Tens of millions of children were stripped of something far more valuable than money or material goods: their futures. With the inauguration of Donald J. Trump as the 47th President of the United States, alongside Vice President J.D. Vance, a new chapter began, one that many fear could jeopardize the hopes and opportunities of an entire generation.
- Deportation. Our peers, friends, family, and neighbors are at risk. Trump has pledged to dramatically expand efforts to remove undocumented immigrants from the U.S., including the use of military resources and large-scale detention centers. These plans have raised alarm among immigrant communities, who fear increased raids, family separations, and a climate of fear that could affect millions of people already living and working in the country.
- Tariffs. Your everyday lives will be upended. Basic Deli foods, clothing, and electronics will have to be given up when costs jump astronomically. Trump has proposed broad tariffs on imported goods, especially from countries like China. While he argues this will protect American jobs, many economists warn it could lead to higher prices for everyday items and spark trade wars that hurt U.S. farmers and manufacturers. The long-term impact could be a more isolated and unstable economy.
- Russia and Ukraine. Mr. Kunka, Mr. Lawrence, and Mr. DiMola teach us about World War II. This may be our time to live through World War III. Trump has claimed he could end the war between Russia and Ukraine quickly, though he hasn’t explained how. Critics worry this could mean pressuring Ukraine to accept unfavorable terms or reducing U.S. support for its defense. His skepticism of NATO also raises concerns about America’s commitment to its allies and global stability.
- Education. We take it for granted, but UAG is a wonderful place with many resources and opportunities that risk being lost. Trump has suggested eliminating the Department of Education, saying states should control schools without federal oversight. This could lead to major funding cuts, especially for low-income districts, and weaken protections for students with disabilities or from marginalized communities. For students, it could mean fewer resources, less support, and greater inequality in education.
- LGBTQ+ Rights. Many important people in our school and communities would be harmed. Trump’s past policies and current rhetoric suggest a rollback of protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. From limiting discussions of gender and sexuality in schools to supporting restrictions on transgender rights, these moves could make life more difficult and less safe for LGBTQ+ youth, especially in unsupportive environments. Let’s not pretend that those doing harm would stop here.
As we look ahead, the future feels uncertain for many Americans, especially for the young people whose lives will be shaped by the decisions made today. The policies proposed by President-Elect Trump signal a shift toward a more divided, more fearful nation, one where immigrants live in constant anxiety, where global alliances are questioned, and where economic decisions may prioritize short-term gains over long-term stability. For students, the threat of losing educational support and the rollback of civil rights protections, particularly for LGBTQ+ youth, adds another layer of concern.
These are not abstract policy debates; they are real, lived experiences that affect classrooms, communities, and the very sense of belonging that every person deserves. The election of Donald Trump may have marked a political victory for some, but for millions of others, it felt like a loss of hope, progress, and promise. If we are to reclaim that promise, it will require awareness, action, and a renewed commitment to justice, equity, and compassion for every American, not just a select few.
