Last week’s election left half the country emotional, unstable and concerned for their well-being.  Donald Trump becoming our president-elect stirred hatred, fear and disbelief across the U.S.

Riots and protests broke out among anti-Trump groups, blocking streets and flooding college campuses with chants, signs and marches. Students chanted things like “F- Trump,” “Not my President” and “You are not America, we are America,” as they protested the results of the election. Lingering feelings and concerns regarding his potential policies fuel the protests and leave some students severely upset and worried for their lives.

Oswego State President, Deborah Stanley sent a mass email to students in regards to the protests, division and current state of the country. Stanley calls out the use of racial slurs and oppressive language, explaining that it shall not be tolerated. The email essentially states that we, as a nation, need to stay united instead if we wish to prosper on and face potential challenges.

 Protests have been a way to express deep emotions regarding an issue, topic or policy for centuries. However, a majority of protests turn violent, resulting in more strife than good. Anti-Trump protests have already turned violent, as police attempt to break up fights several officers as well as civilians have gotten injured.

These protests have also brought on the burning of the American flag, something many deem un-American and disrespectful. This act in particular has stirred strife and anger among many, causing more controversy and division between citizens.

 Americans are afforded the right to do a lot of things, including opinion and speech. Expressing unhappiness with the results of the election is understandable, even protesting specific policies and ideals that go along with the president-elect is generally acceptable.

Burning the American flag, however, is not okay, nor will it get concerns out and heard. Instead, an act such as that only divides groups more, resulting in a lack of understanding. No one hears another’s concerns, or even tries to understand them. In some cases, such as burning the flag, the disrespect is seen as more violent and important that why it is being done.

Stanley’s email claimed that the Oswego State community must be united, not divided. Instead of shouting over one another’s opinions, thoughts and concerns regarding this election and burning the flag in response to disliking Trump and his potential policies, we must listen and take into consideration those thoughts, opinions and concerns.

Becoming united and together is more important in a time like this, one where our nation is severely divided in every important issue, we are able to fix problems, avoid potential issues and “make America great again,” or continue its already-apparent “greatness.”