“You don't live in America. Your opinion doesn't count,” or “Why don't you just stay out of American politics and worry about your own country.” I wish I had a dollar for every time someone has said those things — or something similar — to me over the past 8-years.
The irony is I am an American citizen. I'm also a Vietnam Veteran and I don't recall anyone telling me my “opinion doesn't count” when I was overseas in the military.
An Expat Mag article looks at the question “Do changes in politics affect expat relocation?”.
It's a great article and well worth your time. Closely linked to her question is the question: “How can American expats stay active and up-to-date with all of the changes in these politically messy times?”
What can an American expat do to help cut down on the chaos? There are many action steps which can be taken, but they tend to boil down into 7 categories.
Paralysis of Analysis
Trying to engage in every important issue that shows up on your new feed will paralyze you. Decide whether to take small actions on a variety of issues, or deep and sustained action on one issue.
Political Power
Adult American citizens living overseas often enjoy more political power than many who live in America. We have more power than people who don't have the right to vote. Children, immigrants, refugees and some people in prison don't have that right, and if your last address was in the states, you keep the right to vote in all federal elections.
Pick up the phone — send an email
Expats frequently ask if the people in congress really care about American constituents living overseas. The answer is a resounding YES!
We are their boss and it is their job to represent you regardless of where you live. If they aren't doing a good job, fire them by voting them out of office.
Support reliable media outlets
If a free press is important to you make sure to buy a subscription.
Support your candidate
As Americans overseas, we should work to make not-voting as socially awkward as yelling on the bus or doing the laundry on Sunday. Research the track record of your candidate and ask each American you meet if you can help them navigate the voting logistics in your host country.
Share your perspective
One of the nicer things about being an American in a foreign land is the new perspectives you have. Policy choices which once were invisible jump into view and by sharing the best and worst of what you have seen can open the eyes to Americans who still live in America.
The perspective, turned inside-out, can be refreshing and open chances for creativity and humor. Often more than you would have if you stayed at ‘home'.
Act!
Often expats ask, “How can we be sure we will make a difference?” The truth is, we can't be sure. It's a possibility that everything you do will be for nothing, but we should take political action. Not because success is guaranteed, but because it is our duty.
The takeaway
So get busy calling, writing, organizing, marching, voting and creating. Then, wake up tomorrow, pour yourself an American-sized cup of coffee and do it again.
The U.S. Department of State posts the latest Absentee Voting Information for Americans citizens living abroad.
