Gentrification & Immigration

Many Americans are moving abroad, but gentrification & international immigration have become almost synonymous as a result. Increased divisiveness coupled with rising costs have forced people to safer countries they can afford to live in. We are all human beings sharing a world together, and as such we need to be ethical & responsible global citizens. While there are ways governments need to step up (e.g.: affordable housing, tenant protections, etc.) we need to also. Take a look at the below examples of ways you can still move abroad (or domestically) and lessen the displacement of local residents.

If you’re LGBTQIA+ (or an ally) and looking for safer countries to immigrate to, check out our research page with helpful information & resource links.

Immigrant vs. Expat or Digital Nomad

First is acknowledging you are an immigrant – whether short term or long term. You are moving to another country, living there, experiencing their culture & way of life, maybe working/studying, etc. But this is where terms like ‘expat’ and ‘digital nomad’ are problematic. These terms are often reserved for privileged individuals: white, wealthy, and North American or European. 

When someone from outside these countries moves to these countries, they’re labeled ‘immigrants.’ Immigrants typically intend to move permanently, but this isn’t always the case. Once you unpack these distinctions and realize you can be an ‘expat’ and an ‘immigrant,’ or a ‘digital nomad’ and an ‘immigrant,’ you can start to understand ways to be apart of the solution as opposed to being apart of the problem.

Budget

Before doing anything else, know your budget. How much are you earning a month? How much is available to spend versus save? Once you have this figure, research the cost of living in other countries — my favorite is Expatistan. Once you’ve settled on location and you immigrate, ensure you move into a house/apartment in an area that is comparable to your livable budget. By moving anywhere cheaper to ‘save’ more money you are displacing others by driving up living costs for others.

Cultural Immersion

You are moving to a foreign country, don’t expect everyone to speak English and act American. Educate yourself on local cultures, embrace traditions, and learn the language. Take some history classes as well to get to know the nation’s story. Travel around the area to get to know other cities and the differences from where you live. 

Community

Make an effort to get out into the community. Meet your neighbors, shop at the mom & pop shops on the corner, eat at small family-owned restaurants. Find charities to volunteer for that give back to the community you’re now a part of. 

Advocacy

Circling back to things governments should be doing to combat gentrification, you can advocate for those changes. Get to know the local laws and advocate for positive changes that benefit your neighbors (and you!). Fight for tenant’s rights, demand new buildings have more low-income housing, argue vacant properties should be taxed, and even start fighting for wage increases. Inflation will continue to rise as income stagnates, all of these can help combat gentrification and help everyone.