Zoey Zelinger (286)

The results of the recent presidential election have brought about feelings of frustration and hopelessness for many Central students. Whether it’s fear of Trump’s mass deportation plans or grief for women’s reproductive rights, there are many reasons to worry about what the future will hold, especially as many Central students are part of the generation who will inherit Donald Trump’s America.

Despite most students being too young to vote, many are still vocal and passionate about their opinions. Cole Shamis (285) voiced his concerns with the incoming Trump administration: “I’m afraid of the information I’ve gathered from all of the statements made throughout the past couple of months and from Project 2025. I’m afraid of seeing an improper use of funding for schools and no support for those with disabilities. I’m afraid of a future where people aren’t free to speak, to vote, to have a voice, or to even learn.” 

Emma Weill-Jones (286), a founder of Philadelphia Youth for Democracy (PYD), spoke about turning her feelings into motivation: “I’m worried about the women, immigrants, lower class individuals, and really anyone whose rights are on the line. All we can do is turn our sadness and anger into action.” With PYD, Weill-Jones led a walkout in November, where students had an opportunity to advocate for their rights and express their dismay over the results. Weill-Jones noted she was “annoyed at our country not learning their lesson once.”