_Regan Huston is a freshman journalism major at MU. She is an opinion columnist who writes about student politics for The Maneater._
A few weeks ago, Vice President-elect Mike Pence attended the most sought-after show of the year, [“Hamilton,” and during curtain call, actor Brandon Dixon called on Pence to understand a few concerns](https://twitter.com/HamiltonMusical/status/799828567941120000).
This plea was later [classified as “harassment” by Trump](https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/799972624713420804), and that in itself is childish. Dixon spoke with utmost respect, referring to Pence as “sir,” expressed genuine concerns that have been raised throughout the 2016 campaign and repeated the desire for a “hopeful” future. It’s a scary moment when a future vice president who has been known to advocate aggressive ideas, such as conversion therapy, is suddenly painted as the victim of an actor’s respectful request.
Trump called for the theater to always be a “safe space,” insinuating that the cast contributed to an offensive environment. However, virtually nothing about the atmosphere was unsafe. Yes, the crowd did boo Pence at some points, but that comes with the political atmosphere. The actors did not incite booing or applause of any kind. Rather, Dixon acted as a representative for his diverse colleagues.
Maybe the argument that the theater wasn’t the place for a political request is understandable, but Pence is a politician and entered a space of expression. More than that, he is about to become the vice president in a few months. There is no time card for that job. Politicians don’t clock in and sign out at the end of the day. Criticism comes with the territory.
If Pence and Trump cannot handle the outcry of their citizens, then that is something that falls on them. “Hamilton” has been heavily promoted this year, which gives the actors a degree of social power. If these actors who are at a high point in their careers do not use their popularity to better society, then who will?
Trump’s complaints on social media just add a tally to his lack of professionalism. Rather than applaud Dixon for his bravery in speaking on behalf of genuinely scared individuals, Trump demanded an apology from the entire cast because apparently it’s too controversial to expect more of our politicians.
As a former theater nerd and journalist, I find it irresponsible that Trump did not embrace the concerns of Americans. With a candidacy built on fear, it’s no surprise that his innate instinct was to shut down a public voice that differs from his platform and those on it.
