After the presidential election Nov. 5, many were left completely devastated by the results, quite possibly because so many societal liberties were in danger, and the emergence of a victorious Trump administration was damning. For college students and many young people, the future can be terrifying. Thanksgiving Break is drawing nearer at Ohio University, and students will have three days to create a space to reflect on what happened and grieve, but most importantly, strategize for the future.
It is important to remember that finding loved ones in these moments is critical to coping with politics-related stress. Although many students at OU will decide to stay with family, staying close to loved ones does not necessarily mean relatives. This can take many forms: friends, neighbors or others who occupy valuable social spaces in a person’s life.
Sharing food with people and affirming love in a world threatened by hate is critical. A Pew Research Center survey of adults living in the U.S. found 90% of them had at least one close friend. Who a person decides to call their friend creates a network of support that can be relied upon in times of need.
It is important to remember that millions of Americans faced the same result, and now there is a space to recover. It is imperative that now be a time for organizations leading into future election cycles.
According to the American Psychological Association’s Stress in America survey, 51% of adults plan to volunteer and contribute to causes they support. There are many organizations on the local and national levels that individuals can turn to in times of political uncertainty.
An example of this is the Sunrise Movement, which has worked over the past seven years to combat climate inequalities.
The Center for Reproductive Rights is another useful source. The center offers some advice for fighting for reproductive justice following the election. According to the center’s website, donating to independent clinics and those seeking abortion care as well as staying civically engaged in local advocacy groups can be an immediate means to make change.
Americans face a choice during the upcoming holiday season. They should feel free to spend time with people who truly love them and who voted as if they loved them. Although people may disagree on policy, drawing a boundary between discussion and misinformation is important in this context.
Per the National Organization for Women, “When someone’s life, health, and safety are being threatened by a president’s policies they cannot ‘agree to disagree.’” This idea can largely impact how people interact with family members who they share complex political relationships with. Yet, the phrase "agreeing to disagree" invites the end of a conversation and is a thought-terminating phrase. It does not require further discussion or elaboration, and it can only complicate fundamental differences between people.
Following the 2024 election, it became clear politics are increasingly personal. This is because politicians such as Donald Trump create coalitions that seek to restrict personal liberties instead of restoring them. A study by the Jama Network found after the state of Texas’ abortion ban following the repeal of Roe v. Wade in 2022, infant deaths caused by congenital anomalies such as heart and organ defects rose by 22.2%. This represents a greater problem with safety, not policy.
During such a limited period of free time, it is important to delegate who will be the recipient of the love each person has to share. More than anything, time is an investment. It is a demonstration of commitments and values that must be allocated sparingly and wisely.
At least briefly, rest in a space filled with laughter and joy.
Aiden is a freshman studying journalism. Please note that the views expressed in this column do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk to Aiden? Reach him on Instagram at @aiden_with_an_i_ or email him at ar260223@ohio.edu
