Living abroad may mean physical distance but it need not diminish our connection nor engagement. This is what drives my commitment to Democrats Abroad. Working in concert with like-minded folks to address issues and determine leadership in the USA provides a concrete means to contribute from afar.

For more than six years, I have been energized by my involvement with Democrats Abroad Switzerland (DACH) both locally and around the country. I now value both helping lead our efforts in Basel and also representing our Swiss membership to the global organization. Our critical ability to unleash the power of voter turnout and rebuke the ominous forces of voter suppression means nothing less than protecting a democracy that needs to work, and work for everyone.

I have lived in Switzerland for fifteen years since re-locating from New Jersey. Long involved in racial, gender, environmental, economic and generational justice issues, either through work or volunteering, I had not had a particularly political history until the build-up to the 2016 campaigns. But that all changed.

And now there is no escaping that the 2020 General Election spawned a host of seismic shifts. Just witness the powerful contrasts of truth versus lies, rebuilding versus destruction, courage versus retreat, equity versus bias, focus versus distraction and hope versus havoc. These are critical balances in our fragile democracy.

Through DACH we can help preserve the progress. Whether you make sure to vote, get others to vote, help organize activities, join interest caucuses or raise funds, thanks for being part of the cause! The stakes couldn’t be higher.