*Article was written before the election results
On November 9th the United States will finally know whether the infamous business man and TV show host or the pantsuit loving and email misusing Secretary of State will be their next president. For many on the outside it has all been one big comedy fest but for those of us on the inside, it has been quite a frightening journey. This election will be the first one I will experience as a resident of the US. For many years I have lived overseas, only hearing about the election through editorials and news reports. Now, I have a front row seat and man, am I disappointed.
Through these past 6 months or so, I have realized the US has more cracks than I thought, from healthcare deficiencies to racial issues. While I am unable to enter the voting booth due to being one year too young, I still avidly follow the race. It is my future that is on the line, after all.
This presidential election is by far the most modern. Candidates are able to communicate with their prospective voters 24/7 with the use of technology, a mode of communication neither candidate has been able to master. Nevertheless, technology allows perspective voters to be more informed. More viewers have been able to watch all four debates in real time, no matter where they are in the world. I was able to watch all the debates on YouTube and so were all the friends I’ve made overseas. I was able to discuss the events with them the next morning, at the latest.
The candidates are also reaching out to the younger generation through the issues of college tuition, LGBT rights and the economy. These are controversial issues that I am starting to see are tearing the country apart. The country, many call my own.
I have found the differences between myself and my citizenship country are many. While I do share some similarities with the average American teenager, I see beyond their four walls. I see beyond their borders that they have constructed and are planning to construct. I see beyond their hatred and fear of the foreign. I thought by now, the United States would realize that its foundation is diverse and by eliminating it, the US would crumble. Respect and dignity are lacking, characteristics I was taught when I was young that our founding fathers were known for. The America I grew up hearing about turned out to be very different in person.
As TCK’s we have a unique perspective and it would be a shame to waste it. By being a part of our local governments, we are able to share that perspective with others, who may not have been as fortunate to travel the world as we have. If you have the chance to be an avid participant in your country’s government, it is an opportunity not to pass up. Whether or not you feel the impact of your participation, your opinion makes a big difference.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
The Third Culture Kid Project 