MICD on Trump’s First Week in Office

Lansing, MI — As of yesterday, Donald Trump has officially been the President of the United States for a week. In this short period of time, he has signed 54 executive orders and counting, ranging from stripping essential protections to implementing policies that contradict his sworn oath to uphold the Constitution.

For starters, Trump swore an oath to “preserve, protect, and defend” the Constitution of the United States. Within hours of taking this solemn pledge, his administration moved to undermine the very principles enshrined in the document. He attempted to repeal the 14th Amendment through an executive order, throwing millions of people into chaos and an uncertain future. This repeal sought to cause mass deportations, strip birthright citizenship, and end what it means to be American as we know it. The repeal of such a fundamental right is not only unconstitutional but inhumane. 

In addition to stripping constitutional rights, Trump has attempted to take away protections from marginalized people, including women, people of color, the disabled community, and more. Not only will the repeal of the Equal Employment Opportunity Executive Order roll back Civil Rights Era protections against discrimination, but it will also have the possibility of putting the marginalized in an unequal economic situation, furthering the pay gap. 

Furthermore, the Trump administration has completely eradicated online resources like the Office of Gun Violence Prevention, the reproductive rights resource webpage, and the Spanish version of the White House website. This dangerous precedent makes vital information less accessible to the public. These actions should serve as a warning of what the administration aims to do: limit knowledge. Through the canceling of these websites as well as Republicans’ attempts to ban books across the country, it became clear that this administration is scared of an educated public. 

Last but not least, Trump's right-hand man Elon Musk made a gesture that directly resembled a Nazi salute, not just once, but twice. He additionally spoke at a German far-right convention,  telling the crowd that “children should not be guilty of the sins of their parents let alone their great-grandparents.” Donald Trump has given this man a platform in which he can spew his dangerous anti-Semitic and racist rhetoric, giving a voice to a man who is already loud enough in his bigotry. 

This week has been incredibly difficult and exhausting for so many. MICD would like to extend our most sincere sympathies to everyone affected by the president's actions this week. Despite these difficulties, we are resolute and want to reaffirm that we will not stand idly by in the face of these injustices.

Here at the MICD, we believe in an America that has Birthright citizenship, an America that does not cheer on fascism, and an America that works to protect marginalized groups. We will do everything in our power to protect and further the promise of America. We are additionally here to support young folks across the state, offer solidarity, and provide resources upon request to help you navigate these trying times.