A vote, a voice

One thing I didn't like about being an immigrant in the United States was the fact that during the many years it took for me to become a citizen, I was taxed and governed without political representation.

Because of my profession and the way that immigration law is stuctured here in Aotearoa, once we were granted residency status (less than 2 yrs after moving here), Randy and I were eligible to vote in all New Zealand elections.

On Monday October 9th, we voted in the General Election.

The process was quick and painless but the significance of the act was not underestimated.

I am not yet a citizen, but already have the ability to make my voice clear about who I want in charge.

It's been interesting to hear the stances of all of the parties' leaders (NZ has 6 major parties and multiple other minor parties) and watching the debates between the two front runners.

Knowing that my voice holds as much weight as that of the citizens of this country has made me feel responsible for paying attention and doing my homework on how this country is ran, the needs of its people and the unique challenges here. I do believe that my profession caring for rich and poor alike and my role in a New Zealand reproductive justice organization has given me a front row view of some of the major issues at stake in these elections.

I am grateful for democracy. I am grateful for the right to vote. I am a global citizen.