If you’re feeling afraid, sad, or overwhelmed since Trump was elected, here are some things you can do to help
I received an email from a reader who is lesbian and who used to self-harm (so may also be a survivor) telling me how terrified she was since Trump got elected, and hearing how his vice president wants to attack the rights of the LGBTQ community, and asking for help in getting through. That reader is not alone in her fear and pain. I’ve seen it in so many of my friends, online and in person, and I’ve felt it myself. As a lesbian feminist who is also a rape, incest, and torture survivor whose parents were part of cults, so many of the things Trump said and stands for hit me hard. SO I thought I’d share my letter to her, suggestions on how to combat our fear and devastation and actually make a positive difference – not only for ourselves but for others:
Wear a safety pin on your clothes to show that you will stand with and support any person or group being discriminated against or bullied, especially those that Trump has targeted and who might now be afraid, such as Muslim, LGBTQ, people of color, women, etc. This means you are a safe person, an ally, and if you see them being bullied or harassed you will help, or they can come talk to you. You can see many inspiring posts on social media by searching the hashtag #safetypin (and realize you’re not alone), and read more about it here. It was first started in the UK after the Brexit vote when immigrants and other minorities were being threatened and harassed.
Keep putting kindness, compassion, and goodness into the world in your own ways. Sometimes something as little as a smile or a bit of real praise, a listening ear, or a hug can make a huge difference in someone’s life. And posting on social media can reach many. I try to do all those things, and keep writing books that deal with oppression and overcoming that oppression with healing and support.
We have fought so long and hard for our rights, and we’re not done fighting.
Know that the entire world will be watching what Trump and the new vice president do, especially to the LGBTQ community, people of color, Muslims, women – all the groups he targets. If the Trump government tries to take away any rights, we will all be outraged and appalled. We will all speak out, and I believe we are stronger together. You are not alone.
I hope this helps!
Please take good care of yourself,
Hugs, Cheryl Rainfield
