Editor’s note: This story includes language some may find inappropriate. It is used here to reflect students’ emotions the day after Election Day.
By Grace Bird
“Fuck your flag!” screamed American University students as the Stars and Stripes was set on fire during an anti-Trump protest at the Northwest District of Columbia campus at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 9.
Three hundred students gathered around the Mary Graydon Center for two hours to process Donald Trump’s stunning victory in a district where 92.8 percent voted for Hillary Clinton, according to NPR.
Protesters held signs that read “Not my President,” “America was never great,” and “AmeriKKKa.”
As one person burned the flag, several students cried, “This is a representation of America.”
Others, upset over the display, chanted “U.S.A, U.S.A.” in objection.
“It’s an affront to America,” said Sarah Schoengood, a senior and Hillary Clinton supporter in the School of International Relations who thinks flag burning should be illegal.
“Donald Trump doesn’t represent our country or our flag,” she said.
Jacob Naim, a student in American University’s School of Public Affairs, called the incident “a painstaking display of insularity and hatred,” particularly when memorials of soldiers stood nearby.
Gilda Goldental understood the decision to burn the flag.
“I respect their right to do that; they bought it themselves,” said Goldental, who voted for Clinton by absentee ballot in New Jersey.
Goldental is the daughter of an Argentinian immigrant and a long-time Democrat. She describes 2012 Republican candidate Mitt Romney as the “epitome of fear,” and Goldental “can’t believe it got worse.”
“If you voted for Trump, I don’t want you in my life,” said Goldental.
The emotional protest was the result of an election few American University students predicted.
“I don’t think I ever genuinely believed Trump would win,” said Alyson Sorensen. At 9 p.m. on Election Night, Sorensen realized a Trump administration was possible.
“I just started crying,” Sorensen said.
Sofia Kim, who identifies as Asian-America, fears Trump will enable discrimination against her and other minorities. Kim attributes Trump’s win to a campaign driven by identity rather than policy.
“Trump was simply more charismatic than Clinton,” said Kim.
On Wednesday, occasionally physical altercations broke out in the crowd but were quickly quelled by students, faculty and public safety.
Sophomore Anying Guo hoped for a more peaceful display, but as a Clinton supporter understood the emotional response.
“Today should’ve been more for mourning or coming together before anger took over,” Guo said.
Harper Gordon agreed.
“We should have waited to protest,” Gordon said.
However, Gordon admitted feeling devastated about the results. “I went to the African American museum today and bawled my eyes out.”
American University is a liberal-majority campus and the vitriolic two-year campaign has been difficult for the Republican minority to fare.
New Jersey resident and freshman Christian Wichman did not vote because his home state leans blue. However, Wichman admitted had he voted, it would’ve been for Trump.
“It’s hard to say you’re a Republican at American University,” said Wichman under his breath.
He didn’t believe Trump was “that bad,” however wouldn’t discuss his views openly on a campus he called a “liberal echo chamber.”
The American University College Republicans organization responded to the flag burning on Facebook by calling for students to be “as gracious as Secretary Clinton was this morning in her concession speech.”
Michelle Espinosa was among several faculty observing the rally to ensure protests were contained, and espoused students’ right to peacefully protest.
“Every election there are protests. Emotions are running high,” said Espinosa, the associate dean of students.
Student Liz Rathburn chose to remain bipartisan in the protest and held a sign offering “Free Hugs.”
“Human connection always helps,” Rathburn said. “We need to support each other.”
Lisa Boms of the University’s Office of Campus Life said her priority was student safety in the protests.
Boms opened American University’s inclusive Spiritual Life Center between 2 and 3:30 p.m. Wednesday to provide a safe space for students to “reflect on feelings.”
Boms expected the emotional reactions.
“I think our staff is really well-trained, well-versed in handling this,” said Boms.
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