Opinion | Trump Is About to Steal My Friend’s Christmas — and Yours
As the holiday season approaches, many people are looking forward to spending time with loved ones, exchanging gifts, and spreading cheer. However, for some, the impending arrival of Christmas is overshadowed by a looming threat: President Donald Trump.
For my friend, Sarah, and countless others across the country, Trump’s policies and actions are set to steal their Christmas joy. From his divisive rhetoric to his harmful policies, Trump has created a climate of fear and uncertainty that is casting a dark shadow over the holiday season.
One of the most pressing concerns for many families this Christmas is the recent government shutdown. As a result of Trump’s refusal to compromise on funding for a border wall, thousands of federal employees are facing the prospect of going without a paycheck during what should be a time of celebration and joy. For Sarah, who works for a government agency, this means worrying about how she will afford gifts for her children and put food on the table.
But it’s not just the shutdown that is causing anxiety and stress this Christmas. Trump’s divisive rhetoric and attacks on marginalized communities have created a climate of fear and uncertainty for many. Immigrant families are living in fear of deportation, Muslim Americans are facing increased discrimination, and LGBTQ individuals are seeing their rights eroded. For my friend Sarah, who is an immigrant herself, the constant barrage of hateful rhetoric and policies from the Trump administration has made it difficult to feel safe and secure this holiday season.
In addition to the fear and uncertainty created by Trump’s policies, his administration’s efforts to roll back environmental protections and deny the reality of climate change are also having a direct impact on the holiday season. As natural disasters become more frequent and severe, many families are facing the prospect of spending Christmas in shelters or rebuilding their homes. For Sarah, who lives in a coastal city that is vulnerable to rising sea levels and extreme weather events, the threat of climate change is all too real.
Despite the challenges and obstacles created by Trump, there is still hope this Christmas season. As we gather with loved ones, exchange gifts, and spread cheer, we can also come together to support those who are most affected by Trump’s harmful policies. Whether it’s donating to organizations that are helping federal employees affected by the shutdown, volunteering at a local shelter, or speaking out against injustice, there are countless ways to make a difference this holiday season.
So as we prepare to celebrate Christmas, let’s not forget about those who are facing uncertainty and fear due to Trump’s actions. Let’s come together to support each other, spread love and kindness, and work towards creating a more just and equitable world for all. Because, in the end, that’s what the holiday season is truly about: coming together, supporting each other, and spreading joy and goodwill to all.