At an airport counter heading to Mexico Teja Smith laughed when someone mentioned the Womenʼs March: a reaction that tells a bigger story about race and protest in America
The Jan-2017 Womenʼs March — which brought millions to DC streets after Trumpʼs first win — doesnt feel like something Smith wants to repeat. Her thoughts came as she prepared for vacation showing how everyday moments can spark deeper reflections about politics and identity
Recent events made her stance clearer: Trump made strange claims about Black migrants (saying they ate pets in Ohio) used race-based attacks at rallies; and questioned his opponents background. Despite these issues he won both electoral college and popular vote — first time a Republican got most votes since 04
- Race-focused campaign messages
- False statements about migrants
- Questions about opponents identity
- Unexpected electoral success
The march — which was supposed to unite women against discrimination — now seems less meaningful to Smith who feels her experience as a Black woman needs different kinds of action