All the rhetoric of hatred and violence out there needs to end. On both sides. The campaign seems to have brought out the worst in many of us. Some as a result of feeling it was now alright to voice their innermost voices of bigotry and hatred toward those who are different, and others out of fear for their future and their families. It is time to put all of that aside and start to take a more positive, solution-based approach to our differences.
To the protesters out their, if you want your voice heard, fine. Protest. That is your constitutional right. But do so in a peaceful and non-violent manner. Respect property and the rights of others. Remember Mrs. Clinton's campaign slogans? Stronger Together and Love trumps Hate? It is time to make those more than mere slogans. Put them into action. If you are a supporter of Mr. Trump, congratulations. Celebrate. But listen to his call for unity and bringing all of us together now. Put aside the rhetoric of hatred and anger. Lets work together for positive, mutually beneficial progress.
In this country, we are made up of a wonderful diversity of ethnicity, education, occupations and interests. What works well for one may be detrimental to others. No one solution will be satisfactory for everyone. This is why compromise is so vital to our ability to govern. When both parties on an issue can sit down and work out their differences so both can claim some victory, then we can all recognize progress is made. When one side is too stubborn, or too proud to admit that their philosophy and ideals may not be for everyone, and they refuse to negotiate a compromise, then we stagnate and wallow in defeat. The art of compromise has only recently become maligned as somehow not really believing in ones principles. Historically, it is how our government has met the needs of our growing diversity.
Can we return to a more civil way of working together? Can our leaders please sit down together in good faith and produce the legislation we need as a people? Put an end to the endless rounds of litigation and investigations simply because you disagree with a policy. Work instead to improve those things you do not like. If enough others agree with you, then change can happen. If not enough agree with you, then deal with it and move on. When those in charge hang on to their personal beliefs despite being overruled multiple times, and would rather see nothing happen than admit their ideals are not what everyone wants, then their actions seem more like a spoiled child acting out a tantrum than any sort of true leadership.
We need to ensure our voices are heard, especially if our candidate lost. Contact your elected officials regularly to tell them what you think and remind them they are there to represent everyone in their district. Participate in your local political organizations. Donate to causes you believe in. There are many ways to be heard.
Thank you for letting me have my say today. In the future, I promise, no more politics. I'll return to promoting fun and interesting science from now on.