From July 18-21 at the Republican National Convention (RNC), Republicans assembled in Cleveland to support their fearless presidential nominee, Donald J. Trump. Also in attendance were over 1000 protesters, including students from the U’s Students for a Democratic Society (SDS).
“Donald Trump is what’s wrong with the Republican Party…the epitome of the Republican Party, only he’s more vocal and doesn’t follow the decorum that others follow,” said Theresa Nielson, President of SDS.
The main reason students of SDS traveled to Cleveland was to be open about their position on key issues including racism, war and discrimination of Muslims. They feel change will only happen if people unite and organize themselves to solve important issues.
Nielson notes that some of Trump’s comments in the media have led to acts of violence; including the increase of African American shootings by police.
“Trump likes provoking people, and there has been an increase in violence in reaction,” said Nielson.
SDS wants to take an active role in voicing their opinions through non-violent means such as rallying people together and providing awareness to important issues.
When Trump visited Utah this past March, SDS held a rally with over 3000 people that were protesting against him. People came together to support SDS and their stand on progressive issues. Students noted that during the protest, there were more people in Utah against Trump than for him. Aside from protesting, members of SDS want to educate and address important issues such as immigration rights and labor unions.
“We hope to provide education for all; be bold in the face of suppression and exploitation,” said Nielson. “We want to organize around these issues—put power in the hands of the people.”
SDS is a chapter of Progressive National Organization, and addresses progressive issues by organizing educational events and campaigns. They hold weekly meetings to discuss important issues. Anyone is welcome to the meetings as long as they aren’t a threat to the organization.
One of SDS’s main focuses this next semester is helping undocumented students obtain scholarships. They will be campaigning with Education for All—to get scholarships for undocumented people funded by the state.
“Our goal is to create pressure, by pushing our cause—push legislation and bring attention to the cause,” said Nielson.
SDS wants to provide awareness on important political issues and help create change in the government. Trump, along with his comments, have caused many people to wake up and realize the importance their voices play in the political system. People have become outraged at his comments against various races and ethnicities, and are taking action. SDS will continue fighting against Trump as the election year keeps unfolding. Whether it’s at the RNC in Cleveland, or a Trump visit to Utah, SDS is likely to be there—fighting for the issues it values.
@TheRachEF