On the morning of Wednesday, Nov. 6, the Experience newsroom was filled with tired eyes, heavy hearts, and weary souls. The 2024 election results were in, and Donald Trump had just been re-elected as the 47th President of the United States.
We as an Experience staff are gutted at the results.
As a college publication, we are saddened, especially by the recent news of plans regarding the dismantling of the Department of Education.
The Department of Education funds Title I, which ensures all students receive a “fair, equitable, and high-quality education” by providing “supplemental financial assistance to school districts for children from low-income families,” according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
If the Education Department were to be dismantled, students who rely on programs such as the Federal Student Aid form, otherwise known as FAFSA, may no longer receive the support they need in their journey through higher education.
Additionally, the Department of Education also investigates complaints schools submit when certain student needs are not being met. This includes taking care of students with disabilities, responding appropriately to sexual harassment or bullying and ensuring fair treatment for students of color.
These election results not only affect public schools like Los Medanos College but also raise many questions surrounding the nature of humanity.
The Experience staff prides itself on being very diverse. As people of color, women, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, we celebrate our different backgrounds which also reflect the wider population of our community.
With Donald Trump’s recent election, new policies surrounding civil rights, immigration, women’s rights, First Amendment freedoms and more are all in jeopardy of similar eradications.
Although we are very disappointed by the results of the election, the time for dread is behind us and there is lots of work to be done. We will continue to push the boundaries placed in front of us and not lose hope in our country as we continue to uplift marginalized voices and highlight diverse perspectives.
We will not be silenced, we will not lose hope, and neither should you.
