On November 6th, 2024, at 1:46 a.m., Donald J. Trump was reelected President of the United States for 2024. Half of America was thrilled to know he would be president again for another four years. Others were disappointed and somewhat in fear.
This election has caused happiness around the world, but the people who oppose Trump feel scared about their freedom and dignity. Many people on the left have been saying repeatedly that their fundamental rights are in danger ever since the election.
The United States has always been protected by the Constitution, which includes the First Amendment, which guarantees the Freedom of Speech. Everyone can speak freely, even if it means judging others about their beliefs, even though they disagree. People who live here realize that they can have their voices heard, as they are allowed to criticize the government, hold protests, and circulate petitions.
Compared to other nations, where it is illegal to protest publicly, this is what people are allowed to do in America. Of course, they should be limited to what they can and can’t do. Protestors should not be allowed to destroy or vandalize their communities, but instead, they should maturely stand their ground and speak against policies they disagree with.
Several countries, including North Korea, Iran, and Afghanistan, are among the countries that have zero tolerance for any form of protest or criticism of the government. The civilians there are aware that breaking the law can result in severe punishment, including imprisonment or death.
Iran was somewhat similar to the United States before the Islamic Revolution was adopted into the country in the 1970s and 80s. Since then, Ruhollah Khomeini was the leader during the time they corrupted the country with all sorts of oppression of their people, society, and culture, but this oppression has been especially targeted at women. The United Nations International has observations about the issues surrounding Iran, including their veiling laws. Unfortunately, this organization has been denied entry to this country.
In many nations, freedom of expression is not possible. The government controls social media. They will find the perpetrators and punish them if anything is said against them or their policies. Authorities have already censored all social media, television, and any sort of communication with the public.
Americans have expressed anger about the outcome of the recent election on social media, and for some reason, they feel that their rights are in danger. But these people should be happy that they live in America.
Afghanistan has probably the most miserable oppression in the world. Women and children in Afghanistan are extremely controlled, and they are better off staying inside their homes rather than outside. They are banned from everything they care to do in the public eye. They are not allowed to be seen outside or travel without a male chaperone present. Beauty shops have been forcibly shut down, impacting 60,000 women-owned businesses.
This is such a disappointment, and it is a disgrace to see how women are being treated in these countries. They have no luck in life to live or pursue anything they please. Every moment of their lives, women struggle with a variety of problems, including being harassed as they leave their homes.
Women are also restricted from working in some professions and have fewer career options than their male counterparts. Teachers, hairdressers, and other gender-specific professions are the main fields for women. In the United States, women are free to do as they please. Even if a profession looks like a “man’s job,” women are allowed to pursue it, and no one can question it.
In America, anything can be achieved, even if it means making history as a woman. In 1869, Victoria Woodhull was the first woman to run for president. Her platform addressed women’s suffrage, welfare, and progressive issues. Margaret Brent was the first-ever woman to demand the right to vote. These women, and others like them, fought for the freedom that we all deserve in this country. They have opened doors for all women to have a fair share in this country.
The 19th Amendment states that the “right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.” This allows all American women to vote for what they believe in and will enable them to choose, rather than stay silent. Women in other countries aren’t allowed to have a say in anything, and they all must keep their mouths shut. Given the challenges that people in such corrupt nations face daily, Americans should consider that they are creating excuses for their freedom. The irony is that they don’t say which rights are being restricted. Are they losing their freedom of speech, and citizenship rights, or getting paid the same as men? What is it, then?
Civilians live in a nation where they are able to achieve what they want. Building themselves a better career, and any lifestyle that they choose. The citizens of other nations aren’t given those chances, and they are fighting to be able just to live and it’s a struggle to do so. There are people currently fighting just for an ounce of freedom.
Living in America is a blessing for both immigrants and Americans. This nation welcomes all forms of cultural variety, not just one. Americans would never ask African Americans, Latinos, or even Asians why they are in this country or why they have chosen to live here. America is fortunate to offer some of the best social services, career opportunities, protection, and above all freedom.
Instead of feeling no appreciation for the struggles of the past, civilians should understand what people are dealing with right now in their home states. I hope people who aren’t happy about the results of the 2024 Election recognize their blessings and use every chance they get. After Trump exits the White House, we’ll see if they still feel that way.
