It has been over a few good months since Donald Trump has been taken the position of Commander-in-Chief and since the beginning the younger generation doubted his capabilities in leading the most powerful country in the world. And while the opinions of many adults have been taken into consideration, those of Generation Z feel they have been set aside. Yet, ever since the election of Donald Trump, schools nationwide have held protests in opposition showing that teenagers are expressing themselves in any way they can. Despite the neglect, students are proving that their opinions have significance and are emphasizing that their voices must be heard.
Although a good amount of time has passed since the inauguration, the concept of Trump as the nation’s leader leaves many students bewildered. Ana H., a sophomore attending Crescenta Valley High School, expresses her negative reactions to the new President-elect, stating, “I honestly have no words. I am amazed at how low Americans can truly sink. The fact that people have to be begged not to commit suicide because of this election and that marginalized groups are being warned against going out by themselves really says something about our ‘president’.”
Many of those with a similar mindset as Ana have expressed their emotions through a myriad of methods, such as social media, protests, or simple arguments and constructive conversation. Furthermore, there is another group of youth who face the future results head on. Logan L., a sophomore at Crescenta Valley High School, says, “We’re all screwed. I’m scared for what Trump could do; he could do anything.” Many look ahead to the future and are apprehensive towards what may come for their country
With opinions such as these, adolescents have shown their rage and fear about our current President, but there are a minority group of teenagers that do not necessarily oppose our current President. They are very rare to see but they are out there. This has created riffs and tensions among friends and family, but it is obvious that the youth are not being totally complacent about issues surrounding our current politics and political leaders.