Updated: August 7, 2016
Originally Published: April 14, 2016
In today’s world, political discourse is omnipresent, leaving little room for escape. But have we considered the profound effects that the intense and often inflammatory language in the political arena, particularly during the recent presidential campaign, has on our children? They are absorbing far more than we might realize.
A recent study conducted by the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) titled “The Trump Effect: The Influence of the Presidential Campaign on Our Nation’s Schools” reveals that the fear and hostility permeating this campaign are making a significant impact on our youth. Many children are feeling frightened and unsettled.
The SPLC surveyed 2,000 educators about how the ongoing political climate is affecting students, particularly the rhetoric associated with Donald Trump. The findings are alarming. Students from marginalized backgrounds are particularly affected, facing increased fear and anxiety. Additionally, the campaign’s charged language has emboldened bullies, who mimic the hateful speech they pick up from adults and media.
As the report reveals, “The progress achieved through years of anti-bullying initiatives in schools has been undone in just a few months.” Teachers have noted that students now feel “emboldened” to use slurs, engage in name-calling, and make derogatory statements toward one another. When confronted, these students often cite the candidates as justification, claiming they are “just voicing what everyone is thinking.” The names of political figures are being used as insults among peers.
One middle school educator from Wisconsin shared, “There has been a notable increase in openly racist remarks directed at Latino students. They are genuinely worried.” In Anaheim, another teacher reported that students are telling each other they might soon face deportation. Intimidating comments about “walls” and threats of removal are common, leaving children feeling unsafe.
A staggering 67% of teachers indicated that students from marginalized groups have expressed anxiety about potential consequences for themselves or their families following the election. The study highlights that nearly one-third of students in American classrooms are children of immigrants. One teacher mentioned a Mexican-American boy, a U.S. citizen, who is terrified that he could be deported if Trump wins, expressing fears of potential harm from peers and adults alike.
The survey elicited over 5,000 comments from teachers, with one in five mentioning Donald Trump directly. More than one-third noted a rise in anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim sentiments among their students.
Why wouldn’t these children be frightened? The disturbing images of violence at various Trump rallies and the rhetoric surrounding immigration policies contribute to a pervasive sense of fear. Most children lack the ability to understand the complexities of immigration status. Even adults often struggle with these nuances, leading to misconceptions about citizenship, particularly with some Trump supporters arguing that children born in the U.S. should not be considered citizens.
Over 40% of teachers admitted to feeling “hesitant” to discuss the election in class, longing for times when political education could be approached more neutrally. As one teacher aptly noted, “It’s increasingly difficult to remain neutral this year. Acknowledging any valid points from Trump feels like endorsing racism.”
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In summary, the language and behaviors emerging from the political landscape have undeniably permeated schools, leaving children feeling vulnerable and anxious. Teachers are reporting significant increases in bullying and fear among students, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds. The long-term effects of this phenomenon could be profound, affecting not just the current generation but shaping societal attitudes for years to come.