That morning walking into school, the somber atmosphere was notable. My teachers were visibly upset, and many students did not show up. In the classroom, as my teacher explained the results of the election, I stood up and informed my class that Ilhan Omar, a Somali, Muslim woman, had been elected to Congress. I told them that the president did not have all of the power, that we must pay attention to victories such as hers as well.

Fast-forward to 2024. On Oct. 4, Ilhan Omar visited my high school -- Washburn Senior High -- to attend our mock election event. As I was informing Rep. Omar of the unwavering support my family has, and will continue to give her, a sophomore boy came over and began questioning her. He criticized Kamala Harris' ability to lead and make decisions, praising Donald Trump's leadership to Omar's face. When it came time for him to leave, he shook her hand, looked into her eyes and said, "I learned nothing." Her response was concise but powerful: "You did not want to learn."