The Long-Lasting Trauma of Trump's Policies: A Puerto Rican Perspective

These words hold a somber tone as I recount the events that have left an indelible mark on me, a native of Puerto Rico. I was born in this beautiful island, but my early years were spent in the vibrant city of Chicago. I hold a deep pride in my heritage and the lineage that connects my family to New York and beyond. My concern for my home, and my fellow citizens, is as palpable as the whispers of the wind over the Puerto Rican landscape. However, the past few years have been filled with disconcerting and painful experiences, especially after witnessing the United States government's abrupt decision to abandon the Kurdish fighters who played a crucial role in the fight against ISIS.

The Struggle of Identity and Belonging

I was born on the islands of Puerto Rico, and my family's journey is a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Puerto Rican people. My parents migrated to Chicago when I was two, and my little sister was just one. Growing up in New York, I always felt connected to my Puerto Rican roots but also deeply honored by my American citizenship. Over a century of sacrifice, my family has fought for this nation, yet our loyalty is often questioned. The sight of the American flag that once symbolized hope and valor now hangs heavy with a sense of betrayal, especially as President Donald Trump's rhetoric has shattered the trust that binds us together.

The Climate Crisis and Environmental Degradation

The environmental and climate policies of the United States have left an indelible mark on my consciousness. The stark realities of a warming planet and the devastating effects of climate change are not merely statistics or headlines; they are personal experiences that reverberate within me. President Trump's approach to these issues is unequivocally destructive, exacerbating the very problems that threaten the future of not just Puerto Rico but the entire world.

The Trauma of the Kurdish Abandonment

The abandonment of the Kurdish fighters, an act that made me cry, is a memory that haunts me still. The Kurdish forces were not mere supporters; they were our partners in the fight against ISIS. They stood by us, fought side by side, and sacrificed countless lives to protect our shared interests. Yet, in a moment of apparent political expediency, the United States reneged on its commitment, leaving the Kurds stranded and vulnerable.

Before the alliance with the Kurds, the situation in northern Syria was dire. The Kurds were fighting against a regime that was brutal and oppressive. Their enemies were Assad's regime and the genocidal Turks, both of which posed a significant threat to their existence. The Kurds had organized and prepared themselves to face the Turks head-on, but with the intervention of American forces, their strategy shifted. The Kurds were asked to assist in the fight against ISIS, a strategic choice that seemed to align with the interests of the United States.

However, the decision to abandon the Kurds was a cruel betrayal. Once the fight against ISIS was largely over, the United States has shown a complete disregard for the Kurdish forces. The sudden withdrawal left the Kurds exposed, with no warning or acknowledges, leading to a dire situation. The Turks and their allies then felt emboldened to attack, leading to a humanitarian crisis that forced the Kurds to flee for their lives, seeking refuge with the very forces they had once fought against.

A Call for Mutual Loyalty and Accountability

The tragedy of the Kurdish situation has left a deep wound in the hearts of all those who hold genuine patriotism and solidarity. While mutual loyalty is an essential principle in any alliance, it is clear that the United States has violated this cardinal rule. It is a stark reminder of the fragility of international alliances and the profound cost of political expediency.

As a Puerto Rican, I see these actions not only as a betrayal of the Kurdish people but also as a reflection of a wider failure of leadership in the United States. It is a failure to understand the complex web of relationships and the long-term consequences of short-sighted policies. The Trump administration's actions have not only hurt the Kurds but have also undermined the trust that defines our global community.

In conclusion, the worst things Donald Trump did or said that made me cry are not just the rhetoric or the policies that harm the environment, but the cold, calculated decisions that betrayed our allies and allies in the fight against injustice. The abandonment of the Kurds is a grave error that will have far-reaching consequences. I call upon leaders and citizens alike to remember the power of mutual loyalty and to stand in solidarity with those who have stood by us in our most challenging times.