Holidays often are stressful, and this year some may find it even harder to sit around the table with relatives and friends who may actively disagree.
Montgomery College Psychology Professor Joanne Bagshaw spoke to MCM about ways to cope. Most of all, take a deep breath or walk away. Don’t dwell on what could happen. “There is fear in anticipation,” she said.
Plan ahead, and remember it is okay to step away from a situation that is uncomfortable. This applies whether someone wants to share their thoughts on the election results or immigration and deportation, according to Bagshaw.
It is better to ask those at your holiday table to refrain from politics rather than become involved in a heated argument. More than likely, she said, no one’s mind will change anyway.
Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Superintendent Dr. Thomas Taylor emailed students and their families concerning fears about possible immigration issues that may arise during the Trump Administration.
“I want to acknowledge that this is not just a policy debate; for many, it is deeply personal, creating uncertainty and fear about the future.”
Both Taylor and Bagshaw stressed that their students are welcome in school regardless of their immigration status.
“We want every student to be proud of who they are, and we celebrate the many cultures in our community. Your family is always welcome in our schools, and together, we make MCPS stronger,” Taylor wrote.
MCPS does not ask about immigration status, he added.
