University of Houston students rally against Trump presidency

HOUSTON (FOX 26) - An anti-Trump rally attracted dozens of students at the University of Houston.  About 200 people gathered in the center of campus to make their voices heard regarding President-elect Donald Trump and some voices were louder than others.

"I think it’s ridiculous. I think it’s super inappropriate that Trump has been elected president.  I feel personally offended.  I think we have really lowered the bar,” says Tyler, a University of Houston senior.

The University of Houston students say they came together to protest where they believe Trump will lead the country.  "I don’t think he’ll take it in a very good direction,” says Miguel. 

"I don’t agree with him but it’s part of the system and the electoral college so there’s nothing I can do about it,” adds student Chieh.

But many students say rallying is something that can be done about Trump’s election. “A lot of things have been achieved by way of protests and so I just want to make sure my voice is heard,” says Tyler. 

Some of the voices here also belong to Trump supporters. 

"If you don’t like it or not get over it.  He’s our president.  He’s everybody’s president.  If you live in America he’s your president,” says Jon Paul.

"I wanted to tell people it’s going to be ok.  There’s nothing to be afraid of.  I think Trump was a step in the right direction especially towards helping out the poor blacks,” says Steven.

The two very opposing opinions sent some students into profanity laced shouting matches, escalating the debate far beyond a discussion.  In one student’s cell phone video you can reportedly “see” one student being pulled away from an increasingly intense argument.

"I do respect political ideologies and so forth, but what Donald Trump has brought forth has been uprooting certain racist hate crimes, sexist hate crimes.  In the political system that is not allowed.  Our government should not be condoning that,” says Marina.  

President-elect Trump has spoken out saying he does not condone racist or hate filled behavior.

University of Houston re-released an earlier statement saying in part “University of Houston embraces diversity and welcomes an environment where students, faculty and staff of all backgrounds can collaborate, learn, work and serve”.

The Youth Empowerment Alliance that organized today’s rally says the group is also planning an anti-hate protest at City Hall tomorrow.