On January 20, 2021, Donald Trump was sworn in for his second term as the President of the United States. It was a day that marked the beginning of another four years under his leadership, and many were unsure of what the next chapter would hold. However, as we look back on this day one year later, it is clear that his presidency has been marked by an unprecedented attack on democracy, both within the United States and abroad. But in the face of such challenges, the people have responded with courage, resilience, and a determination to resist. This is the story of episode 85 of Stories of Resistance.

From the very beginning of his presidency, Trump made it clear that he would not be following the traditional norms of the office. He openly attacked the media, calling them “fake news” and even going so far as to label them the “enemy of the people.” He surrounded himself with individuals who shared his authoritarian tendencies, and together they sought to undermine the pillars of democracy that have long been the foundation of our country.

One of the most blatant attacks on democracy has been Trump’s refusal to accept the results of the 2020 election. Despite overwhelming evidence of his defeat, he has continued to spread baseless claims of voter fraud and has even attempted to overturn the results through legal challenges and pressure on state officials. This has created a dangerous precedent and eroded the trust in our electoral process.

But the American people have not stood idly by as their democracy was under attack. Protests erupted across the country, with people from all backgrounds and walks of life coming together to demand that their voices be heard. They marched, they chanted, and they made their presence known. They showed the world that they would not let their democracy be taken away without a fight.

Not only have Americans risen up to resist within their own country, but they have also stood in solidarity with those facing similar struggles abroad. From Hong Kong to Belarus, from Brazil to Turkey, people have come together to defend their rights and resist authoritarianism. The impact of Trump’s attack on democracy has been felt far beyond the borders of the United States, and it has only strengthened the global movement for democracy.

One of the most inspiring aspects of this resistance has been the role of young people. They have been at the forefront of the fight, using their voices and their platforms to demand change. From organizing protests to creating powerful social media campaigns, they have shown that they are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but the leaders of today.

Despite the challenges, the past year has also brought some victories. In the 2020 election, record numbers of Americans turned out to vote, showing that the spirit of democracy is alive and well. And in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, communities have come together to support each other and ensure that every vote was counted. These are just a few examples of the resilience and determination of the American people in the face of adversity.

As we move forward, it is important to remember that the fight for democracy is not over. Trump may be out of office, but the forces that he unleashed are still at work. It is up to all of us to continue to resist and protect our democracy. It is up to us to hold our leaders accountable and demand that they uphold the values and principles that make our country great.

But as we reflect on the past year and the challenges we have faced, let us also remember the power of hope, unity, and resilience. Let us remember that in the face of darkness, there is always light. And let us continue to write the story of resistance, one episode at a time.