International Affairs Correspondent Sofia Chirico discusses the implications of Trump’s victory for women, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and immigrants in the United States.

By Sofia Chirico | Nov 26 2024

Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 American presidential election has been a significant topic of discussion in the last few weeks. The possible implications of his victory, however, are still being debated. What is certain is that Donald Trump will do little to support the most vulnerable members of society. Here is what could change — and worsen— for women, members of the LGBTQ+ community and immigrants in the U.S with the beginning of Trump’s second term in the Oval Office. 

WOMEN’s HEALTH RIGHTS: 

Donald Trump has been accused on several incidents of sexual misconduct ans rape, and has been found liable for sexual abuse. According to CNN, his second presidency is likely to be more radical than his first one. One of the main concerns for women revolves around reproductive rights and healthcare. Earlier this year, Trump took credit for the rise of abortion bans and restrictions being implemented in several States. Although he publicly declared in early September that he is unlikely to sign a national abortion ban, his appointment of three conservative Supreme Court justices during his first term, led to the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022, which had been a constitutional right since 1973.

Since the election, many women have expressed their grief and worry over Trump’s victory both on social media platforms and through public demonstrations. According to People’s World, the Women’s March is planning a protest in Washington D.C. a few days before Trump gets sworn in for his second term. In other major American cities, like Tampa, Florida, women have already taken to the streets to protest for reproductive rights and freedom. Additionally, the 4B movement has gained significant attention. Since the election, millions of American women have joined this movement, which originally began in South Korea. The 4B movement encourages women to cut all relationships with men, whether it involves dating, sexual activity or marriage. 

LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY RIGHTS: 

Donald Trump has also been vocal regarding LGBTQ+ rights, often making homophobic and transphobic remarks. In his “Agenda 47” plan, he has prioritised repealing protections for members of the LGBTQ+ community across the United States. At present, his main focus appears to be transgender individuals. In his first term as President, Trump implemented a ban on transgender individuals serving in the U.S. military, which was then overturned by President Joe Biden. Furthermore, Trump reportedly plans to restrict or ban gender-affirming care, particularly for minors, by threatening to cut funding for hospitals that do provide such care. He also pledged to withhold funding from schools that teach about gender identity and sexual orientation. 

The reaction of the LGBTQ+ community has been loud and clear. Since November 6th, 2024, calls to mental health hotlines have increased by 700 percent among young members of the LGBTQ+ community. 

IMMIGRATION RIGHTS: 

The president-elect is also expected to take immediate action regarding immigration starting from his first day in office. He is allegedly planning mass deportations, border closures, and limitations on asylum claims. He may also seek to terminate temporary protected status (TPS) for immigrant people coming from countries facing substantial dangers. Trump has promised to carry out unprecedented mass deportations. However, it is worth noting that deportations decreased during his first term, so it remains uncertain if he will achieve this goal over the next four years. Additionally, he has threatened to modify the 14th Amendment of the U.S. constitution, which grants citizenship to all those who are born in the United States. 

Donald Trump has once again vowed to “Make America Great Again”, seemingly willing to do so at the potential expense of human rights. The outlook for the next four years appears dark for minorities and vulnerable groups, but there remains hope in the ability of the American people to stand united and advocate for justice.