The orange Dorito is President-elect. I have not been doing well with that information. I was, and still am, utterly flabbergasted. I can understand why people voted for Trump because he represented rebuffing the current political system and norms, which I do agree, are problematic as well. However, in my eyes, by voting for Trump, people are condoning his words and actions. He has bullied nearly every minority possible – Muslims, immigrants, women, the LGBTQ+ community, and even those who are disabled. He even stated that he has sexually assaulted women by “grab[bing] them by the p*ssy.” It takes a lot to out-stupid Brexit, but America accomplished just that.

By voting for Trump, people said they do not care about their friends who are LGBTQ+, female, black, Latino/a, and or Muslim. If Hillary Clinton had won, no Republican would feel as though their life is in danger, but that’s how people are feeling as Trump as President elect. People are literally fearful of their lives. Hate, bigotry, racism, sexism, and discrimination have become even more rampant towards minority groups because Trump has gotten away with it, it shows that people can do the same.

Some people, whether Democrat or Republican, have been saying that we as Americans, as a nation need to come together and support the President elect. I will not be doing that. While I understand we need to be understanding of each other, that we cannot spread hate, I will not be silent. I will not let my voice be silenced because I have to use it to bring attention to those who are more marginalized than I am. I have to use my voice in order to bring attention to those who are ignored and discriminated again.

I will not be passive. I will stand up and shout. I will let my passion and fire guide me over the next four years. I will not allow Trump to represent me or my ideas and values. I will protest. I will not be silenced. I will stand next to my Muslim, LGBTQ+, black, Latino/a, and female friends and demand that we are listened to. I promise you are safe with me.

The only thing I can say that may bring you hope is that if only the Millennial votes were counted, Hillary would have won by a landslide. My generation is moving away from hatred, we are a more socially conscious and aware group than our predecessors. One day, we will make the change we are looking for.

Let us join together and demand change. Let us protest peacefully. Let us protect those who are marginalized. Let our voices be heard.

Like Jennifer Lawrence said, "Do not let this defeat you, let this enrage you! Let it motivate you. Let it be the fire you didn't have before. If you are an immigrant, if you are a person of color, if you are LGBTQ, if you are a woman-don't be afraid, be loud!"