What to Do Wednesday
Your Weekly Guide to Staying Politically Active—From Abroad
Wednesday 1 July 2026
Celebrating 250 Years of Americans Standing Up for Democracy
As we approach the 250th anniversary of the United States, we celebrate a tradition that has defined our nation since its founding: ordinary citizens standing up for democracy.
For 250 years, Americans have defended the idea that government derives its power from the people. As Americans living abroad, we continue that tradition. Our voices matter. Our votes matter. And when access to the ballot is threatened, we have a responsibility to speak up.
This week, we have an opportunity to do exactly that.
Take Action Now
Tell USPS to Protect Voting by Mail
The U.S. Postal Service is considering a proposal that could create new barriers for mail voting, particularly for military members, overseas citizens, rural voters, seniors, and voters with disabilities.
The proposal would:
- Require new federally approved ballot envelope standards.
- Require states to upload voter information into a new USPS portal at least 30 days before an election.
- Allow USPS to reject ballot mailings that do not match the submitted data, potentially delaying or preventing ballots from reaching voters.
For Americans abroad, where voting by mail is often the only practical option, these changes could make voting more difficult and increase the risk that ballots arrive too late to be counted.
Submit a Public Comment Today Deadline: Tomorrow Thursday, July 2, 2026
Send a brief email to:
Sample message:
I am an American citizen living overseas and rely on voting by mail to participate in U.S. elections. I urge the USPS to withdraw this proposal because it could create unnecessary barriers to voting and increase the risk that eligible absentee ballots are delayed or rejected. Please continue supporting reliable and accessible election mail for all eligible American voters.
Personal stories are especially valuable. If you vote from abroad, let USPS know why dependable election mail matters to you.
Why This Matters
The right to vote has always depended on citizens who were willing to participate and speak up. Public comments help ensure that the voices of overseas Americans are considered before decisions are made that could affect our ability to vote.
Closing Thought
For 250 years, American democracy has been strengthened by citizens who chose to participate rather than stand on the sidelines. As we celebrate our nation’s history this Independence Day, let’s continue that tradition by protecting every eligible American’s right to vote.
Thank you for everything you do for democracy, and have a wonderful Independence Day weekend.
With gratitude and determination,
Leyani Redditi
Democrats Abroad Italy Events
US Citizen in Abruzzo? Join us for an Aperitivo in Abruzzo! 3 July at 17:00
Let's celebrate America together! Fourth of July BBQ & Lake Party - Celebrate America's 250th!
Join our DA Italy leadership team at our DA Italy Monthly Country Committee Meeting July 10 @09:00
Be the reason a US Citizen is able to cast their ballots! Train to become a Voting Assistant Volunteer!
- Module 1: Voter Registration & Ballot Request Wednesday 15 July @18:00
- Module 1: Voter Registration & Ballot Request Saturday 1 August @10:00
- Module 1: Voter Registration & Ballot Request Wednesday 5 August @18:00
- Module 2: Ballot Receipt & Return Saturday 5 September @10:00
- Module 2: Ballot Receipt & Return Wednesday 9 September @18:00
Global Democrats Abroad Events
Join Democrats Abroad Germany on Saturday, September 26, in Munich for the Annual Democrats Abroad Oktoberfest Extravaganza! Democrats Abroad Oktoberfest 2026
P.S. Here we are again asking you to request your ballot now at VoteFromAbroad.orgif you haven't done so already! If you need any help with the form or aren’t sure what to do, click below to send us an email and we’ll walk you through it. And if you’ve already requested your ballot, click the button below and tell us so we can count you toward our goal. Help us get at least 25% of Dems Abroad Italy members ballot‑ready by the end of J!