Following the results of the general election, many rejoiced. According to the Associated Press, over 3.1 million people voted for Donald Trump in Ohio compared to the 2.47 million who voted for Kamala Harris. The election has become the lowest Democratic voter turnout in this century.
For the many who did vote for Kamala Harris, these results can leave them feeling confused and frustrated about the shift in voter demographic.
After a strenuous election period charged with tension and isolation, Otterbein hosted a lecture on Nov. 6 to encourage unity among people despite their differing beliefs.
Rev. Nontombi Naomi Tutu gave a lecture, "This is Not the End of The Story," a name based on resounding words from her grandmother.
By talking about the segregation and disconnect that was present in Apartheid South Africa, she tied it back to the heightened emotions surrounding the presidential election and the presence of hate and division.
“Hate is easy to sell but not sustainable,” Tutu said.
She said she never imagined white South Africans being oppressed, but she later realized that the fear that was common amongst Black South Africans also resonated with white South Africans, though it was simply a different kind of fear.
Leaving the ending of her speech open, Tutu charged the audience with a challenge to be part of the community that makes the story better.
Many students on campus who attended the speech felt a space like this was needed after the results of the election.
First-year psychology major Okokon Ita wasn’t necessarily happy with the election but tried to be understanding with those who voted differently than him.
“You have to be more open-minded about it because, at the end of the day, everyone has the right to vote,” Ita said.
Ita believes that no matter who someone voted for, “Stand by what you voted for, regardless of the outcome. I think you should stand by but also don’t be afraid to criticize.”
For other students at the event, many still felt strong emotions about the outcome.
“I’m hurt and disappointed in our society,” said senior political science major Ikra Koriyow. “The fact that we’re the next generation of adults and this is the way that the future is being handed to us is scary.”
While some students are looking for the positives, many still fear the unknown of what will come in American politics.
“The bad is part of our story as well,” Tutu said as she imparted a consoling message to those who think this election will be detrimental to society. “It’s not the end of the story, it’s probably not even the middle.”
