Build community
Right now and in the near future one of the most important things we can do is have each others’ backs. A lot of people are scared, angry and hurt right now and they need someone who is there for them now as they process the outcome of the election. They need someone who will be there for them during the next four years. Many communities are concerned about possible legislation that may threaten their livelihoods and quality of life, and it’s important they know they aren’t alone.
Listen to them, talk to them and spend quality time with them. You could also consider starting a support group for those who feel anxious or for communities who may be negatively impacted by policy over the next four years.
Educate yourself and others
Read up on what the incumbent government’s plans are and consider what you and your loved ones can do to prepare. Be sure to stay up on current events by reading or watching credible news sources.
When choosing books to read, consider brushing up on relevant topics such as world history and social movements, and consider reading banned books and books that people got arrested for writing. Share your insights with family and friends in order to raise the consciousness of those around you. Consider starting a book club in your community to encourage learning as well as critical thinking and discourse.
Set up mutual aid networks and community refrigerators
If you need help and the government won’t lift a finger, mutual aid networks are a great way to ensure that your community has the resources they need. Mutual aid networks are local groups that help each other out, and that help can be with grocery shopping, childcare, finances or whatever is needed in your community. Investing in a community refrigerator is another way to help with food insecurity in your neighborhood.
Resources on how to set up mutual aid networks and how to file them on your tax documents can be found online.
Join, Create, Volunteer for or Donate to Trustworthy Organizations
Whether it’s a national social movement organization or an on-campus student organization, organizations can make a difference in people’s lives. Organizations cultivate community, give people something to look forward to, and can start initiatives that assist different causes. To start a registered student organization, contact the Center for Student Involvement located on the first floor of the Memorial Union.
Mobilize
In order to raise awareness, you can participate in protests by social movement organizations such as the ACLU or organize a local or student demonstration. Protests can look like marches, boycotts, guerilla theatre, also known as public performance, or one of many other strategies.
When organizing protests, be mindful that the strategy employed can impact the safety and overall effectiveness of the action taken.
Donate to Charities and Food Pantries
Nonprofit charities such as the United Way of the Flint Hills and food pantries such as Corky’s Cupboard can help to provide resources for those who may struggle economically in the coming years.
Lobby and Petition
When legislation is proposed, you can sign petitions supporting or combating it. You can also call or email your state representative to convince them that they should either support or reject a bill.
Create art, write poems and songs
During a time of possible emotional and economic hardship for many, art can provide people with a sense of meaning in hard times and can spread needed awareness to issues that are hard to talk about.
Live in the truth
There are often social, professional and legal consequences for those who behave out of line with those in power. This is because when you don’t play into the systems of power, you threaten the very fabric of their existence. That is why it is crucial to continue to be true to yourself, no matter what.
In the words of Vaclav Havel, “They need not accept the lie. It is enough for them to have accepted their life for them to have accepted their life with it and in it. For this very fact, individuals confirm the system, fulfill the system, make the system, are the system.”
This means that from small acts such as stating your opinions to larger acts like participating in demonstrations, you are living in the truth and showing others that they can too.
Remember that your hope and your joy are acts of resistance
Take care of yourself and others while remembering that suppression thrives on fear and despair. Though external circumstances may be out of your control, try not to let anyone gain control of your emotional well-being.
