Protest is good for society

Love or loathe Donald Trump, he may have defeated one modern political foe – apathy.

There’s certainly no shortage of folk expressing their opinions on the new leader of the free world.

Poor old Theresa May is copping plenty of flak for cosying up to him. Being the first national leader granted an audience with the new US President, would normally be considered a coup. To then back that first meeting up with the offer of a state visit in return, was a double whammy that would surely cement the ‘Special Relationship’. It may well do just that, but at what cost?

With people taking to the streets to protest against Trump and more than a million calling for the return trip to be cancelled, Mrs May could be forgiven for thinking she should have played things a little cooler. That said, she could also be forgiven for thinking she’s pulled off a masterstroke. All will be revealed in the fullness of time, but the appetite for immediate protest has never been greater. And it should be welcomed, not decried.

No sooner has a petition been signed to ban Trump from Britain, than another backing his visit has been launched. How soon before thousands take to the streets marching in favour of Trump’s visit. Hmm, don’t hold your breath.

Brexit and Trump have polarised two nations, but they also appear to have given people a voice.

A successful democratic society is built on free speech, open discussion and passionate argument, and there’s been no shortage of that in recent months.

As long as protest is peaceful, we should embrace it. The only loser is apathy, and that’s a good thing for democracy.