A popular Twitter hashtag surfaced last month claiming 2016 was the worst year on record, with many social media users agreeing it should be omitted from the history books entirely. But while the year brought anguish to many Americans, there are positives to remind people the nation is still worth fighting for.
President-elect Donald Trump and his proposals did not receive support among many Americans, and even less among University of Idaho students. Many people feel anxious or even afraid of what the future of federal politics holds.
The guarantee of human rights to people regardless of sex, ethnicity, religion or identity seems to be under the gun. Climate change is still as negative and as prominent as ever, yet Republicans and Trump have expressed little desire to change the country’s grim ecological practices. Trump’s aggression and disregard for facts even puts the respect of foreign leaders (except those in Russia and the Philippines) on the chopping block.
But these threats have galvanized American support in the opposite direction. California is the de-facto leader in this area, as Democratic lawmakers said they will oppose any weakening of the state’s efforts to fight climate change and harmful deportations.
The legislature hired former U.S Attorney General Eric Holder to provide legal counsel in defending the state’s liberal policies. Xavier Becerra is leaving his spot in national congressional leadership to serve as the attorney general of California. This puts Becerra at the forefront of the state’s opposition to the Trump administration.
One of the best aspects of 2016 was near a small town in North Dakota. The Standing Rock protest of an oil pipeline built through sacred Native American lands rallied support from many Americans and showed that ground level organization with the help of social media can make real change in real time. A stay was issued and construction of the pipeline was halted in the area.
The fight is far from over, but it is certainly not lost. American military veterans came together in astounding numbers to support the protest. This group marked a turning point, as their indisputable dedication to America commanded the respect of many people who were on the opposite side of the protest. No matter what position someone holds on either side of the pipeline debate, this serves as an example that with organized, persistent support, anything is possible.
Millennials live in an age dominated by endless opportunity and insurmountable apathy. With more access to information and more avenues to make their voices heard, they need only take the extra step of picking up the phone after hitting the “like” button.
Calling legislators is the most effective way to get a point across. Not just once, but every day. An irritating constituency helps get things done. Leaving a message about what policies are important is significant given enough volume.
When donating to an organization, make a scheduled contribution if possible. Consistent money goes much further than lump sums because it allows organizations to plan for the future.
The last year was filled with good things. The U.S. high school graduation rate hit an all time high. Physicists confirmed the existence of gravitational waves and Idaho Football won the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl. But it was also bitter. Beloved celebrities died, the environment is degrading and the international refugee crisis is as bad as ever.
This is a wake up call.
It is a reminder of the good things in the world and that they have to be fought for. And that when Americans work together to fight for what’s right, they can win. It is said the meek shall inherit the Earth, but this generation should be anything but quiet.
— JO