The Smile: Inauguration Day

 

Hi friend, I’ll be honest—this is one of the hardest newsletters to write, given the reality of today’s inauguration. With Trump taking office, it feels like a dark moment in American history, one that’s weighed heavily on many of us. I’ve read countless messages from folks sharing how they’re feeling: anxious, nervous, terrified, exhausted. I feel it too. But here’s an important reminder—hopelessness is exactly what the oligarchs, dictators, and fascists want. I won’t sugarcoat it though. These next four years will likely be challenging, and there will be days when finding good news feels like an uphill battle. But even in moments like this, hope persists. It’s in the love of friends and family, acts of kindness, the beauty of nature, and the glimmers of progress we find in the news. The Smile will continue to be here to remind you that hope hasn’t gone anywhere—it’s all around us, even when the world feels dark. We’re in this together. Let’s hold onto the light. 💛 Biden affirms Equal Rights Amendment is part of Constitution Trump is the second president to make this kind of comeback. History suggests it may be short-lived. Biden pardons nearly 2,500 nonviolent drug offenders US cities largely saw a drop in violent crime in 2024 From homeless to helping others: A West Allis veteran shares his comeback story Former Presidents Obama, Clinton and Bush won't attend Trump's inaugural lunch Altadena man used garden hoses to help save 7 homes, including his own, from the Eaton Fire The People's March: Photos Show Large DC Protest Before Trump Inauguration Pet Caricaturist steals the show at fundraiser for Woods Humane Society Baltimore sees sustained reduction in gun violence amid robust anti-violence efforts FTC Chair Lina Khan Launches Flurry of Lawsuits Before Trump Takes Office  Thank you for reading, and we hope these articles shine a light on your day. In solidarity, Emily from The Smile