"I really want people who are marginalized by this election to know they are not alone."
The world was shocked on November 9th when Donald Trump was announced as the president-elect for the United States of America. Almost immediately, the nation was shaken with acts of violence, threats and protests. However, the University of Dayton has chosen to take a different approach.
Immediately after Trump's election, the University began taking measures to help students voice their concerns. In addition, a peaceful protest took place on November 11th. Sophomore Chloe Massie-Costales was one of the participants of the protest. She expressed immense concerns about Trump and his platform that could endanger her family. In addition, she expresses concern for the normalization of hate seen in the campaign. Therefore, Chloe chose to protest to demonstrate that she is going to support those who are in danger due to election and that she will not be a part of normalizing hate.
The protest at UD that day was very peaceful; there was a widespread knowledge that reacting to Trump’s election violently wouldn’t do anything but hurt the movement and divide the country more. Yes, there were a few adversaries who shouted “go home,” but the protesters defended themselves stating they were saying their opinions, no violence or profanity.
Sophomore Grace Evans also shared with me her concerns about Trump. A lot of her friends are LGBTQ+, and she has expressed concerns for their safety and well-being in Trump’s America. In addition, she noticed an international exchange student no longer wearing her hijab around campus, which has become very common in the nation now. Finally, Grace volunteers at the Dakota Center in Dayton, and young girls asked her shortly after the election if they were going to become slaves again, which brought her to tears.
The University’s response to the election has been fantastic. President Dr. Spina sent an email to the entire University reminding us to stay true to our Marianist values and to notify us of upcoming post-election events to open discussion among the student body. The Student Government Association is leading a push to support minorities and all those who are typically overlooked. In addition, the week following the election was Community Means Everyone Week at UD, during which there were panels and discussions on what community means, Native American rights, homelessness and the recent political events.
The University of Dayton is determined to create a safe and healthy learning environment for all students, regardless of sex, age, race, religion, sexual orientation, etc. There are a plethora of resources available to students who need support during this time. Please do not be afraid to utilize these resources, and know that we are a community and nothing can ever change that.
