As I sit here and watch this election, I can’t help but question how we got to this point. I think about those who fought in the civil rights movement, those who fought for the right to vote, for an equal education, for Planned Parenthood funding and so forth, and feel disappointed. I feel as though we have let them and all of those who have done so much to gain respect for every person in our country down.
When tonight ends, and Donald Trump becomes President Trump, I can’t help but think discrimination wins. Some claim we live in a post-racist society because we have a “black president,” “equal” rights, and integrated neighbors, schools, etc., but now we have chosen a president who disregards that because we are in need of a change.
Trump has been elected because we believe that the system is corrupt, and we need to transition to a system that will help “Make America Great Again.” It is sad to think that this “greatness” which is desired, disregards those who do not identify with him. It is sad to think that change is greater than accessible health care, international relations and an understanding of what it means to be a respectful, honest citizen to all.
Who knows what will happen within the next four years? It might be okay, for all the power does not lay in the hands of the president. Yet, it is disappointing to think that today, when we could have made history, we repeated history.
Sarah Saad is a senior double-majoring in human development and women, gender and sexuality studies.