtedly further builds Trump's support.
Going forward, a delicate balance must be struck. I don't believe anyone thinks Emory students' (or any student's) opinions are trivial or don't matter. Instead, this experience should be remembered as our society attempts to right various cultural wrongs. Not everything said is offensive.
At a certain point, our generation must realize that life will throw us in many uncomfortable, awkward, and even scary situations. We will be confronted with things we don't agree with and have to work with people we don't like. That is life. And until our generation realizes this, a more politically correct country, where issues of inequality or discrimination are confronted, and smaller, uncomfortable issues are acknowledged but not overblown, will be difficult to reach.
