A Nation Divided: The Lingering Anger and Anxiety After Trump's Election

"Mulberry Fourth"

Acrylic on Canvas

By Brian Ernest Brown

A Nation Divided: The Lingering Anger and Anxiety After Trump's Election

+Brian Ernest Brown 

The shockwaves of the 2016 election continue to reverberate through American society, leaving a trail of anger, anxiety, and division that threatens the very fabric of our nation. Donald Trump's unexpected victory ripped open the long-simmering wounds of inequality, injustice, and cultural clashes, leaving many feeling disillusioned and dispossessed.

This anger manifests itself in various ways. For some, it's a simmering resentment towards the political establishment, fueled by the feeling that their voices have been ignored and their concerns dismissed. Others express their anger through protests and activism, demanding change and challenging the status quo. Still others, disillusioned by the political process, turn inward, withdrawing from civic engagement and feeling increasingly isolated and unheard.

Anxiety, in turn, permeates the social fabric. Many Americans, particularly those from marginalized communities, fear for the future of their rights and freedoms. The rhetoric of hate and division, coupled with policies that target specific groups, creates a climate of uncertainty and vulnerability. This anxiety manifests itself in increased stress, depression, and even physical health problems.

The consequences of this anger and anxiety are far-reaching. It erodes trust in institutions, weakens social cohesion, and fuels further polarization. It creates a society where empathy and understanding are replaced by suspicion and fear. It makes it difficult to address critical issues facing the nation, as entrenched positions and ideological divides impede any meaningful progress.

While it's tempting to view this anger and anxiety as simply a response to Trump's presidency, the roots run deeper. They are the culmination of decades of economic inequality, social injustice, and political gridlock. They are the result of a system that has failed to address the needs of its citizens and left many feeling unheard and marginalized.

Healing these divisions and finding a path towards a more united future requires a multi-pronged approach. First, we must address the underlying causes of anger and anxiety. This involves tackling economic inequality, investing in education and healthcare, and promoting policies that ensure equal opportunity and access to justice for all.

Second, we must foster a sense of shared purpose and belonging. This requires leaders who are willing to engage in honest conversations about our differences, bridge divides, and build common ground. It requires citizens who are willing to listen to and understand those with different perspectives, even if they disagree.

Finally, we must rebuild trust in our institutions and in each other. This requires holding our leaders accountable, promoting transparency and accountability, and engaging in civil discourse. It requires a renewed commitment to the principles of democracy, equality, and justice for all.

The road to healing will be long and arduous. But if we are to emerge from this period of division and anger, we must be willing to confront the challenges we face head-on. We must engage in honest conversations, listen to one another, and find common ground. We must rebuild trust and work together to create a nation where everyone feels heard, valued, and empowered. Only then can we hope to create a future for all Americans, one filled with hope, opportunity, and belonging.