Ariana Rodriguez | Staff Writer
Donald Trump’s victory has left millions of Americans disheartened and for those of us who wanted a more inclusive and forward-looking America, his return feels like a slap in the face.
Trump has proven time and again that he is not the president of the people—unless, of course, those people fit into his narrow vision of wealth and privilege.
His win highlights a deeply troubling reality for marginalized communities, and as a proud Puerto Rican this cuts especially deep.
Watching Trump return to office after years of insults, neglect and outright disregard for my community feels like a punch to the gut.
This is the same man who dismissed Puerto Rico as an afterthought, who delayed critical disaster aid and who stood by while his allies mocked our homeland as a “floating island of garbage.”
To him, Puerto Ricans are disposable so it’s not hard to feel disillusioned by his win.
But it’s also a reminder of why we must continue fighting for a future where leaders genuinely care about the people they represent and where all marginalized communities are seen, heard and valued.
The next four years will undoubtedly be challenging, but we can push back against the harm by building each other up, defending our rights and showing up for those who need us.
Trump’s return doesn’t mean that progress halts. If anything, it’s a wake-up call for those of us who believe in a more compassionate America to stand up and make that vision a reality.
In other words, despair is not the answer.
The fight for inclusivity, equality and justice cannot be solely reliant on who occupies the White House.
At FIU there are organizations and support networks designed to uplift marginalized communities including Latin, LGBTQ+ and other minority groups.
FIU’s Pride Center, for instance, offers a safe, welcoming space for LGBTQ+ students to find support and connect with others. They provide resources, events and counseling to help students feel seen and valued on campus.
Kamala Harris stood for many of these values, and although she did not win, the movement she represents is not gone.
Harris’s campaign was historic, not only because she was the first woman of color presidential nominee but because she represented a powerful step forward for diversity and representation in our country.
Her loss is disappointing, but it doesn’t erase the progress her candidacy symbolized. Harris’ presence on the national stage has inspired countless young people to believe they can aim high and break barriers.
Harris’ campaign shone a light on the importance of equality, equity and unity, and those who voted for her must carry that vision forward.
“The outcome of this election is not what we wanted […] But … the light of America’s promise will always burn bright as long as we never give up,” Harris said in her concession speech.
Trump’s victory doesn’t have to mean a return to division, intolerance and disregard for social justice. It’s a reminder of the work that still needs to be done and of the communities we must continue to uplift and protect.
It’s okay to feel distraught and disheartened by these election results—our feelings are valid.
For many of us when leaders openly disregard our communities, our heritage and our humanity, it hurts. We are allowed to feel these emotions, but don’t let them silence or immobilize us. This moment calls for both mourning and resilience.
Change doesn’t come from sitting back, it comes from pushing forward, amplifying voices and creating spaces where all feel valued in a time that feels hopeless.
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The opinions presented on this page do not represent the views of the PantherNOW Editorial Board. These views are separate from editorials and reflect the perspectives of contributing writers and/or university community members.
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