Never underestimate the power of your voice. Don’t undermine strength in attendance.
This week has been a tornado of emotions for many and an impossible nightmare for others. In the last few days, I’ve been to 4 protests and 2 community discussions and I’ve never felt more empowered by both my peers and our ability to create a reaction amongst our neighbors and friends.
Trump’s executive orders are, for a lack of a better word, disgusting and outrageous. Some hit really close to home for me personally and no doubt, many of the people around me. If you don’t feel directly affected by Trump’s orders, that fine, but the people and community around you are feeling attacked and helpless. It’s not always easy to put yourself in the uncomfortable position of speaking up against inequity, but you know it’s necessary. So here are some ways you can help move our message of community, equity and respect forward.
1.) Educate Yourself!
Read, read, read!!!! Familiarize yourself with current events and why people are upset. If you’re confused or unsure where to start, ask your friends, family, etc about the issues that they’re most passionate about.
2.) Attend Marches, Protests, and Discussions
Be active. Find events in your city! Especially now, there are multiple groups planning protests and marches hoping to impact bans on immigration, cuts to important institutions and environmental issues. This is the best way to immerse yourself in the community and meet others and hear their stories. There’s no better feeling that being fired up by a crowd holding ground to make a difference.
3.) Encourage Others
Once you’ve realized your ability to be a part of something powerful and grand, invite others to join you! The first step in bringing change is having knowledge that something needs to happen. Inform your friends and family of events and bring them along.
4.) Call Your Local Politician!
Call, email, fax and then call them again! Your senators, governor, congressman and woman! Call them and tell them your concerns. Do it multiple times a day if you can. Their job is to listen and work for the people they represent; you.
5.) Listen
It’s great to be involved and have a voice, but always remember to stay open-minded while you do that. Listen to those who are directly affected and hear their stories. Internalize the struggles they’ve encountered and put a face to what you’re fighting for.
In one week, this administration has done more damage to the country than ever before. So that means we have to fire up and look forward no matter what! Jump in and throw your voice into the mix.
