Your voice matters, even if you don’t have a vote! There are many ways for non-citizens to be politically active and make a difference lawfully. Here’s how you can get involved:
1. Educate Yourself
- Learn about the issues and candidates that matter most to you. Follow reliable news sources, read books on topics that interest you, attend local debates, and discuss with friends.
2. How to Politically Engage
- Green card holders can donate to political campaigns in the United States, but it is illegal for H1B and non-immigrant visa holders to donate to political campaigns.
- Anyone can get lawn signs to show support. If you live in a neighborhood with an HOA or similar community association, make sure your display does not violate any policies.
- To request a lawn sign, contact the candidate’s local campaign office. If they ask for a donation, explain that your residency status makes it illegal to donate but you’d still like to show support in this way. Here’s a script to avoid confusion:
“Hi, I’m interested in showing support for [SPECIFIC CANDIDATE], but since I am not a US citizen, I cannot donate to the campaign. Would it be possible to receive lawn signs to display in my yard?”
- Check your local government policies if non-citizens can vote in local elections. 16+ jurisdictions do:
- San Francisco allows resident non-citizen parents and guardians to vote in school board elections.
- 11 municipalities in Maryland and 2 in Vermont allow noncitizen voting in local elections.
- Washington D.C. allows noncitizen residents to vote in all non-federal elections.
- Volunteer with local nonprofit organizations to support issues and candidates.
3. Contact Your Representatives
- Make your voice heard by contacting the representatives elected to represent you and your community. As a community member who lives, works, and goes to school in the United States, your opinions are considered with every decision a politician makes, even if you are not a US citizen.
- Clearly and respectfully state your concerns.
- Suggest specific actions that can be taken.
4. Spread the Word
- Encourage US citizen friends and family to register and vote to help advocate for your shared interests. Your enthusiasm can inspire others!