The theme of citizenship is constantly on our minds. As we grapple with this concept and discuss it, it’s easy to agree with those that surround us when it comes to these topics. People, by nature, tend to surround themselves with those that are similar to them. That’s why it’s important to have these conversations with people we know could be radically different. That is why I interviewed Fati, my Moroccan language partner, on the theme of citizenship.
According Fati, “citizenship… is like a big group in which all people that live/ belong in one country should have the same rights and duties. Also, justice and equality between different social group, not only men and women.” When I asked her how one can partake in citizenship-like activities she said, “Can we consider voting? You need to vote to show your opinion and your perspectives about your country for the future. Also volunteer work. There’s an opportunity for each citizen to show their concern for country and community.”
Fati is part of the community service club at ALIF, and she said she sometimes partakes in service activities, but “not a lot. Sometimes I do.” She partakes in “blood donations, and teaching English to children, to people that can’t afford money to study English.”
When asked if she voted, she replied, “yes, but when I was 18 I had to vote but I didn’t. I didn’t trust the politicians. All of them were corrupt people. My vote wasn’t going to make a change. In the end, these people represent you. There are people who will both agree and disagree with that.”
She’s not part of a political party, but if she likes a candidate, she’ll vote for them. Not really, If I like the candidate, she’ll vote for them.
Overall, Fati’s thoughts and feelings were similar to those of mine. It was surprising to see this since we come from different backgrounds, and the governments in both our countries aren’t very similar.
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