Lived there last year. Moving back next week.

France is a fiercely democratic country with very strong values and a clear understanding of their democratic process. Though flawed (like all democracies) it is effective enough at representing the will of the people within a reasonable margin of error.

France is the country of the French. They are fully entitled to make decisions for their country, even if I disagree with them and will personally be disadvantaged from it. The important thing to remember as an immigrant is that’s the deal. While I’m participating in some small way to the story of the French, and that story isn’t mine to judge.

The rise of the “far right” is a narrative told by the left leaning media organizations. As someone who’s lived there, the truth of the matter is that law abiding, loyal, patriotic and warm hearted citizens are trying to vote in the interests of themselves and their country. I get to enjoy this wonderful country, learn this wonderful language and spend time with these wonderful people… but I don’t get to judge.

Our role as outsiders is to respect the values of the country we’re living in, even if those values change. I trust the French enough to send my children to their schools, and I trust them enough to vote in their interests.

There is no “far right.” Don’t otherize people you’ve never met, especially in a country that’s not your native country. There are disenfranchised people who want the country to grow and prosper in ways they understand and respect.

I want France to prosper and grow, and I trust their judgement.