It is completely normal to feel upset or frustrated when a politician or a political party says something that feels offensive or wrong. In a democracy, your voice matters, and there are constructive ways to handle these feelings without losing your peace of mind.
At VoiceUp, we believe that “active citizenship” isn’t just about voting, it’s about how we communicate and hold our leaders accountable every day. Here is a simple guide on how to turn that frustration into positive action.
Fact-Check
Before reacting, it is helpful to make sure you have the full story. In the age of social media, short clips often leave out important context.
Check the Source: Ask yourself who shared the information and if they might be trying to provoke an emotional response.
Look for Evidence: See if other reliable news sites are reporting the same thing or if there is a longer version of the speech available.
Consider the Motivation: Think about what the person making the comment might gain from making people angry or divided.
Write a Letter to Your Representative
One of the most effective ways to be heard is to write directly to the person who made the comment or to your local Member of Parliament (MP).
Be Polite but Firm: You are more likely to get a real response if you stay calm. State clearly what was said and why it was hurtful or incorrect.
Ask for Clarification: Ask them to explain their position or if they realise how their words affected people in your community.
Create a Paper Trail: Even if they don’t change their mind immediately, your letter becomes a formal record that their constituents are unhappy.
Use Your Power at the Ballot Box
In Australia, your most powerful tool is your vote. If a party consistently says things that do not align with your values, you can use the next election to send a message.
Research Party Platforms: Look at what the different parties actually stand for in their written policies, rather than just their slogans.
Understand Preferential Voting: Remember that you can rank candidates. You can put the people who represent your values at the top and those you disagree with at the bottom.
Talk to Your Community: Discuss your concerns with friends or family to see if they share your view on the direction of the country.
Look After Your Wellbeing
Find Your Group: Talk to a local community or religious organisation. Taking action as a group like signing a joint petition can feel more powerful than acting alone.
Focus on Local Wins: Sometimes, national politics feels too big. Getting involved in local council projects allows you to see the positive results of your work immediately.
Know When to Unplug: If the political cycle is making you feel stressed, it is perfectly okay to take a break from the news and social media for a few days.