By Gina Martinez
Donald Trump’s unexpected win last week over Hillary Clinton in the presidential race shocked many women in Queens, who are concerned about an uncertain future.
The president-elect has taken a tough stand against abortion and been accused of sexual harassment by multiple women.
State Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D-Flushing) said Trump’s victory will be a motivation to have more women in power.
“More than ever before, it is important that states lead in protecting women’s rights and I will fight to ensure we do just that,” she said. “Over the next four years we need to be working together in a pluralistic, supportive way to activate more women into leadership positions. It is also critical to hold the Trump administration accountable for any violation of human rights. Our community only thrives when we fight injustice and discrimination and work to defend New York values–health, equality, and opportunity for all.”
Ann Jawin, president of the Center for Women of New York and a longtime feminist, said she has been contacted by a number of women worried about preserving their rights.
“I think the effect on Queens won’t be different from anywhere else,” she said. “I get a lot of calls from women all over trying to figure out the best way to handle this. I tell them depression is not helpful. The way you deal with problems is through action. Most of our important victories did not come easily. It took 100 years to get the right to vote. We’ve had a war on women, trying to take away our privilege.”
Her advice to people who are worried is to take action.
“It’s very scary,” Jawin said. “Women are getting together and I’m getting a lot of feedback. There are plans for another Million Women March in Washington D.C. on Jan. 21. This is the answer, mobilizing and action. A lot of things don’t go in a straight line, but while I really feel discouraged with what he’s done, I’m encouraged with the response from people who want to do something about it. There are always checks and balances. We should not be considered hopeless, We have to think about how to protect ourselves.”
Reach Gina Martinez by e-mail at gmart
