As I'm writing this, it has been less than a week since Trump was sworn in as president and in that time he has done the following: called the press fake and liars, muzzled the EPA, laid the groundwork for the creation of the Great Wall of Mexico, threatened to throw out all illegal immigrants and threatened to cut funding to sanctuary cities that are meant to keep these people safe, reopened the Keystone pipeline, is throwing money into a huge investigation into voter fraud - including fraud that has happened before this election, and this is just what I can remember. I'm sure there's more. It's been three days. Three. Days.
It hurts my soul to think about what could possibly happen in the next three days or three weeks.
If you are not ok with what is happening there are a few things you can do to fight against it.
1. Donate to organizations that are threatened and / or fight for what you believe in
After November 8th, I made my quiet rebellion by setting up monthly reoccurring donations to Planned Parenthood and the ACLU, which are two organizations I believe do a lot of good for people. My donations are small at $15 each, but they are still going out. Small donations add up and do make a difference.
2. Take Action
This is easier than you think. Action can be done through calls, emails, writing, etc. to your state senators and reps. Do what you are comfortable with. If you are not comfortable on the phone, than write letters or emails. Just don't do nothing. For a list of action ideas, click the following link: https://www.womensmarch.com/
3. Don't be afraid to put your voice out there
You may feel that Facebook rants are pointless (they usually are), or that you are preaching to the choir when you are discussing your thoughts with people. However, you never know who is reading or listening, which means you never know who you could be influencing. And don't let fear of being embarrassed or offending someone keep you quiet. If you truly believe what you are saying, there should not be shame is saying it. One suggestion, if you rant, rant smart ;)
4. Get involved
This is the step you reach after you feel like phone calls and letter writing haven't done enough. If you want more to be done to fight against Trump and his administration, call the offices of political leaders you agree with and ask what you can do to help. Ask how you can be out there on the streets taking action daily. You can also reach out to activist networks and ask how you can get involved.
5. Channel your distraught and let it fuel your fight
It is so easy to get defeated right now. I am right there with you. The best thing for you to do is take a night, let the defeat sink in, feel terrible, and then get over it. Wake-up, take a deep breath, let the defeat turn into anger, and use that anger to fight like hell for what you believe in.
You are stronger, smarter, and more powerful than you know.
