5 Ways to Make an Impact in a Trump Administration Terri Lomax February 19, 2017 I’m not gonna lie, I’m still grieving Trump’s victory and I can’t believe our country is in the predicament it’s in. Watching the news is way too depressing most days but I’m constantly trying to find ways to be a light, provide a voice for the voiceless, and make an impact in a Trump administration. On a lighter note, we’re still in the midst of Black History month and next month we celebrate Women’s History month. And you my dear, are right in the middle of all of this sweet celebration. But while the choices for these monthly celebrations are the usual historical greats — the Rosa’s, the Martin’s, the Sojourner Truth’s, we at MGPS believe there’s some magic right here and right now that deserves to be celebrated: YOU! You are history in the making, boo. We, the women of 2017, are in the midst of a revolution. Whether you’re on the front lines serving as a representative in our government, a passionate citizen marching in the nation’s capitol to protect human rights, or sitting at your kitchen table making calls to collect donations for causes that matter to you; you are the change! Making change is something we all have the ability and responsibility to do. We simply cannot get away with being silent or passive when it comes to the land we live in and the rights that are ours. It can seem daunting, I know. We question ourselves and our ability to actually make change in a world so big. We ask, “Can what I do really matter?” The answer is YES! There’s a quote by Margaret Mead that says: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Mantra of the Week I create the change I want to see in the world, even if that change begins in my backyard. 5 Ways to Make an Impact in a Trump Administration There are hundreds of little ways you can make a big impact and we have a few listed here to get your creative juices flowing. 1. Girl Scout Troop Leader: The best way to change the future is to literally be a part of it. One way to do that is to be a part of the village that raises the next generation; instilling values, teaching skills, exposing to opportunity, and being an example of what excellence looks like! Cities across the country are looking for women to lead small groups of girls through the G.S. programming. Head to girlscouts.org to learn how you can volunteer your time to help bring up the next generation of passionate women. 2. Activist Organizer: Is there a march for human rights going on? Gather a group of other passionate friends and make it happen! Host a night of wine and writing to your political leaders to express your concerns. Make an effort and make it fun! Check out this awesome list of resources for organizers and trainers. 3. Supporter of the Arts: Believe it or not the arts are political. Be a patron to local arts shows, go to the theatre, see local and independent films. These are the ways that local voices can be heard and validated. 4. Government Representative: I know, I know it sounds daunting, but hear me out. There are major collectives of women gearing up to be the voice in our government and they are rallying to support any other women who are ready to take that leap, even at the very small and local levels. Check out sites like: howtorunforoffice.org, politicalcampaigningtips.com, and runforoffice.org 5. Donate your funds: Efforts such as the fight against the Dakota Access Pipeline or the Flint Water Crisis, take a lot of money to cover legal fees, caring for the ones fighting on the front lines, and keeping the movement going. If you can make a donation to the efforts, that’s a small part that can make a big difference. Remember, it doesn’t take a perfect person to do impactful things, it takes a passionate person. You have everything you need to make a difference; even in your own backyard. My Challenge To You: Make a commitment to do something! Make a list of all of the skills and talents that you have and could lend to making a difference. Reflection Question: What part of my own light am I holding back from my community? What ways can I take my passions and lend them to the betterment of my home, neighborhood, country?
