Lose the friendship—you’re better off without it
I’m not a person to tolerate political differences when our disagreements lie in the oppression and the stripping of someone from their rights. No matter how long we’ve known each other or what sort of relationship we have together—it won’t survive because I cannot tolerate teaching someone that their ignorance only fuels the collective drive of hatred towards a certain group of people or contemporary issue.
For a long time, like many, I feared being sidelined and left out due to my political differences. But as I’ve grown older, I’ve come to realize that I’m no longer concerned with others’ perceptions of me. What matters more is staying true to my values and principles. And what’s being sidelined to the experiences who are actively being discriminated against and are facing daily injustice for things they didn’t do?
I live by many quotes, but one I always return to is said by James Baldwin: “We can disagree and still love each other unless your disagreement is rooted in my oppression and denial of my humanity and right to exist.” While this quote can be interpreted in various ways, as an immigrant from a war-torn background, I’ve faced numerous moments where my humanity and right to exist were denied, often without any recognition from others.
Disagreeing over political differences doesn’t stem from being close-minded, but rather from the fact that our views are often core to our character and how we live our lives. This can create a deeper separation and divide in friendships
While this may seem harsh to some, it’s a strict principle I live by, and I don’t believe any argument could change my stance.
—Meghrig Milkon, Senior Arts & Culture Editor
Friendships can often survive political differences
It’s difficult for political issues to completely homogenize someone as a person. I tend to not be a very dichotomous thinker and don’t see the world as solely ‘black’ or ‘white.’ Many nuances exist within political identities and many personal factors contribute to each person’s position on the political spectrum.
Human rights issues are a different story. I couldn’t be friends with someone if we don’t align on basic, moral values. I’m very passionate and firm in my political beliefs, but I believe having a headstrong, “cut them off” perspective doesn’t leave a lot of room for discussion. I often solidify and learn more about my own opinions by having productive conversations with someone who disagrees with me.
As I mentioned, politics are very personal. Therefore, it’s easy for conversations to become emotional. It’s a privilege to discuss politics as a sterile, blasé issue. However, incredibly divisive politics that offer no space for discussion or growth will only further isolate people and allow opposing viewpoints to nurture hate and misunderstanding for those with different political beliefs.
If we only accept those who think and act similarly to us, we reject the idea of a society that acknowledges and embraces difference.
—Eva Sheahan, Assistant Arts & Culture Editor
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