“I am worried about a lot unfortunately. I am worried about those who validate sexism, misogyny and other forms of disgusting discrimination feeling justified in some way. Whether or not there is portion of Americans that felt this way, they now feel validated and supported and that feels frightening because the Trump Administration is not directly discouraging it,” says Lizzie Silvio, Oyster River High School Alumna and sophomore at UNH.
The morning of November 9th 2016, many woke up startled, confused, excited or devastated about the results announced the night before. The 2016 Presidential Election may be one of the most memorable and talked about elections that we will be a part of. Between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton this election brought out the worst in people. The debates were comically entertaining rather than serious and informative as they had traditionally been. The halls of ORHS were buzzing with conversation and tension.
“This election was crazy and I’m glad it’s over, but regardless it was an election based off of the sole purpose of winning. Neither candidate cared to get their thoughts out, all they wanted to do was shame and belittle the other opponent,” says Emerson McManus (‘18).
Since the election, there have been countless protests, walkouts and organizations formed to fight for what they believe in. Silvio started her own group called “Nasty Girls Club” to support what she stands for.
“In just two weeks we have been featured in UNH’s Newspaper, last Wednesday’s article (Fosters), received 200 members, and had overwhelming support,” says Silvio.
While anti-Trump protesters are working to voice their opinions, those who have supported Trump are feeling targeted.
“Since the election I have been met with incredible backlash for ‘being part of the problem.’ I am disappointed by how Trump supporters are being treated and generalized as racists, bigots, sexists, etc,” says Trump supporter, Cameron Casella (‘17).
The two sides on this election are polar opposites. People are fighting for what they want but at the same time, not realizing that Republicans are feeling attacked, even in the halls of ORHS.
Regardless of one’s political stance, teasing others for their sexuality, gender or race is something that should never be acceptable especially in the OR community.
“I had people that wouldn’t talk to me in school and treated me differently the day after he won and it made me really upset because it wouldn’t have happened if Hillary won,” says Tyler McKenna (‘18). “Supporting Trump doesn’t make me a bad person. I’m not racist or sexist and everyone who knows me would tell you I’m a nice person. It doesn’t really seem fair.”
The reality of things is that Donald Trump did win and will make changes in the office, but society as we know it will not change drastically. The hype and drama from this election has brought people to do or say things they may not have normally. It is important to stay optimistic towards our President-elect, Donald Trump.
Written by Betsy Larson
Photos taken by Lizzie Silvio