Is This For You? Why South Africa?

One November evening in 2016, I joined the Texas Democrats gathered at the Driskill Hotel in Austin. It was to be a jubilant, historic occasion—the election of the first female president. As the mood soured, I found myself surrounded by sobbing women in pantsuits. In what was more than some fit of pique, I pledged to get gone, to leave the USA. This sentiment is about as American as it gets. It’s what carried the Pilgrims overseas on the Mayflower. Many made this vow that night, but I am among the faithful few who followed through.

When I moved to South Africa, people here didn’t quite know what to make of me. Americans come here for a relationship, a job, or to retire. My tale of being a political refugee seemed inexplicable and earned me a nickname: “International Man of Mystery.” With Trump 2.0, such motives for moving are no longer mysterious. 

There are a multitude of resources for retirees, digital nomads and the like interested in living abroad. Typical destinations include Mexico, Costa Rica and Portugal. But if you’re like me, a value voter willing to vote with your feet, South Africa is the place to be. Aside from its unmatched natural beauty, low cost of living, and first-rate affordable healthcare, this is where the future of multicultural democracy is unfolding. Whether for a sojourn or for a lifetime, progressive Americans will find that this must be the place. 

South Africa has about the size and population of Texas and California combined. That’s a lot of ground to cover, and what’s offered here is just a starting point. There’s plenty of additional information on the many wonders of this vast land at the usual reference sites. My focus is on why you should consider coming here and how to make that happen. I share what figured into my selection process, with added experiences that have affirmed it. All these should provide helpful points of comparison even if you decide on a different destination. 

Though words can only suggest South Africa’s je ne sais quoi, some of the images I’ve captured give a glimpse. Also, have a listen to this rendition of the national anthem, an awe-inspiring synthesis of their languages, cultures and spirit. Hopefully these will inspire you to make the trip to experience it for yourself. 

A Word of Warning: 

When strangers ask why I moved here, I say “I came for the rooibos, but stayed for the coronavirus.” Why not tell the real story? Because you should expect negativity if your thoughts of exiting Trump’s America go beyond a daydream. The red hats will demonize you as unamerican with the usual “Don’t let the door hit you on the way out” pap. Others who share your values will also be upset. As I packed up, I was often asked, “How can you abandon us when you’re most needed for the fight?” 

That is an important question, one you will have to answer for yourself. 

I haven’t abandoned the fight. Living overseas brings crucial opportunities as Trump threatens to surrender our global leadership. Nurturing democratic values abroad at the grassroots may be the best bulwark we can muster against autocracy. This is especially true in South Africa as it enters a new era with its first generation born in freedom preparing to lead. Whether you come to work, to volunteer or simply to live, your presence brings vital support at this pivotal moment. 

South Africa isn’t the only beneficiary. Ben Rhodes, a former Obama Administration staffer, suggests how best to prepare for the eventual rebound from Trump’s second term: 

The next generation of … leaders should fan out … learn from (those) … innovating at the local level … find places where multiracial democracy is working better…. Tell those stories when pitching policies. Foster a sense of belonging to something bigger, so democracy doesn’t feel like the pablum of a ruling elite, but rather the remedy for fixing what is broken in … our body politic.

Fanning out to South Africa takes this to another level, delivering unique experiences, new perspectives and a deeper understanding of a diverse democracy. Such assets will prove invaluable for those returning to help rebuild our democracy when the MAGA moment inevitably passes.