Local Streets, Global Causes

This past Sunday morning, I was woken by the sounds of cheers and honking cars from the street by my window. As I pressed my face up against the glass and strained my eyes, I could make out a small parade of people holding signs, banging pots and pans, and waving black, white, green, and red flags. I watched as the group of people made it down my street and as they were about to turn the corner, I impulsively decided to join them. I quickly patted down my hair, slid my shoes on, grabbed my camera, and bolted out the door. It took a while to catch up with them, but when I did I was welcomed by a few people who were quick to make space for me to join. As I walked down the streets of my neighborhood, I was pleasantly surprised to see Dutch locals old and young marching together for the same cause.

The demonstration came to an end in the middle of a town square where we got supporting cheers from passing cars and pedestrians. As people started to pack up and leave, I was introduced to one of the main demonstrators, who gave me their contact information and invited me to come back the following week. As I walked back to my dorm, I felt glad that I decided to join the group of protesters and made my voice heard. It was a good reminder that it is still possible to make a difference, even if I am out of my home country.

As someone who is abroad, I understand that it’s easy to get absorbed by a new place and close yourself off to the rest of the world. But when faced with a decision, it is important to remind yourself that your voice matters, regardless of where on the globe you may be. In light of current global events, I urge other students who are currently abroad to find local demonstrations in the area and join them. Just because you are in a different country doesn’t mean your thoughts and opinions don’t matter. You may think that it might not make a difference, but just remember that it is these local demonstrations and protests that help tip the scales on a global level.