In light of Donald Trump’s increasing popularity, The Office for Intercultural Engagement held its first Speak Out Loud (SOL) conversation of the semester to discuss “The Trump Effect.” On Feb. 3, students gathered at The Student Diversity Center from 5p.m. to 6p.m. to talk about Donald Trump’s recent comments, actions, and attitudes towards minority communities.
“Like all the SOL conversations, this one was an opportunity to discuss a particularly pressing subject that affects life both on and off campus,” first year Aidan Regan said.
In a Socratic-seminar style discussion, students examined a large scope of topics, ranging from the controversial rhetoric used by Trump to the preexisting hate and bigotry that continues to permeate throughout the United States. This conversation revealed the true threat that Trump poses to this country, specifically for those from marginalized backgrounds.
“Many people have reacted with nothing more than amusement, but to millions of Americans, the danger of such attitudes can’t be understated,” Regan said.
With multiple points of view from a wide variety of students, Regan believes he was able to approach these issues with a thoughtful dialogue, learning a lot within a short amount of time.
“Something important I and many of the other attending students learned was just how tangible of an impact these issues have,” Regan said. “Speaking to marginalized individuals, on whom Trump’s comments have real-world consequences, was powerful, to say the least.”
Looking forward to the monthly SOL conversations to come, Regan takes pride in the opportunity to have his voice heard and to hear the voices of others.
“Experiences like these are key to thinking critically of your own views and connecting with the campus community at large. Taking advantage of these experiences is what makes Puget Sound such an enriching place to learn and grow as an individual,” said Regan.
Article by Eada Gendelman
