A year of Trump

I'm taking a moment to remember (with a heavy heart) how much hope I was holding last year at this time... and reflecting upon how much has changed between then and now.

This last year has been riddled by fear.

Fear of losing entry to your country of residence, where you may even hold a green card, because of where you were born. Because of the Muslim Ban.

Fear of deportation from the only home you know. Because ICE officials are mobilizing, sanctuary cities are under attack, and government protections for DREAMers and Special Status are ending.

Fear of losing access to affordable health care for you and your family. Because our government wants to repeal and replace. Because women's health is a right not recognised by those in power.

Fear of natural disasters destroying all you own and love. Because our government feels they've already done enough, and aid may not be coming to you.

Fear of being gunned down in a mass shooting. Because in the face of unspeakable violence and loss, our president continues to speak out against restrictions and reform for gun safety.

Fear of taking a stand, or taking a knee, for the things you care about. For fear of being fired from your job. Or struck down by angry mobs of white supremacists who are given not just immunity, but a stronger voice, from our government.

Fear of civil war, of broken families and lost friendships. Because our president distorts reality to turn us against one another.

Fear of world war. Because our country threatens global powers and breaks treaties as a show of strength. Because our President was elected with the support of foreign money and foreign agendas.

Fear of the desecration of our earth. Because our country has withdrawn from the Paris climate agreement. Because our government has lifted bans on drilling in protected lands. Because corporate pollution is considered a necessary byproduct of capitalism. Because instead of investing in renewable energies, we are recommitting to fossil fuels.

Fear of so many other things...

To those who have been living in fear this past year because of the way our world is changing in this unbelievable way, I am with you, and I want to hear your story.

I want to fight with you in any way we can to find a way forward. Out from the fear.

We are still Stronger Together.